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In our Between a Rock series, we share thrilling tales from local adventurers about close encounters in California nature, whether it’s a story of being stalked by a mountain lion or getting snowed in on a simple day hike. Have an experience of your own to share? Tell us about it here.

A longtime trail runner went for an evening run in a remote area of San Bernardino County. ‘What’s the worst that could happen?’ she joked to a friend before she left. ‘I get eaten by a bear?’
A Bay Area couple hoped to spend a few days camping near hot springs and redwoods. Then they heard a peculiar sound on the trail and their whole trip was turned upside down.
A Long Beach couple wanted to visit Lukens Lake, but a sudden shift in weather left them stranded with no overnight gear.
I knew running would only make it worse. I had no weapon. I thought, ‘Wow, I guess this is how it ends, I’m only 31.’

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