I decided to go to Cathedral Rock today. This is a popular hike and for good reason. I got to the parking lot at 7:30 which was plenty early. A sign at the beginning of the 1 mile access route said lot full, no access. I ignored this since I figured it was stuck from the day before. This hike goes up Cathedral Rock and ends at a nice landing with spires all around. Like Fay Canyon the hiking gets better when the trail ends. Since it is all rock I did not feel bad going off trail. I wandered around for an hour in this area. Steep rock with cool walls and spires. I did sit for 15 minutes plus at one point. There were a number of birds, maybe nesting in the rock? Warm, little wind, and a very nice view!
After this I went into the Baldwin area. A forest of white trees and a significant river. Also cool, which was nice, because the temps got into the 60s. An interesting change from the early high mountain experience.
On my way back to the camp ground I stopped at Montezuma Castle which is a cliff dwelling from the 1100-1300 time frame. Pretty interesting structure and remnants also near a significant river with the same white trees. A quick visit and a short walk but we'll worth it.
Day 4 in the tent. Getting warmer at night... 25 up to 35 last night. The plan is to go to Death Valley NP tomorrow.
