For a nice hike that offers up some challenging spots and good elevation gain but is also easily accessible from the Pasadena area, the Inspiration Point Interpretive Site is a great destination. This post routes the trail from Echo Mountain to Inspiration Point via the Castle Canyon Trail.
Located in the San Bernardino National Forest not far from Mt. Baldy is Cucamonga Peak. Sitting at 8859 feet above sea level, with an elevation gain of over 4300 feet from the Icehouse Canyon trailhead, this hike is no joke. But the beauty of Icehouse Canyon and the Cucamonga Wilderness, along with a breathtaking view at the summit made all the hard work, effort, and sore knees totally worth it.
The first peak in our 2021 summer hiking season was Mt. San Antonio, affectionately known as Mt. Baldy. This strenuous hike took us to the highest peak in the San Gabriel Mountains and rewarded us with sweeping views of the valley below.
The Sepulveda Basin Wildlife Reserve is part of the 2000-acre Sepulveda Basin Recreation Area, which is a flood control basin turned recreation area. This reserve is a stop for many migratory birds along the Pacific Flyway and is a great place for bird-watching.
There’s something magical about snow covered mountains, especially in Southern California where we really don’t get snow at elevations under about 5000 feet. It is even more magical when shared with our best furry friends.
The Cranky Camper 