Rosamond Summit is the peak of the second-highest elevation in Rosamond(the highest elevation in Rosamond is Willow Springs Butte). Rosamond is a census-designated place(CDP) in Kern County, California. According to the USPS, portions of Rosamond also include Tropico Village and Willow Springs. Rosamond is the Westernmost valley of the Mojave Desert. The elevation at Rosamond Summit is approximately 3,091 feet according to the USGS. The elevation gain required to reach the summit ranges between 580 feet to 710 feet from the nearest paved roads, and is dependent on the initial entry point chosen for this hike. Reaching this summit requires a low-level hike, typically referred to as a class 1 hike by hikers. This summit is easily reachable within one half an hour for most skill levels starting from the nearest paved road. The majority of this hike is taken by following dirt pathways, but occasionally the pathway requires travel in gravel-covered rocks. Since I would classify this as a class 1 hike, travel to the summit does not require your hands for climbing or any other rock-climbing gear. Hiking to this summit is enjoyable, and is generally easy for a novice hiker that is physically fit and able. This hike is an excellent way to get a little exercise followed by the rewarding 360 degree view at the top. Although reaching the summit only takes about a half an hour, my suggestion would be to budget an hour and a half for the entire round trip so you can enjoy some rewarding time at the top. As with any hike, it is important to be aware of safety considerations. For me, this always includes telling someone where I am going, going during safe weather conditions, going during daylight hours, and bringing the appropriate supplies. At a bare minimum, your supplies should include water, a fully charged cellphone, ID, keys, sunglasses, and at least one good walking stick. Other items may be beneficial during hot days, such as a good hat and sun block, but be extra careful on hot days since it is easy to get heat exhaustion in the desert. A good walking stick is a must, and can serve multiple purposes, not only for increased balance and stability along the gravel-covered rocks, but also for additional protection. On rare occasions I have seen coyotes along this hike, and this can be a little scary and unexpected. Other animals seen may include various birds, gophers, rabbits, and snakes. For me, my walking stick is also beneficial during my return, after my legs are more tired and it is too easy to gain unwanted speed while descending. In short, this is a relatively easy hike, but one must still take the appropriate safety precautions. As one would expect, this hike is within desert terrain, so your view is mostly of tumbleweeds, dirt, gravel and rocks. Although this may sound boring to some, the scenery is rather beautiful to me. The view at the top is breathtaking, and your efforts are rewarded with clear visibility for several miles, all the way to the horizon.
