With the re-theming for 2019, it was time to update the prompt in the hiker register and provide the first entry.

Here is the text of this first entry:

Whenever I travel or move to a new place, I like to learn about the (pre)history, ecology and geology of that place. Thinking about this behavior of mine in light in “Crossing Brooklyn Ferry,” I now see that I am trying to jump-start a connection with that place by locating myself in a larger context.

One of my special places in which I feel this connection most strongly is Coyote Canyon, which is a few miles southeast of here. The area is now part of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, and no one has lived there for decades. The area was part of the traditional lands of the Cahuilla Indians, and while there are few visible signs of their 1000+ year occupation of the area, their presence is almost palpable. This, combined with some of the most spectacular desert scenery and fascinating ecology and geology, makes this a very special place for me. Whenever I visit, I adopt a reverent attitude and try to still my mind, so that I can be present in that place.

Is there a place that is special for you? If you feel so moved, tell us about it here.

Trail Angel Mary

January 1, 2019