Trail Details

Summit: 6,778′
Distance: 7.6 miles
Time: 3-4 hours
Difficulty: Strenuous
Elevation gain: 1,831 ft
Dogs: Yes (booties recommended)
When to go: July-October

Getting to the Trailhead

This hike begins at the Pacific Crest Trail McKenzie Pass Trailhead, which is not actually at the pass. The trailhead parking is on the north side of McKenzie Highway 242 and 0.5 miles west of the Dee Wright Observatory. The road is closed seasonally (November through June). The trail is 15.5 miles west of Sisters on Highway 242, and roughly a one hour drive from Bend. The trailhead parking area is dirt and can accommodate 10-12 vehicles if parked politely. There is no toilet at the trailhead, but there is a pit toilet at the parking area for the Dee Wright Observatory.

Get turn-by-turn driving directions via Google Maps.

Hiking Belknap Crater

The trail begins in a patch of forest that might be considered deceiving, as most of this hike is over exposed lava fields and cinder talus.

The trail crosses a lava flow between two wooded hills, winding around the north side of the second hill before splitting off and heading north across the lava field.

Looking back (south) toward the Three Sisters.

At about the two mile mark, you reach a junction with the spur trail that heads due east to Little Belknap. This is a short side trip that adds about a mile to your total distance. Once you reach Little Belknap, there is a short scramble to the top. It’s worth the trip.

From Little Belknap, retrace your steps to the PCT and turn right (heading north). As you leave the lava field, the trail forks. To the right, the PCT continues north. To the left (there is no trail sign) the trail heads toward and up Belknap Crater.

One thing I’ll say about hiking across a lava field…it gives you a great appreciation for dirt. The initial approach to the base of Belknap Crater is a welcome, dirt respite.

Once you reach the crater, the terrain turns to a mixture of cinder and dirt that at times feels like climbing a sand dune. The trail switchbacks gracefully up and around the north side of the crater, then climbs to the bare summit.

When we hiked this in October, it was a beautiful, cool day — perfect conditions for hiking Belknap Crater except for the fierce winds at the summit. They were strong enough that we didn’t dawdle at the top. We soaked in the epic Cascade views and headed back down. Fortunately, as soon as we were in the shadow of the crater, the winds subsided and the remainder of the hike back to the trailhead was perfect.

Hiking back, we retraced our steps. Heading south, we had great views of North and Middle Sister, and Black Crater (another favorite hike in the area). We could make out the Dee Wright Observatory — worth a stop if you have time.

Belknap Crater Trail Map & Elevation Profile

Additional Belknap Crater Resources

• Advance permits are required from June 15th to October 15th. Day-use permits are released in two rolling windows: 10 days and then two days before the trip date. Online permit request form.
• Sun protection, layers and plenty of water are all a must on this hike.
• Dogs are allowed, but I would only consider bringing mine with booties. The lava rock is coarse, highly abrasive, and can be very hot in the sunlight.

The Central Oregon Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge

Belknap Crater is part of the Central Oregon Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge, a self-paced hiking challenge that takes you up six iconic mountains, each a bit higher and harder. It’s a challenge in itself, or a great way to train for bigger adventures. And your registration help support some great outdoor-related non-profits.

Learn more and sign-up here.

Originally hiked with Joan on October 15, 2022.

Team SoCalHiker is climbing Mount Baldy again as part of the annual Climb for Heroes fundraiser for The Heroes Project, and we want you to join us! 

Every year since 2015, we’ve gathered at the base of the Mt Baldy Ski Resort along with hundreds of other SoCal outdoor-lovers to hike up Mount San Antonio — aka Mount Baldy.

This annual fundraiser supports The Heroes Project, a non-profit that makes the impossible a reality by empowering our injured community through physical and emotional training, allowing them to explore the farthest reaches of themselves and the world they live in. These expeditions challenge the severely wounded to redefine their personal limits post injury. The Heroes Project inspires our injured men and women to find purpose, both physically and mentally, and ignites others to do the same.

On Saturday, November 12, 2022 (Veteran’s Day weekend) we will gather and hike Mount Baldy, celebrating our love for the outdoors, having fun, earning swag, and doing good for the community.

Two ways you can help

• Register for Climb for Heroes, either as an individual or as part of Team SoCalHiker. You’ll be raising money for a great cause, and there will be food and prizes from the event sponsors. There will be five “camps” setup along the route, so you can hike part of the trail or go all the way to the summit.
• Contribute – If you can’t join us on the hike up Mount Baldy, chip in! Donations are tax-deductible. If you choose to help, consider helping one of the Team SoCalHiker members reach their $125 fundraising minimum.

How it works

• When you register, you’ll be asked if you want to sign-up as an individual or part of a team. Either way is fine, but we hope you’ll join Team SoCalHiker.
• Fundraising – Also at sign-up, you’ll be asked to make an initial donation of $25, and commit to raising a minimum of $125 (set by The Heroes Project…there are prizes for the top fundraisers). You’ll get your very own fundraising page that you can share with your friends, family and co-workers, and their contributions on your behalf will go towards your fundraising minimum.
• You’ll get email updates from The Heroes Project on when to show up, what to bring and other details. I will also be sending out emails just to Team SoCalHiker members with specific info on swag, where and when to meet, and more.
• The hike itself follows a well-marked, defined route. You’ll be hiking alongside hundreds of other participants, and there are five “camps” along the route to the summit. You collect a coin at each camp you visit, and then can redeem the coins for swag like hats, t-shirts and more. Some people hike just to The Notch. Many hike to the beginning of the Devil’s Backbone. And those who are truly ready can hike all the way to Camp 5 at the summit.
• Afterwards, The Notch will be open with food and beverage available to purchase. You can hike back down to the start, or take the chairlift down.

If you’re registered for the SoCal Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge, this peak can also count towards completing your challenge!

Sign-up for the Climb for Heroes and I will see you on November 12th! 

What’s the Climb for Heroes all about?

This 4.8 mile loop in New Hampshire’s White Mountain National Forest takes you up and over both Welch and Dickey Mountain. This trail has challenging sections of granite, with some Class 2 scrambling. It’s fun, challenging hike with rewarding views of the surrounding mountains.

Trail Details

Summit Elevation: Welch Mountain 2,605′; Dickey Mountain 2,733′
Distance: 4.8 miles
Time: 3-4 hours
Difficulty: Strenuous
Elevation gain: 1,802 ft
Dogs: Yes
When to go: Year-round

Getting to the Welch-Dickey Trailhead

This is an easy trailhead to reach, less than six miles east of I-93. Head east on NH-49 for 5.5 miles, turning left on Upper Mad River Road. Go 0.7 miles and turn right on Orris Road, then follow it for 0.5 miles to the trailhead. You can get turn-by-turn directions to the trailhead here via Google Maps.

The trailhead has pit toilets, and requires a WMNF pass (an annual National Parks pass will also work) or a $5 day use fee, payable by cash in envelopes provided at the trailhead. The lot has plenty of parking, but this is a popular hike and it can fill up on weekends.

Hiking the Welch-Dickey Loop

The trail begins at the north end of the parking area near the information signs (be sure to check them for the latest warnings and restrictions). You’ll head into the woods for 20-30 feet before you reach the first trail sign. At this point, bear right to take the loop counter-clockwise, starting with Welch Mountain.

The first mile climbs through well shaded forest on a rocky, root-covered trail. There are yellow blazes on trees to help keep you on the trail. Shortly after the first mile, you reach your first expanse of granite. Take a walk to the ledge and enjoy the view. The exciting part is just ahead.

From the viewpoint, the granite slabs get steeper, with some Class 2 scrambling in sections. Follow the yellow blazes, sometimes painted on the granite and other times on the trunks of trees.

Yes, you’ll have to squeeze through this crack and scramble out of it.

It gets a bit easier as you approach the summit of Welch Mountain.

The summit of Welch Mountain is a good spot to take a break and soak in the views. From here, the trail descends to a saddle before climbing again to the taller Dickey Mountain.

At the saddle there is one of the largest cairns on the route. Look closely for the continuation of the trail. It’s easy to miss.

Once again, you’ll scramble up granite slabs that are sometimes quite steep. It’s easy to see why most people prefer to hike this loop counter-clockwise, as these sections are much easier to climb than to descend.

The summit of Dickey Mountain, though taller than Welch, has more trees. Still there are plenty of granite slabs where you can stretch out in the sun and enjoy the view.

From Welch Mountain, the trail descends for about a mile of granite that’s thankfully not quite as exciting as what you climbed on your ascent. The trickiest part here is finding the trail, as the blazes are sometimes far and few between. This is where it pays to take your time and check your GPS location periodically to make sure you stay on course.

The final section of granite includes this view, with a cliff dropping off to your left.

And finally you return to dirt… and roots… and rocks. It’s not a smooth trail, but it’s fairly easy to follow.

The trail descends along a ridge towards the trailhead, heading due south. Keep your eyes open for mushrooms along the trail.

At 4.7 miles you’ll come to the junction with the Dinkey Notch Trail. Turn left here to hike the final 10th of a mile back to the trailhead parking area.

At under five miles, this trail is not long and won’t take all day. It has some fun sections that require you to problem solve your way up and down. And the views of the surrounding mountains were stunning.

After our hike, we headed to North Woodstock and stopped at the Woodstock Inn Brewery for lunch (they have a wonderful outdoor patio).

Welch-Dickey Loop Trail Map & Elevation Profile

Welch-Dickey Loop Resources

• We had cell reception on the summits and most (but not all) of the trail. We had zero cell reception at the trailhead.
• Note that the mileage stated on the trail signs indicated the loop was 4.5 miles. We recorded 4.8 on our GPS.
• Check the weather in nearby Campton, NH for a rough idea of what to expect on this hike.
• Check out the latest hike logs on Social Hiker for current trail conditions.

The New England Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge

The Welch-Dickey Loop is part of the New England Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge, a self-paced hiking challenge that takes you up six iconic mountains, each a bit higher and harder. It’s a challenge in itself, or a great way to train for bigger adventures. And your registration help support some great outdoor-related non-profits.

Learn more and sign-up here.

Originally hiked on August 12, 2022 with Joan. 

Turtlehead Peak is a great way to get that big picture view of Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. Though technically outside the park boundary, this five mile out-and-back hike begins and ends in the scenic canyon near the Sandstone Quarry trailhead. This trail can be difficult to follow, with some light scrambling and navigation skills required. The payoff? Breathtaking views of the canyon and even the city of Las Vegas. .

Trail Details

Summit Elevation: 6,323′
Distance: 5.24 miles
Time: 3-4 hours
Difficulty: Strenuous
Elevation gain: 2,015 ft
Dogs: Yes, on leash
When to go: Avoid high temperatures and rain

Getting to the Trailhead

The entrance to Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is located at 1000 Scenic Loop Drive, Las Vegas, NV 89161.

Entrance to the park is $15 per vehicle. If you have an America the Beautiful National Parks pass, that will get you in for free. Note that timed reservations are required for vehicle entry to the Scenic Loop (which this trailhead is on) from 8am to 5pm, October 1st through May 31st. The gate to the park opens at 6:00 AM, and it’s advisable to get there when it opens to avoid the heat of the day. 

Follow the Scenic Loop Drive for three miles to the Sandstone Quarry Trailhead parking area. There are toilets available. The trail begins at the north end of the parking area and is signed. 

Hiking up Turtlehead Peak

At the north end of the parking lot you’ll see a large sign with a map of the the trail to Turtlehead Peak (that’s Turtlehead in the background). Review the sign for safety precautions and follow them.

The trail starts out fairly gentle, but pay attention to the trail markers. There are several trails criss-crossing the area as well as desert washes that make it easy to miss a junction if you’re not careful.

After a gentle half mile, the grade gets steeper and the trail climbs parallel to a wash. At 1.5 miles, the trail splits in to several trails. The easier ones are marked with green or white dots painted on the rocks.

We started early, so we had shade most of the first two miles, at which point you reach a ridge line. The trail follows the ridge and then around the back (northeast) side of Turtlehead Peak. Once again there are several use trails that will let you pick your way up to the summit.

Once you reach the top, you can explore different viewpoints with tremendous views of Red Rock Canyon.  It’s really satisfying to rest at the top, knowing that the rest of the hike is downhill.

Head back down the way you came. As you descend, be careful not to overshoot the trail back to the ridge line (it’s easy to do). You might want to use your GPS app to do a periodic map check.

The descent goes pretty smoothly. With our early start (we entered the park right when the gates opened at 6:00 AM), we had shade most of the way up, but on our way down, the sun had already risen above the ridge and we started to feel the full intensity of that flaming orb.

Our total time was 3 hours, 12 minutes, with 2.5 hours of actual moving time. Made it back into town in time for a late breakfast (and before the worst heat of the day).

Turtlehead Peak Trail Map & Elevation Profile

Turtlehead Peak Tips & Resources

• Turtlehead Peak – Red Rock Canyon Las Vegas website
• Get reservations for timed entry (October 1st through May 31st; 8am – 5pm)
• Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area – Official BLM website
• Use sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses)
• Do not attempt in rain or wet conditions
• Do not attempt in high temperatures
• Carry two liters of water. Aim to finish the first one by the time you reach the summit.

The Las Vegas Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge

Turtlehead Peak is part of the Las Vegas Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge, a self-paced hiking challenge that takes you up six iconic mountains, each a bit higher and harder. It’s a challenge in itself, or a great way to train for bigger adventures. And your registration help support some great outdoor-related non-profits.

Learn more and sign-up here.

Originally hiked on June 8, 2022 with Ethan and Lucie.

Maiden Peak sits on the Cascade crest, straddling the Willamette and Deschutes National Forests. Many people hike up Maiden Peak from the Gold Lake trailhead on the west side, but the Maiden Lake Trail offers an alternative that starts in the east, passing through a variety of forested habitats and meadows with an optional side trip to serene Maiden Lake.

Trail Details

Summit Elevation: 7,805′
Distance: 10.0 miles
Time: 5-6 hours
Difficulty: Strenuous
Elevation gain: 3,000 ft
Dogs: Yes
When to go: July-October

Getting to the Maiden Lake Trailhead

From the center of Bend, Oregon to the Maiden Lake trailhead it’s almost exactly 60 miles and 1 hour, 15 minutes driving time. From Bend, head south on Highway 97 for 17 miles, then exit right onto Vandevert Road (south of the main Sunriver exit). In about one mile, turn left on S Century Drive. Follow Century Drive south for 1.1 miles, then turn right to stay on S Century Drive. You’ll take this 22.8 miles to Cascade Lakes National Scenic Byway. Turn left on Cascade Lakes, following it south for 11.8 miles. Turn right on NF-4600 and follow that for 5 miles. This forest service road ends at the Maiden Lake Trailhead. There are no facilities at the trailhead. There is space to park about six vehicles. At the time of writing, no pass is required for parking. Get turn-by-turn directions via Google Maps.

Hiking to Maiden Peak via the Maiden Lake Trail

The trailhead begins at an elevation of 4,922′ and climb steadily but gradually.

You’ll climb just half of the total vertical in the first three miles, where you reach the first trail junction. Maiden Lake heads to the left, but I recommend noting this for a potential side trip on your return down the mountain. For now, continue to the right.

Interesting to see the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) listed here as the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail (PCNST)

About a mile before the summit, the trail gets steeper, finally joining the Maiden Peak Trail for the remainder of the route to the summit.

As you come around the west side of the peak, you finally get above the trees and the views really begin to open up.

The summit of the peak is broad, and marked by a pile of rocks and rusty debris.

This is an out-and-back route, so return the way you came. If you have time and energy, take the side trail to Maiden Lake. It’s a hidden gem that is worth the short hike. There is no outlet for this lake, and it’s amazingly clear.

Maiden Peak via Maiden Lake Trail Map & Elevation Profile

Maiden Peak Tips and Resources

• Bring plenty of water, sun protection, and the other ten essentials.
• Also check out the route to the summit from the Gold Lake trailhead.
• Layer up! It can be cold and windy at the summit.

The Central Oregon Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge

Maiden Peak is part of the Central Oregon Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge, a self-paced hiking challenge that takes you up six iconic mountains, each a bit higher and tougher.

It’s a challenge in itself, or great training for still bigger adventures. And your registration helps support some great outdoor-related non-profits. Learn more and sign up here.

Originally hiked on October 20, 2020. 

Black Butte is an iconic mountain that stands alone, prominent and proud. The 6,436′ extinct start volcano lies 10 miles northwest of Sisters, Oregon along Highway 20. There are two ways to hike Black Butte. The shorter route from the Upper Trailhead is only four miles round trip, but requires a long drive up a washboard gravel forest service road. Starting from the Lower Trailhead is an easy drive, but a much longer hike. You begin at the base of the mountain and climb over three miles before joining the Upper Trailhead to continue your hike to the summit. The total roundtrip distance from the lower trailhead is 10.5 miles, with 3,400 feet of vertical gain.

Trail Details

Summit: 6,436′
Distance: 10.5 miles
Time: 5-6 hours
Difficulty: Strenuous
Elevation gain: 3,400 ft
Dogs: Yes
When to go: Spring-Fall

The popular trail is well-maintained and can usually be hiked earlier in the season when the roads to other trailheads are still closed.

Getting to the Black Butte Lower Trailhead

From Sisters, Oregon head west on US Highway 20 for ten miles. Turn right to head north on Camp Sherman Road. Follow Camp Sherman for 2.6 miles, then turn right onto SW Metolius River Road. Turn right at 0.2 miles (the first possible turn) onto the dirt and gravel Forest Service Road 1430 (there is no sign). A few hundred yards on your right is the parking area, with room for about 10 vehicles. There are no posted requirements for parking fees or passes, and there are no toilets or water at this trailhead. Get turn-by-turn directions via Google Maps.

Hiking Black Butte from the Lower Trailhead

From the dirt parking area, look for the Black Butte Trail sign. You will see the mixed use trail heading due west, mostly flat for the first mile. This trail winds around the mountain at the base, so you’ll want to watch for the wood posts to turn on the hikers-only connector trails that head uphill. There are two options, and when you look at the map at the bottom of this trail guide, you’ll see we took the first option on the way up the mountain (~.75 miles from the trailhead), and the other on the way down (~1 mile from the trailhead). The second option is the more popular route.

From here, the trail begins a relentless but mostly gradual climb up and around the mountain. You will cross two forest service roads as you climb; watch for the hiker trail on the other side of the road and do a map check to make sure you’re on the correct route. At 3.2 miles you reach the Upper Trailhead. There is a picnic table and this is a great spot to take a break.  50 yards down the parking area here are pit toilets.

Note that the sign for the trail back down to the Lower Trailhead (from which you just hiked) is more prominent than any sign for the summit. On my most recent hike here, I helped two separate hikers parked at the upper trailhead who started hiking down the mountain until I asked them if they meant to hike to the summit.

For a detailed guide from the Upper Trailhead to the summit, read Hiking Black Butte from the Upper Trailhead. The trail for the upper section is the same for both routes. From here, it’s a bit over two miles to the summit. The trail up has one switchback, then spirals upward toward the summit.

As you climb above the tree line, you are rewarded with sweeping views of the Cascade Mountains.

You’ll see the tall fire lookout tower that is actively manned during the summer months. As you round the east side of the mountain, you’ll hike through the scars of two modern wildfires before finally reaching the broad summit.

Once on the top of the butte, follow the trail to the northwest to visit the historic cupola (look for the rock carved by the “Bachelor of Black Butte” a century ago). Continue past the cupola to the new viewpoint deck. On a clear day, you can see Mount Hood and even Mount Adams.

When you’ve finished soaking in the views, retrace your route back down the mountain.

Black Butte Trail Map & Elevation Profile

Black Butte Hiking Tips

• At the top, please stay on the marked trails to avoid damaging the fragile ecosystem.
• Bring plenty of water, sun protection, and the other ten essentials.
• Check out William Sullivan’s 100 Hikes / Travel Guide Central Oregon Cascades (affiliate link) for more on the history and flora on Black Butte.
• For a shorter version of this hike that still goes to the summit, read our guide for Hiking Black Butte from the Upper Trailhead.
• This mountain gets snow in the winter and becomes a more technical climb. Check the conditions before you go. I’ve used snowshoes on this trail during the month of January and microspikes and trekking poles can be helpful even into June depending on the snowfall.

The Central Oregon Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge

Black Butte is part of the Central Oregon Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge, a self-paced hiking challenge that takes you up six, iconic peaks–each one a bit higher and tougher.

It’s a challenge in itself, or great training for still bigger adventures. Learn more and sign-up here.

Originally hiked on February 17, 2022 with David and Ethan.
Latest hike on May 21, 2022 with Scott.

Sitting in the Pine Creek Wilderness in east San Diego, stands Corte Madera, or as some refer to it, San Diego’s Half Dome. This peak offers some impressive views of Baja California, Los Pinos, Anza Borrego, Mount Laguna, and Cuyamaca State Park. This challenging trail has some stunning vistas as it climbs toward the summit.

