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Sun City Palm Desert Hiking Club Hike Description Archive August 2020

Descriptions of all hikes conducted by the Club between October 2008 and December 2011 were taken from the Hike Schedules and combined into a Master Hike File. This Archive includes only those hikes from that Master File that have not been rehiked by the club in the intervening period to the present. It is a complement to the Living Hike List and meant to serve as a reference for Hike Leaders looking for different hikes, as well as for members looking for other hikes in the area that they might take on their own. An index to the hikes included in the Archive is immediately below, organized by hike difficulty. The index is followed by the descriptions organized alphbetically.

A. SCPD Archive Index: Hikes Listed by Difficulty Abbreviations: ABSP: Anza-Borrego State Park CVP: Coachella Valley Preserve JTNP: Joshua Tree National Park PCT: Pacific Crest Trail

EASY Earl Henderson Trail Indian Canyon Sampler Mecca Hills, Big Canyon Morrow Trail (Beginning) La Quinta Cove Loop Bat Caves Whitewater Preserve: Wine & Wildflowers

EASY/MODERATE ABSP, Borrego Springs/Palm Canyon Bear Canyon Long Valley Hike Mecca Hills, Big Split Rock/ Slot Canyon Walkabout

MODERATE Big Morongo Canyon (One Way) Bradshaw Trail Hopalong Cassidy/ Gabby Hayes/ Homestead Trailhead JTNP, Desert Queen Mines Mecca Hills, Pyramid Canyon Mecca Hills, Slot Canyon Cave Trail Morongo Canyon PCT, Autumn Foliage Hikes, Warner Springs Rock Point Round Valley Loop

MODERATE/ADVANCED Four Trails Loop Indian Mountain JTNP, Riding & Hiking Trail, Black Rock C.G. to Upper Covington Flat Lost Canyon via Boo Hoff Trail Mecca Hill, Grottos (The) Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Reserve ADVANCED Boo Hoff Trail, Via Rattlesnake Alley Butterfly Peak Cat Creek Trail to Art Smith & Schey Trails Cathedral City to Trading Post Cedar Springs Trail/ Fobes Saddle Key Exchange Devil’s Slide to Tram, Key Exhange Dunn’s Steep Mining Road Folly Peak Guadalupe Trail Hahn Buena Vista Trail Henderson/ Garstin/ Shannon Trails Hopalong Cassidy/ Art Smith Trails Hopalong Cassidy Trail to Stone Eagle Jo Pond/ Cedar Spring Trail to Palm Canyon Trading Post JTNP, California Riding & Hiking Trail, Upper Covington C.G. to Keys View Road JTNP, California Riding & Hiking Trail, Keys View Road to Twin Tanks JTNP, Eureka Peak JTNP, Pinto Mountain JTNP, Quail Mountain JTNP, Warren Peak (Via Panorama Loop Trail) Maynard Mine Mecca Hills, Meccacopia and Godwin Trails Murray Hill Loop via Araby/ Wild Horse/ Shannon & Henderson Trails Murray Hill and Dunn Steep Mining Road PCT, Chihuahua Valley Road to Tule Truck Trail PCT, Fuller Ridge to Snow Creek Village PCT, Mission Creek Trail Camp to Mission Creek Preserve PCT, Deep Creek Bridge to Silverwood Lake PCT, Silverwood Lake to Swarthout Canyon PCT, Bouquet Canyon to Soledad Canyon PCT, Bouquet Canyon to Lake Hughes Road PCT, Lake Hughes Road to Pine Canyon Road Palm View Peak Pine Mountain Ramona Trail/ East Thomas Mountain Road San Gorgonio (Mt.) via Vivian Creek Trail Schey and Hopalong Cassidy Trails Shadow Mountain Sheep Mountain Sierra Peak, Santa Ana Mountains Tahquitz Peak Lookout Key Exchange Traversing the Three T’s Wellman’s Divide with Mt. San Jacinto Extension B. SCPDHC Archive Hike Descriptions

