Pleasant Point, New York Butte

24-Oct-59

By: Bob Greenawalt

Probably the easiest ascents ever made of two qualifying Desert Peaks took place on the weekend of Oct. 24-25 when some twenty-five DPS'ers toured the fascinating Inyos and added Pleasant Mtn and New York Butte to their collections.

Beautiful fall weather prevailed as the hikers left the ghost town of Cerro Gordo Sat. forenoon enroute to Pleasant Mtn. Deep DuVal Canyon was contoured and the summit (truly pleasant) was made in short order. The knapsacks were then transported by 4-wheel drive vehicles over a crest jeep trail and allowed the hikers a leisurely trip past Mexican Spring to the campsite. Sat. night found the gang spread out around the friendly summit station of the abandoned Saline Valley Salt tramway, which project is a monument to the early constructors of Owens Valley. Some campers preferred the crest proper allowing wonderful views of both Owens and Saline Valleys, others like to sleep under the pinyons, while still another number chose to sack out on the veranda of the operator's house.

Early Sunday the bunch was transported to the vicinity of Burgess mine and within 45 minutes after leaving the cars, all had conquered New York Butte. Wishes of "Happy Emblem to You" were cast upon Siina and Harry Melts and Bill Stewart at the peak. Bob Marshall also completed his membership requirements here. Bits of snow around New York Butte added to the thrills.

Most of the gang then left the Inyos by way of Long John Canyon while the remainder returned to Cerro Gordo.

The event was wrapped up with welcomed dips in Dirty Sox Springs pool near Olancha. Bob Greenawalt and Tom Crowley were leaders of the event.