Trail Details

Summit Elevation: 4,659′
Distance: 7 miles
Time: 4 hours
Difficulty: Strenuous
Elevation gain: 1,700 ft
Dogs: Yes, on leash
When to go: Spring, Fall, Winter

Getting to the Trailhead

From anywhere in San Diego, take the 8 freeway to the Buckman Springs Road exit (exit 51). There are no facilities at the trailhead, so stopping at the Buckman Springs rest stop might be a good idea. Head south on Buckman Springs Road for about 3 miles until you see the sign for the Corral Canyon OHV Area. Make the right hand turn on to it and continue for about 4.8 miles. This road will be a mix of dirt and paved sections, but most cars should have no issues driving it. You will come to a hairpin turn and should see a locked gate on your right, just past this on the left will be a small parking area. With care, five cars should fit.

There are some additional spots to park further up the road. You will need to display your National Forest Adventure Pass or similar pass on your windshield. The daily pass is $5 and can be purchased from several locations.

Hiking Corte Madera

The hike begins by making your way around that locked gate and then along the dirt road that passes through some dense coast live oaks and some tree-sized manzanita. The dirt road will make a hairpin and you will reach the junction with Espinosa Trail. There should be a metal garbage can with a trail sign to point you in the correct direction as past this point the road enters private property.

The Espinosa Trail begins a moderate climb toward the saddle between Los Pinos Mountain and Corte Madera. The coast live oaks and manzanita are replaced with chaparral.

Once at the saddle, you will see signs for the Los Pinos Peak to the left, Espinosa Trail straight ahead, and Corte Madera to the right. The Valley Fire in 2020 had closed the Espinosa Trail beyond this point, but it has since reopened. Here you get your first views of the impressive cliff face of Corte Madera.

Keep an eye out for raptors flying in the skies above you. That southern face is host to a number of birds of prey, including falcons, hawks, and golden eagles. In fact, Cleveland National Forest has seasonal closures along the mountain’s sheer cliff. While these closures will not affect your hike, if you are seeking to do some rock climbing, they will.

From this saddle, continue north on the Los Pinos road until it dead ends. Note that this is an active dirt road, so you may encounter dirt bikes or other off-road vehicles. There will be a forest service sign reminding you to be mindful of the nesting raptors that call Corte Madera home.

Your hike will now continue along a use trail to the summit. The condition of this trail varies from good to poor at times, so be prepared. It will get a bit rocky at times and you will have some minor climbing over some rocks.

The use trail wraps around a small peaklet before dropping down some. This is probably the toughest section as you have a short steep scramble to navigate.

Rocky section around the “peaklet”.

From here you have about another mile or so to the summit, the route weaving its way through the chaparral and boulders.

Eventually, you will come to a large cluster of boulders that denote the summit of Corte Madera. There should be a register in an old ammo box for you to sign.

The summit offers many spots to sit and take a well-earned break. You will have stunning views in all directions. Downtown San Diego will lie due west, and with some luck, you can spot Point Loma.

Many of the familiar peaks of San Diego should be visible as well; El Cajon Mountain, Mount Woodson, Cuyamaca Peak, Palomar Mountain, just to name a few. If the air is clear and if San Gorgonio has some snow on its summit you should be able to see it.

When you are ready to leave, just retrace your route back to the trailhead.

For the more adventurous, you can combine this hike with the summit of Los Pinos. If you choose to do this, at the junction with Espinosa Trail, continue south along the road toward the lookout tower atop Los Pinos. This will add about two miles each way and another 900 feet of gain. During the fire season, that tower is staffed and offers some great views.

Corte Madera Trail Map & Elevation Profile

Additional Resources

• Espinosa Trail – Cleveland National Forest website
• Corte Madera is part of the San Diego Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge.

One of the highest points in the Sierra Estrella Wilderness, Quartz Peak offers spectacular views from atop a unique summit block made of white quartz. This challenging trail has beautiful vistas of the Rainbow Valley as it climbs a rugged ridge from the valley floor to the crest of the Sierra Estrella.

Getting to the Trailhead

Trail Details

Summit Elevation: 4,052′
Distance: 6 miles
Time: 3-4 hours
Difficulty: Strenuous
Elevation gain: 2,400 ft
Dogs: Yes, but may struggle with last quarter mile
When to go: Fall, Winter, Spring

From Phoenix take the I-10 to Exit 124B for AZ-303 Loop S and continue South on S Cotton Tail Ln. When you come to a traffic circle, take the first exit onto Estrella Parkway. Go 4 miles to W Willis Rd and make a right. Go 1.4 miles and make a left onto S Rainbow Valley Rd., and after 5 miles turn left onto W Riggs Rd.

Go just 2 more miles and you’ll dead-end into the trailhead parking area. There is a pit toilet, but no running water at the trailhead.

Hiking Quartz Peak

From the parking area head northeast up the trail. You’ll pass an information stand and trail register where you can sign in and out. Follow the flat trail marked by cow pies and cairns for about a quarter mile, then it will turn left towards the base of the ridge on your left.

At 0.6 mile you’ll reach the top of the first ridge, and at 1.0 mile the second ridge. As the trail climbs it alternates between following the crest of the ridge, and dropping slightly side to side, lacing from notch to notch.

At mile 1.8 the trail becomes more rugged and a little harder to follow, then hits a couple switchbacks and gains the final ridge at mile 2. From here the trail hangs on the left side of the ridge until mile 2.3 where it pops back on top.

At the 2.5 mile mark the trail diminishes, becoming more rocky and slow. You should see some cairns to guide you to the left side of the ridge, then back to the center, then to the right, then centered again where the trail becomes more prominent at mile 2.7.

The clear path does not last. Stay near the crest of the ridge for the final quarter mile to the top. When you get near the summit there are two apparent summit blocks – Quartz is on the left. Complete the final scramble and you are there!

At the top you will be greeted by the biggest chunk of white quartz you’ve ever seen and truly appreciate the name of this peak. To the north is Phoenix, to the west is Little Rainbow Valley and to the east is the Gila River Reservation.

When you are done enjoying the views, return back down the way you came.

Quartz Peak Trail Map & Elevation Profile

Driving Directions to the Trailhead

Quartz Peak Hiking Resources

• Bureau of Land Management’s web page with trail info.
• Bring plenty of water, as none is available at the trailhead.
• Carry the 10 Essentials.
• Pack it in. Pack it out. Follow the 7 Leave No Trace Principles.

Arizona Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge – Winter Edition

This hike is part of the Arizona Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge – Winter Edition. This self-paced hiking challenge includes six hikes all easily reached from the Phoenix and Tucson area. They are a great way to explore the area, train for bigger adventures, and you’ll be doing good, with a portion of the net proceeds going to support Big City Mountaineers.

The winter challenge runs between November 1st and April 30th.  Be sure to check out the summer challenge, too!

At 2,812 feet, Black Mountain looms large, way up, and behind, the smaller hills to the west of Highway 280 in Silicon Valley. On a clear day you can see the Pacific Ocean, as well as San Francisco, and the entire Silicon Valley at your feet. You can also gaze at some of the other peaks in the Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge, including Mount Diablo, Mount Umunhum, and Mission Peak.

It feels so far away, yet so close, to the busy valleys down below. Take the time to peruse the many ways to get to the top! Some are easier than others, and some can be a parking headache on pleasant weekends!

Trail Details

Summit: 2,785′
Distance: 11.5 miles
Time: 3-5 hours
Difficulty: Strenuous
Elevation gain: 2,800 ft
Dogs: No
When to go: Year-round

Getting to the Trailhead

Set your GPS to 28100 Laura Court, Los Altos Hills, and park in the residential area.

Notice the interesting lake nearby, and imagine what it looked like as a rock quarry, many years ago.

Hiking the Trail

Head uphill, past the gate. It’s quite steep for a bit, until the junction with the more popular Chamise Trail. Turn right onto the Chamise Trail.

After about a mile, the trail forks, then rejoins itself after ~0.2 miles. At that 4-way intersection, continue uphill, and to the west, on the Black Mountain Trail.

Over the next 3 miles, you’ll be climbing gradually towards the triple communication towers. Just when you think you’re getting close, there’s a 100 foot dip in the trail, followed by a steep final climb. You’re there!

The official summit is where the “moon rocks” are, one of which has the official USGS Benchmark.

Black Mountain Trail Map & Elevation Profile

Black Mountain Tips

• When you return, on the final stretch to your starting point. There’s a little sign that says “Private Property Ahead”. No worries! This trail is heavily used, and not blocked or discouraged in any way. It’s not on the official map, however. MidPen tries to reduce the impact on residential neighborhoods.
• It can get hot in the summer! Water, sunscreen, and good shoes are a must.
• Phone signals are available on the majority of the trails.

Alternate Routes

• The most popular approach is from Rancho San Antonio Preserve (22500 Cristo Rey Dr, Cupertino, CA). It’s about 12 miles and 3200 feet, round trip. Be aware that the parking lot fills-up quickly, particularly on pleasant weekend days. This is the main park entrance, on the eastern edge of the park map.
• Another approach, with a very limited parking lot, is from the Rhus Ridge Trail. The hike is about 9 miles, and 2500 feet. It’s at the top-left of the park map, and is accessed from Rhus Ridge Road, off of Moody Road.
• There are two easy approaches, via the neighboring Monte Bello Open Space Preserve. One is to drive up Page Mill Road, to the parking lots marked on the map, in the area of “#3”. Hike east on one of several trails, then north to Black Mountain.
• Last, but not least, is to get a permit (and gate code) to park on upper Montebello Road, from the Midpeninsula Open Space folks (“Waterwheel Parking” permit application).  The park map shows both the parking lot, and Black Mountain, on the right side.

The Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge

This hike is part of the Bay Area Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge. This self-paced hiking challenge includes six hikes in San Francisco Bay Area. They are a great way to explore the area, train for bigger adventures, and you’ll be doing good, with a portion of the net proceeds going to support Big City Mountaineers.

The annual challenge runs between January 1st and December 31st.

Camelback Mountain is the most popular mountain to hike in the Phoenix area for good reasons. It’s a fun challenging hike from either side, with good views of the Phoenix area, and entertaining to compare its profile to a napping camel. There are two popular routes up this dromedary. This route on the Echo Canyon Trail is the shorter, but steeper route of the two.

Trail Details

Summit Elevation:  2,707′
Distance: 2.4 miles
Time: 2 hours
Difficulty: Strenuous
Elevation gain: 1,400′
Dogs: No
When to go: Fall, Winter, Spring
Trail Hours: Sunrise to Sunset

Getting to the Trailhead

From Phoenix, get on highway 51 going North. Take exit 5 toward Lincoln Drive. Turn right onto E Glendale Ave, continue for about 4 miles, then turn right onto Tatum Blvd. Go half a mile on Tatum, then turn left onto E McDonald Drive. In just a few hundred feet you’ll come to a traffic circle and see the parking lot entrance on the right. Get turn-by-turn directions on Google Maps.

There is a parking attendant and gate, but parking is free. The large parking area does fill up fast, so make sure you get there early to snag a spot. Park in an available space, make sure you have plenty of water, and continue up to the top of the parking lot to find the trailhead. There are restrooms and water at the trailhead.

Hiking Camelback Mountain via Echo Canyon

The trail begins from the top of the parking lot, just beyond the restrooms and benches. An easy incline at first, the path passes a smaller rock formation, then approaches the base of a larger one known as the “Praying Monk”. If you look up from the trail, you may see roped-up rock climbers scaling the face above you. And if you turn around and look the other way, you can see Piestewa Peak rising up behind you.

As you curve around the base of the rockface, the trail flattens, then goes nearly vertical! Fortunately there are railings and a fence to help, and there are steps worn in if you pick a good line.

At the top of the excitingly steep section, the trail mellows again. You’ll soon pass the half-mile marker and wonder how you’ve only gone that far.

From here it’s a steady climb in the wash with some steep steps and light boulder-hopping.

There is a small dip just before the one mile mark, then the trail rises steady and even steeper as it nears the summit. It’s easy to get a little off track in the last section – just keep looking for the path of least resistance.

The trail makes one final bend to the left as it leads you to the top! Take in the awesome 360 degree view of the valley, with Piestewa closeby to the northwest. But make sure you pay attention to which way you came up – it’s easy to mistakenly go down the wrong trail. When you are done soaking in the views, return down the way you came up.

Camelback Mountain via Echo Canyon Trail Map & Elevation Profile

Camelback Mountain Hiking Resources

• Overview of the Camelback Mountain Trails from Phoenix Parks and Recreation. Best resource for the latest information on closures, maintenance and other official notices.
• Visit Phoenix’ guide to Camelback Mountain
• Please #RecreateResponsibly and Leave No Trace

Arizona Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge – Winter Edition

This hike is part of the Arizona Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge – Winter Edition. This self-paced hiking challenge includes six hikes all easily reached from the great Phoenix metropolitan area. They are a great way to explore the area, train for bigger adventures, and you’ll be doing good, with a portion of the net proceeds going to non-profits that help get youth outdoors.

Appropriately named High Point is the highest peak in the Palomar Ranger District of Cleveland National Forest. This hike offers unique views of Toro and San Jacinto Peak, and a colorful variety of trees that isn’t often found in Southern California.

Trail Details

Summit Elevation: 6,140′
Distance: 13.8 miles
Time: 7 hours
Difficulty: Strenuous
Elevation gain: 3,509 ft
Dogs: Yes
When to go: Spring, Fall, Winter

Getting to the Trailhead

Take Interstate 15 toward Temecula and exit at Highway 79 South. Follow Highway 79 South southeast  for 24 miles to the Oak Grove Fire Station. Turn right into the parking area across from the Oak Grove Campground, or just after the fire station. You can park behind the fire station, or in the lot for the building just north of the fire station.

The trailhead is not very obvious. Look for a waist-high post that says “Oak Grove Trail” at the north end of the parking lot – it has arrows on it pointing you in the right direction.

Hiking High Point from Oak Grove

From the sign that says “Resident and official vehicles beyond this sign only”, the hike starts on a dirt road northwest out of the parking area. The first half mile requires you to really pay attention and watch for trail signs guiding you toward the “real” trail. It’s mostly the posts with “Oak Grove Trail” written vertically on them, but there are a few signs that just say “Trail”.

You’ll know you’ve successfully navigated the labyrinth when you get to the large Oak Grove Trail sign indicating it’s time to depart from the dirt road and turn right onto the single-track.

Once on the narrower path, the real climb begins. First there are a few long sweeping switchbacks as the trail becomes a bit rocky and washed out in places. Then the switchbacks become shorter and the elevation gain intensifies.

As you climb, the reward for your hard work is the views that begin to appear behind you.

At the two mile mark the single track path ends and you turn right onto a dirt truck trail called Oak Grove Road.

Follow this broad dirt road to the 3.5 mile mark where you will find a locked gate. You should not encounter any vehicles up to this point, but keep a lookout for dirt bikes and 4x4s from here to the summit.

Continue around the gate and just around the corner the road splits. Go left, continuing on Oak Grove Road.

As the trail curves left, you may be able to spot the lookout tower perched atop your objective.

The incline is steady until around the 5 mile mark, where the road flattens out and arcs right toward the summit.

At 5.5 miles there is a junction at a “No Campfires” sign where you should turn right onto Palomar Divide Road.

This section continues relatively flat, makes a sharp right turn at 5.7 miles, and a 90 degree left at 6 miles.

At the 6.5 mile mark is your last junction. Turn left through the gate and you’ll soon see the lookout tower you’ve been aiming for. Continue up the path as it winds up to the summit, and look out to the right as the white observatory domes begin to dot your view.

Look northeast and admire the views of Toro Peak, San Jacinto Peak and San Gorgonio. Look west across the beautiful thick forest of trees blanketing the broad Palomar Mountain, of which you are standing at the highest point.

The lookout tower is usually occupied by forest service personnel, but public access is not allowed. If you happen to be there in the early afternoon, you may witness them come down out of the tower to weigh the fuel stick. This is a traditional method for assessing level of fire danger. The weight of the stick tells them how dry or damp potential forest fire fuel is. Once you’ve refueled yourself and enjoyed the view, return back down the way you came up.

High Point Trail Map and Elevation Profile

High Point from Oak Grove Hiking Resources

• Check the Forest Service web page for latest trail information.
• Check the weather forecast for Palomar Mountain.
• Be prepared to #RecreateResponsibly and follow the 7 Leave No Trace principles.
• Carry plenty of water. This is a long, dry hike with a lot of vertical gain.
• Carry the 10 Essentials.
• Read up on the background on the High Point Lookout

San Diego Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge

This hike is part of the San Diego Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge. This self-paced hiking challenge includes six hikes in San Diego County. They are a great way to explore the area, train for bigger adventures, and you’ll be doing good, with a portion of the net proceeds going to support Big City Mountaineers.

The annual challenge runs between January 1st and December 31st.  Be sure to check out the SoCal challenge, too!

Originally hiked on November 25, 2020.

Hot Springs Mountain in the Los Coyotes Reservation is the highest peak in San Diego County, with chaparral, oak and pine forests. On a clear day, you can see the Pacific Ocean over 50 miles away. Near the summit are the crumbling remains of a lookout tower, and the true summit requires a short boulder scramble. It’s an area of impressive natural beauty and biodiversity.

Trail Details

Summit: 6,533′
Distance: 10.2 miles
Time: 4-6 hours
Difficulty: Strenuous
Elevation gain: 2,118 ft
Dogs: Yes
When to go: Year-round

Getting to the Hot Springs Mountain Trailhead

The nearest town is Warner Springs, and the drive to the trailhead takes about an hour from Temecula or an an hour and 20 minutes from Escondido. From Highway 79 in Warner Springs, you’ll turn onto Camino San Ignacio Road. This road travels 7.7 miles to the trailhead at the intersection with Sukat Road, but you’ll have to stop at the entrance to the Los Coyotes Reservation and pay a per-person day-use fee, which at the time of writing was $10 per person.

The trailhead is not clearly marked, other than a small sign identifying Sukat Road. The road can be found at the west edge of the campground (to your left as you enter the campground. The campground itself was still closed to camping due to the pandemic, but this made parking a breeze. Get turn-by-turn driving directions on Google Maps.

Hiking Hot Springs Mountain

The trail begins up Sukat Road, a jeep trail that was chained off at the time of our hike. Once you step over the chain, the climbing begins. Being a jeep trail, the trail never gets too steep, although having trekking poles would be helpful. Leaving behind the tall oaks in the valley, the are open patches interspersed with tall pines, cedars and chaparral.

As you climb, the buckwheat and manzanita give way to forest.

At 2.8 miles, you reach a junction with Hot Springs Mountain Road. It’s another dirt road, and you might not even notice it, as Sukat Road bends to join it nearly seamlessly. There is a sign pointing you toward the Lookout Tower, and that’s the direction you want to continue.

From here, the trail is forested and climbs gently with a few dips to keep it interesting. Towering cedar trees line the trail on both sides.

At five miles, the lookout tower comes into view, and the jeep trails opens to a large flat turnaround area. When we hiked this, there were colored flags tied to the branches to mark the trail.

Continue across the flat open area to the trees on the north side of the clearing, and the trail to the true summit continues as a single track that snakes through manzanita and trees to a large boulder pile. There’s a marker at the top of the highest boulder, but climbing up them is entirely optional, depending on your comfort level.

The summit can only handle a few people at the top at any one time. If you want to stop for a break, a better location is at the concrete steps leading to the base of the closed (and decaying) lookout tower. Though this side of the summit mount is slightly lower, the views are the same.

There are plenty of places to spread out for a snack break before retracing your steps back to the trailhead.

On the way back, the junction with Sukat Road is more obvious. Take a left on Sukat Road, following the sign directing you to the campground.

Hot Springs Mountain Map & Elevation Profile

Hot Springs Mountain Resources

• At the time of writing, a $10 per person use fee is required to enter the reservation
• Dogs are permitted, but must remain on leash at all times
• There is a porta-potty at the trailhead, but bring your own water and pack out all your own trash and Leave No Trace
• Be sure the carry the 10 Essentials
• Know how to #RecreateResponsibly
• Information on the Los Coyotes Reservation
• Weather forecast for Hot Springs Mountain

San Diego Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge

This hike is part of the San Diego Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge. This self-paced hiking challenge includes six hikes in San Diego County. They are a great way to explore the area, train for bigger adventures, and you’ll be doing good, with a portion of the net proceeds going to support Big City Mountaineers.

The annual challenge runs between January 1st and December 31st.  Be sure to check out the SoCal challenge, too!

Originally hiked on October 24, 2020 with Joan, Will, Shannon, Lucy and Farley. Special thanks to Will for serving tacos! 

Named after a legendary Arizona mountain man, Bill Williams Mountain offers a beautiful hike through pine and aspen trees. Spring and summer are great times to hike this peak, but it’s even more special if you wait for the leaves to start changing. No matter the season, you can enjoy spectacular Northern Arizona views from this classic summit.

Trail Details

Summit Elevation: 9,259′
Distance: 7.3 miles
Time: 3-4 hours
Difficulty: Moderately strenuous
Elevation gain: 2,250 ft
Dogs: Yes
When to go: Spring, Summer, Fall

Getting to the Bill Williams Trailhead

From Flagstaff, head west out of town on Rte 66 and hop onto 40 West. Go about 29 miles and get off at exit 161 for Golf Course Dr., last exit for the town of Williams. At the end of the offramp take a left onto Route 66, then take your next possible right onto Frontage Road. Go half a mile then make a left onto S Clover Rd. just after the sign with a ranger station icon. Go just a quarter mile down this road and as it curves left, you’ll see the trailhead parking on the right side. There’s a pit toilet next to the paved parking area, but no running water.

