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.

Around Crystal Cove

It was early December, and I met up with a friend to hike one of our favorite local hikes Crystal Cove has so many great trails, and one of my favorite routes is the Red Route. It circles the park, traveling up No Dogs starting at the Ranger Station.  One of the drawbacks of a… Continue reading Around Crystal Cove

Tahquitz Peak in Snow

It was early December of 2023, and I decided to hike to Tahquitz Peak, within the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Wilderness.  My plan was to hike there before winter set in, but plans got delayed. In my search for backpacking partners to hike the PCT with, I met a woman in a hiking group… Continue reading Tahquitz Peak in Snow

Hiking Casino Ridge to San Juan Hill

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.

The Town Of Lake Elsinore

The town of Lake Elsinore became developed and took off in1888. It was a stop on the famous Butterfield Stage route. The healing waters of the mineral springs here, drew in visitors from far and wide. Coal and clay mining, gold, ranching, fruit, and nut growing, helped drive growth. A series of boom and bust… Continue reading The Town Of Lake Elsinore