ANZA-BORREGO STATE PARK: BORREGO SPRINGS/PALM CANYON EASY/MODERATE Hike: 3 miles; Elevation Gain: 200 ft. with Water Crossing; Duration of Hike: 3 hours; Drive Time One Way: Approximately 1 hour. Drive to the largest and one of the most diversified State Parks in California. Small parking fee. We’ll scan the canyon walls for big horn sheep as we meander along a stream leading to a waterfall and oasis of giant palm trees. (Big horns sighted on last four hikes). After lunch at local restaurant, we leave Anza-Borrego for a driving tour past many artistic life-size metal replicas of field animals and prehistoric creatures. Date & Leaders: December 14, 2010, Shirley Hastie & Bill Pivar

BEAR CANYON Easy/Moderate: 4 miles; Elevation Gain/Loss: 300 feet; Duration of Hike: 2 1/2 hours; Driving Time One Way: 5-10 minutes; Area: North of Sun City We will drive from SCPD to the end of Coyote Song Way, the street that borders the north side of Sun City, and travel part way up a dirt road toward the gate in front of the water tank road. We will park on the road and hike north up through some very scenic and beautiful washes, otherwise known as Bear Canyon, for about two miles. We should be treated to lots of evidence of a beautiful wildflower bloom. This is a wonderful desert hike with spectacular views of the Coachella Valley and Sun City from high up in the wash. Hiking sticks are recommended for this hike. Date & Hike Leader: March 11, 2010, Jack Maddan

BIG MORONGO CANYON (ONE WAY) MODERATE Hike: 6 miles Elevation: Loss of 1800 feet Area: Morongo Valley Duration of Hike: 3 hours Drive Time One Way: 40 minutes The hike begins in a lush riparian oasis at Big Morongo Preserve, a spectacular landscape of cottonwoods, willows, cattails, and other riparian species. The trail quickly plunges into the sharply barren desert down the canyons towards Desert Hot Springs. This is a one-way downhill hike with a short shuttle from Indian Avenue near Hwy. 62 back to Morongo Valley. Wildflowers may be in full bloom. Bring snacks and water. Date & Leaders: March 16, 2011, Marsha Hansen & Iona Scapple

BOO HOFF TRAIL VIA RATTLESNAKE ALLEY ADVANCED Hike: 13.4 miles Elevation gain: 1,565 feet Area: Santa Rosa Mountains; Duration of Hike: 7-8 hours Drive Time One Way: 30 minutes This is an exciting loop hike (clockwise) that starts and ends at La Quinta Cove. The hike is over sandy trails, sandy washes, and over defined mountain trails. Hikers will pass by Lake Cahuilla and proceed to the Boo Hoff Trail for grandeur and majestic views of Coachella Valley, Little San Bernardino Mountains, Mt. San Gorgonio, San Jacinto Peak and La Quinta Cove. Bring plenty of water and prepare for warm/hot weather. Date & Leader: April 2, 2009, Jan. 5, 2010, March 8, 2011, Wes Bond

BRADSHAW TRAIL MODERATE Hikes interspersed in all-day trip (see below) Date & leaders of most recent hike: December 9, 2013, Burt Falk/Larry Baker, Ernie Manson, Mike Wilkinson The Bradshaw Trail, nicknamed the Gold Road, is an historic overland stage route which originally connected San Bernardino, California to gold fields in La Paz, , four miles north of Ehrenberg. It was the first road connecting Riverside County to the River. Today, a graded dirt road, traverses southeastern Riverside County and a part of Imperial County, beginning roughly 12 miles east of North Shore and terminating about 14 miles southwest of Blythe for a total of 70 miles. This drive/hike combination trip requires a 4 wheel drive vehicle which, fortunately, all three leaders possess. Drive length: Approximately 250 miles, of which 70 miles will be on the graded dirt Bradshaw Trail. We'll enter the Bradshaw from the west and exit in the Palo Verde agricultural area, southwest of Blythe. The trip will take all day and will include a handful of short hikes to interesting areas along the way, including Pinnacle Canyon, Red Canyon and the Hauser Geode Beds, where we can dig (bring a shovel) for the crystal- lined "eggs." Since it will be a long drive, I'd like to limit the number of passengers in each SUV to 3, plus one in Mike's Jeep. That means that, excluding the 4 drivers, and assuming we can't acquire additional 4 wheel drive vehicles, we need to limit the trip to the first ten signing up. COST PER PARTICIPANT: $40

