Set deep in the San Gabriel Canyon, my husband and I, along with 30 other jumpers, met at 7:30 am for a 5 mile hike over a rocky, rough trail that led to the bridge. The trail crossed a creek 6 times in up to three feet of water each time. This part of the journey alone was taxing and I was tired by 9am.
By the time I reached the bridge, I was exhausted and wet but my adrenaline kicked things up a notch; I was keenly aware of the Goliath stone bridge that rose up from the jagged rocks and rushing water below.
While standing on the edge of the bridge, steep canyon walls were rising about me. A short lesson was given on the bungee system and safety and before I knew it, I was up and about to go down. I climbed over the ledge; my sweaty hands gripped the rail, my throat was dry and my heart seemed to be pumping in my ears. Looking down at the raging water ten stories below, I heard the encouragement of the instructor as he began the countdown, “5-4-3-2-1-BUNGEE!”
I let go of the rail and star-fish leapt off of the tiny platform to a free fall. I found myself plummeting through the wind; the water and rocks below were getting closer and closer.
Just when I thought I was getting too close to my impending doom, I felt the bungee cord begin to slow me down, but the journey was not quite over yet; A few feet shy of the water, I found myself being flung straight up toward the bridge and plummeting again and again and again with a series of bounces. With each bounce, a scream of excitement escaped my throat.
Once I finished bouncing, I was elated with happiness and adrenaline. Overcoming the initial, internal fear that numbs your body makes you feel like you can do anything. The sense of accomplishment is overwhelming. I wanted that indescribable, free-falling feeling to last forever!
River crossing, rugged terrain and hot temperatures all for 30 seconds of free-falling experience - totally worth it!
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