I had an odd experience last week, as I drove up 395. As I was passing near Independance, I did something I don't know that I've ever done, which is to look EAST.
This is understandable, as to the west are a whole lot of things in the Sierra that are of great interest to me. I am fascinated by Mt. Williamson, having climbed up two of it's routes, and found them to be among the most isolated places I've ever been, as well as the N. Fork of Bair's Creek, which I've not, but which seems like an astonishingly imposing place. I find it hard to keep my eyes on the road, with all the wonder to the west.
But unmistakably, sitting on the ridge line where I had never noticed it before, was Winnedumah. Couldn't be clearer.
I had read with fascination some years ago when Moosetracks went up with Doug. I'd wondered, why are they trekking to a Independence Hotel???? Was that where John Muir stayed?
I'd never heard of the monument.
My quick look doesn't turn that TR up, but when you drive up the valley, don't forget to look EAST.
