Joy and Rocko are amazing. They hiked the entire 3.9 mile, 1,056 ft elevation gain, out and back trail of Cerro San Luis (known locally as Madonna Mountain)! Rocko had done this at two years old, but Joy hasn't embraced hiking up mountains in the same way.
The deal was that they would get boba in SLO at Sweetie Cup Tea House if they made it all the way on their own two feet. It took 2.5 hours and lots of whining from Joy on the way up but we did it!
Our 17 year old dog passed away in April, so this was the first big hike with our 10 year old dog, Dio, and our new 2 year old rescue dog, Pearl. Pearl is very reactive to other dogs, so it was a challenge on this busy trail. We went on a Saturday, the busiest day, in the morning. We parked at the lot off of Marsh/Higuera and were lucky to find a parking spot. Many people enjoy the trail: running, biking, dog walking, and hiking at all speeds.
Joy got to embrace her inner princess/dancer/singer and perform on the stage at the top, to applause from other awesome hikers. Did I mention that we live in the best place on earth, with the nicest people?!?
I'm hoping that we will someday do Half Dome in Yosemite together then we can attempt My. Whitney! Maybe?
Are you looking for adventures nearby? Check out this list!