BUTTERFLY PEAK (6,228’), A NIFTY FIFTY PEAK ADVANCED Hike: 6 miles; Elevation gain: 1,700 feet; Duration of Hike: 4-5 hours; Drive Time One Way: 1 hour; Area: Desert Divide, San Jacinto Mtns; Butterfly Peak is located on the Desert Divide, north of the Garner Valley on Highway 74. This hike involves a paved road, a jeep road and off trail scrambling. Date & Leader: November 8, 2011, Burt Falk

CAT CREEK TRAIL TO ART SMITH & SCHEY TRAILS ADVANCED Hike; 7.21 Miles; Elevation Gain:1,500 Feet; Area: Santa Rosa Mountain; Duration of Hike: 4 – 5 Hours; Driving Time To Trailhead: 30 Minutes This hike provides many majestic views of Palm Desert Cove from the Hopalong Cassidy trail and the Schey trail (including the outlook point). Hikers will have excellent view of the Big Horn Country Club, the Stone Eagle Golf Resort, Haystack Mountain, and Eisenhower Mountain. The trail will take hiker through beautiful mountain canyons, up a sandy wash through an oasis, and some parts of the trail are steep in ascent and descent and, likewise, hiking sticks are strongly recommended. A camera on this hike is a must. Date & Hike Leader: April 8, 2010, Wesley L. Bond

CATHEDRAL CITY TO TRADING POST ADVANCED Hike: 12 miles Elevation gain: 1,600 feet; Duration of Hike: 7 hours Drive Time One Way : 30 minutes; Area: Santa Rosa Mountain The Palm Canyon Trail at the base of the Trading Post in Indian Canyon is one of the best oases in a canyon gorge that competes in beauty with the Palm Canyon Oasis. The trek involves walking on dirt roads, defined trails, and sandy washes. Date & Leader: February 8, 2011, Wes Bond

CEDAR SPRINGS TRAIL/FOBES SADDLE KEY EXCHANGE Advanced Hike: 8 miles; Elevation Gain: 1200-1400 feet; Duration of Hike: 4-5 hours; Driving Time One Way: 1 hour; Area: Garner Valley/Desert Divide Burt will lead hikers from the Fobes Ranch TH to Cedar Springs TH, while John will lead hikers from the Cedar Springs TH to Fobes Ranch TH. Both THs begin with a series of switchbacks to the Desert Divide, the ridge line separating the mountains to the West from the Coachella Valley, traverse along the Pacific Crest Trail which also follows the ridge, and drop back down to the respective trail heads. Beautiful views of the Santa Rosa Mtns to the southeast and the San Jacinto Mtns to the Northwest Date & Leaders: April 7, 2009, Burt Falk & John Beringer DEVIL’S SLIDE to TRAM – KEY EXCHANGE Advanced Hike: 8.3 miles; Elevation Gain: 2,980 feet; Total losses: 870 feet; Reverse for downhill; Duration of Hike: 6+ hours; Drive Time One Way: 40 min. to Tram and 60 minutes to Devil’s Slide TH in Idyllwild; Area: San Jacinto Mts. This will be a key exchange hike with vehicle(s) at each end. The Willow Creek Trail is replete with sylvan beauty and spectacular views. Along the way you will walk through an enchanting thicket of ferns and skunk Cabbage and cross Willow Creek. The up-hillers led by Nina Corwin will start their ascent at Humber Park (Devils Slide trailhead, el: 6,400) and the down-hillers led by Jack Maddan will begin at the Tram (el: 8,526). The two groups will exchange car keys and Tram passes on the trail. Tram fee: $10pp w/o pass. NOTE: This hike may be canceled due to weather conditions and heavy running water in the creeks. Lunch optional. MUST CALL LEADER IN ADVANCE. Date & Hike Leaders: April 18, 2009, Nina Corwin & Jack Maddan

DUNN’S STEEP MINING ROAD Advanced Hike: 4.5 miles Elevation Gain: 772 feet (Total Ascent: 1,051 feet);Duration of Hike: ~3 hours Driving Time One Way: 30 minutes; Area: Santa Rosa Mtns The hike from the top of Dunn’s Steep Mining Road offers a great panoramic view of Palm Springs, Cathedral City, Mt. San Jacinto, Mt. Gorgonio and Murray Peak. Hikers will hike down a cement levee to a well-defined trail that leads to a rocky trail going up a canyon, and then descending down a rocky road with a 23% slope/grade. This hike is for advanced hikers and requires good hiking shoes and a pair of hiking sticks. Date & Leader: January 8, 2009, Wesley L. Bond