Hiking to the Bill Williams Mountain

You know you are in the right place if you see a sturdy Kaibab National Forest sign with Bill Williams Trail #21 written across the top. To start this hike walk the plank of pavement south out of the parking lot and into the forest. The blacktop path quickly turns to pine needles and dirt.

Flat at first, this inviting trail brings you away from the interstate and deep into a beautiful forest of tall pines. Just about a thousand feet in you hit your first intersection. The Clover Spring Trail #46 will be on your left, but you simply continue straight on your path.

A few hundred feet further the trail passes between two fences, and you’ll know you are on the right path.

At this point you will have also noticed diamond shaped green blazes along the trail. From here these blazes continue all the way to the summit. At the half-mile mark you will come to your second intersection – again the Clover Spring Trail (it makes a loop). Again, continue straight following the sign toward Bill Williams Lookout.

If you hike this in the Fall, this is where you can start to really appreciate the leaves changing. The pine trees relent a bit while aspens and other deciduous varieties start to show. It’s also where you come to the first mile mark which is conveniently indicated on a trailside post.

Another half mile or so up there is a dirt road to cross – again go straight through this intersection.

Again at the two mile mark there is a post indicating how far you’ve come. This is also where the beautiful aspen trees become even more abundant.

Just before the 3 mile mark the trail gets steeper and starts turning switchbacks. A quarter mile further up you will see another intersection, this time with the Bixler Trail #72. Once again continue straight on the Bill Williams Mountain Trail. About a half mile after passing that last trail junction you will come to a dirt road, and the peak’s towers will be in view.

Go right on the dirt road, then look for an almost immediate left back onto trail blazed with the green diamonds. This last section of trail will put you back on the dirt road again, which you then follow to the summit!

From the summit you can look southwest off the edge of the Colorado Plateau as it drops down, down, down to the Sonoran Desert. The views are extra special if you make it in time for sunset, which I think is the best time to hike this mountain. If you are comfortable hiking back down in the dark, those green trail markers you followed up are reflective, which makes it even easier to find your way back to the car.

The summit has a few communication antennas, but also a lookout tower. The top section is often locked, but you can still get up most of the way for an even higher vantage point.

Once you’ve enjoyed the view to your heart’s content, return back down the same way. Make sure you follow the green trail markers, and check that your following trail signs for Bill Williams Mountain Trail #21.

Bill Williams Mountain Trail Map & Elevation Profile

Bill Williams Mountain Tips & Resources

• Bill Williams Mountain Trail #21 – Kaibab National Forest
• Bring plenty of water, as none is available at the trailhead.
• Carry the 10 Essentials.
• Pack it in. Pack it out. Follow the 7 Leave No Trace Principles.
• Things to do in Williams, Arizona – The Gateway to the Grand Canyon.

Arizona Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge – Summer Edition

This hike is part of the Arizona Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge – Summer Edition. This self-paced hiking challenge includes six hikes all easily reached from the Flagstaff/Sedona area. They are a great way to explore the area, train for bigger adventures, and you’ll be doing good, with a portion of the net proceeds going to support Big City Mountaineers.

Registration for the summer challenge runs between April 1 and September 15.  Be sure to check out the winter challenge, too!

Originally hiked October 27, 2018.

Hiking Piestewa Peak is a famously popular Phoenix-area, StairMaster-like workout that can get really crowded. Most people take the short, direct route up Trail 300. For this year’s Arizona Winter Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge, I wanted to explore a different route that would add both mileage and net vertical gain to the hike, and hopefully avoid some of the crowds.

Trail Details

Summit: 2,546′
Distance: 6.6 miles
Time: 3-4 hours
Difficulty: Moderately strenuous
Elevation gain: 1,760 ft
Dogs: No
When to go: Fall-Spring

We’ve marked this as a “no dogs” hike but that is partially true. Dogs on leash are allowed up to the point where the trail connects with Trail 300. If you’re okay with skipping the trip to the peak, you could bring Fido along and just make it a nice loop.

Getting to the Dreamy Draw Trailhead

The parking area for Dreamy Draw is easy to find. Follow N Dreamy Draw Drive eastbound. It ends at the parking area. We arrived before sunrise and had plenty of parking, but when we finished our hike the lot had filled up, so go early on weekends. Parking was free (another benefit over the other route up Piestewa). Get detailed directions on Google Maps.

There are bathroom facilities near the parking area, but no water or facilities on the trail.

Hiking from Dreamy Draw to Piestewa Peak

There’s a vast network of trails in this park, including a paved loop for bicycles, horse trails, and my favorite: single track hiking and trail running trails. There’s any number of ways to get from point A to B, so study the map at the trailhead, download the map data to an app like GaiaGPS before you leave home, and as a backup, carry a paper map. The park is not so big that you’ll get lost for days, but it could be a bummer to log several miles in the wrong direction. We have map of our route, the elevation profile (which shows why this route has more net vertical than the shorter route), and a downloadable GPX file further down in this guide.

The trail signage in the park is a mixture of old and new. The newer signs sport elevation profiles, trail data and a QR code that will (if your cell signal is strong) connect you to a webpage with even more information.

After reviewing the trail maps, we started uphill, making our way to Trail 100 and heading out.

There was a smattering of other people on the trails, but nothing like the “conga line” that often forms at the short route up Piestewa. Plus we were on the northwest side of the mountains, meaning we would have early morning shade.

We hopped on to Trail 1A which makes a loop around the peak, then peeled off at the Irregular Link Trail at about one mile in. This trail climbed about half a mile to a saddle with beautiful views of the surrounding area.

From the saddle, the trail descends around the north side of Piestewa Peak, losing about 400 feet of the elevation you’ve already climbed. At about 2.75 miles, the trail begins to climb again.

At 3.25 miles, you connect with the summit trail (and the conga line). The final stretch climbs up steeply, with a well-engineered trail that has a lot of steps.

To the left is a rounded shoulder that many people stop at. It’s close enough to the summit for them. To the right is a scramble to the true summit, where you’ll find a survey benchmark and the true highpoint of Piestewa Peak. The scramble isn’t too technical, but some might find the broad shoulder less intimidating.

From the summit, we headed back the way we came up. At 5.25 miles, we opted to turn left and take a loop back to Dreamy Draw. It meant less climbing, which was fine since the sun was higher in the sky and a stop at Cartel Coffee Lab was on our mind.

In the end, we logged 6.6 miles and explored another way to reach Piestewa Peak.

Piestewa Peak via Dreamy Draw Trail Map & Elevation Profile

Piestewa Peak via Dreamy Draw Tips & Resources

• Parking at Dreamy Draw was free at the time of writing
• Official City of Phoenix Dreamy Draw Trails website
• On this particular route, the only bathroom facility was near the Dreamy Draw parking area.
• There is no water along the trail. Bring at least two liters.
• This trail is exposed. We had shade from the sun when it was low in the sky, but as it rose, there’s no escaping it. Wear sunscreen and sun protection.

Piestewa Peak is part of the Arizona Winter Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge, a great way to challenge yourself physically while helping fundraise for Big City Mountaineers.

Piestewa Peak Weather Forecast

[forecast width=”100%” location=”85020″]

Originally hiked on November 17, 2019 with Richard Oppelaar.

The Volcan Mountains are a relatively small range about 13 miles long and 7.5 miles wide. Located east of San Diego, near the town of Julian, this hike up Volcan Mountain gives you a perfect excuse for a weekend trip rewarded with a slice of Julian apple pie. The out-and-back double-track trail has and entrance designed by a renown sculptor, several marked view points, interesting historical sites, and views that on a clear day stretch from Catalina Island to the Salton Sea.

Trail Details

Summit: 5,353′
Distance: 5.1 miles
Time: 2-3 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation gain: 1,170 ft
Dogs: Yes
When to go: Year-round

Getting to Volcan Mountain

The entrance to the Volcan Mountain Wilderness Preserve is located at 1209 Farmer Road at Wynola Road, Julian, CA 92036 about 40 miles east of Escondido. The park is open year-round from sunrise to sunset, though the preserve closes when there is 1/2 inch of rain or snow until the trails dry out, mainly to avoid ruts being created on a muddy trail. The preserve allows dogs on leash, bikes and equestrians on the main double-track trail, while the optional Five Oaks single track trail is for hikers only. Entrance is free, and parking is also free along the shoulder of Farmer Road.

Hiking Volcan Mountain

From Farmers Road, follow the entrance signs to Volcan Mountain Wilderness Preserve up a short gravel road. Note the hours and any travel restrictions or other rules before you head out on the trail. A short distance up the driveway you’ll come to the gateway designed by world-renown artist and Julian local James Hubbell and built by volunteers. Before proceeding through the gateway, note that there are a couple of port-a-potties off to the right; the only restrooms on this trail.

In front of the gateway, if you look down you may notice a plaque commemorating a time capsule placed there on the winter solstice of 2000, and to be opened on the winter solstice of 2100.

The main double-track trail can be used by hikers, bicyclists and equestrians, though we saw no tracks or signs of bikes or horses. Roughly 1/2 mile in you reach a junction with the Five Oaks Trail. This optional single-track route adds about 0.4 miles to the hike, and is a nice option. You can take it up, down or both ways; it eventually reconnects with the main trail so you’ll end up getting to the summit either way.

The trail is lined with manzanita, oak trees, and conifers, give you some relief from the brilliant sun. Most of this trail is exposed to the sun, so sun protection is essential.

The trail climbs to the rounded ridge of the Volcan Mountain Range, then heads south.

Along the way, take time to check out the remains of the Volcan Mountain Observatory Outpost.

This site was considered as a potential location for the Hale Telescope that was eventually located at the Palomar Observatory on Palomar Mountain. Astronomers used this an other outposts at potential sites between 1928-1932 to evaluate night sky conditions. The chimney and remnants of the foundation are all that remain of this structure today.

As you climb along the ridge, you’ll pass two viewpoints with information signs that help you identify the mountains you see. Looking to the west, you can see downtown San Diego, the Pacific Ocean, and even as far as Catalina Island.

To the east you can see Whale Peak, Mount San Jacinto and the Salton Sea.

Near the top of Volcan Peak, the trail forks. You can take either direction; they loop around the summit and meet.

Near the high point, you’ll see the Volcan Mountain Airway Beacon Light Tower. It was built in the 1920s by the Post Office Department as part of a nationwide navigation system used by Air Mail pilots. These beacons were placed 15-25 miles apart, and there were more than 2,000 of them in operation by 1946, helping pilots navigate across the country in darkness (and before modern electronic technology).

The true high point is obscured by a cluster of bushy oaks, but you’re essentially there. There is a survey benchmark on the far side of the loop, embedded in an elevated concrete pipe-like column.

On your way down, consider taking the optional Five Oaks Trail for a change of scenery, otherwise, head back down to the gateway to complete your hike.

Volcan Mountain Trail Map & Elevation Profile

Volcan Mountain Tips & Resources

• Get turn-by-turn driving directions to the trailhead via Google Maps
• Volcan Mountain Foundation – official website
• 1/2 inch of rain or snow will close the preserve until the trails dry out
• There is no water available at the preserve, so bring plenty. We carried a liter each, plus an extra for our dog. In warmer temperatures, carry more.
• After the hike? Head to Julian for a slice of their famous apple pie.

Volcan Mountain is part of the annual San Diego Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge. For more information, visit sixpackofpeaks.com.

Julian Weather Forecast

[forecast width=”100%” location=”92036″]

Originally hiked on February 15, 2020 with Joan and Lucy. 

Gray Butte is not particularly rugged nor jagged. The soft-shouldered butte is home to a cluster of antennas and a utility road the climbs there. But this 13.3 mile out-and-back route begins and ends in beautiful Smith Rock State Park, taking you down across the Crooked River before climbing out of the park, across a private land easement, and into the Crooked River National Grassland where Gray Butte stands tall over Central Oregon.

Trail Details

Summit Elevation: 5,108′
Distance: 13.3 miles
Time: 5-7 hours
Difficulty: Strenuous
Elevation gain: 2,830 ft
Dogs: Yes
When to go: Fall through Spring

This trail is considered strenuous mainly for the net vertical gain and the distance, but the climb itself is moderate, with no overly steep or gnarly sections.

Getting to the Trailhead

We began at the Smith Rock State Park visitor center in Terrebonne, Oregon (get driving directions here). The parking at this popular park fills up early, especially on nice weekends. In late December, we had plenty of parking, although it was full by the time we returned to our car in the afternoon. If you don’t have an annual Oregon State Parks pass, there is a self-serve fee station where you can purchase a day pass to put on your dashboard. At the time of writing, it cost $5 to park for the day, a one-year Oregon Park State Pass was $30 and a two-year pass $50. Annual passes are available for sale in the Visitor Center when it’s open.

Hiking to Gray Butte

Beginning at the Visitor Center, head about 0.2 miles north on the Rim Rock Trail (parallel to the road), then turn left (northwest) on the Valley Trail. This begins as a paved trail and is a magnet for tourists as it’s the main route down to the river. There is a pit toilet just before the bridge should you need it. The views of the canyon from the bridge never fail to amaze.

Once you cross the bridge, turn right and follow the Wolf Tree Trail.

This trail winds along beside the Crooked River for about 1.25 miles before connecting with the Burma Road Trail. Now the climbing begins.

The trail exits Smith Rock State Park and follows Burma Road alongside a canal that actually tunnels through the mountain. You climb two switchbacks on this double-track utility road, with the views opening up as you climb higher. From here you get an incredible view of not only Smith Rock State Park, but the Cascade Range to the west.

Look closely at this photo and check out the “wave”-like clouds in the distance. I had never seen anything like them before.

At roughly 2.25 miles in you reach the junction with the Summit Trail (which descends to the left and you do not take) and the Gray Butte Trail to the right. The next three miles are relatively flat as the trail winds long the north-face of Eagle’s Nest to the Gray Butte Saddle Junction.

From the junction, you have two options. There is a trail that winds around the north side of Gray Butte, or you can take the double-track utility road up the south side. We opted to turn left on the dirt double-track and follow that to the summit, since there had been some snow recently and the north side was certain to hold more of it.

This winds its way up to the summit where there is a small cluster of antennas. This rounded summit of Gray Butte is 5,108′ high with 1,908′ of prominence, making it a great spot for 360-degree views of much of Central Oregon.

The summit is a great place to take a break and refuel. You have hiked half the total distance. The trip back is mostly downhill, with a climb out of the canyon from Smith Rock at the very end. This is also where Ben and agreed this would be a fun mountain bike trek, and in fact, mountain bikes and horses are allowed.

We hiked this in late December and once we headed uphill, only saw two people on the way. On our way back, we began to see more and more people, especially as we got back to Smith Rock State Park.

This trail was a great way to get a good overview of Smith Rock State Park, but kept away from the crowds for 99% of the route.

Gray Butte Trail Map & Elevation Profile

Additional Gray Butte Tips and Resources

• Smith Rock State Park – official website
• Crooked River National Grassland – official website
• Carry the 10 essentials
• Learn more about the Central Oregon Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge

Smith Rock State Park Weather Forecast

[forecast width=”100%” location=”97760″]

Originally hiked on December 27, 2019. Special thanks to my friend Ben for joining me! 

2019 was the first year for the Arizona Winter Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge, featuring six iconic hikes based around Phoenix and Tucson. Until this past January, I had never done much hiking in Arizona. The challenge provided the perfect excuse to get acquainted with this beautiful area.

For this trip, I flew into Phoenix and rented a camper van from Escape Campervans. I had never tried traveling via a camper van before, and figured this would be a perfect opportunity. I could camp, hike, and spread the word about the latest challenge in the series.

The six hikes in this winter challenge (which runs from November 1st to April 30th) include Piestewa Peak, Camelback Mountain, Fremont Saddle, Picacho Peak, Wasson Peak, and Flatiron.

My plan was to hike one per day, with work days in between each pair of hikes; two days of hiking, one off, and repeat until complete–a total of eight days.

On the off days, I met with local hiking friends and visited local outdoor retailers to share information about the challenge. A number of people have hiked this over three days, tackling two hikes per day. Our Arizona ambassador Richard completed the entire challenge in 18 hours and 26 minutes. I wanted to take a more relaxed pace and have a chance to check out the area, especially since it was my first time hiking around Phoenix and Tucson.

Rather than complete them in order from easiest to most challenging, I grouped them by geography, then ranked from shorter to longer and harder. The first two were Piestewa and Camelback, which are both in the city of Phoenix, and very popular. My first challenge with the camping idea is that there really isn’t camping in the city. I ended up getting a campsite about an hour north of Phoenix  (which I wouldn’t recommend doing again). My plan was to hike Piestewa to catch the sunset on Saturday, then Camelback for sunrise on Sunday.

Piestewa Peak

Piestewa Peak

Distance: 2.2 miles
Elevation gain: 1,112 ft

Piestewa Peak Trail Guide

After fueling up and driving to the park, I took Trail 300 to the summit, the most direct route. The main parking lot was being expanded and was closed for construction, so I ended up parking about 1/2 mile further away. There were plenty of people on this trail, and it’s fairly obvious that a lot of people use it as part of their normal workout schedule. And it’s a great substitute for the Stairmaster, with much better views.

The sunset was beautiful. Not as beautiful as some hikers on Piestewa have captured, but much more interesting than the midday sun. My aprés hike dinner? At nearby San Tan Brewery, washed down with a well-earned IPA.

Camelback Mountain

Camelback Mountain

Distance: 2.8 miles
Elevation gain: 1,246 ft

Camelback Mountain Trail Guide

I was surprised by some of the scrambling that’s required for the final climb to the summit. Watch for the paint spots on the rocks that mark the easiest route, and take your time.

I was back down the mountain in time for breakfast at Morning Squeeze in Scottsdale and a celebratory Bloody Mary.

Monday was a work day, but also a chance to meetup with an online friend. Before I drove down to Picacho State Park for my next camping spot, I met up with R Scott Jones for a chance to sample local craft beer at Arizona Wilderness Brewing.

Scott is a big fan of challenges of another sort. He recently completed a long-time goal of visiting all National Park entities (includes National Monuments and other properties that aren’t specifically called National Parks). And that’s just one of his many quests. We have known each other online for a long time, but this was our first face to face encounter.

After more work (and coffee) I pointed the campervan south and headed to Picacho Peak State Park.

Picacho Peak

Picacho Peak

Distance: 2.4 miles
Elevation gain: 1,986 ft

Picacho Peak Trail Guide

The next morning I woke at sunrise and was blown away by the colors in the sky. It was going to be an epic day.

Picacho Peak isn’t particularly long, but it’s a fun and challenging hike. I knew going in that there were cables to help you up and down various sections of this mountain, but I underestimated how steep and even a little scary they would be. This was very similar to the experience of climbing Angels Landing in Zion National Park, but even steeper (if you can imagine).

The campground at Picacho Peak State Park was designed mainly for RVs, with electrical hookups at each site. And the bathroom was super clean, with hot showers. I would highly recommend camping here. I stayed for three nights, using this as a base not only for Picacho Peak but also Wasson Peak near Tucson (roughly an hour south).

Wasson Peak

Wasson Peak

Distance: 7.7 miles
Elevation gain: 1,886 ft

Wasson Peak Trail Guide

The trail itself was a breeze in contrast the the cable climb up Picacho on the previous day. The saguaros made the hills look like pin cushions. I had the summit to myself for about 10 minutes, then headed back down.

After the hike, I headed into Tucson. Got a little work done at a coffeeshop, then met up with an outdoor blogger friend from Tucson, Adam Nutting at Truland Burgers & Greens. You can find him in Instagram at hikingthetrail, which also happens to be the name of his blog. My wife and I had met Adam once before on our last trip to Tucson, so it wasn’t our first face-to-face, but it’s always great to catch up over a meal and a cold beverage.

I spent one last night at Picacho Peak State Park (which I will gladly camp at again), then I drove out to McDowell Mountain Regional Park for the next few nights.

A Look at the Campervan

When I wasn’t hiking or spreading word about the challenge, I was working, eating and sleeping in the campervan. The van has a seating area with a dining table that worked perfectly for getting a little work done on my laptop. When it was time to sleep, the table folds away and the rear bench seat folds out into a queen-size bed.

In the back of the van is the kitchen, complete with stop, pump-operated sink and a small refrigerated drawer. It worked well for this trip, and thankfully I didn’t have to cook in the rain.

It is considered “dry camping” in that while there is a small reservoir to supply water for the sink, there isn’t a toilet or shower. Each of the parks that I stayed at had flush toilets and sinks, and Picacho State Park had excellent, clean, hot showers.

You can travel with 2-4 people comfortably, although you would need to either bring a tent for a couple of them, or rent the optional rooftop tent available through Escape Campervans.

Fremont Saddle

Fremont Saddle

Distance: 4.8 miles
Elevation gain: 1,496 ft

Fremont Saddle Trail Guide

The trail itself was beautiful, climbing steadily upward to Fremont Saddle. It pays to stop every so often, turn around and look back as the views open up.

