American West, California, Hiking, Outdoors, Safety, Style, Travel, Uncategorized, Writing

Pacific Crest Trails: Winston Peak

On a mild, early summer day, we explored a section of the Pacific Crest Trail and a new peak. Starting from 6000' Day Use Area along Angeles Crest Highway, we hiked PCT to Cloudburst Summit, then headed up the trail to Winston Peak. At 7502 feet, this peak offers a nice workout hike in pretty pine and cedar forest.

American West, California, Camping, Hiking, Historic Sites, Outdoors, Travel, Uncategorized

Hiking the Angeles: Eaton Saddle Trails

With hundreds of miles of trails across over 700000 acres, there are many opportunities for unique adventures in the Angeles National Forest, with each trail bringing something different to explore. This post features two trails, both starting at Eaton Saddle: Tom Sloan Trail and Mt. Lowe Trail to Inspiration Point.

American West, California, Camping, Hiking, Outdoors, Safety, Travel, Uncategorized, Vacation, Writing

Hiking the Angeles: Mt. Hillyer

On a clear October morning, we continued our trek through the Angeles National Forest, this time taking a quiet route to Mt. Hillyer. This picturesque trail takes hikers through pine forests and boulder field. At the summit, there are gorgeous panoramic views of the San Gabriel Mountains.

American West, California, Camping, Dogs, Hiking, Historic Sites, Outdoors, Safety, Travel, Uncategorized, Writing

Hiking the Angeles: Dawn Mine

The Cranky Camper returns to the Angeles National Forest for a fun hike in historic Millard Canyon. The Dawn Mine was the site of marginally successful gold mining operations from 1985 until its permanent closure in 1954. Today, hikers can visit the site of the Dawn Mine via the Sunset Ridge Trail, not far from Echo Mountain.

American West, California, Camping, Hiking, Outdoors, Travel, Uncategorized, Writing

Hiking the Angeles: Strawberries on Strawberry Peak

Peak 3 of our Six Pack of Peaks challenge was Strawberry Peak in the San Gabriel Mountains. The trail starts off Angeles Crest Highway across from the Red Box Picnic Area, and the hike is generally considered challenging. In this post, the Cranky Camper shares her experience, as well as a minor misadventure on the trail.