Ontario Peak First Timer

We got to the trailhead at 6:15 AM. I was surprised at how many people were already there. The parking lot close to icehouse Canyon was almost filled. We secured the last of two open spots.

there was a good amount of people. A lot of groups hiking. But of course, as you start to climb it thin out a bit. At the start, it was really beautiful hiking next to the river. The sound of the water was nice. There were a few cabins that we passed. That was interesting. And as we started to ascend, the ground was pretty rocky. Lots of gravel. Lots of rocks. There were a few little streams to hop over as well.

I feel like the first half of the hike, well really most of the hike was a gradual ascent. Even the switchbacks weren’t too bad. Being in the canyon helped shield us from the wind. Once you get up to the saddle, that’s where the wind just ripped. Jackets came out. Gloves came on. Everyone bundled up  then we found the sign that said Ontario Peak, and headed that way.

On the trail to the peak, there was a few downed logs. We had to scramble underneath or over. I didn’t take off my pack. Some people did. I definitely felt colder, being exposed. But, the views were incredible. You get a beautiful view of Baldy.

Then you come up upon the section where it splits. If you go to the right, you’re going to Ontario Peak, if you go to the left you go I think the big horn and then Cucamonga. We just did Ontario Peak.

Once we got to the peak, it was incredibly crowded. Lots of big groups taking pictures. There were some bees, but none that bothered me. But just beautiful panoramic views. And it was so incredible to be above the cloud cover. The Hiker Box was a little worse for wear. The lid kept coming off. A lady knocked it over and all of the little messages inside went flying away. I tried my best to catch as many as I could and put them back in the box.it would be nice if someone could take up a new pad of paper for the box. Anyhow, I got my picture and it was a great day. Overall, it was really a beautiful trail! Lots of greenery, lots of beautiful trees, strange, little red flowers, growing. It was really well maintained trail