EARL HENDERSON TRAIL EASY Hike: 4 miles Elevation gain: 400 feet; Duration of Hike: 3 hours Drive Time One Way: 30 minutes; Area: Palm Springs We will begin this hike in South Palm Springs with the stunning views of the base of the San Jacinto Mountains and Palm Canyon. The trail goes parallel to the Canyon Country Club and continues northeasterly until it ends in the wash by East Palm Canyon Drive. Date & Leader: February 18, 2011, Anne Levin

FOLLY PEAK (10,480’), A NIFTY FIFTY PEAK ADVANCED Hike: 12 1/2 miles Elevation gain: 2,700 Feet Area: Duration of Hike: 6-7 hours Drive Time One Way: 1 hour; San Jacinto Mountains Plan on taking the 8 a.m. weekend tram. Hike to a junction at a saddle just below San Jacinto Peak. Go downhill (northwest) past a small switchback to the first main switchback at 10,500’. Leave the trail here to the right and contour cross-country, staying at a constant altitude about 0.3 mile to the saddle west-northwest of San Jacinto Peak (10,400’). Continue west along the ridge to a second saddle. Go over the top of the ridge and then cross a narrow gully. Continue to the west end of the ridge which is the summit. Return the same way. Date & Leader: November 1, 2011, Burt Falk

FOUR TRAILS LOOP MODERATE/ADVANCED Hike: 4.4 miles Elevation gain: 930 Feet Area; Duration of Hike: 2 1/2 hours Drive Time One Way: 20 minutes; Palm Desert; This four (4) trail loop hike will take us on the Herb Jeffries (HJ), Bump & Grind (B & G), Mike Schuler (MS) and Hopalong Cassidy (HC) trails starting at the Target Store parking lot. We will trek south next to the Storm Channel, up the HJ, down the B & G and MS to Painter’s Path trailhead. We will then hike part way up the HC to a user footpath, which will take us back down to the parking lot. The highest point will be the junction of the HJ and B & G where there will be good view of the Coachella Valley and little San Bernardino Mts. Date & Leader: December 6, 2011, Ken Linville

GUADALUPE TRAIL ADVANCED Hike: 16 miles; Elevation Gain: 1,915 feet ascent; 5,264 feet descent; Area: Santa Rosa Mountains; Duration of Hike: 5 hours Driving Time (1 way): 45 Minutes This combines several great hikes into one. We will start at the Cactus Spring Trailhead on Highway 74 with continuance onto the Guadalupe Trail to the upper reaches of the Boo Hoff trail and ending our day in La Quinta Cove. This hike will start at approx. 4,000 ft elevation. Due to the logistics of the start point and destination pick up please: CALL HIKE LEADER IN ADVANCE. Date & Leader: April 23, 2010, Ray Cheeney

HAHN BUENA VISTA TRAIL ADVANCED Hike, 10.6 Miles; Elevation Gain, 1,952 ft.; Duration of Hike: At Least 6 Hours; Drive Time One Way: 30 minutes; Area, Santa Rosa Mts The grandeur of this hike is reflected in the name of the trail, the “Hahn Buena Vista.” The trail offers 360 degree view of the desert cities and its surrounding mountains, encompassing panoramic views of Palm Canyon, Mt. San Jacinto, Mt. San Gorgonio, Little San Bernardino Mts. Date & Leader: February 2, 2010, December 8, 2010, Wes Bond

HENDERSON GARSTIN SHANNON TRAIL Advanced Hike: 7 miles; Elevation Gain: 1450 feet; Duration of Hike: 4 hours; Drive Time One Way: 25 minutes; Area: Palm Springs A must for all advanced hikers! See the grand view of Palm Canyon, Mt. San Jacinto and the adjacent city of Palm Springs. Witness the spectacular view of Coachella Valley and observe Bob Hope's house that separates you by a gorgeous canyon. Hiking poles recommended. Bring plenty of water and snacks. For those interested lunch after at Manhattan of the Desert. Date & Leader: Nov. 5, 2009, Jan. 13, 2010, Jack Wersbe

