Cucamonga Peak was my third hike of the So Cal Six-Pack of Peaks challenge. As with other challenges, I hiked up Cucamonga Peak with my son. The trail was in good condition and relatively easy to follow, except for a few rocky portions near the beginning of the hike. It was hot that day, with temperatures in the mid-90s, but the tree coverage and shade helped keep things comfortable. There were also only a few bugs, which was a big help on the comfortability front. The hike was enjoyable, with beautiful views of the Sheep Mountain and Cucamonga Wilderness areas and Mt. Baldy. The Ice House Saddle was also a great place to take a break, with lots of relaxing space and beautiful scenery. However, without a doubt, the best part of the hike awaits at the top. You get an incredible view of the Inland Empire, Mt. Baldy, and a great photo opportunity at ‘Pride Rock' (a large rock jetting out from the summit, which resembles the one from The Lion King).

I also had an epiphany while viewing Mt. Baldy from Cucamonga Peak's summit. I've always wondered how “The Notch” at Mt. Baldy got its name. Who came up with the name and why? The reason for the name became apparent only after seeing Mt. Baldy from Cucamonga Peak. Looking toward Mt. Baldy's ski lift area, I noticed a large portion of Mt. Baldy (on the southeast side) appears to be missing, almost as if someone or something took a big scoop right out of the mountain – hence “The Notch.”