Mt. Baldy via Register Ridge and Devil's Backbone 10/15/2017 - Mt. Baldy, CA

10-15-2017

Register Ridge Trail is STEEP!...climbing 2,600' in 1.5 miles. This trail may be one of the steepest trails in S. CA, perhaps. Besides the elevation gain in a short distance, the challenge is also altitude as the trail ascends from 6,700' to 9,300'. Register Ridge trail connects to Devil's Backbone reaching Baldy's summit (10,064') in about a mile. You can also opt to take a side trail from the junction to traverse Mt. Harwood (9,551'), gaining extra 200' elevation. 

The hike from trailhead to summit Baldy via Register Ridge/Devil's Backbone is approximately 3.5 miles and 3,900' gain. If Mt. Harwood included, it's about 3.6 miles and 4,100' gain. From San Antonio Falls trailhead, the route follows San Antonio Falls and Baldy Bowl Trail (aka Ski Hut Trail). Soon after passing the metal register box...hence, it's called "Register" Ridge?...veer right and take the use trail going up the ridge. The steep climb begins right away. The trail is in good condition. Pace yourself and enjoy spectacular views as you go. Hiking poles are useful for this steep trail. Bring enough water as the trail is exposed facing south and pretty bald. 

Mt. Baldy (Mt. San Antonio) 10,064' is the highest peak in San Gabriel Mountains, and the highest point in Los Angeles County. It also stands as the third highest peak in S. CA following San Jacinto (10,834') and San Gorgonio (11,503').

For my trip report to summit via Baldy Bowl/Ski Hut Trail:

http://johnshiking.blogspot.com/2012/12/mt-san-antonio-mt-baldy-ca.html

Sierra Buttes Fire Lookout Via PCT 7/7/2017 - Pacific Crest Trail, Sierra City, CA

July 7, 2017

 

Hiking up Sierra Buttes Fire Lookout is an epic journey with amazing views from the top as you climb the steep stairs to reach the lookout. The Fire Lookout stands on top of one of the craggy buttes at 8,587 feet. Sweeping vistas in all directions are no doubt WOW! Sardine Lakes, peaks of Tahoe/Desolation Wilderness and as far as Mt. Lassen (100 miles away!) are seen along with nearby mountains like Haskell Peak.

The hike is 2.5 miles/1,800' gain one way via PCT while there are other longer routes to the lookout via Tamarack Lakes and Sierra City. As of July 7, 2017, there are some snow fields on trail, but they are short, not difficult to cross and probably will melt away in a week or two. Stay on track as the trail disappears here and there under the snow. Wildflowers are blooming and beautiful, but may not last that long as the summer's heat continues.

The lookout was built in 1915, one of many in the greater Tahoe region. The stairs to the lookout was constructed by five Tahoe National Forest employees in the summer of 1964 to make it possible for visitors to climb to the lookout with ease and safety.

For a side trip, you can drive to Sardine Lake Resort at Lower Sardine Lake for a breathtaking view of Sierra Buttes rising above the lake. Also, another option would be to drive a short distance to Frazier Falls near Gold Lake. A paved trail (1/2 mile one way) takes you to the beautiful waterfalls.

 

 

Video by Lifeisamt

Mailbox Peak Via Old Trail and New Trail - Seattle, WA

May 21, 2017

Mailbox Peak hike is one of the most popular hikes in the Greater Seattle area. Since the new trail was built, it seems to have gained more popularity, perhaps, shoulder to shoulder with another popular local hike Mt. Si.

Mailbox Peak is a challenging hike, however. The trails are steep gaining 4,000' in 2.5 miles via Old Trail or 4,000' in 5 miles via New Trail. Either way, it's a tough hike; and yet, the reward you see from the top is worth the effort - sweeping views in all directions!...many notable peaks of N. Cascades and Olympic ranges, Puget Sound cities/lakes and beyond.

And yes, indeed, there is a mailbox on the top!....waiting for a mail delivery from you! ;)
For this trip report:
http://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-rep...

 

  Video by Lifeisamt

Runyon Canyon Park - Los Angeles, CA

April 14, 2017

It's hard to believe? Runyon Canyon Park is located right by Hollywood! It's a great place for workout and short hikes to explore nature. It also offers a dog park, so pet friendly environment. Trails are moderately steep, and some are very steep, but short. You can choose paved or dirt trails, and also loop or through hike. Like Griffith Park, this is a very popular park among walkers and runners. So, you won't be alone on the trail.

There are a few different entrances depending on where you want to start....from Fuller Ave or Vista St on Hollywood side, or from Mulholland Dr on the north side of the park. West Ridge trail is the steepest and East Ridge is moderately steep. You can loop around both ridges or hike the paved route which runs through between the two ridges.

Views along the trails, Vista points/Inspiration Point and from Indian Rock which is the highest point of the park are spectacular....Hollywood sign, Griffith Park and overlooking Hollywood, DTLA and as far as Parlos Verdes, Santa Monica Mountains and Pacific Ocean to the south as well as San Gabriel mountains and beyond to the north.

Outdoor Yoga class is offered in the park. Parking can be tough as you have to park on the street. Read the sign before you park!

Video by Lifeisamt

Hike to Verdugo Peak Via Hostetter Fire Road - La Tuna Canyon, CA

April 10, 2017

Verdugo Peak (3,126') is the highest point of Verdugo mountains located in the north of Glendale and Burbank. To summit Verdugo Peak, there are different trails you can choose. One of them starts from the north side (La Tuna Canyon) of the mountains....Hostetter Fire Road. It is a 7.5-mile round trip hike with 1,400' elevation gain to reach the 3,126-foot summit of Verdugo Peak.

Enjoy great vistas from the top....San Fernando Valley, Burbank, Glendale, downtown Los Angeles and beyond. In the spring time, the canyon becomes quite green and wildflowers pop up everywhere.

Hostetter Fire Road is a wide and well maintained dirt road which offers a gradual ascent to Verdugo Peak. If you like a challenge and great workout, there's a steep trail leaving Hostetter Fire Road. Mark my word...it is very steep. Hiking poles are useful, particularly if you choose to descend via the steep path. Watch your step!

Video by Lifeisamt