From Fremont Saddle, I had a great view of the iconic Weaver’s Needle. And the hike back down to the trailhead provided a spectacular sundown show.

I headed back to camp. The next morning would be my final hike for the trip, and I was meeting our ambassador Richard (aka @foxtrax) at the trailhead at 7am.

Flatiron

Flatiron

Distance: 6.6 miles
Elevation gain: 3,157 ft

Flatiron Trail Guide

The views from the top are worth the effort, and Flatiron is one of those iconic geographic features that everyone should add to their peak-bagging resume.

We capped off the final peak with lunch and a beer at Four Peaks Brewing Co. in Tempe.

Summary

Hiking the Arizona Winter Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge over an eight days was pretty easy pace. If I weren’t also working along the trip, I would have done it in six days (or less). You could also split this into two, three-day efforts.

I was really impressed by the beauty of the trails, and I’m looking forward to returning to hike them again from different routes.

If you’re interested in taking the challenge, you can learn more here.

Originally hiked January 12-19, 2019. All photos by Jeff Hester.

A peak in the beautiful Mayacamas Mountains overlooking Napa Valley and beyond, Mount Saint Helena will give you the best views all around.  In Robert Louis Stevenson State Park, this hike is great at different times of the year and one of the few mountains in the Bay Area to get snowfall in the winter.

This out and back hike begins and ends at the Stevenson Memorial Trailhead just north of the Napa Valley Wine Country. The parking lot is easy to miss and looks like a large turn around spot.  Be sure to arrive early. I have seen it fill up before 7am in the winter. A recent summer trip was a midweek hike and I was the second car in the lot at 6:30am. This trail is popular for hikers, mountain bikers and rock climbers and since 6 miles of it is on the road, an occasional PGE vehicle.

Trail Details

Summit Elev.: 4,341′
Distance: 10.7 miles
Time: 4-6 hours
Difficulty: Moderately Strenuous
Elevation gain: 2,119′
Dogs: No
When to go: Year-round

Getting to the Mount Saint Helena Trailhead

From the majority of the Bay Area, it is quickest to take 80 East (though it goes mostly north) past Highway 29, and take 12 west until it intersects 29 at a stop light. Here, go right and drive through wine country!  Be sure to scope out ones you may want to visit afterwards.

In the town of Calistoga, 29 takes a right to the stop sign. Continue on 29 out of Calistoga where it begins to get windy. The road proceeds up the shoulder of Mount St. Helena.

At the top, there will be a pedestrian crossing sign promptly followed by parking areas on both the right and left sides of the road, they’re pretty easy to fly by, but that’s where you park.  I passed it on my first visit but it was still dark outside, just before sunrise. There is no fee for parking or entering the park but be sure to get there early if you don’t want to park on the busy bustling street.

One visit where I rock climbed on Mount Saint Helena, I camped in a yurt at Bothe Napa State Park a few miles away.  A nice little campground and Yurtville where every group had a few bottles of wine. A nice way to unwind after a day of outdoor adventure.

Hiking Mount Saint Helena

The parking lot sits directly across the road from the trailhead and picnic area and is open sunrise to sunset.  Be sure to use caution while crossing this busy road.

Just off to the left of the picnic area is the sign for the trailhead, keep a look out for this sign since the trail can be easily missed because it is part of a creek in the early spring and can get quite overgrown. Go right from the sign to start the most challenging part of the climb.

From here, follow the gradually rising and mellow switchbacks up.  This first mile is a 443 ft gain and the steepest section of the entire hike.

This 2 mile section is under the Oak, Madrone and Douglas Fir canopy, which is a nice break from the hot sun. It’s just under a mile until you reach the Monument, shaped like an open book: this is where the newly married Stevenson’s cabin was located. I marked it at .8 miles.

Look to the right of this marker and you’ll see faint steps carved into the rock; this is the trail that leads to the fire road that will, in turn, lead to the peak.

When I hiked this trail in February, the snow-covered trees made this trail a winter wonderland.

The terrain is pretty rugged here but once you get through the narrow and rocky section, you will reach the road and follow it all the way up to the peak.

You will see a trail sign at the trail and road junction which directs you up, so stay to the left here.

Hike a couple hundred feet for some amazing views of Calistoga and Napa Valley.

Be prepared for sunshine the rest of the way.If you start you hike early, this section will be forgiving with shaded areas and a nice breeze to cool you down on your climb up.

Be sure to stop and take in the scenery as you make your around the south west side of the mountain looking out to Calistoga and Sonoma.

At about the 2 mile mark, you may see some rock climbers as you pass The Bubble, known for having the most scenic rock climbing views in the Bay Area. If you get a chance to climb, don’t forget to look behind you and take in the scenery.  It is pretty darn epic.

This was my favorite stretch when it was covered in snow in February.  Be sure to arrive early to enjoy it before the sun makes it slushy.

Follow the road all the way up and as you approach mile 4, you can see the peaks with the towers and there will be a junction on the trail.

Stay to the right here and you will be headed toward your summit. If you go to the left you will reach the lower south peak, continue straight to get to the highest (northern-most) peak with the red and white tower.

There are a few side trails that I haven’t explored yet and can be confusing to navigate.  Rest assured if you stay on the road you will reach your summit at 5.1 miles and be rewarded with 360 views of Sonoma, Napa and Lake Counties.

In the early winter I experienced gusty winds at the peak but in February it was the snow covered summit that made this place special.

When I hiked last week, it was about 90 when I reached the top.  I checked the weather and prepared with sun protection, 3L of water and a hearty brunch to enjoy.

There’s a mound of rocks that represents the actual peak, with a plaque commemorating the Russian expedition that reached the it in 1841, naming the mountain after Princess Helena de Gagarin, wife of the commander in charge of Fort Ross on the Sonoma Coast–another place to visit.

From the summit on a clear day you can see Mount Tamalpais, Mount Diablo, and the Sierras! The volcanic rock on top makes a great spot to sit and enjoy lunch while taking in the scenery.

In the Spring, gusty winds can be brutal and once I stood next to a small structure to take shelter from the shade while I enjoyed my lunch. On a hot day, finding a spot to sit on the rocks can give you a little relief from the sun while facing out to the beautiful mountains beyond.

As you make your decent, just retrace the same path you took up, but be sure to take in the views on your way down.

Soon after you pass The Bubble, keep an eye out for the trail sign on the right.  It can be easily missed depending on the time of you visit.  Make your way down the rocky section back to the Monument back to the picnic area.

Back at the Trailhead

Once you reach the parking lot, you may notice how full it can get.  While some have hiked the same trail you did, others hiked about two miles the other way to visit or climb Table Rock with wonderful views of Mount Saint Helena.

All trails in this park are open to the elements and should be taken into consideration all times of the year.  One thing I have realized over the past year is that there is no bad weather, just the wrong gear and being fully prepared with the 10 Essentials with enough water and snacks to keep this hike enjoyable.

The total roundtrip distance of the trail is a little over ten miles. (I have it marked at 10.7 both times I have recorded this hike on AllTrails and 10.31 on Gaia GPS) The grade isn’t extreme, so given the time (and water) most people in moderate shape will be fine. There is, however, added incentive to finish the hike: just down the hill in the town of Calistoga there are many great wineries and breweries.

There is nothing like sipping a glass of wine while looking back at the mountain you just climbed.  Maybe next time I’ll drive down and try a mud bath.

Mount Saint Helena Trail Map & Elevation Profile

Mount Saint Helena Peak Resources

• Robert Louis Stevenson State Park – official website
• Be sure to carry the Ten Essentials

NorCal Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge

This hike is part of the Northern California Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge. This self-paced hiking challenge includes six hikes in the San Francisco Bay Area. They are a great way to explore the area, train for bigger adventures, and you’ll be doing good, with a portion of the net proceeds going to support Big City Mountaineers.

The highest point in all of Arizona, Humphreys Peak towers above the surrounding region. Millions of years ago a massive stratovolcano called San Francisco Mountain stood around 16,000 feet tall, but it eventually collapsed leaving an arc of peaks which rim the Inner Basin. Hike through a beautiful forest of conifers and aspens up along the panoramic ridge that leads to the top of Arizona!

Trail Details

Summit Elev.: 12,633′
Distance: 10.5 miles
Time: 6-8 hours
Difficulty: Strenuous
Elevation gain: 3,406′
Dogs: Yes
When to go: Spring, Summer, Fall

Getting to the Humphreys Peak Trailhead

From Flagstaff, head north out of town on Hwy 180. After mile marker 222, turn right onto N Snow Bowl Rd. following the sign for the Arizona Snowbowl. Continue up the windy road for 6.5 miles. You will come to a sign pointing left that says “LOT 1 Base Area Parking Humphrey Trail”. Turn left into that parking area for the trailhead. There is no water at the trailhead, or along the trail, so make sure you show up with plenty. During summer, there are usually a few porta-potties in the parking lot.

Lightning Danger

In the summer season, thunderstorms are your primary concern. Check the weather forecast, start early, pack layers even if it’s hot in town, and keep an eye on the sky for developing storms. It gets windy and cold on the ridge, and sometimes you won’t see storms coming until you get to the saddle. Even if you don’t expect anything but blue skies, plan to be back down off the mountain by early afternoon. On summer afternoons, the summit area has reportedly been struck by over one hundred lightning strikes in a single hour. In July 2016, a 17 year old boy was struck by lightning and died at the summit. If there appears to be any chance of a storm while you are above tree line, turn back and get down as fast and safely as you can, and live to hike another day. The mountain is not going anywhere.

Hiking Humphreys Peak

Start your hike from the trailhead at the northeast corner of the parking lot. Cross the open meadow to the forest on the far side, and pass under one of the ski lifts along the way. In winter this meadow is the beginner’s slope.

On the other side, you’ll find a sign marking the boundary of the Kachina Peaks Wilderness, and the trail heads into the trees.

The first half of this route is a series of long switchback, followed by a few short switchbacks, all below tree line. Flanked by birch and pine trees, this lower forest feels like a sanctuary. The trail is mostly clear, but some downed trees remain across the path.

A little beyond the half mile mark is the first switchback turn, and little before the one mile mark is the trail register. Fill out the register with your information, and take a break to drink, eat and adjust if necessary. Where the register pedestal is located is also a trail junction, so make sure you turn left onto the next switchback. If you go straight, instead, you would end up at the ski lodge.

The trail continues up through the beautiful forest hitting some rocky and root-covered sections at times, but overall smooth sailing.

The switchbacks remain rather long with a right switchback turn at 1.3 miles, a left switchback turn at mile 1.7 miles, and an easily missed right switchback turn at 2.3 miles. The last one is easily missed because it coincides with an old avalanche path.

When you come to this broad boulder field that runs up and down the mountainside, do not cross it. Turn right onto the next switchback.

At this point you start to get small views opening up in windows between the trees, especially if you step out onto the boulder field. Two more turns between long switchbacks remain – left at 2.8 miles and right at 3 miles. The trail then curves left as views of the ski runs and Agassiz Peak, Arizona’s second tallest, open up.

Around three and three quarters of a mile, the series of shorter switchbacks begins. After a couple turns you get to about 11,400’ of elevation, where there’s a sign explaining to not hike off trail or camp above this point. This is because you are entering an alpine zone. Many people are tempted to cut straight up to the saddle here, but you should continue along the switchback you are on. The terrain and ecosystem near and above tree line are very fragile. You should avoid hiking off-trail anywhere, but it can be especially harmful here.

At this point the saddle is so close, you can smell that view of the Inner Basin.The saddle sits at about 11,700’ elevation and a little beyond the 4 mile mark. With amazing views down into the backside bowl, here is a great place to take a break. It’s also a good spot to assess incoming adverse weather and decide if it looks safe to proceed.

Here you are firmly reminded of the fact that you are on the rim of an extinct volcano, looking down into its crater. You can just about see the true peak, but take note of how the ridge undulates up to the summit. When you’re on that ridge, you can be fooled into thinking you are at the top, when you still have a way to go. Also here is a trail junction, make sure you go left up the ridge.

The species of trees up here is the bristlecone pine, which in some regions grow to be thousands of years old. Continue on the path through these resolute figures, staying on the left side of the ridge. Among the final trees, and above them, there are wooden poles marking the trail at varying intervals. If in doubt, stay left and scan ahead for the next post.

As you climb, make sure to look back and to your left to appreciate the views to the south.

You will encounter a few small dips, but the trail is mostly up, up, up the rest of the way. Take small breaks to enjoy the view, try not to be discouraged by the false summits, and pay attention to your breathing.

Around five miles and a quarter from the trailhead, you will find yourself standing at the top of Arizona! Views of the Grand Canyon, Oak Creek Canyon, Bill Williams Mountain, Kendrick Peak, and the Inner Basin are all there for your ocular pleasure.

Take it all in, keep watching for developing storm clouds, and return down the way you came.

Humphreys Peak Trail Map & Elevation Profile

Humphreys Peak Resources

• Forest Service page for Humphreys Trail No. 151
• To hike this in winter, a free backcountry permit is required
• As previously mentioned, lightning strikes are common, especially in the afternoon. Keep an eye on the weather and turn around immediately and head below tree-line if thunderclouds loom.
• Be sure to carry the Ten Essentials

Arizona Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge – Summer Edition

This hike is part of the Arizona Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge – Summer Edition. This self-paced hiking challenge includes six hikes all easily reached from the Flagstaff/Sedona area. They are a great way to explore the area, train for bigger adventures, and you’ll be doing good, with a portion of the net proceeds going to support Big City Mountaineers.

Registration for the summer challenge runs between April 1 and September 15.  Be sure to check out the winter challenge, too!

Take a hike up Mount Elden and perch yourself atop Flagstaff. This route starts out on the Fatman’s Loop, then splits off to climb all the way to Elden Lookout standing at over 9,000 ft. From the top you are rewarded with sweeping views of O’Leary and the San Francisco Peaks.

Trail Details

Summit Elev.: 9,299′
Distance: 5.3 miles
Time: 3-4 hours
Difficulty: Strenuous
Elevation gain: 2,398′
Dogs: Yes
When to go: Spring, Summer, Fall

Getting to the Mount Elden Trailhead

From downtown Flagstaff, head east on Route 66. About 4 miles from the center of town, continue straight onto US 89. Go just another mile and make a left into the parking lot for the Fatman’s Loop and Mt. Elden Lookout Trail. There’s no sign for the turn, but it’s your first left turn after the McDonalds and Safeway.

The trailhead has a good size parking lot, but it can get crowded. There is no running water or toilet at the trailhead, so plan accordingly.

Hiking Mount Elden with Fatman’s Loop

The trailhead is at the northwest corner of the parking lot. There is an information kiosk with a map of all the trails, some interesting history on the area, and a hiking register where it’s a good idea to sign in. The trail starts with an easy uphill grade, and after just a quarter mile you will get to your first intersection. Stay left, following the arrow for Elden Lookout. This gets you going clockwise on the Fatman’s Loop.

In another quarter mile you reach your second intersection, this time with the Pipeline Trail. Go straight through this three-way intersection, continuing to follow the arrow for Elden Lookout.

This stretch of trail is where you’re reminded you aren’t quite out of the desert. There are yucca and prickly pear mixed in with the typical pine trees of Flagstaff. The path becomes a little steeper around the 0.5 mile mark, and at the 0.8 mile mark you come to your next intersection. This is the turnoff from the Fatman’s Loop onto the trail that takes you up to the top. Turn left here, and prepare for the real climbing to begin!

The next half mile or so of trail makes six relatively long switchbacks, tightens up for a quicker back and forth, then stops messing about altogether and goes straight up the ridge. Fortunately this is also where the views begin to open up, so any huff-puff breaks are made exponentially more pleasant.

As you continue to climb the tighter switchbacks return, and around the 1.5 mile mark you encounter the steepest stretch of trail. After a quarter mile or so, the incline eases off a bit and the path traverses right until you gain a ridge around the 2 mile mark and at 8,700’ elevation. Just 600’ more to climb!

Continue following the trail as it switchbacks across the ridge, then traverses left to reach the saddle around the 2.3 mile mark. Here is where the trail intersects with the Sunset Trail, and climbs the final ridge to the peak.

Turn left at the intersection and continue following the trail up the ridge to the Elden Lookout. Through here you can really appreciate how devastating the 1977 Radio Fire was to the area. But between all the old tree carcasses, the beautiful aspens are taking over.

There is quite a bit of antenna and tower action going on at the summit, but the views are still amazing! You have Flagstaff below you to the southwest, O’Leary Peak to the northeast, and the impressive San Francisco Peaks to the north!

Once you’ve collected your spectacular photos in every direction, return down to the Fatman’s Loop intersection. Here you must decide if you’ve had enough for the day, or if you think you can handle a bonus half mile and some fresh scenery. To cut it slightly shorter, go right and follow the path you took up from the parking lot.

To make the hike a little longer, go left and continue following signs for the Fatman’s Loop until you return to where you joined the loop on your way up. Just after the trail for the KOA, you will turn left to get back to the parking lot.

Mount Elden Trail Map & Elevation Profile

Mount Elden Resources

• Forest Service page for the Elden Lookout Trail #4
• Forest Service page for Fatman’s Loop Trail #25

Arizona Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge – Summer Edition

This hike is part of the Arizona Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge – Summer Edition. This self-paced hiking challenge includes six hikes all easily reached from the Flagstaff/Sedona area. They are a great way to explore the area, train for bigger adventures, and you’ll be doing good, with a portion of the net proceeds going to support Big City Mountaineers.

Registration for the summer challenge runs between April 1 and September 15.  Be sure to check out the winter challenge, too!

One of the tallest mountains in the San Francisco volcanic field, Kendrick Peak offers spectacular views stretching from Humphreys Peak to the Grand Canyon. The trail begins in a quintessential ponderosa pine forest, travels up through a decades old burn area, and passes by a century-old historic cabin. At the very top, enjoy the scenery from the fire lookout built in the 60’s, or have a picnic in the sun on the platform just below.

Trail Details

Summit Elev.: 10,418′
Distance: 9.4 miles
Time: 5-6 hours
Difficulty: Strenuous
Elevation gain: 2,851′
Dogs: Yes
When to go: Spring, Summer, Fall

Getting to the Kendrick Peak Trailhead

From Flagstaff, head north out of town on Hwy 180. Continue on 180 for ten miles beyond the turn for Arizona Snowbowl. After mile marker 232, and just before mile marker 233, turn left onto FS 193 – a dirt road with a cattle guard at the start. Go about 3.2 miles until it ends at a T intersection with FS 171. Go right on FS 171, and continue about 2 miles. Turn right onto FS 190, go up about half a mile and you’ll see the trailhead parking area on the right side.

The lot is dirt and all roads from Hwy 180 are unpaved, but regular passenger cars typically have no trouble accessing this trailhead. The start of the trail is located at the northeast corner of the lot. There are garbage cans and a pit toilet, but no running water.

Hiking Kendrick Peak

Take some time looking over the trailhead signage to get your bearings, and learn some history about fires and fire prevention in the Kendrick Mountain Wilderness. Ponder where the Pumpkin name comes from, then pass through the fence to start your hike. The trail begins broad and easy in a forest of ponderosa pines.

The path wraps around the southeast slope of East Newman Hill, then turns north with four quick switchbacks. Here you see increasing evidence of the 2000 Pumpkin Fire.

Continue through the more severe burn area. Around the 1.5 mile mark the trail approaches the drainage dip one last time before switchbacking left. Without a noticeable increase in steepness, the trail climbs onto the southwest ridge of Kendrick Peak.

Once you are on the ridge, this is a nice place to take a break. It’s about the 2 mile mark, and the area is a broad flat shoulder with good spots to park it. After some noshing and sipping, continue switchbacking up the ridge. Somewhere around the eighth or ninth switchback, the trail takes a conifer respite and gives you some birch tree action.

The trail gradually moves east until the 3 mile mark where it crosses the south ridge, continues moving up the southeast side of the mountain, and switchbacks up to the expansive flat just east of the peak. A little beyond the 4 mile mark you will find an old cabin. Built in 1912, this cabin was saved from the Pumpkin Fire by fire fighters who wrapped the structure in fire resistant material.

After imagining the cabin wrapped up like a giant baked potato, continue west on the path toward the peak. There’s a sign along the trail after the cabin that says “Kendrick Lookout”, and about a half mile after that you reach the top of Kendrick Peak!

To the east is Humphreys Peak, and if you look to the north on a clear day you can easily see the Grand Canyon. There’s a fire lookout at the true summit, and a nice platform on the west side of the peak perfect for a summit picnic.

When your eyeballs have had their fill of the view, return down the same way you came up.

Kendrick Peak Trail Map & Elevation Profile

Kendrick Peak Resources

• Forest Service’s web pages with info on the Kendrick Mountain Trail.

Arizona Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge – Summer Edition

This hike is part of the Arizona Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge – Summer Edition. This self-paced hiking challenge includes six hikes all easily reached from the Flagstaff/Sedona area. They are a great way to explore the area, train for bigger adventures, and you’ll be doing good, with a portion of the net proceeds going to support Big City Mountaineers.

Registration for the summer challenge runs between April 1 and September 15.  Be sure to check out the winter challenge, too!

