Hiking alone is probably something most wouldn’t dare consider. The good thing is, I’m not most and I actually prefer to hike solo. My family for sure doesn’t agree with those choices but hey, I choose to not live my life in fear. Hiking gives me a sense of happiness and peace so going alone is best. So yes, I hike alone most of the time.
Lately, since the weather has been warming either I’ve been terrified of running into a rattlesnake or thanks to this particular trail- BEARS! Plus, due to Covid19, California keeps shutting down trails so I haven’t been able to explore too many new trails.
Monrovia Canyon Park is located in Monrovia, California. The waterfall can be found deep in the park making it an “out and back” trip. Before this journey I was pumped and excited. I went early in the morning before work thinking it was going to be refreshing. As I’m preparing myself in the parking lot, I notice a huge bear statue and that to me was a red flag. I’m well aware wild animals happen to be throughout all or most of the trails I hike. Seeing a bear was not something I was prepared to encounter especially being by myself. I honestly did not get concerned until I headed towards the start of the trail and a warning sign read, “ATTENTION, YOU ARE ENTERING BEAR HABITAT.” Ha!
It took everything for me continue and I had no choice because I had to get to work on time, and I didn’t drive all that way to just leave! Luckily, I did not see any bears, rattlesnakes, or mountain lions and I felt more comfortable seeing other women walking alone. I stopped one Asian woman to ask her about bears and she said, “Oh honey, it’s no scary! You’ll be fine, I’m here everyday”. Okay, that was relieving and I was able to enjoy the remainder of my trip with no worries. I did see a cave but I kept it pushing as fast as I could!
When I successfully made it to the waterfall the short expedition was well worth it. The waterfall was so beautiful and I was able to relax alone on a boulder for a few minutes to admire the scenery. Although I was able to capture a lot of amazing photos my favorite part was walking alongside the stream and listening to the peacefulness of nature. I had to stop a few times to take videos of the soundscapes for memories. I will definitely be returning to the park (especially now that I have a new iPhone with a much better camera).
Enjoy the journey!
This was one of my favorite parks/hikes when I lived in Duarte. I have run into a bear there, he was chill. And a fun fact; my husband and I almost married there but a fire closed the park just days before the ceremony, leaving me to scramble for a second option. It all worked out and we still visit the park from time to time. <3