HOPALONG CASSIDY/ART SMITH TRAILS Advanced Hike: 9.6 miles; Elevation Gain: 1,900 feet, Art Smith Trailhead to Painter’s Path.2,700 feet, Painter’s Path to Art Smith Trailhead. Duration of Hike: 5 1/2 hour; Drive Time One Way: 25 minutes; Area: Santa Rosa Mtns. Foothills This will be a key exchange hike. Burt’s group will start at the Art Smith trailhead and trek (Northerly) to Painter’s Path Trailhead. Ken’s group will start at Painter’s Path and trek (Southerly) to the Art Smith Trailhead. The Southerly 1.4 miles of this hike is on the Art Smith Trail with the remaining 8.2 miles being on the entire Hopalong Cassidy Trail. The trail traverses around the foothills of the Santa Rosa Mountains, around the Golf Course, passes by the Cross, over the Herb Jefferies Trail saddle and down to Painter’s Path Trailhead. Bring snacks for a rest break when the two groups meet up for the key exchange. Date & Leader: December 11, 2009, Ken Linville & Burt Falk HOPALONG CASSIDY TRAIL TO STONE EAGLE Advanced: 8 miles; Elevation Gain: 1980 feet; Area: Palm Desert Duration of Hike: 5 hours; Driving Time One Way: 25 minutes We will follow the Hopalong Cassidy from Painter’s Path going up to the cross. After a brief rest, we will continue over to the Stone Eagle golf course, enjoy the views and return back along the same trail. Hiking poles are recommended. Bring a snack and sufficient water for the weather. Date & Hike Leader: March 25, 2010, Anne Levin

HOPALONG CASSIDY/GABBY HAYES/HOMESTEAD TRAILHEAD MODERATE Hike: 3.2 Miles; Elevation Gain: 840 ft/Gabby Hayes, 740 ft. Homestead; Area: Palm Desert; Duration of Hike: 2 hours; Drive Time One Way: 25 Minutes This is a key-exchange hike with one group starting at Cahuilla Hills Park, trekking up the Gabby Hayes trails to the Cross then back down the Hopalong Cassidy and Homestead trails to the parking area by the storm drain channel north of Thrush Road. The second group will hike to the Cross in the reverse direction, ending up at Cahuilla Hills Park. Parts of the trail are steep. Hiking poles and good boots are recommended. Date & Leaders: December 8, 2010, Ken Linville & Burt Falk

INDIAN CANYON SAMPLER EASY Hike, 2-1/2 miles; Elevation Gain, 150 ft.; Duration of Hike, 2-1/2 hours; Area, Palm, Andreas & Murray Canyons; Drive Time One Way, 40 minutes Combining the three most breathtaking canyons in the South Palm Springs area, be ready to photograph two dazzling, spectacular waterfalls and magnificent rock formations. Bring your lunch for a comfortable picnic in a palm grove. There is a $6 entrance fee for the canyons. Date & Leaders: April 16, 2010, January 20, 2011, Shirley Hastie & Bill Pivar

INDIAN MOUNTAIN, A NIFTY FIFTY PEAK MODERATE/ADVANCED Hike: 6.5 miles(R/T); Elev gain: 1,260 feet; Area: West side San Jacinto Mtns; Duration of Hike: 4 hours; Drive Time One Way: 1 hour The trail is a jeep road, which starts on the west side of Hwy 243 at a vista parking lot. We will trek down 445 feet to a saddle then up 815 feet to the peak of Indian Mountain which has great views at an elevation of 5,790 feet. Date & Leader: October 9, 2009, January 14, 2011, November 18, 2011, Ken Linville

JO POND/CEDAR SPRINGS TRAIL TO PALM CANYON TRADING POST ADVANCED Hike: 13 miles Elevation Gain: 1,300 feet; Loss: 5,850 feet; Duration of Hike: 7-8 hours Drive Time One Way: 1 hour; Area: San Jacinto Mtns This is a shuttle hike requiring a drop off at the Jo Pond trailhead in Garner Valley and a pick up at the Indian Trading Post. Unless we can find more than one driver, the hike is limited to the first seven who sign up. Our entire elevation gain will come during the first 2 miles as we climb to the top of the Desert Divide. Stopping briefly to enjoy the stunning vistas, we’ll then descend a mile to Cedar Springs, after which we’ll continue north along Garnet Ridge, then make a long drop on a good trail to the Trading Post in Palm Cyn. Date & Leaders: Oct. 6, 2009, Burt Falk & Ken Linville

