Get Outside and Explore
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.
The hike to San Juan Hill from the Casino Ridge Staging area is a shorter, and steeper way to the peak. The trailhead is located on the southern side of Chico Hills near Water Canyon. It's a beautiful trail to explore, and the parking is free.
I decided to hike up Icehouse Canyon, to see the waterfalls flowing in winter, during a recent snow. The road to the parking area was clear. There were however signs along the roadside reading “Hiking Not Advised.” This was likely due to recent missing hikers on Mt Baldy.
It was the 3rd day of my journey on the TCT. I woke up at 6 am, and was still exhausted. I planned to get in an 11 mile hike today. Everything I needed was laid out and ready to go. I just had to get out of bed. It was an epic day hike all the way to Parsons Landing. I had just about completed my Trans Catalina Trail thru hike. The whole 12 mile loop on Day 3, took me 8 hrs, with a few short breaks along the way. I grabbed a cold drink at the store, and headed back to camp, to pack up for my 4:45 pm ferry ride home.
Serafina Hikes 