Hiking O’Leary Peak will take you to the edge of a millennia old lava flow, and up high above to look down on the cinder cone that created it. From the lookout tower at the top of this lava dome, you’ll look into the heart of the San Francisco Peaks, marvel at the size of Humphrey’s Peak, and enjoy a birds eye view of Sunset Crater National Monument.

Trail Details

Summit Elev.: 8,916′
Distance: 10 miles
Time: 5-6 hours
Difficulty: Moderately Strenuous
Elevation gain: 2,014′
Dogs: Yes
When to go: Spring, Summer, Fall

Getting to the Trailhead

From Flagstaff, head North on Hwy 89. Eleven miles passed the Flagstaff KOA, turn right following the sign for Sunset Crater Volcano Wupatki National Monument. Continue straight on Fire Road 545 for 1.8 miles, then turn Left at the sign for O’Leary Group Campground onto Fire Road 545A.

The road dead-ends at the gated trailhead after about a quarter mile and there are spaces to park on the right. There is no bathroom or water at the trailhead.

Hiking O’Leary Peak

To begin the hike, pass by the gate and start walking the wide black cinder path. The first mile is a combination of flat and slight downhill, as you approach and curve left along the edge of the Bonito Lava Flow. This vast flow was created by the Sunset Crater Volcano 1,000 years ago.

As the path begins to bend northward, Darton Dome then O’Leary Peak come into view. These peaks were all created from volcanic activity, but they are different types of structures. Sunset Crater is a cinder cone, while O’Leary Peak is a lava dome.

Feel free to leave the path and explore the lava flow – the Forest Service encourages it. After investigating the inky dollops, return to the trail and continue towards the peak. The incline comes on in fits and starts during the second mile, then holds steady for the duration. Just before the two mile mark you hit the first of six switchbacks. Here the trees start to become sparse, and the view of the lava field starts to open up.

The trail approaches a saddle, but doesn’t quite reach it before hitting the second switchback. This is by far the longest of the switchbacks. As you progress along this leg, look back to see Humphrey’s Peak rise above the trees.

This long switchback eventually ends at the saddle between O’Leary Peak and Darton Dome, around the 3.5 mile mark. If you look up from here, you can see the tower standing at the top of the ridge. Go left through an open gate, starting the third switchback.

This switchback is about as long as the first. The last three are all shorter, which you’ll find start at mile 4.0, mile 4.3, and mile 4.6 At mile 4.8 you will pass by a final gate. The tower is so close, it’s visible from here!

Continue up the final steep finish to the tower! There’s a sign next to the tower listing the hours it should be open and staffed, but I was there during open hours and it was apparently unattended. If you do hike it while there’s someone on watch, just holler up to ask for permission to climb aboard. If not, the view from around the base of the tower is certainly good enough.

Take in the panoramic view spanning from Sunset Crater to the south and Humphrey’s Peak to the west. Once you’ve finished contemplating the structural differences between cinder cones and lava domes, return back down the way you came.

O’Leary Peak Trail Map & Elevation Profile

O’Leary Peak Resources

• Dogs are allowed, but be aware that the dark gravel trails may get too hot for Fido’s paws.
• Forest Service’s web pages with info on the O’Leary Peak Trail

Flagstaff Weather Forecast

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Arizona Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge – Summer Edition

This hike is part of the Arizona Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge – Summer Edition. This self-paced hiking challenge includes six hikes all easily reached from the Flagstaff/Sedona area. They are a great way to explore the area, train for bigger adventures, and you’ll be doing good, with a portion of the net proceeds going to support Big City Mountaineers.

Registration for the summer challenge opens April 1st! Be sure to check out the winter challenge, too!

With one of the greatest overlooks in all Sedona, Wilson Mountain is a must for any Arizona hiker. This northern approach offers a cool shady canyon start and an up-close perspective of beautifully stratified red and beige rocks, before climbing onto the broad grassy mesa. Pack some snacks, plan to stay up top for a while, and fully appreciate the panoramic view.

Trail Details

Summit Elev.: 7,065′
Distance: 7.2 miles
Time: 4-5 hours
Difficulty: Moderately Strenuous
Elevation gain: 2,331′
Dogs: Yes
When to go: Spring, Summer, Fall

Getting to the Trailhead

From Sedona, go north on 89A. Continue 3.4 miles past Midgely Bridge. The trailhead is on the left side at the Encinoso Picnic Area. You will see a sign for the picnic area 200 ft. before the parking lot entrance.

From Flagstaff, take I-17 South to exit 337 for 89A South. At the traffic circle, take the first exit following the sign for Sedona, then at the second traffic circle take the third exit onto 89A toward Sedona. Continue 19.4 miles on 89A. The trailhead is on the right side at the Encinoso Picnic Area. You will see a sign come up for the picnic area 100 ft. before the parking lot entrance.

The parking spaces inside the gate are day-use only, since it’s for the picnic area. But, there are a few spots just outside the gate if you are hiking outside normal day-use hours. A Red Rock Pass is required for parking and can be purchased for $5 with credit/debit card from a vending machine in the parking lot. There are bathrooms at the trailhead, but no running water.

Hiking Wilson Mountain

Wilson Mountain has two main routes to the top. The North Wilson Trail is the cooler of the two, so it’s the preferred route in summer. To start the hike go to the north end of the parking lot, near the lot entrance, and you’ll find a path next to a wooden frame displaying a trail map.

A few yards beyond the map display, there’s a metal signpost that reads “TRAIL 123 NORTH WILSON”, confirming you are in the right place. The start is a little rocky, but not too steep. Around a tenth of a mile in you pass under a power line, then the views start to improve both ahead and behind.

As you reach the half mile mark, tree cover increases and you begin to enter a broad area between two ridges. You’ll start to notice evidence that this area burned back in the 2006 Brins fire. About ¾ of a mile in, the canyon becomes narrower, slightly steeper, and the trail starts to curve left toward the south end of the red rock face ahead.

There’s a dip across a narrow streambed, then in another tenth of a mile a larger dip switchbacking left to cross the streambed again. Around the one mile mark, there is a section that can be confusing – the trail makes an abrupt left for a small switchback around some trees and boulders. Don’t be tempted to go straight or right, by the worn sidepath. Less than a quarter mile further you will reach the first of three larger switchbacks, which accelerate your ascent to the next plane. You can track your upward progress using the colorful layers of the  opposing rock wall for reference.

This section is followed by many tight steeper switchbacks which bring you up onto a large flat area referred to as the “First Bench” of Wilson Mountain. After about a half mile of travel along this “bench”, you’ll come to a three-way intersection. Turn right, following the sign arrow pointing to “WILSON MTN”.

Once you make the right turn, the trail heads uphill aiming just north of the peak. Half a mile from the junction you hit the first turn of a long switchback, then a quarter mile further you finish the switchback turning right and continuing up onto the mesa. A mix of trees returns, both standing and downed, as the trail curves gently left bringing you to the final saddle with another three-way intersection.

At this juncture go left, following the arrow pointing to “SEDONA OVERLOOK”. This is a good time to check that your socks are on tight, because the view ahead may knock them off. The trail rises up and over the highest elevation of the hike, but the real view is a quarter mile further at the plateau’s southern edge.

Be careful once you get to the rim, because it’s a precipitous drop to the bottom.

From the end of the trail you have spectacular views into Oak Creek Canyon and across Sedona. If you know where to look, you can see Midgely Bridge spanning Wilson Canyon.

Once you’ve filled your camera roll with enough pictures of the panorama, return down the way you came.

Wilson Mountain Trail Map & Elevation Profile

Wilson Mountain Resources

• A Red Rock Pass for parking is required and can be purchased at the trailhead vending
  machine – $5 for the day or $15 for the week – More info on Red Rock Pass
• Forest Service’s web pages with info on both trails used for this route:
  • North Wilson Trail #123
  • Wilson Mountain Trail #10

Sedona Weather Forecast

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Arizona Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge – Summer Edition

This hike is part of the Arizona Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge – Summer Edition. This self-paced hiking challenge includes six hikes all easily reached from the great Phoenix metropolitan area. They are a great way to explore the area, train for bigger adventures, and you’ll be doing good, with a portion of the net proceeds going to support Big City Mountaineers.

Registration for the summer challenge opens April 1st! Be sure to check out the winter challenge, too!

A hike up Bear Mountain is full of rewarding views not just at the top, but all along the climb. You get quintessential panoramas looking across Sedona, up close and personal encounters with red cliff faces, and the most incredible perspectives peering down into Fay Canyon. With this hike, it’s about the journey and the destination.

Trail Details

Summit Elev.: 6,476′
Distance: 4.6 miles
Time: 3-4 hours
Difficulty: Moderately Strenuous
Elevation gain: 2,109′
Dogs: Yes
When to go: Spring, Summer, Fall

Getting to the Trailhead

From Sedona, head south on 89A. Turn Right onto Dry Creek Road, at the sign for Sedona Public Library. After 4.5 miles you’ll reach a stop sign. Go Left at the stop, following the sign for Enchantment Resort. Continue 1.2 miles and you’ll see the parking area on the left, and trailhead on the right side of the road. A Red Rock Pass is required for parking and can be purchased for $5 with credit/debit card from a vending machine in the parking lot. There are bathrooms at the trailhead, but no running water.

Hiking Bear Mountain

The trailhead is not on the same side of the road as the parking area, so be sure to cross over before you start hiking.

The trail begins by passing through a fence on the northwest side of the road, then undulates for a bit before the first steep section. It’s easy to get off course in a few spots, but navigating the red rock is made easier by white painted blazes along the route.

About a half mile up there’s a steep scramble to reach the first vista with beautiful views.

The next half mile is a better defined trail, wrapping around the left side of the rock wall you’ve been approaching.

Near the one mile mark, there is another steep ascent to get onto the plateau. The climb lasts about a quarter mile, and once at the top you get your first view of the peak and better views of the surrounding area.

Once on the plateau, the trail continues uphill through short brush, dipping down three times before reaching the final upward push around mile 2. All the while your perspective gets better and better. There are a few great spots to see the south face of Bear Mountain, but even more impressive is the view down into Fay Canyon. As the ridge your following narrows, the trail skirts just left of the end of the red rock gorge.

The last quarter mile of the hike takes you away from the precipice, up to the southwest section of the Bear Mountain summit. The end of the trail is marked by a sign which reads “END OF TRAIL”, in case the overwhelming feeling of joy isn’t enough indication.

To get back to the trailhead, return down the way you came.

Bear Mountain Trail Map & Elevation Profile

Bear Mountain Resources

• A Red Rock Pass for parking is required and can be purchased at the trailhead vending
  machine – $5 for the day or $15 for the week – More info on Red Rock Pass
• Forest Service’s web page with trail info

Sedona Weather Forecast

[forecast width=”100%” location=”86336″]

Arizona Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge – Summer Edition

This hike is part of the Arizona Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge – Summer Edition. This self-paced hiking challenge includes six hikes all easily reached from the great Phoenix metropolitan area. They are a great way to explore the area, train for bigger adventures, and you’ll be doing good, with a portion of the net proceeds going to support Big City Mountaineers.

Registration for the summer challenge opens April 1st! Be sure to check out the winter challenge, too!

At 6,165 feet, Strawberry Peak is the highest summit in the front range of the San Gabriel Mountains, a mere 3 feet taller than its neighbor, San Gabriel Peak. This area was heavily damaged and was closed after the Station Fire in 2009, but was re-opened in 2014.

Strawberry Peak name was given by mountaineers over a century ago because of its peak’s likeness to an enormous upside-down strawberry fruit.

During clear days, Strawberry Peak can be seen as a round bump behind San Gabriel Peak and Mount Wilson, usually visible from the LA basin.

Trail Details

Summit: 6,165′
Distance: 7.5 miles
Time: 4-5 hours
Difficulty: Strenuous
Elevation gain (loss): 2,609 ft
Dogs: No
When to go: Year-round (weather dependent)

Hikers are rewarded with excellent views of the San Gabriel and Santa Monica Mountains, and beyond to Los Angeles and Glendale skylines.

Getting to Trailhead

Red Box Picnic Area is easy to reach. It is 14 miles up along the Angeles Crest Highway (Highway 2) from La Canada Flintridge, at the intersection of Mount Wilson Red Box Road. The picnic area has a large parking lot with a public restroom. An Adventure Pass is required to park.

To get to Strawberry Peak trailhead, VERY carefully cross Highway 2 from parking lot. The trailhead is marked with a wood post announcing the Strawberry Peak Trail.

Hiking the Trail to Strawberry Peak

The hike starts easily enough on a single-track dirt trail lined with oak trees and ascends gradually and continues up the ridge above Highway 2. Power lines run along this early portion of the trail, but rest assured, it ends as you go further up.

Continue hiking up to 0.9 miles to a sharp switchback heading west, with Mount Lawlor rising just above you. The trail continues to ascend gradually, with occasional downhill stretches which are not bad. At mile 2, you will look south with an excellent view of Mount Disappointment and San Gabriel Peak, and Mount Wilson to the west.

At this point, you will also have an intimidating view of the steep slope to Strawberry Peak. From here, you will hike downhill, dropping sharply to the Lawlor Saddle, losing some of the hard-earned gains. Once at the Lawlor Saddle, it is a good spot to rest and refuel before the technical climb to the peak.

Mile 2.5 marks the beginning of the steep ascent to Strawberry Peak. Turn left, off Strawberry Peak Trail, leaving the comfort of the trail. (Although, it is tempting to continue on the right, towards Strawberry Meadow). At this point, the climb is relentless with some rock scrambles, and which you may occasionally use your hands to navigate big rocks.

Yucca, sage and low shrubs dominate the landscape in this part. As you climb, there will be two false peaks that follows the ridge line, and finally arriving on the real peak of Strawberry Peak.

The peak itself is a small bump, surrounded by low brush, and with spectacular views of the LA basin. Some hikers bring strawberries (if in season) as an homage for conquering its sweet summit.

After your summit selfies and celebratory strawberries, return to the Red Box parking area the same way you came.

Strawberry Peak Trail Map

Tips & Resources for Hiking Strawberry Peak

• Go early to get first dibs on parking. An Adventure Pass is required for parking.
• There is a restroom at the parking lot area.
• Avoid the Poodle-dog bush! Do NOT touch it! It is pretty to look at with purple flowers, but this can irritate skin and cause itching, rashes and blisters. Symptoms are very similar to poison oak. Wearing long pants is highly recommended.
• Bring sun protection. Once above the tree line, you are fully exposed to the sun. This hike will be extremely hot during the summertime.
• Carry at least 3 liters of hydration. There are no water sources here.
• Strawberry Peak is part of the SoCal Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge supporting Big City Mountaineers.

Strawberry Peak Weather Forecast

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For me, joining the Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge has really helped me flex my adventure muscles. I’ve completed challenges in SoCal, NorCal, Oregon and Colorado. And next month, I’ll add Arizona to that list. 

In each case, the challenges came with their own adventures. But they also helped prepare me for bigger adventures. Last year? One of my big goals was to attempt to summit Mount Shasta. This year? Thru-hiking the Wonderland Trail around Mount Rainier. 

Joining the Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge has not only helped me gain the mental and physical strength and durability needed for those bigger adventures. It’s also connected me with some really great people. And it feels good to do good by supporting Big City Mountaineers, too. 

This year marks the fifth year of the Southern California Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge. Pre-registration is now open, and it’s your chance to sign-up for a more adventurous 2019. Join the challenge before December 31st for the early-bird rates. 

And mark your calendar for our Finishers Party on October 6, 2019. 

A goal is a dream with a deadline.

– Napoleon Hill

Located in Lost Dutchman State Park of the Superstition Wilderness, Flatiron is one of the most challenging and spectacular hikes in Arizona. The Siphon Draw Trail brings you passed towering rock formations, up a basin carved smooth by water, and tops out on one of the most iconic rock formations in the Southwest. Keep an eye out for lost treasure as you scramble up this heart-pounding route, but know that the real gold is the view from the top!

Getting to the Trailhead

Trail Details

Summit Elevation: 4,861′
Distance: 6.6 miles
Time: 4-5 hours
Difficulty: Strenuous
Elevation gain: 3,147 ft
Dogs: Yes, but need to be lifted/lowered in one section
When to go: Fall, Winter, Spring
Trail hours: 6am to 10pm

Pay the fee ($7 per vehicle), then continue on to the last parking area for the Siphon Draw Trailhead, about 0.7 miles from where you first turned into the park.

There is water at the trailhead, and there are restrooms at one of the other parking areas you pass on the way in.

Hiking Flatiron via Siphon Draw

In the southwest corner of the parking area there is a small but clear sign marking the Siphon Draw Trailhead. Begin hiking south along the trail, undulating from one wash to the next. Just a few hundred feet in you’ll see an intersecting trail on the left, but you should continue straight following the sign for the Siphon Draw Trail. A quarter mile from the trailhead turn left, again following the Siphon Draw Trail sign. Look up the canyon ahead and you can see your objective is now in view!

A little past this left turn, the trail passes near some buildings and crosses straight across a paved access road. Keep hiking uphill on the path, pass through a park boundary fence into Tonto National Forest, and around the 0.8 mile mark you’ll continue past the Prospector’s View Trail. The trail continues making its way to the mouth of the canyon, and about 1.4 miles in the incline increases and it begins to get rocky.

As the trail enters the canyon, it sticks to the left side until you eventually reach The Basin at the 2.0 mile mark.

This is where the trail becomes more challenging, both physically and to navigate. Climb out of this bowl feature on the right side, following a narrow chute. Continue up the slippery gravel covered slope until you find yourself in a notch with a spectacular view of the Flatiron. This is a good place to take a break, before you drop into the Siphon Draw. Descend carefully from the notch and start making your way up the very steep and rocky terrain.

Stay left in the draw when given a choice, and resist the temptation to go up the slope on the right. Soon after dropping in, you’ll come to a wall that you should simply climb up and over – it has plenty of good footing. Take your time, and look for the path of least resistance. If you find yourself struggling to find a clear route, take a moment and reassess.

The crux of this climb is a nearly vertical wall that’s about 10 feet tall, just shy of the final saddle. It’s jagged enough for decent foot and handholds, but still tricky figure out how to maneuver the first time. The best option is to go up the right side, utilizing the lower protruding rocks as steps.

Remember, coming down is always more difficult, so think twice before deciding to pass this point.

Once your over the crux, hike up a little further and look for a trail to the right that will take you out onto the plateau. It’s a relatively flat quarter mile to the edge of the Flatiron. From the vertigo-inducing edge the view of the valley is breathtaking!

Before dropping back into Siphon Draw, consider exploring the hoodoo rock formations back near the saddle. Once you’re satisfied, return carefully down the way you came.

Flatiron via Siphon Draw Trail Map & Elevation Profile

Flatiron Hiking Resources

• Lost Dutchman State Park – official website
• The state park has an entrance fee of $7 per vehicle

Flatiron Peak Weather Forecast

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Arizona Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge – Winter Edition

This hike is part of the Arizona Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge – Winter Edition. This self-paced hiking challenge includes six hikes all easily reached from the great Phoenix metropolitan area. They are a great way to explore the area, train for bigger adventures, and you’ll be doing good, with a portion of the net proceeds going to support Big City Mountaineers.

Wasson Peak is the tallest mountain in the Tucson Mountain District of Saguaro National Park. This loop hike travels along ridges with grand desert vistas and through some of the thickest Saguaro forest in Arizona. The top of the mountain has nice views of Tucson, the Santa Catalina Mountains, and beyond!

Getting to the Trailhead

Trail Details

Summit Elevation: 4,687′
Distance: 7.7 miles
Time: 3-4 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation gain: 1,886 ft
Dogs: No
When to go: Fall, Winter, Spring
Trail hours: Dawn to Dusk

There is parking for about 15 cars, and the lot fills up in cooler months. The trailhead has a dirt parking lot with no toilets or water, so stop at the visitor’s center if either are needed.

Hiking Wasson Peak

From the parking area, start hiking up the broad path. There is a split almost immediately at which you should stay right and continue through a gate after about another 200 feet. The trail is rocky but wide and lined with beautiful ocotillo, prickly pear, and saguaro, of course. Around mile 0.6 there is a ledge on the left that offers a great view up the canyon, toward the peak. After another couple tenths of a mile, the trail starts to go downhill and you’ll see a picnic area out to the left. Eventually you’ll come to a sandy wash and three-way intersection. Go straight through the intersection on the King Canyon Trail, staying in the sandy wash.

At the 1.0 mile mark is a turn that is very easily missed. The wash forks, and you should stay left, but then immediately turn right up the dividing ridge. There are man-made steps, but they are hidden in the bushes.

Go up the steps and follow the trail through all the beautiful desert plants there to distract you from the steady climb. This stretch continues up to mile 2.2, where you reach a saddle and intersect with the Sweetwater Trail.

As the trail sign says, turn left towards the peak. The trail starts to climb the ridge, passing some prickly pear with a sign in front of it that says “Foot Trail Only: No Stock”. If you’ve brought a burro, you’ll have to stop here.

The burroless may continue up this ridge of switchbacks, which is the steepest climb of the hike. The trail levels out just under the crest of the ridge, takes two more short switchbacks, and reaches another intersection at the 3.1 mile mark. Turn right at this intersection and follow the final ridge out to the top of Wasson Peak.