JOSHUA TREE N.P.: CALIFORNIA RIDING & HIKING TRAIL, BLACK ROCK CAMPGROUND TO UPPER COVINGTON FLAT Moderate/Advanced Hike: 7.5 miles; Elevation Gain 800 feet; Duration of Hike 3-4 hours; Driving Time One Way: 1-1/4 hours Black Rock Campground to Upper Covington Flat key exchange. Reservations mandatory. Date & Hike Leaders: April 2, 2010, Burt Falk & Ray Cheeney

JOSHUA TREE N.P.: CALIFORNIA RIDING & HIKING TRAIL, UPPER COVINGTON CAMPGROUP TO KEYS VIEW ROAD Advanced Hike: Key Ex. 11 miles one way; Elevation Gain: 1,100’feet; Duration of Hike: 6 hours; Drive Time One Way: 1 hour, 15 minutes The California Riding and Hiking Trail extends 37 miles through Joshua Tree N.P. We intend to hike its full length during the 2009-2010 hiking season. This segment will be from Upper Covington Flat to Keys View Road. Hikers must call a leader to make a reservation. Date & Hike Leaders: January 29, 2010, Burt Falk & Ken Linville

JOSHUA TREE N.P.: CALIFORNIA RIDING & HIKING TRAIL, KEYS VIEW ROAD TO TWIN TANKS Advanced Hike: Key Ex. 10.8 miles one way; Elevation Gain: 1,100’feet; Duration of Hike: 5 hours; Drive Time One Way: 1 hour, 30 minutes This is the second of this season’s four hikes to complete the California Riding and Hiking Trail in JTNP. We’ll start at Keys View Road and hike east to Twin Tanks, or vice versa depending on which leader you’re with. Hikers must call leader for reservation. Date & Hike Leaders: February 26, 2010, Burt Falk & Ken Linville

JOSHUA TREE N.P.: DESERT QUEEN MINES Moderate Hike: 3 miles Elevation Gain: 200 feet; Duration of Hike: 6 hours (including lunch) Drive Time One Way: 1 hour The many gold mine shafts can only be appreciated by our up close examination. You’ll enter about 20 feet into one shaft. Bring strong flashlight to see into the carved rock mines and binoculars to take in the expansive canyons and boulders. A moderate hike due to some loose rock on the ascending and descending trails. You will be taking the same trail as miners did from 1895 to 1961. At Basset Hound Bounder, we start back to our vehicles and on to lunch at the Sizzler in Yucca Valley. Date & Leaders: November 19, 2009, Shirley Hastie, Bill Pivar

JOSHUA TREE N.P., EUREKA PEAK, A Nifty Fifty Peak ADVANCED Hike: 11 miles Elevation gain: 2,260 feet; Duration of Hike: 6 hours Drive Time One Way: 1 hour Eureka Peak at elevation 5,518 feet is one of the major summits in the Park. This loop hike starts at Black Rock Campground and treks up the Burnt Hill Trail to the junction with the Eureka Peak Trail, which will lead us up to the Peak. The views are excellent from the summit in all directions. We will trek back down via the Eureka Peak with the last mile being on the California Riding and Hiking Trail. Date & Leader: February 24, 2011, Ken Linville

JOSHUA TREE N.P.: PINTO MOUNTAIN, A Nifty Fifty Peak ADVANCED Hike: 9 miles Elevation gain: 2,400 feet Area; Duration of Hike: 5-6 hours; Drive Time One Way: 1 ½ hours Drive to Pinto Basin via Cottonwood Springs. Walk 2 ½ miles NNE across desert floor. Ascend ridge on faint use trail 2 miles to 3,983’ summit. Great views from summit. Date & Leader: March 22, 2011, Burt Falk

