This was the third time I tried to summit Cucamonga. The first time was last year in March. I wasn't expecting snow on the north face. I was able to get about half a mile from the top before there was just too much snow to deal with. The second time was last summer. I came up through Middle Fork and camped in the saddle. When I woke up the next day my dogs paws were hurting from all the rocks. I didn't want to make him walk an inch more than he had to. I was nervous this time would be another failure.
The trail was crowded. I had to park about a half mile away from the trailhead on the side of the road. I'm not used to hiking on the weekend and wasn't expecting this. I love my weekday hikes when I barely see anyone. A summit is much more enjoyable on your own.
I brought one of my foster dogs with me. I pulled her of the street when she was pregnant. She is extremely untrusting of people. It ended up being a lot of stress for her, but it was good to push her to become more social. If I just leave her at home she will never get better.
I passed a couple with an injury after the saddle. The lady had twisted her ankle. I let them know that I had a satellite communicator if they needed it. If they were still there on my way back we could call for help. The gentleman said he also had a communicator. On my way back I watched her get evacced out. The helicopter didn't even land. They pulled her up about 300 ft. Looked like fun if you don't consider the situation.