From the top you can see all of the Tucson Mountains, the city of Tucson, the Santa Catalina Mountains, the Rincon Mountains, and if you’ve already hiked Picacho Peak, you should be able to pick out its distinct shape out to the northwest.

To get back to the trailhead, return to the last intersection about 0.3 mile back. From here you can go left and return the way you came, or go right and use the following directions to make it a loop. The loop is about a mile further than doing it as an out-and-back, but you get to see new things!

If you are doing the loop, go right onto the Hugh Norris Trail when you get back to that last intersection near the peak. According to the sign at that intersection, it is the trail in the direction of the Sendero Esperanza Trail. There are some steeper switchbacks at first, then mellows out and passes just south of Amole Peak. Continue following the relatively direct trail, making an occasional short switchback until you reach the intersection with the Sendero Esperanza Trail. Go left at this intersection, following the sign for the Mam-A-Gah Picnic Area.

The trail descends about one mile to the junction with the Gould Mine Trail. Just before the intersection, you’ll pass by a covered up mine area and the foundation of an old building. Turn right at the intersection, following the sign towards the King Canyon Trailhead. After a little more than a mile, you’ll be back at the trailhead.

Wasson Peak Trail Map & Elevation Profile

Wasson Peak Hiking Resources

• Plan Your Visit to Saguaro National Park
• Overview of the trails in the Tuscon Mountain District (PDF)
• Kings Canyon Trailhead information
• Saguaro National Park has a $15 entrance fee per vehicle, which you can pay at the visitor center or online.

Wasson Peak Weather Forecast

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Arizona Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge – Winter Edition

This hike is part of the Arizona Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge – Winter Edition. This self-paced hiking challenge includes six hikes all easily reached from the great Phoenix metropolitan area. They are a great way to explore the area, train for bigger adventures, and you’ll be doing good, with a portion of the net proceeds going to support Big City Mountaineers.

Colchuck Lake is truly a gem of a day hike. It is the bigger brother to the nearby Enchantment Lakes, much easier to reach (as a day hike, especially), and some have described it as a religious experience. The glacier-fed waters of Colchuck Lake are an ethereal aquamarine blue. The jagged peaks and passes surrounding the lake have mystical names like Dragontail and Aasgard Pass. It’s a magical hike and a great way to whet your appetite for further adventures in this area near Leavenworth.

Trail Details

Colchuck Lake: 5,570′
Distance: 8.8 miles
Time: 5 hours
Difficulty: Strenuous
Elevation gain: 2,392 ft
Dogs: No
When to go: June-October

Getting to the Trailhead

From the Bavarian-themed town of Leavenworth, head west on Highway 2 for about two miles, then turn left onto Icicle Road. Follow Icicle Road for 8.5 miles, turning left onto NF-7600. You’ll follow this forest service road for 3.7 miles to the trailhead parking area. Get turn-by-turn driving directions via Google Maps.

There is room for about 30 cars here and it still fills up. We had plenty of parking when we arrived, but it was pretty full by the time we finished our hike, even on a mid-week day after Labor Day. The key here is to start early. There are pit toilets at the trailhead as well as a picnic table. A Northwest Forest Pass or Interagency Pass (like a National Parks Annual Pass) is required to park at the trailhead. Permits for day hikes are self-issued at the trailhead, but permits for overnight trips must be obtained in advance.

Note that the Forest Service road from Icicle Road to the trailhead closes in winter, typically November to May due to snow.

Hiking to Colchuck Lake

The trail begins with a gentle, forested climb that follows the beautiful cascades of Mountaineer Creek.

After about 1.25 miles, you reach a footbridge and the climb begins to get serious.

Another mile up the trail and you reach a junction with the trail to Lake Stuart. Take the left branch pointing to Colchuck Lake, and you will see an improvised log bridge at the base of a boulder field.

Once you’ve crossed this second bridge, the trail picks its way along the base of the boulder field for about 20 yards before resuming a more typical dirt and rock trail. From here, the trail leaves Mountaineer Creek and begins to climb up the canyon wall.

This section of the trail has some steep parts, but it’s well engineered, well maintained and easy to follow. As you climb higher up the canyon wall, you begin to catch glimpses of the views that await you.

As the trail nears Colchuck Lake, you’ll see a sign to a pit toilet. It’s the only one here, and there are no walls. It’s truly a throne with a view! But please, if you need to answer the call of nature, use this pit toilet. Because of the popularity of this hike, human waste can become a real problem. Don’t be part of that problem.

And then… like magic, the blue waters of Colchuck Lake appear through the trees! The trail continues around the west side of the lake. Hike on to find a good spot to sit and soak in the views of the glacier-blue water. Craggy Dragontail Peak lies directly across from you, with Aasgard Pass to the left of that. From this vantage point, it’s difficult to imagine that there’s actually a trail headed up there, leading to the Enchantment Lakes.

We had a blustery, cloudy day for our hike, but just a touch of sunlight makes colorful Colchuck Lake come alive.

Explore the area of Colchuck Lake, and then return via the same route you came. Some sites list the mileage as under 8 miles for the total hike, but we logged a total of 8.8 miles on GaiaGPS.

Colchuck Lake Trail Map & Elevation Profile

Colchuck Lake Tips & Hiking Resources

• Overview of Colchuck Lake via WTA.org
• Get turn-by-turn driving directions to the trailhead via Google Maps
• Bring plenty of water. You’ll want at least one liter or more. You can replenish water in the creeks or lake, but be sure to filter or treat before drinking.
• Bring the 10 essentials.
• Practice the seven Leave No Trace principles.
• Stop in Leavenworth after your hike! There are some great restaurants and pubs.

Colchuck Lake Weather Forecast

[forecast width=”100%” location=”98826″]

Originally hiked on September 13, 2018 with Joan.

The Maiden Peak Trail begins in the Willamette National Forest on Gold Lake Road, and climbs gradually and persistently to the 7,805′ high peak on the border with Deschutes National Forest. The trail is well-forested until very near the summit, and well-engineered and maintained. You will cross the Pacific Crest Trail, but the real pay-off is comes from the unusual lack of crowds and the amazing views.

Trail Details

Summit: 7,805′
Distance: 12 miles
Time: 5-6 hours
Difficulty: Strenuous
Elevation gain: 3,000 ft
Dogs: Yes
When to go: July-October

Getting to Maiden Peak

The trailhead is roughly 73 miles from Bend, Oregon. Head south on Highway 97 for 47 miles, turning right at Crescent Road. Follow Crescent Cutoff Road for 12 miles, then turn right (west) on Highway 58. After about 11.5 miles, turn right onto NF-500 (aka Gold Lake Road). There is a gate on this road that may be closed in winter months. Follow this gravel road for 1.6 miles to a small trailhead parking area with room for about three cars. The parking area is on the left, and the trailhead is on the right. You can get turn-by-turn driving directions to the trailhead via Google Maps. There are no facilities at the trailhead or anywhere on this trail.

Hiking the Maiden Peak Trail

The trailhead sign informs you that Trail No. 3681 is open to hikers, bikers and horses. We saw mountain bike and boot tracks, but didn’t see any other people, bikes or horses on our entire hike–a pleasant surprise since so many of the trails get quite busy. No permits or passes are required to hike this until the Sno-Park opens.

For the first two miles, the trail follows the contour of the mountain, climbing very gradually. After you cross Skyline Creek, the climb gets a little more serious.

At very nearly the halfway point to the summit (about three miles in) you reach a junction with the Pacific Crest Trail. The signage is minimal, so check your bearings and make sure you are continuing in the right direction.

The trail continues through tall forest, only giving way to the lower, sparse white bark pines as you get about half a mile from the summit. Finally the views begin to open up around you.

The summit is rocky and (when we hiked it) very windy. There is a rock pile at the summit (along with some rusted junk from yesteryear) and we were able to sit on the protected side to eat our lunch before turning around and heading back down.

The Maiden Peak Trail is in great condition. It’s a long hike, but the shady trail makes it a comfortable one. And the views were fantastic. I’d like to come back and try snowshoeing this on a bluebird winter day.

Maiden Peak Trail Map & Elevation Profile

After the hike, we took a five mile detour west on Highway 58 to check out Salt Creek Falls. Well worth it, if you haven’t been there before.

View this post on Instagram

It’s Waterfall Wednesday! Show us your most recent waterfall adventure. For us? It was the Salt Creek Falls near Oakridge, Oregon. We had just hiked Maiden Peak, but heard this was a worthwhile detour. The 286 foot waterfall was pretty impressive. 9.24.18

A post shared by SoCalHiker (@thesocalhiker) on Sep 26, 2018 at 7:32am PDT

Maiden Peak Tips & Resources

• Layer up! It can be cold and windy at the summit.
• Since you are in the area, be sure to stop by Salt Creek Falls after your hike. It’s only five miles further west on Highway 58, and it’s the second tallest waterfall in Oregon.
• Get turn-by-turn driving directions to the trailhead via Google Maps
• Book: This is hike #99 in William Sullivan’s 100 Hikes in the Central Oregon Cascades
• Forest Service description of the Maiden Peak Trail
• View Maiden Peak hike logs on SocialHiker.net

Maiden Peak Weather Forecast

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For more a more detailed forecast for the summit, check mountain-forecast.com.

Central Oregon Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge

This hike is part of the Central Oregon Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge. This self-paced hiking challenge includes six hikes all easily reached from the great Phoenix metropolitan area. They are a great way to explore the area, train for bigger adventures, and you’ll be doing good, with a portion of the net proceeds going to support Big City Mountaineers.

Originally hiked on September 24, 2018 with Joan. We didn’t see a single soul on the entire hike. 

Picacho is one of those peaks that you look at and can’t tell how there’s possibly a trail to the top, so it’s no surprise that this is one of the most exciting two and a half mile hikes out there. Once you make it beyond the halfway saddle, it’s a rollercoaster of a mountain and emotion. You’ll be thankful for the system of steel cables there for you to cling to along all the steep, bare rock sections. Don’t forget to pack a pair of gloves!

Getting to the Trailhead

Trail Details

Summit Elevation: 3,374′
Distance: 2.4 miles
Time: 3 hours
Difficulty: Strenuous
Elevation gain: 1,986 ft
Dogs: Only to the half-way saddle
When to go: Fall, Winter, Spring
Trail hours: Sunrise to Sunset

The trailhead has no toilets or water, so stop at the visitor’s center if either are needed.

Hiking Picacho Peak via the Hunter Trail

There are two trails out of the parking area, so make sure you start on the one that goes right and up towards the peak. There is a very obvious sign next to the correct trail that says “Hunter Trail To the Top of the Peak”.

Out of the parking lot, the trail starts with a gentle uphill grade and a few slight turns. There are a lot of man-made wooden steps, some obvious trail signs to guide you, and a few sections of cable that you’ll later laugh at on your way back down from the summit.

After a half mile of this easier terrain, you get up to a rock face and the trail makes a left turn. You’ll drop away from the wall briefly, then climb back up towards the next larger rock face. Around mile 0.65 you’ll come to the base of the wall where there’s an overhang carved out making a shallow cave, and the trail will make a sharp switchback to the right. Continue up for about another tenth of a mile where you’ll reach a saddle.

The view south opens up nicely here, and there’s even a bench for you to rest a moment before the real challenge begins.

As the sign next to the bench points out, the trail turns left here. Walk towards the towering rock face on your left, and you’ll see a cable railing system begin and curve down, down, down along the base of the wall.

The trail drops about 300 vertical feet here. As you drop you’ll have a single cable, two cables, wooden steps, or all three at the same time. At the bottom of this drop, the trail turns left and traverses relatively flat for a moment then begins to curve uphill again. There are a few mellow cabled parts in this stretch, trail signs and small white arrows painted on the rock to guide you through some switchbacks, then around the 1.0 mile mark there’s a junction with the Sunset Trail.

Keep left at this junction, following an obvious “TO PEAK” sign. From here to the peak the cables get serious.

They look a little scary at first, but once you’re in them you feel quite secure. Take your time through each, and use them to help you navigate. Once you clear one set, look up ahead for the next.

After about 150 vertical feet of cables and rock, you come to a large amphitheater dotted with saguaros.

Follow the trail clockwise and up around the inside of the bowl. On the far side you’ll come to the steepest cabled section on the mountain. The cables feel nearly vertical here, but there is decent footing up and through the metal doorframe. At the top of this section, go left to traverse through the final cables. Ahead you’ll find a straight drop to the parking lot side of the peak. Turn right, switchbacking through the final stretch to the summit. Take in the 360 degree view from the top of this dramatic peak!

Once you’ve mentally prepared to go back down through the gauntlet, return the way you came.

Picacho Peak via the Hunter Trail Map & Elevation Profile

Picacho Peak Hiking Resources

• Official Picacho State Park website
• Don’t forget to pack some light gloves to help protect your hands on the cables
• The state park has an entrance fee of $7 per car
• Get turn-by-turn driving directions to the trailhead via Google Maps

Picacho Peak Weather Forecast

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Arizona Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge – Winter Edition

This hike is part of the Arizona Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge – Winter Edition. This self-paced hiking challenge includes six hikes all easily reached from the great Phoenix metropolitan area. They are a great way to explore the area, train for bigger adventures, and you’ll be doing good, with a portion of the net proceeds going to support Big City Mountaineers.

Granite Mountain is said to offer great views, but at a price. The trail climbs nearly 1,000 vertical feet per mile. It’s steep, with only a few gentler slopes to catch your breath on. Access is straightforward, with the trail beginning off I-90 and less than an hour east of Seattle. Time your trip right (like I did) and you’ll enjoy an all-you-can-eat feast of huckleberries.

Trail Details

Summit: 5,629′
Distance: 8.6 miles
Time: 5 hours
Difficulty: Strenuous
Elevation gain: 3,800 ft
Dogs: Yes
When to go: After snow melts

Getting to the Trailhead

The trail begins at the Pratt Lake Trailhead. Heading east on I-90 from Seattle, take Exit 47, turning left at the stop sign to cross the highway, then left again at the “T” intersection. The Pratt Lake Trailhead is ahead on the right. You will need a Northwest Forest Pass or an interagency pass (like an annual National Parks pass) to park at the trailhead.

There is a pit toilet at the trailhead, and parking for about 35 cars. Get turn-by-turn directions to the trailhead via Google Maps. There is an information board at the trailhead with the latest on trail conditions and stern warnings about avalanche danger when there is still snow on the trail. A few yards further and you reach a self-issue permit station. Permits are free and there is no quota, but they are required here, even for day hikes (one per party). Take a moment to fill one out before hitting the trail.

Hiking Granite Mountain

You begin on the gentle, forested Platt Lake Trail, climbing through a shady forest on a soft trail with the occasional root or rock. On this particular Wednesday morning, I was the first to park at the trailhead, and had the mountain to myself. The light morning rain completed the forest bathing experience.

Roughly one mile in, you reach a sign informing you that you’ve entered the Alpine Lakes Wilderness.

Another quarter mile beyond, you reach the junction to Granite Mountain. The trail to the left continues to Pratt Lake, but take the fork to the right and begin climbing in earnest. The trail quickly becomes steeper and rockier.

At about 4,000 feet you cross the avalanche chute, easily identified by the lack of trees.

From here you get a short respite, as the trail climbs more gradually along the side of the mountain, and the views begin to open up to the south and east. Here you see the first huckleberry bushes.

As the trail climbs over the shoulder of Granite Mountain, the lookout tower may come into view (not the case on this cloudy day). You travel through an alpine meadow on the east side of the mountain before the final, rocky push to the summit. It’s steep, but you’re nearly there, and before you know it, you’ve reached the lookout tower.

It’s been said that the views from Granite Mountain are the real payoff for the steep climb. Not so much the case on this cloudy, drizzly day, but it was still beautiful, and I had the summit to myself. I ran into about a half a dozen other hikers on my way back down the mountain, but nothing close to the crowds that can be found here on sunny weekends, when you might be sharing the summit with a hundred other hikers.

The solitude was wonderful, but the real pay-off on this particular hike? The huckleberries. I had never picked huckleberries before, and the bushes were abundant. Chatting with another hiker-forager on the trail, this year had been particularly good for the huckleberry crop. Picking them required patience, but I took an empty Nalgene bottle and filled it nearly half-way with the delicious berries before continuing back down the trail.

I made good time on the way back down, even breaking into a light jog when the trail smoothed out enough to do so safely. Though I didn’t get the amazing views Granite Mountain is renown for, it was still a beautiful hike.

What do the views look like on a clear day? Check out bikejr’s Granite Mountain photo album on Flickr.

Granite Mountain Trail Map & Elevation Profile

Note: my GPS tracker had a lot of “noise” interference from the trees, so the mileage shown on the elevation profile is exaggerated. My actual mileage total was 9.2 miles, about half a mile longer than the posted mileage, accounted for by meandering at the summit and picking huckleberries…and totally worth it.

Granite Mountain Tips & Hiking Resources

• Overview of Granite Mountain via WTA.org
• Get turn-by-turn driving directions to the trailhead via Google Maps
• Bring plenty of water. You’ll want at least two liters or more. Also bring the 10 essentials.
• Practice the seven Leave No Trace principles.

Granite Mountain Weather Forecast

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Originally hiked on September 12, 2018.

Nine years ago, Joan and I were planning a big adventure. We wanted to thru-hike the 211-mile John Muir Trail (JMT) over three weeks. We knew it would be a challenge. Not only would it require careful research and planning, but we would have to train our bodies and mind to prepare for the rigors of backpacking an average of 12 miles a day in the Sierra Nevada mountains. In the spring of 2010, we hiked the first Six-Pack of Peaks. I organized each hike and opened invited up to 12 other SoCal hikers to join us. It was challenging, but it helped harden our bodies for the JMT.

Since then, thousands of hikers from around the country have taken the SoCal Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge. For some, completing the six peaks in a season is challenge enough. Others are training for even bigger adventures. All have created lasting memories.

2018 marks the fourth year of the challenge, and since we’re entering shoulder season, I wanted to share a recap of this year’s challenge.

The SoCal Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge By-the-Numbers

This year we had over 1,500 challengers, logging over 3,400 hikes. Of these, 523 have completed the challenge, and that number will continue to grow as hikes are logged through the end of 2018.

2018 was a challenging year due to the wildfires closing access to trails. At one point, half of the original peaks were closed to hiking. Being a resilient bunch, we shifted gears and expanded the options from six to twelve peaks in total, allowing challengers to create their own personalized six-pack of peaks.

Naturally, we had a few people – three to be precise – who hiked all twelve peaks. There are others who are very close, but as of 10/22/18, Santiago Peak remains closed. Kudos to Philip Yoko, Anthony Lopez and Meredith Crane.

We also had six “multi-challenge” finishers. These are folks who not only completed the SoCal Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge, but also one of our other regional challenges. Janet Herrera and Sarah Wright completed both the SoCal and NorCal challenges. Stephanie Mondabon, Jeff Cobb and Allen Harvey completed both the SoCal and New England challenges. And Jae Bundang completed both the SoCal and Central Oregon challenges.

Legacy Finishers

And this year we have a new category of finisher. Seven challengers became Legacy Finishers by completing the challenge in four consecutive years.

Special congratulations to: Jason Fitzpatrick, Jason Sudo, Jae Bundang, Kathleen Miller, Harvey Fiji, Tony Ramos, Kristin Seiler (not pictured) and Kathleen Miller.

All Legacy Finishers get free registration for the next year and every year that they complete the challenge – something to aspire to for those who now have three consecutive finishes under their belts.

Big City Mountaineers

Once again, we created a fundraising team for Big City Mountaineers, raising $10,655 to help give underserved youth the opportunity to experience life-changing wilderness mentoring expeditions. Read more about our partnership with BCM on SocialHiker.

Finishers Party

This year at the SoCal Finishers Party we had 400 challengers, friends and family gather to celebrate an awesome year of adventure. After following along with everyone’s adventures throughout the year via the hike logs, it’s a great opportunity to meet face to face, strengthen those connections made online, and forge new friendships.

One of my favorite activities is something we call Your Next Adventure. We ask everyone to share their adventure goals for the coming year on an colorful index card, then pin it to our “prayer flag”. The responses are inspiring.

And this year, we also asked challengers to bring a photo print of their big 2018 adventure to share. I thought that maybe a few people would respond, but WOW! You shared a ton of great adventure photos.

Inspiring Stories

We all have stories to share about our adventures hiking the challenge. In the forums, I asked for folks to share their unique challenge story, and we recognized two of them at the party.

Challenger Christy Massas wrote:

Charles R. Swindoll said, “We are all faced with a series of great opportunities brillantly disguised as impossible situations.” The Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge has been life-changing opportunity for my husband and I.

In February, my young, 44 yr-old husband, David was in a wheelchair facing spine surgery for back problems. He was ready to give up on things ever getting better. Unsure of how successful his surgery would be, I decided to take a big chance and tell my him about this challenge. I then proceeded to give him the pep talk of his life and explained to him that we were going to do this together, this year and probably get started around May.

I don’t remember exactly what I said, something to the effect of… you’re young, you’re going to get through this and then you’re going to be better than you ever were before. Don’t give up! Fight for the life you want and the one you know you deserve. It worked!

