Starting at Sunrise: 20 miles on the PCT

I returned to the PCT to continue finishing hiking Section A, starting at Sunrise Trailhead, heading Sobo along the desert section overlooking Anza Borrego. I was treated to scenic boulder strewn vistas, rugged rocky peaks, and plenty of wildflowers. It is PCT hiking season, and I ran into several Nobo hikers throughout the day.

Desert Blooms and Maidenhair Falls

I took a trip to Anza Borrego last week to see the wildflowers before they faded away. There was plenty of desert beauty to see. But first I had to stop to check out the rock garden, heading down Montezuma Valley Rd to the desert floor from Ranchita My first stop on my trip to… Continue reading Desert Blooms and Maidenhair Falls

Etiwanda Falls and Preserve

It'a mid February and I am driving north from Orange County toward the LA mountains to hike to Etiwanda Falls. There has been an abundance of snow covering  the high peaks of the Angeles Forest, a mere hour drive from my home.  How it Got its Name In 1882 early settlers of the area named… Continue reading Etiwanda Falls and Preserve

Villager: An Illusive Desert Peak

It reminded me of my hike up Mount Whitney somehow, this toe-crushing, and somewhat soul crushing peak. I had truly met my match with this one. The first thing people mention is that there is no water, the second thing, is about how much water they brought, and the third is about running out of… Continue reading Villager: An Illusive Desert Peak

Pleasants Peak and Bedford Peak: 17 Miles in the Santa Ana Mountains

I feel the best time to hike to a place like Pleasants Peak (Elevation 4007 ft), or anywhere in these mountains is between late fall, and early spring, which is from Mid November to Early February. As soon as snow begins to dust the peaks of Mount Baldy, anywhere from Late November to December, is my cue to switch to hiking in the foothills. The weather is always milder in the foothills below 5000 feet, versus up at high altitude.