Having already summited Strawberry Peak twice over the last two years, I now typically know what to expect when it comes to this relatively short, but steep hike. That said, this was my first time partaking in this trek solo — which is sort of my goal in regards to completing the SoCal Six Pack of Peaks Challenge in 2022.

The first time I summited this particular peak, my buddy and I discovered a fairly barren surface atop the mountain, save for a lone registry box and a flimsy strip of wood with the words “Strawberry Peak” lightly scribbled on in Sharpie. The second time I reached the plateau, another friend and I found a more eye-catching sign — bright pink with far more legible writing.

Upon reaching the summit this time around, I was surprised to see about six or seven different signs (including one hanging from a nearby tree) waiting for me in a rather comedic pile. To say that hikers have their pick of the litter is definitely an understatement!