JOSHUA TREE N.P.:QUAIL MOUNTAIN, A Nifty Fifty Peak Advanced: 12 miles; Elevation Gain: 1473 feet;Duration of Hike: 6-7 Hour; Driving Time One Way: 1 hr,.20 min. Starting at an elev. of 4340’ on Keys View Road, we hike west 4.5 miles along the relatively flat California Riding & Hiking Trail. We then follow a moderate 1-1/2 mile ridge-line to the top of Quail Mt. If it’s a clear day, the 360-degree views will be outstanding. See the Salton Sea, Mt. San Gorgonio, Mt. San Jacinto, Wonderland of Rocks and several nearby small desert towns. Bring Golden Age Passport for no fee entrance (per vehicle) into park. Date & Leader: March 18, 2009, Burt Falk

JOSHUA TREE N.P.: WARREN PEAK (VIA PANORAMA LOOP TRAIL), A Nifty Fifty Peak ADVANCED, 6 Miles; Elevation Gain, 1,200 ft.; Duration of Hike, 4 hours; Driving Time One Way, 1-1/2 hours We follow the Black Rock Canyon Trail, which passes through a classic scene of junipers, yuccas, silver cholla and a thick stand of large Joshua trees. From the summit of 5,102’ Warren Peak, we will enjoy great views of San Jacinto, San Gorgonio an the Little San Bernardino Mountains Date & Leader: January 25, 2011, Ray Cheeney

LONG VALLEY HIKE Easy/Moderate Hike: 3.2 miles; Elevation Gain/: 100 feet; Area: San Jacinto State Park; Duration of Hike: 2.5 hours time; Driving Time One Way: 45 minutes The Long Valley hike is an easy/moderate 3.2 mile hike in the valley adjacent to the Aerial Tramway Mountain Station at 8600 ft. Part of the trail is relatively flat and offers a pleasant stroll through forest. Another part of the trail is a little more demanding, but offers various scenic overlooks of the desert and the high mountain country. This hike is an excellent introduction to the Park’s plants and animals. There is a $22.00 fee for riding the Aerial Tramway, but discounts are possible (bring AAA card and /or Living Desert membership card or other discount coupons). Hikers should pack a lunch. Prepare for temperatures possibly 30 degrees cooler than in Sun City and dress accordingly. Hiking sticks are recommended. Date & Leader: May, 5, 2009, May 12, 2010, Jack Maddan

LOST CANYON VIA BOO HOFF TRAIL Moderate/Advanced Hike: 6.7 miles; Total Ascent: 930; Area: La Quinta Cove Duration of Hike: 4 hours; Drive Time One Way: 25 minutes This hike will start at La Quinta Cove and go along the Morrow Trail to the County Park at lake Cahuilla passing by the La Quinta Golf Course. Short sections of the trail are steep and rocky therefore it’s advisable to wear hiking boots and to use hiking poles. Mid way towards the Lake we will be trekking over a saddle with good views of the north portion of the Salton Sea and the foothills of the Santa Rosa Mountains. We will stop at the Lake for snacks before our return back to the Cove. Date & Leader: Jan. 10, 2010, Ken Linville

LOWER PALM CANYON TRAIL Easy Hike: 4 miles; Elevation Gain: 400 ft.; Duration of Hike: 2-3 hours; Driving Time One Way: 45 minutes; Area: Palm Springs The trail starts from the Trading Post and follows the stream through groves of palms, cottonwoods and desert plants. There will be stream crossing over rocks if the stream is running. It seldom runs this time of the year but it is beautiful in any case. Entrance fee required. Date & Leader, December 18, 2008, John Beringer

MAYNARD MINE Advanced Hike: 7.0 miles; Elevation Gain: 2600 feet; Area: Indian Canyons Duration of Hike: 5 hrs.; Drive Time One Way: 30 minutes Maynard Mine is the site of an old abandoned tungsten mine worked during World War II. The trail is steep but offers tremendous views of the canyon slopes across Palm Canyon and the Desert Divide mountains to the West. Entrance fee to Indian Canyons. Date & Hike Leader: February 16, 2010, John Beringer

MECCA HILLS: BIG COLORFUL CANYON Moderate Hike: 6 miles; Elevation Gain: 350 ft.; Duration of Hike: 3 hours; Driving Time One Way: 45 minutes This hike takes us into one of the largest canyons in the Mecca Hills wilderness complex. Of major interest is the colorful rock wall at the back of the canyon. We will observe a “bright red-orange burst of color embedded into equally colorful mauve, creamy coral, and burnt sienna” (Ferranti). We should look for owls in the canyon trees, seen on previous hikes. Date & Hike Leader: February 12, 2010, Sam Kaplan

