This was my fourth trip working at my long term goal of finding a "floor is lava" route through the Wonderland of Rocks. I got dropped off at Barker Dam by Heather and kids a little before 10 am and quickly sped down the washes to where I left off last time. The parking lot was full but minutes from the trailhead it would be hours until I saw someone again. I spent about 2 hours frantically working my way through 1.5 miles of Joshua Tree jungle gym. I long jumped gaps onto precarious rocks, carefully stemmed around sharp yuccas, gingerly climbed down slots. Several times I had to backtrack but for 1.5 miles I managed to find some way that avoided loose sand and soil and kept me on rocks. After 2 hours I found myself tired and well into the middle of nowhere and so transitioned back to hiking the fastest route possible. I made great time over the Rattlesnake Canyon talus cave and to the car at Indian Cove 5 minutes earlier than the agreed upon 2 pm. It was easily my quickest trip through the Wonderland and I was suitably exhausted. I have now confirmed 3.1 miles can be done but have roughly an additional 3.7 miles yet to go to realize my full traverse. If possible it is an intimidating feat, full of a marathon's worth of physical and mental challenge. Hopefully I'll get another chance to tackle it soon.
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