Waterfalls in Southern California are a very infrequent experience. Most of the natural falls here appear ever so briefly after a series of storms hit the area. But when we get a wet winter you find some scenes that seem so foreign to a normally arid region. Last weekend I took a break from preparing for my upcoming wedding to do a little hike in the Santa Monica Mountains with my brothers. One of my all-time favorite locations to visit, a place I have visited since my childhood.
By far this was the most water I had seen in the canyon in about 20 years. We saw quite a few waterfalls you don’t normally see, and we had to cross many new streams. When we got to the main set of falls we were greeted by a wall of noise as the water crashing on the canyon rocks echoed off the walls of the narrow ravine.
This raucous tranquility was such an interesting experience. The dissonance of these two conflicting feelings really made me take notice. This dichotomy also reminded me of how out-of-place a quiet scene like this could be just minutes away from the hustle and bustle of the LA metro area. It also caused me to reflect on the mutual contrasts currently in my personal life as well. Life is so hectic right now juggling family, work,the upcoming wedding, and prepping for Kim and I to combine our houses. And yet I am feeling a strong sense of peace looking ahead to the new season I am about to embark on.
This day in the Santa Monicas made me mindful to cherish those tranquil moments in midst of this fleeting raucous season.
Here are some photos from the trip.
Thank you for reading. I hope you enjoy this raucous tranquility.
May God bless you both as you begin your new life together as one family.
Thank you Heidi!
Simply great stuff, Caleb. I love the seasonal waterfalls and seeing them running in years with good rain. It’s the time of year where it’s really hard to decide where you want to be when you have some time to get out with the camera. You made a great choice! 🙂
Thank you! Yeah this time of year it’s so hard to decide where to go. I have been enjoying your pics from DV. Seeing them makes me ache for that place. It’s far too long since I have been in the main part of the Valley.