6:30am Drove too far down the Angeles Crest. This was an easy trailhead to miss. No big signs. Backtracked a few miles by car to the Redbox Picnic area which is near the turnoff to Palmdale from Glendale. After parking at the picnic area, we wandered around for a bit trying to find the trailhead. It's across the road with only a small white trailmarker. No maps were available at the picnic area. No wifi signal at this location.

Began a slight uphill hike away from the road. After about .5 mile, a turn to walk the trail along the side of Mt. Lawler. About 65 degrees with the sun beginning to peak through the morning mist. Saw rabbits and lizards. Wildflowers. Easy section of the trail winding around the mountain for about 1.75 miles. A little shade depending on where sun is and what side of the mountain you are on. Huge views. Once behind Mt. Lawler, we began the ascent up to Strawberry Peak. Immediately a significant incline with a rocky trail. A view of Los Angeles' downtown, Griffith Park Observatory, and Hollywood. Hiked up, sometimes with 45-55 degree incline, for 1.5 miles. 3 “false peaks.” I totally slowed down and stopped a few times. Challenging for this average hiker. One challenge is the sand-dune-like character of the character. Deep and slippery sand. No shade at all. Evidence remains of a devastating fire, but new growth is all around.

The spirit of the mountain, however, was quite gentle. Strawberry Peak is a nurturing mother and friend.

Summited and hung out on the small mountaintop. Two signs to take photos with. Crows. Lots of red ants. Beautiful 360 degree views! Incredible. Snacked on strawberries.

12:30 Arrived back to car. On the way down, garter snake. Slipper conditions. Heat without breeze.

Saw only one other hiker the whole time! So quiet.