Cucamonga Peak – May I have another switchback? A solo adventure – 5 of 6

June 24, 2021

After a perfect day hiking Mt Wilson and visiting the observatory, I was looking forward to getting to the Manker Flat campground and settling in for the evening.  I caught the tail end of an afternoon storm as I was making my way east and decided to wait it out to be on the safe side. Thankfully, the sun came out before long (thank you NOAA for your excellent pin point forecast!) and I made it to Baldy with plenty of time to set up camp and get some dinner before sundown.  No hiker midnight for me!

Stunning sunrise start: I enjoyed the first section to the Icehouse saddle junction even more than I had when hiking Ontario. Once at the pick-your-own-adventure junction, the Cucamonga trail made its way around Bighorn peak in a series of gentle ups and downs until it reached another Saddle between Bighorn and the Cucamonga peak.  (Wind Tunnel! Hold on to your hats!)  The views there were truly spectacular, expansive views of the city down in the valley were framed by Cucamonga and Bighorn on the one side. The last section of the trail then made its way up Cucamonga in a series of long, winding switchbacks until it reached the peak. The panoramic views at the summit didn't disappoint either – perfect spot to enjoy a second breakfast!

I had fun interacting with other hikers on the way down.  There was a recurring theme of “how many more switchbacks?” going on. ?

Great couple of days of solo adventuring in the mountains!  I will definitely be back to try out the Chapman route and the 3 T's trail.