The Pasadena Village. A community of seniors supporting each other as they age in their own homes

THE PASADENA VILLAGE HIKING GROUP

The pandemic and its restrictions on public activities during this past year threatened to shut down the Pasadena Village hiking group. In addition, a terrible wildfire in the nearby central San Gabriel Mountains burned out many trails, which remain closed to public use. However, Peter LeSourd, the leader of the hiking group, rose to the challenge. “Leading the Village hiking group is one of my most treasured activities. I was able to keep this activity going by planning hikes on fire roads, where we can practice “social distancing” side-by-side and be able to talk as we walk.”

For the December hike, the merry band of nine Village members, plus two visitors, met at the beginning of the Forest Hill Fire Road above southwestern La Canada.

Peter describes the hike: “We were greeted by perfect hiking weather on a beautiful, cool and sunny morning, for a hike on an interesting mix of fire roads and single-track trails of about four to 4 1/2 miles roundtrip with about 650 feet of elevation gain with great views in all directions. (Various members' smart phone apps disagreed on the exact distance walked.) Following the hike, six of us gathered at the Panera Bread cafe in La Canada for further chit-chat before returning home by noon.”

One of the visitors had attended the "Meet Me at the Village" in-person session the day before the hike, and "jumped" at the opportunity to join the hike the next morning. What great timing! After enjoying the hike and getting to know the Village members, he completed his paperwork to join the Village.

The recent rain and cold weather bode well for our local mountains. Says Peter, “I am looking forward to more hikes in the New Year, with the possibility of visiting some local waterfall sites and enjoying spring wildflowers. On the second Friday of each month you can be sure our intrepid group of hikers will be enjoying more fun hikes together!”

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