In March, after his surgery, he was out of the wheelchair and using a walker. In April, only a cane. Then in May, we finished our first hike in the series. With each hike, he just became more and more motivated and so did I. What an awesome experience it has been. In September, we finished our sixth hike and believe it or not he was telling me to hurry up on the last stretch.

Thank you for the wonderful opportunity. We thoroughly enjoyed the challenge.

And Challenger Aiden Wiedenman wrote:

Hi, I am Aiden and am 10 years old. I finished the Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge for the second time this year. This year I convinced a group of friends to do it with me! We are the Adventure Rebels and include Aiden Wiedenman, Landen Minick, Henry Valdivia, Rich Cunningham, and Gavin Thompson, all age 10!

As Henry said (in his post in the forum) we had some great adventures along the way and usually celebrated with ginger beer in the peak.

These are just two of the many inspiring stories I’ve heard from this year’s challenge, and one of the reasons I meeting you and hearing your tales from the trails.

Giveaway Winners

We held our gear giveaway drawing at the party with two big winners! Challenger Ivan Marcos Trejo won our Day Hiker Package, which included an Osprey Skarab 24L Hydration Pack, a Katadyn BeFree Collapsible Water Filter Bottle, Black Diamond Spot Headlamp, 1L Nalgene bottle (with SoCalHiker sticker), a first-aid kit and a Six-Pack of Peaks “buff” – a package worth $200.

Challenger Skaria Roy took home the Grand Prize. Valued at over $1000, it included everything he needed to start backpacking: Osprey Exos 58 Backpack, REI Quarter Dome 1p Tent, REI Radiant 19d Down Sleeping Bag, Big Agnes AXL Sleeping Pad, Jetboil Flash Cooking System, Black Diamond Spot Headlamp, Katadyn BeFree Collapsible Water Filter Bottle, First Aid Kit, 1L Nalgene Bottle (with SoCalHiker sticker) and of course, a Six-Pack of Peaks “buff.”

Finisher Swag

This year, we have some fresh swag to commemorate your challenge or honor someone special, including Finisher T-Shirts with the names of all finishers printed on the back, a Finishers List poster available in three sizes, and new cap designs and colors, including white, pink, black and brown. Of course, we also have beautiful replica benchmarks and patches for each summit. These are actual size and make a beautiful memento or gift.

More to Come

The challenge is not yet officially over! Registration for 2018 is closed, but you can still log your hikes all the way through the end of 2018. We will be updating our Finisher List, as well as the Finishers t-shirts and posters at the end of each month, so you can still make the list. You might be our next three-peat or even Legacy Challenger!

2019 Challenge

Early-bird registration for the 5th Annual Southern California Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge begins December 1, 2018, and you can start hiking and logging those hikes on January 1, 2019 (weather and conditions permitting, of course).

In an effort to continually improve the challenge, we will be bringing back all twelve peaks next year. This lets you do the “original six” (for the purists out there) or mix-and-match any of the 12 peaks to create your own six-peak combination. They all count!

I hope to see you again next year, and look forward to hearing how your adventures on the trail are inspiring others! 

Also check out…

• The latest 2018 SoCal Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge Finishers List
• Update on our 2018 fundraising for Big City Mountaineers
• Take a look at our SoCal finishers 2019 Adventure Goals
• View our SoCal Finishers Party photo album and photo booth gallery

A dream written down with a date becomes a goal. A goal broken down into steps becomes a plan. A plan backed by action makes your dreams come true.” – Greg S. Reid

One of my favorite activities at the Six-Pack of Peaks Finishers Party is sharing Your Next Adventure. We break out the pens and commit our adventure goals for the year ahead to paper, and share them. Making those goals public serves many purposes, but for me, the act of publicly sharing my goal heightens the accountability.

At our 2017 party, I shared my big goal for 2018: climbing Mount Shasta. When I wrote it down, I knew it was a big goal. I had driven past Mt Shasta many times, and looked up at the massive peak in awe. Mount Shasta is one of those peaks that requires mountaineering skills and equipment, and even then, you may not be able to summit if conditions are not safe.

I completed the NorCal Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge as part of my training for Shasta, and as it turned out, I did summit Mount Shasta in late June of this year, and it was a terrific experience. The goal I had written on a neon orange index card back at the 2017 party had been realized.

Once again, we asked our 2018 SoCal Six-Pack of Peaks Finishers to share their adventure goals for 2019. Here’s what they shared.

My adventure goal for 2019? Thru-hiking the 93-mile Wonderland Trail around Mount Rainier next summer.

What are YOUR adventures goals for 2019? Let us know in the comments below!

Camelback Mountain is the most popular mountain to hike in the Phoenix area for good reasons. It’s a fun challenging hike from either side, it has good views of the Phoenix area, and it’s entertaining to compare its profile to a napping camel. There are two popular routes up this dromedary. The Cholla Trail is the more gradual, but longer route of the two.

Getting to the Trailhead

Trail Details

Summit Elevation: 2,707′
Distance: 2.8 miles
Time: 2 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation gain: 1,246 ft
Dogs: No
When to go: Fall, Winter, Spring
Trail hours: Sunrise to Sunset

One alternative is to take a rideshare service (Uber, Lyft, etc.) If you live too far for that you can park in a shopping center nearby and use a rideshare service to get you to East Cholla Lane from there. If you do take a rideshare service, they are not allowed to drop you off on East Cholla Lane – you must get dropped off on North 64th Street. There are often rangers at the trailhead enforcing the no drop-off rule, the no dog rule, and checking that hikers are prepared.

Hiking Camelback Mountain via the Cholla Trail

Once you’ve finished reading all the rules at the trailhead, start up the gradual steps that lead beyond the signs. The trail is very mellow at first, but by mile 0.2 the incline is already turning up.

As it becomes steeper, it also makes a few switchbacks and gains the center of the ridge. At mile 0.6, the trail flattens out some as it begins to drop to the right of the ridge’s apex. The trail stays relatively flat on the north side of the ridge, steepens around mile 0.75, then regains the top of the ridge at mile 1.0. This is where the views get even better, and you now start to see the real climb ahead of you.

Beyond here the trail is significantly more difficult. You will want to use your hands in certain spots, and the route ahead can be unclear. Fortunately, there are some blue marks on the rock along the way, and in some really confusing places there are signs with arrows pointing you in the right direction. There are a few places where you will drop left of the crest, but in general you want to stay on top or close to the top of the ridge.

At mile 1.2 the trail drops down a little. If you look up from here, you may clearly see people standing on the summit – you’re almost there! Continue straight for about another tenth of a mile, then the route curves right and up to the very top of the mountain.

This peak is notoriously disorienting once you get to the top, so pay close attention to which way you came up. Many hikers begin descending the opposite trail by mistake.

Once you’ve taken all the selfies you desire, return down the way you came up. There are a few bottlenecks near the top, so watch for people coming up. Remember uphill hikers have the right-of-way, and give them space to safely pass.

Camelback Mountain via the Cholla Trail Map & Elevation Profile

Camelback Mountain Hiking Resources

• Camelback Mountain Overview via VisitPhoenix.com
• Official City of Phoenix Parks and Recreation page for Camelback Mountain
• Get turn-by-turn driving directions to the Cholla trailhead via Google Maps

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Arizona Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge – Winter Edition

This hike is part of the Arizona Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge – Winter Edition. This self-paced hiking challenge includes six hikes all easily reached from the great Phoenix metropolitan area. They are a great way to explore the area, train for bigger adventures, and you’ll be doing good, with a portion of the net proceeds going to support Big City Mountaineers.

The second tallest in the Phoenix Mountains, Piestewa Peak has a lot to offer considering its location and length. It has great views into the rest of the Phoenix Mountain Range and into the city of Phoenix. It has easier flat sections, challenging steep sections, and a short scramble to the true summit. Previously known as Squaw Peak, this mountain was renamed in 2003 to honor Lori Ann Piestewa, the first known Native American woman to die in combat in the U.S. military.

Getting to the Trailhead

Trail Details

Summit Elevation: 2,608′
Distance: 2.2 miles
Time: 2 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation gain: 1,112 ft
Dogs: No
When to go: Fall, Winter, Spring
Trail hours: 5am to 11pm

If there are no spaces, there is more parking across the street. There is also parking along part of East Squaw Peak Drive, and around the corner on North 24th Place. The trailhead has porta-potties, but no running water.

Hiking Piestewa Peak

From the trailhead begin making your way up Trail 300 – Summit Trail. The path starts out wide with periodic man-made steps and cement curbs on either side, and at a gradual climb. Depending on the time of day and year, there is little to no shade along the route.

The trail has long steadily climbing switchbacks, then around mile 0.5 there is a flat stretch that leads to the small saddle. This saddle is the only trail intersection you need to watch out for. Stay right, following the sign post that says “300 Summit”.

You’re halfway to the top! At mile 0.65 you reach another saddle, but this time the Summit Trail crosses over to the left side of the ridge, and climbs along the Northwest face of the ridge. Short steep switchbacks begin around mile 0.8 and climb until mile 0.9 where a longer switchback brings you around again to the right side of the ridge.

This longer straight stretch leads you to another set of tight switchbacks with a few railings, then puts you up and over to the other side of the ridge one last time at mile 1.0. Drop down a large step, cross North to the bottom of the final section of steep steps to the summit, and finish the climb.

The true summit is a short scramble up the right side, but there is more area to sit and enjoy the view on the left. Once you’re done enjoying the views of Phoenix and the other surrounding mountains, return down the way you came.

Piestewa Peak Trail Map & Elevation Profile

Piestewa Peak Resources

• Official City of Phoenix website for Piestewa Peak
• Overview of Piestewa Peak via Visit PhoenixWeather Forecast
• Get turn-by-turn driving directions via Google Maps

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Arizona Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge – Winter Edition

This hike is part of the Arizona Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge – Winter Edition. This self-paced hiking challenge includes six hikes all easily reached from the great Phoenix metropolitan area. They are a great way to explore the area, train for bigger adventures, and you’ll be doing good, with a portion of the net proceeds going to support Big City Mountaineers.

The Superstition Mountains are a beautiful sight, looking in from any of the surrounding areas. But if you want to see what beauty lies within, you need to take a trip up one of its many  canyons.

Peralta Canyon gives access to one of the most breathtaking views in Arizona. At Fremont Saddle, you’ll have a spectacular vantage point of a massive and surprising monolith. Often playing a role in stories of the Lost Dutchman’s Gold Mine, Weavers Needle is a 1,000 foot column of rock that protrudes impressively from the surrounding desert landscape.

Getting to the Trailhead

Trail Details

Max. Elevation: 3,766′
Distance: 4.8 miles
Time: 3 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation gain: 1,496 ft
Dogs: Yes
When to go: Fall, Winter, Spring

The parking lot fits fifty to sixty cars, but does fill up at times. There’s more parking about 0.2 mile back down the road if the closer lot is full. The trailhead has a pit toilet bathroom, but no running water.

Hiking Fremont Saddle via Peralta Canyon

From the parking lot, head North on the Peralta Canyon Trail #102. Be sure to stay left at the very start – another trail splits off to the right direction from the same trailhead.

Around the quarter mile in the trail crosses right over the center wash of the canyon. This is probably the most confusing point along the entire hike. It’s not very obvious where the trail goes – just continue across and up the uneven rock.

The trail is quite obvious from here. It crosses back to the left side of the wash again around the 1.3 mile mark, and then again back to the right side around the 1.8 mile mark. The trail then switchbacks a handful of times before turning West for the final quarter mile to the saddle. You’ll know you’re there when you see Weaver’s Needle standing tall about a mile away.

When you’ve finished taking it all in, return the way you came.

Fremont Saddle Trail Map & Elevation Profile

Fremont Saddle Resources

• Tonto National Forest, official Superstition Wilderness website
• Group size limited to 15 people
• Get turn-by-turn directions to the Peralta Trailhead on Google Maps

Weather Forecast

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Arizona Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge – Winter Edition

This hike is part of the Arizona Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge – Winter Edition. This self-paced hiking challenge includes six hikes all easily reached from the great Phoenix metropolitan area. They are a great way to explore the area, train for bigger adventures, and you’ll be doing good, with a portion of the net proceeds going to support Big City Mountaineers.

Mount Pilchuck is a very popular hiking destination in the North Cascades despite the difficult, rocky climb to the top. The historic lookout tower is part of the appeal, but the real attraction are the million-dollar views. On a clear day you can see mountains for miles. Mount Baker, Mount Rainier and the Olympics fill the skies around you.

Trail Details

Summit: 5,327′
Distance: 5.5 miles
Time: 4-6 hours
Difficulty: Strenuous
Elevation gain: 2,300 ft
Dogs: Yes
When to go: Mid-July to October

As a sign near the trailhead warns, “The Mount Pilchuck Trail is a steep mountain trail that is sometimes hard to follow. The weather on the mountain can sometimes be extreme. It is 3 miles each way and gains 2,224 ft in elevation.* Search and Rescue teams are frequently called to this trail to rescue hikers. Please, for your safety and that of those that may search for you, do not hike this trail unless you are prepared and know the route.” 

I had hiked Mailbox Peak the day before we hiked Mt Pilchuck, and met a fairly new hiker at the summit. She mentioned that she had recently hiked Pilchuck. When I asked her how it went, her only response was “the views were amazing.” After we hiked Pilchuck, I understood why.

*Note that our GPS data recorded a little less distance and a little more elevation gain. As they say, “your mileage may vary.”

Getting to the Trailhead

Head east from Granite Falls on the Mountain Loop Highway. About a mile past the Verlot Visitors Center, you will cross a bridge. Take the next right onto Mount Pilchuck Road. This takes you 6.8 miles and dead ends at the trailhead parking. The first 4.7 miles are very rough gravel, requiring slow and patient driving. The last 1.9 miles are paved.

You’ll need a Northwest Forest Pass to park at the trailhead, since it’s a state jurisdiction (a National Forest Discover Pass won’t work). You’ll find pit toilets and signs warning you to conceal valuables. Apparently break-ins are common here. You should bring a paper map for this drive, as once you leave Granite Falls, cell reception is unreliable.

You can get turn-by-turn driving directions here via Google Maps.

Hiking up Mount Pilchuck

Check the information board at the trailhead for the latest notices for the trail, then start up the forested trail.

A short distance in, you’ll come across the trail register. Please sign-in, as this helps the rangers keep track of folks on the mountain in the case that someone gets lost (as the warning sign indicates happens with regularity).

The first 1.25 miles is a pleasant, shady, well-built trail lined with lush greenery.

Then you reach this talus field. Look carefully at the photo below and you’ll see two orange poles ahead, roughly trail-width apart. While at first glance they look like goal posts that you should walk through, in fact, the have little arrows instructing you to switchback to the left. The key here is to pause, observe and look for clues that keep you on the actual trail, rather than just barreling ahead.

The orange markers are NOT goal posts to walk through. They tell you to “turn left” and look for the trail.

Once you switchback, the “trail” through these rocks becomes a bit more obvious.

This is also about where the trail becomes much more rocky, and stays that way for much of the remaining trek to the summit. Take your time and pause once in a while as the views begin to open up through the trees.

Three Fingers rises to the north

Near the top there is an overlook with mountains for miles. This was the closest we came to a snowfield. There was no snow on the trail for us to contend with, though in a different year or earlier in the season, snow is a reality. The trail is usually covered with snow until early to mid-summer.

While snow makes navigation more challenging, in some ways, the climb (with appropriate gear and experience) would be much more pleasant than the uneven, rocky trail.

The final push to the lookout tower requires some boulder scrambling.

The views are worth it. There is a ladder that climbs to the shelter. On this particular day, the shutters were open, the skies were clear, and the views were amazing in every direction.

The historic lookout at the summit was originally built in 1921. It has been rebuilt, first in 1942 and more recently in 1989, and is maintained through a partnership with the State Park and volunteers from the Everett Mountaineers.

Inside the lookout there are a few bench seats and displays that document the history of the shelter. It’s the perfect spot for a break.

Note that the Mount Pilchuck lookout tower is maintained entirely by volunteers. You are welcome to enter only if the doors are unlocked. If the shutters are fastened down, do not open them. Forcing your way into the lookout, leaving the doors or shutters open could cause irreparable harm to the structure. 

Heading down, you follow the same route you came up. It’s 2.75 miles with lots of ankle-twisting rocks and roots, so take your time.

Mount Pilchuck Trail Map & Elevation Profile

Mount Pilchuck Tips and Resources

• Bring plenty of water. You’ll want at least two liters or more. Also bring the 10 essentials.
• Practice the seven Leave No Trace principles.
• Mount Pilchuck – via WTA.org. Be sure to check the trip reports for current trail and road conditions.
• Official Mount Pilchuck State Park website
• Day Hiking North Cascades – Mountaineers Books

Granite Falls Weather Forecast

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Originally hiked on July 25, 2018 with Joan and Jessica of You Did What With Your Weiner? Apparently your name must begin with the letter “J” to hike this. 

You can now hike San Gorgonio via the Vivian Creek Trail, the South Fork Trail and the Falls Creek Trail (on the boundary of the closure area). Even the Fish Creek Trail, closed by the 2015 Lake Fire is now reopened. In addition, backcountry campsites in the newly opened area are once again available for overnight stays.

Zach Behrens with the Forest Service notes that FS Road 1N05 back to the the Aspen Grove and Fish Creek trailheads remains closed due to hazards from the 2015 Lake Fire, though you can walk the road, so consider that additional mileage before heading to those trailheads.

San Bernardino Peak and the San Bernardino Trail from Angelus Oaks, as well as the Momyer, John’s Meadow and Foresee Creek Trails remain closed.

Additional Resources

• Map of the revised Valley Fire Closure Area (PDF)
• Full text of Forest Service Order No. 12-18-06 (PDF)
• Latest updates on the Valley Fire – via InciWeb

For questions about the closure, contact the Mill Creek Visitor Center at 909-382-2882 Thursday through Monday, or the forest headquarters at 909-382-2600 Mondays through Fridays.

There are two main routes leading up infamous Mailbox Peak, and this loop takes you up one (the “Old” trail) and down the other (the kinder, gentler “new” trail). This is the summit mountaineers train on when winter weather shuts down access to higher peaks. And for good reason, the old trail climbs over 4,000 vertical feet in less than three miles. It’s gnarled with roots, slick with mud (or snow and ice, depending on the season). Unsuspecting and underprepared hikers are prone to get lost, hurt or both, and the stories of rescues on the original trail are well documented.

Trail Details

Distance: 8.3 miles
Time: 4-6 hours
Difficulty: Strenuous
Elevation gain: 4,237 ft
Dogs: Yes
When to go: Year-round, but expect snow at the top in winter

Getting to the Trailhead

This place is crazy popular on summer weekends, so much so that even after building a second parking area, there is now a shuttle that operates on weekends, running from Twin Falls Middle School to the trailhead every 20 minutes. It’s $2.75 per rider, but you won’t need a Discover Pass.

If you do park at the trailhead, a Discover Pass is required. There is a parking area outside the gate for the early starters. Pro tip: Be an early starter. The gate to the upper parking area is open from 7am to 8pm. You can get turn-by-turn driving directions here via Google Maps.

Hiking up Mailbox Peak

Before you hike Mailbox Peak, realize that taking the old trail is entirely optional. It’s risky business, so if you have any doubts about your ability to navigate or handle a dangerous, unmaintained trail, take the new trail both ways– up and down. No question; it’s still a challenge, as is any hike with over 4,000 vertical feet. But it’s a trail that is darn near impossible to get lost on, and it’s a much nicer, well-built and maintained trail.

Having said that… let’s take a look at the climb up the so-called old trail up Mailbox Peak.

Continue past the new trailhead, following a gravel road that doesn’t even appear to be marked. There was no sign saying “old trail, this-a-way”, probably to discourage you from even considering it.

After about 0.3 miles, you reach the information sign marking the old trailhead. Read the warnings. Be prepared to heed them. Consider whether you should really be hiking up the new trail instead.

The main warning reads: “Mailbox Peak Trail is a very steep, wet, unmaintained, difficult, challenging trail. It is 2.5 miles one way to the top and gains 4,000 feet in elevation. Search and rescue teams are frequently called to this trail to assist distressed hikers. Please respect your own ability.”

Now wipe the look of shock and awe off your face and decide whether to continue on, or head back to the new trail.

The old trail starts out innocently enough. You might be fooled into thinking that the stories are overblown (they are not).

The trail soon starts climbing, going from steep to steeper.

If you look closely at a topo map, you’ll see that it follows a ridgeline. The trees and their roots form your steps and handholds on the way up.

At times, the trail become a web of informal footpaths, weaving in and out of the trees in a chaotic fashion. To stay the course, watch for the silver diamond markers on the trunks.

Eventually, the old trail intersects the new. The signpost here (not securely anchored when I hiked this) directs people on the new trail. There was an old section that headed straight across the new trail, but at this point you may as well enjoy the respite from the climb.

As they say, you need to slow down and smell the roses. Or the wildflowers, which were plentiful.

Another 0.2 miles up the trail, you reach a talus field. There are carefully crafted steps up the field (if there hasn’t been recent slide activity), making it a fairly easy climb.

Once at the top of this, a series of steep, short switchbacks up the final push to the summit. When people ask you (on your way down) if they are almost there, you can honestly tell them they in fact, ARE almost there.

