A moment when the sun, clouds, and colors lined up for us just before leaving the summit.
Gavin, Natalie and I passed through Yuma during winter in late 1990 as we relocated from Texas to California. It was freezing while I left the kids briefly for a run in this new world. It was early days for us in the United States and as far as beginnings go, it wasn't successful. In fact, it was rough which was exacerbated by making a bad business decision. Jenni and baby Robert followed, but in an aircraft.
Jen and I have passed through Yuma many times since, many occasions during summer and realized the town had few redeeming features for us. It was a means of getting to other places.
Later, when our perspective changed, we looked at things with a different mindset. The fact that the Colorado River passes through certainly helps.
This trip proved we had made the conversion when we hunkered down for 5 nights and went out seeking Yuma's treasures. Every place, every person has attributes and we think we found Yuma's. Of the 3 hikes we did, we can say without fear of contradiction they were good, better and even better.
Culminating on Fortuna Mountain, we climbed past the site of the 1944 crash of a B17 bomber, as we negotiated an extremely tough and dangerous mountain reaching the memorials to the 5 crewmembers.
We'll not forget the stunning climb to Jester's Peak where Jen showed that until they lock her up or carry her out, she ain't going anywhere.
Jenni heading toward a peak.
The main trail, although others exist that are more testing.
The main trail, although others exist that are more testing.
Part of the trail is on the maintenance road. Enormously steep in many (most) places.
Finding a peak.
As Jen heads for the peak, she takes time to pay respect.
Peak found.
Yuma/Fortuna towns below the ridge. Interstate 8 passes through.
Farmland below the Gila Mountains.
Farmland below the Gila Mountains.
Jenni and Jeffrey
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