And then, the mailbox appears. And the views open up. On this particular day, it felt like we could reach out and touch Mount Rainier.

This is the spot to pause, hydrate, refuel and recharge. Soak in those views (on a clear day) or catch your breath (on ANY day). Make a new friend. Odds are good that you won’t have the summit to yourself.

Heading down, you retrace your steps back to the bottom of the talus field, this time following the well-built and easy-to-hike new trail.

Yes, the new trail is twice as long, but it is kinder to your knees, hips, and feet. There are stretches were you might even break into a jog. It’s a really pleasant hiking experience.

Once back at the bottom, kick the dust (or mud) off your shoes and head to Twede’s Cafe in North Bend for a celebratory slice of Twin Peaks cherry pie and “a damn fine cup of coffee.”

You’ve earned it.

Mailbox Peak Trail Map & Elevation Profile

Mailbox Peak Tips and Resources

• Bring plenty of water. You are climbing 4,000 vertical feet or more. You’ll want at least three liters. Also bring the 10 essentials. Although this is a popular trail, you don’t want to be “that guy” that becomes a SAR statistic.
• Practice the seven Leave No Trace principles.
• Mailbox Peak (the new trail) via WTA.org
• Mailbox Peak (the old trail) via WTA.org
• Day Hiking Snoqualmie Region – Mountaineers Books

And for those who were wondering, yes, Mailbox Peak made the cut. It will be on the Pacific Northwest Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge.

Mailbox Peak Weather Forecast

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Originally hiked on July 24, 2018. I was duped by Moosefish. 

Mount Ellinor stands nearly 6,000′ above sea level, a prominent sentinel at the south-eastern corner of the Olympic Peninsula. The trail up Mt. Ellinor has a reputation for being steep, but rewarding with terrific views. It’s also considered one of the best places in Washington to spy mountain goats. Ellinor delivered on all points.

Trail Details

Summit: 5,952′
Distance: 6.6 miles
Time: 4-5 hours
Difficulty: Strenuous
Elevation gain: 3,286 ft
Dogs: Yes
When to go: July-October

There are two main trailheads that lead to the summit during summer months: the Lower and Upper trailhead. The Upper Trailhead starts higher at 3,500 feet, shaving 900 feet of vertical climb and three miles off the hike. But it also requires a Northwest Forest Pass for parking. We chose the Lower Trailhead. No special pass is required for parking, it’s a little more of a climb (let’s make it MORE challenging), and it starts out more gently, giving you a chance to warm up your legs before tackling the really steep stuff.

Getting to the Trailhead

Take North Lake Cushman Road west from Hoodsport for 9.2 miles. When you reach the “T” intersection, you’ll see a sign to the right for Mount Ellinor. Here the road becomes a washboard gravel road. In dry conditions, a 2WD sedan will have no issues, you’ll just need to take your time, as it’s 6.2 miles of dusty gravel to the trailhead, including a hard left turn that was unsigned when we drove up (thankfully we had programmed the directions into our iPhone beforehand). Your best bet? Get turn-by-turn driving directions via Google Maps.

There was plenty of parking when we arrived on a July midweek morning, but this is a popular trail, so expect bigger crowds on the weekends.

Hiking up Mount Ellinor

The Mount Ellinor Trail starts out with a relatively gentle climb through old growth forest. There is plenty of shade, ferns and even the occasional bench conveniently located when you need to rest.

After about 1.5 miles and roughly 1,000 feet of vertical, you’ll reach a junction with the Upper Trail.

From here to the top, both trails follow the same route. And it begins to get steeper.

The trail continues up forested switchbacks, reaching an overlook at about 4,500 feet. If you look closely, you can see Mount Ranier in the hazy distance.

From here, there’s only about a mile to the summit, but you’ll gain nearly 1,500 feet. And most of that is above the timberline.

Looking back toward Lake Cushman, you can see hikers ascending what looks like a scramble, but there are actually carefully crafted steps. Sometimes you have to pause to find them, but they are there, thanks to the excellent work of the Mount Rose Trail Crew.

The trail reaches a traverse with carefully built steps. It’s hot and exposed, but there are wildflowers and the notch ahead makes a great spot to rest for the final push to the summit.

And looking back down from the notch, at the hikers slogging their way uphill. You are almost to the top from this point.

From the notch, there are a few more steep switchbacks, then the trail winds around and up to the summit. On a clear day, the views are incredible.

Mount Olympus, as seen from the summit of Mount Ellinor

When I reached the top, I didn’t see any mountain goats right away, but other hikers confirmed that there were several in the area. Sure enough, this goat strolled right past the summit, and struck a pose nearby.

Oddly enough, these mountain goats are not indigenous to the area. They were introduced to the Olympic Peninsula for hunting, and there is talk about relocating them to the Cascades. Time will tell.

[vr url=https://socalhiker.net//wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Mount-Ellinor-360.jpg view=360]

The return hike required slow and steady footwork on the way down. Sections of the trail have loose gravel, and trekking poles would be a real plus. Once you reach the forested section, it’s smooth sailing back to the trailhead. Just be sure to take time to enjoy the views and appreciate the wildflowers.

Will Mount Ellinor make the cut for the Pacific Northwest Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge? Most definitely. It’s a popular, but challenge-worthy peak.

Mount Ellinor Trail Map & Elevation Profile

Mount Ellinor Resources

• Mount Ellinor on the excellent Washington Trails Association website
• Mount Ellinor from the Upper Trailhead via Last Adventurer
• Do you know what to do if you encounter mountain goats on the trail?

Mount Ellinor Area Weather Forecast

Note that the temperature and conditions can change considerably at higher elevations.

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Originally hiked on July 26, 2018 with Joan. 

Mount Bachelor is best known as the sixth largest ski resort in the United States. When the snow melts, the lower half is turned into a mountain biking park. Less well known is the Mt Bachelor Trail, which let’s you hike from the Cascade Lakes National Scenic Byway all the way to the 9,056′ summit. Hiking Mount Bachelor gives you a great view of the surrounding area, and puts the mountain in a whole different perspective.

Trail Details

Summit: 9,056′
Distance: 6.4 miles
Time: 4-5 hours
Difficulty: Strenuous
Elevation gain: 2,664 ft
Dogs: Yes
When to go: When the ski resort closes

Getting to the Trailhead

The trail starts near the Sunrise Lodge, which is closed in the off season. In fact, the entire parking area is closed off, so you’ll have to park off of Cascade Lakes National Scenic Byway, walk around the gate and head for the area where the parking lot ends and the ski area begins.

In the trees along the last parking lot, you’ll find a dirt trail with an easily overlooked sign marking the beginning of the Mount Bachelor Trail (download the maps on GaiaGPS before you head to the trailhead).  This sole hiking trail leads directly to the summit.

Hiking the Mount Bachelor Trail

The first mile and a half the trail travels through forest with occasional views onto what would be ski runs in the winter. It’s a pleasant, easy-to-follow trail.

Once in a while you traverse an open area below the ski lifts. Covered in snow earlier in the year, now wildflowers bloom.

As you climb higher, the trees become thinner and the terrain rockier. Stone cairns such as the one below help mark the trail. When it’s dry, the trail is pretty easy to follow, but if patches of snow remain, these cairns help you stay on course.

The trees thin out at 1.6 miles as you continue across a dirt maintenance road. It’s not uncommon to find snowfields year round here, and the trail footprint may be obscured. Keep in mind that the trail stays roughly parallel and left (south) of the Summit Express lift. Watch for the rock cairns, and refer to your GPS.

As you near the top, the mountain becomes mostly talus, scree and chunks of basalt, but the path is fairly well defined. It pays to stop occasionally and turn around to soak in the views. You can see Tumalo Mountain (just off to the left in the photo below) across the Cascade Lakes National Scenic Byway in the valley below.

As you near the summit, you first reach the top of the Summit Express ski lift. The summit is northwest of the ski lift.

The large summit area has a couple of cauldrons with trails circling them, and no distinct peak.  It’s worth exploring the summit area and checking out the views in each direction before retracing your path back to the trailhead.

The return trip is 3.8 miles back down the mountain using the same trail you climbed up.

Mount Bachelor Trail Map & Elevation Profile

Mount Bachelor Hiking Resources

• Check the Mount Bachelor Events Calendar before planning your hike, to confirm that the skiing is over and there aren’t conflicting events (like the annual mountain running event).
• Carry the ten essentials. Conditions on the summit can vary greatly from those at the trailhead, with bitter cold and high winds.
• The main lodge further north on Cascade Lakes National Scenic Byway has limited dining facilities open mainly to support the mountain bike park.

Bend Area Weather Forecast

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Get a more detailed forecast for Mt Bachelor from Mountain Forecast.

Commemorate your achievement with a replica benchmark!

The Central Oregon Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge

Mount Bachelor is part of the Central Oregon Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge, a self-paced hiking challenge that takes you up six, iconic peaks–each one a bit higher and tougher.

It’s a challenge in itself, or great training for still bigger adventures. Learn more and sign-up here.

Originally hiked solo on July 26, 2017. All photos by the author. 

If you’ve hiked up a peak many times before, taking a new route to the top keeps the adventure fresh. That was my goal as I hiked Mount San Jacinto via the Devil’s Slide Trail from Humber Park in Idyllwild.

I’ve been up Mount San Jacinto more times than I can remember, and I’ve hiked from Humber Park, but I hadn’t combined the two. For my fourth time taking the SoCal Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge, this provided the fresh scenery I was looking for.

Trail Details

Summit: 10,834′
Distance: 15.5 miles
Time: 7-9 hours
Difficulty: Strenuous
Elevation gain: 4,125 ft
Dogs: No
When to go: May-October

Getting to the Trailhead

The hike begins in Idyllwild’s Humber Park. An Adventure Pass is required to park, and a wilderness permit for hiking to the summit can be picked up from the ranger station in Idyllwild. There’s quite a bit of parking here, but it is a popular trailhead for hikers, climbers and backpackers that fills up on the weekends, so get there early.

Hiking Mount San Jacinto via Devils Slide

The trail begins at the southeast corner of the Humber Park parking area. As always, check the information board for any notices and warnings about the trail conditions before heading out.

The Devils Slide Trail climbs about 2,000 vertical feet over 2.5 miles. The trail itself is well-engineered, with a steady climb that is best enjoyed before the sunlight hits it later in the day. As you climb, pause to take in the views of Suicide and Taquitz Rock on opposite sides of the valley.

The trail levels off at Saddle Junction, and this is a good place to regroup and take a break. There are several trails that converge at this junction, so look carefully for the PCT trail and signs for Wellmans Divide and Mount San Jacinto before taking off.

Over the next 2+ miles you will be on a section of the famed 2600 mile Pacific Crest Trail. If you hike this in May, there’s a good chance you’ll encounter thru-hikers making their way from the Mexican border to Canada.

At 5.45 miles you reach Wellman’s Divide, just 2.3 miles from the summit. This is where you meet up with the trail from Long Valley. If you’ve hiked from the tram, this spot is one of the first with a sweeping view.

The trail climbs the eastern slope of Mt San Jacinto, switching back to a saddle where the Marion Mountain Trail joins before heading past the stone shelter and the final boulder scramble to the summit.

Even on a weekday, it’s not uncommon to run into other hikers, even other Six-Pack of Peaks Challengers. And as John Muir said, “The view from San Jacinto is the most sublime spectacle to be found anywhere on this earth!”

The peak is a great place to rest and refuel. Remember that this is the halfway point of your hike, so be sure you’ve saved enough energy for the hike back down.

Mt San Jacinto via Humber Park Trail Map & Elevation Profile

Mount San Jacinto Resources

• As with any trip in the wilderness, carry the ten essentials and follow the Leave No Trace principles.
• There is a seasonal spring below Wellman’s Divide, but I recommend that you don’t rely on that. Bring enough water for the full hike.
• The Devils Slide trailhead can be reached at Humber Park, at 24559 Fern Valley Road, Idyllwild, CA 92549.
• You must display an Adventure Pass in your car.
• Free, self-service permits are required for day hikes, obtainable at the Ranger Station in Idyllwild at 25905 State Highway 243

Idyllwild Weather Forecast

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Originally solo hiked on September 15, 2017. All photos by Jeff Hester. 

Rose Peak. The name evokes thoughts of gentle beauty. But this Rose is guarded not by thorns, but by a relentless series of climbs and descents. In total, nearly 20 miles for the round trip, and 5,000 vertical feet. This is one tough hike.

Trail Details

Distance: 19.5 miles
Time: 7-10 hours
Difficulty: Strenuous
Elevation gain: 5,000 ft
Dogs: No
When to go: Year-round

Getting to the Trailhead

From Livermore, head south on North Livermore Avenue. This becomes Tesla Road outside of Livermore. Turn right at Mines Road, then continue straight onto Del Valle Road, following it all the way to the park entrance. There is a vehicle entry fee, and (if camping overnight) daily campground fee.

We camped overnight at Del Valle, and started on the Vallecitos Trail. Here’s the location of our trailhead on Google Maps. If you’re hiking this as a day hike, park near the Rocky Ridge Visitor Center and start on the Sailor Camp Trail.

You’ll also need an Ohlone Wilderness Regional Trail Permit for each person in your party. They must possess and carry the permit, which actually doubles as a detailed map and is good for one year. You can get a permit at the Del Valle Regional Park, but your best bet is to order it in advance online. Backpacking permits are not available at Del Valle Regional Park.

Hiking to Rose Peak via Del Valle

We hiked from the Vallecitos Trail near the family campground, but the Sailor Camp Trail near the Rocky Ridge Visitor Center meets up at the boundary of the Ohlone Wilderness.

The trail starts out with a gradual climb along a shady ravine.

At 0.8 miles, you reach the junction with the Sailor Camp Trail and the check-in board for the Ohlone Trail. Check the information here for the latest warnings and bulletins, and sign the registry before continuing.

From here, the double-track trail climbs steeply. Trekking poles are highly recommended. 

Pass through Gate RK4. As with all gates you encounter in the wilderness, be sure to close them behind you.

The first water source is marked by trail marker #39. As with most of the water sources on this trail, they require a detour to the spring, and water must still be filtered or treated before drinking.

This trail signpost is typical throughout the park. They are well marked and numbered, making cross-referencing on your Ohlone Wilderness permit (map) a breeze.

At about 2.3 miles you pass through a saddle and begin the first big descent into Williams Gulch. At the bottom, a season creek gurgles and cascades over moss-covered rocks. It’s a good place to collect and get ready for another big climb.

After climbing 1.8 miles up, you encounter an interesting rock outcrop. If you look closely, you’ll find a plaque identifying the point as Schlieper Rock. And you’re not done schlepping uphill quite yet.

At the 5.2 mile mark you reach the ridgeline. From here the climb tapers off for a bit, with gently rolling hills replacing the relentless uphill grind.

At about 7.5 miles, the trail turns right at marker #32 begins another descent. Skirting La Costa Creek and climbing another ridge, the south San Francisco Bay comes into view in the hazy distance.

At marker #31, the trail turns left and descends to Indian Creek. We refilled our water here, filtering it with a Katadyn BeFree water filtration bottle.

After Indian Creek, we had one last climb. At trail marker #29, we beared right toward Maggies Half Acre Camp – our destination for the night.

Maggies Half Acre sits on a bench just north and below Rose Peak. There are several campsites, a pit toilet and spring-fed water source (again, filter before drinking).

In the morning, we broke camp before dawn and hiked west to trail junction #28, then turned back east and up to Rose Peak. We made some coffee and enjoyed the sunrise from the summit.

Fully-caffeinated and ready to head home, we followed the trail east back to trail marker #29, rejoining the trail we came in on the day before. From here it was just a matter of retracing our steps back to Del Valle.

Our fresh legs carried us all the way to Williams Gulch, where we took our only break for the day and refilled our water one last time.

The climb out of the gulch felt much easier and shorter than we expected, and from the ridge, it was mostly downhill the remainder of the way.

When Del Valle Regional Park came into view, we knew we’d be on our way home soon.

We saw only a few other people on the trail on our weekday trip. The quiet and the solitude was peaceful. The terrain is deceptively gentle looking, and surprisingly challenging.

Without a doubt, this was the toughest hike in the NorCal Six-Pack of Peaks.

Rose Peak via Del Valle Trail Map & Elevation Profile

Ohlone Regional Wilderness Tips & Resources

• This route begins in the Del Valle Regional Park. There is an entrance fee of $6 per vehicle, and additional fees for overnight camping in Del Valle. Park hours vary by season, so check the website for the latest information.
• If you are day hiking, you will park in the Rocky Ridge Visitor Center parking area and begin on the Sailor Camp Trail. If you camp overnight at Del Valle at the family campground (as we did) you begin at the Vallecitos Trail. Both trails converge at the junction with the Ohlone Trail at the wilderness boundary. Be sure to sign-in on the register at the boundary.
• You must order a permit and carry it on this hike. It’s only $4 bucks at the time of writing, it’s good for a year, and includes a detailed map, trail descriptions, rules and other useful data. Each person in the party needs their own permit. This is probably the best idea I’ve seen for a permit. As long as you’re carrying a permit, you’ve got a map and all the details on the park.
• Overnight camping is at designated campsites only, and requires a reservation. Call 1-888-EBPARKS or 1-888-327-2757, press option 2 to reserve a campsite.
• Visit the official Ohlone Regional Wilderness website for the latest info on trail conditions, water availability, and regulations.
• Cell coverage via AT&T was limited on this hike. The best signal was near Rose Peak, where there is a line of sight with the south bay.
• As always, carry the ten essentials and practice the seven Leave No Trace principles.

Rose Peak is part of the NorCal Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge. Join today!

Ohlone Regional Wilderness Weather Forecast

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Originally hiked on January 29 & 30, 2018 with Jason Fitzpatrick.

Mount Sizer is one of the highest points in Henry W. Coe State Park. While the peak is really just the high point along Blue Ridge, getting there and back via this loop requires four climbs totaling well over 3,500 vertical feet, including one of the steepest trails in the Bay Area.

Trail Details

Summit: 3,215′
Distance: 14.9 miles
Time: 6-8 hours
Difficulty: Strenuous
Elevation gain: 3,684 ft
Dogs: No
When to go: Year-round

Getting to the Trailhead

Henry Coe State Park is the largest in the California State Park system, and there are a number of entrances to the park. This hike begins and ends at the headquarters, located at 9100 E Dunne Ave, Morgan Hill, CA 95037 – also generally the closest entrance to the Bay Area.

From Highway 101, take East Dunne Avenue all the way to the end. Get turn-by-turn directions via Google Maps here. I got there just as the first rays of sunlight kissed the grassy hills.

The headquarters has a number of ranch buildings. Follow the drive past the buildings to the parking area.

Hiking the Mount Sizer Loop

Hike a short distance back Dunne Road past the visitor center and turn right on Manzanita Point Road. Almost immediately you’ll see a trail marker for the Monument Trail on your left. Take it. This single track trail climbs the first ridge and joins Hobbs Road after 0.7 miles.

Follow Hobbs Road on it’s steep descent to Little Coyote Creek, then take the single track Frog Lake Trail.

My goal was to follow single-track trails when given the option, so while you can take Hobbs Road, we crossed the dam at Frog Lake following the Frog Lake Trail up to Middle Ridge.

About half way up toward Middle Ridge, you’ll reach Pahajuello Spring. You can refill your water here, but be sure to filter or treat before drinking.

Once at the top of Middle Ridge, you get a great view of Blue Ridge and Mount Sizer.

Turn left, following the Middle Ridge Trail for a short distance until it reconnects with Hobbs Road, then follow the road down to Coyote Creek. There are several campsites as you near the creek that would make good overnight options.

Hobbs Road crosses the Middle Fork of Coyote Creek. You can usually rock hop across this pretty easily.

After the crossing Hobbs Road climbs up to the top of Blue Ridge. This section of trail climbs 1,500 feet in just over a mile, and is considered to be the steepest trail in the Bay Area.

Thankfully there’s a bench waiting for you at the top to give you a rest.

From here, follow the Blue Ridge Trail as it gentle rolls along. You have great views on either side of the ridge as you follow the dirt road. There are a few points where other roads veer off down the hill, but stick to the ridgeline until you approach Mount Sizer.

At Mount Sizer, you’ll take a spur trail to the north then follow a faint social trail to the high point. Mount Sizer isn’t a peak as much as a knoll at this point, but it is the highest point around and you’ve already done a fair amount of climbing to get here. And there’s still more climbing to come!

After taking the requisite photos at Mt Sizer, head back to the Blue Ridge Road and continue along the ridge in the same, south-easterly direction. This section is easy and the views fill the sky.

At about 9.5 miles, turn right onto the Jackass Trail. This single-track is the shortest route to Poverty Flat Road. The trail is faint at times, but you travel through varied terrain and see first hand some of the scars of the Lick Fire.

Once you join Poverty Flat Road, turn right (west) and follow it downhill. At about 11.25 miles, you’ll reach a short, social trail on the left that climbs tiny Jackass Peak. It’s a short side trip that only adds a couple hundred yards, but takes you up a named peak. Or you might feel like they named it after you.

Continuing down Poverty Flat Road, you come across Coyote Creek and a number of campsites, complete with pit toilet.