MECCA HILLS; BIG SPLIT ROCK/ SLOT CANYON WALKABOUT Easy/Moderate: 6 miles Elevation Gain: 100 feet; Duration of Hike: 3 1/2 Hours Driving Time One Way: 45 minutes This hike is a real adventure with breathtaking sights! The colors, rock formations and many interesting slot canyons make for a Utah kind of hike. One slot canyon may be claustrophobic to some, and will be optional. There is some rock scrambling. Gloves and cameras recommended. Lunch afterwards at Papa Dan’s at Sun City. Date & Leader: Jan. 22, 2009, Anne Levin

MECCA HILLS; BIG UTAH CANYON Easy Hike: 4.5 miles Elevation Gain: 400 feet; Duration of Hike: 2 hours Drive Time One Way: 45 minutes Like most canyons we will be hiking in sand most of the way. In less than a half a mile the Utah feeling created by various shades of camel, rust, and creamy hues of white highlight the canyon walls. Areas of dark red wash down over lighter shades of cream near the bottom of the canyon. This should be easy and fun. Date & Leaders: Iona Scapple & Marsha Hansen

MECCA HILLS; GROTTOS (THE) MODERATE/ADVANCED Hike: 5 miles Elevation gain: 1,000 feet; Duration of Hike: 3 hours Drive Time One Way: 30-40 minutes The hike to the grottos takes us along high barren ridges with spectacular views of the Salton Sea, and low sandy washes amid towering colorful cliffs in the Mecca Hills. You will love this delightful, moderately strenuous hike with a little mystery in the darkness! We will negotiate the cave system with flashlights and hike up and out of the canyon onto a steep, narrow ridge-line that will take us above Hidden Springs Oasis. Hikers will then scramble down into Hidden Springs Canyon and Oasis. This hike is for hearty, experienced hikers with a sense of adventure and sufficient ability and agility to low- crawl at least 10 yards under low rock overhangs and navigate steep, narrow ridge-lines. Hikers must have sufficient upper body strength to scramble over and between large rocks. Bring a flashlight, gloves, hiking stick, water and snacks. Date & Leaders: April 1, 2011, Iona Scapple and Marsha Hansen

MECCA HILLS; MECCACOPIA AND GODWIN TRAILS Advanced: 14.5 miles; Elevation Gain: 300 ft.; Duration of Hike: 6 Hours;Driving Time One Way: 45 Minutes This hike will take in the entire lengths of the two trails which oversee the Salton Sea, large expanses of farmland and partially follow the . Many varied rock formations will be encounter during the duration of this long but relatively flat trek. Due to its length we plan on this being a key exchange. Bring extra water and call one of the hike leaders in advance. Date & Hike Leaders: March 24, 2010m Ray Cheeney & John Beringer

MECCA HILLS: PYRAMID CANYON Moderate Hike: 6.5 miles; Elevation Gain: 600 feet; Duration of Hike: 4 hours; Drive Time One Way: 45 minutes This hike explores one of the many canyons in the Mecca Hills and is named for a small pyramid shaped rock formation encountered along the canyon trail. There are interesting colors on the canyon walls and a view of the Salton Sea is seen. Date & Leader: December 10, 2009,Sam Kaplan

MECCA HILLS; SLOT CANYON CAVE TRAIL Moderate Hike: 6.5 miles;Elevation Gain: 100 feet; Duration of Hike: 3 hours; Drive Time One Way: 45 minutes This hike begins in Big Colorful Canyon and follows another trail into a slot canyon that ends in a large cave-like chamber. The “cave area” reminds one of what the home of a stone-age man might have looked like! Date & Hike Leader: March 24, 2009, Anne Levin

MORONGO CANYON MODERATE Hike: 6 miles; Elevation Gain: 1800 Feet; Area: Morongo Valley Duration of Hike: 4 hours; Driving Time One Way: 45 minutes The hike begins in a lush riparian oasis at Big Morongo Preserve, a spectacular landscape of cottonwoods, willows, cattails, and other riparian species. The trail quickly plunges into the sharply barren desert down the canyons towards Desert Hot Springs. This is a one-way hike with a short shuttle from Indian Avenue near Hwy 62 back to Morongo Valley. Wildflowers should be in full bloom. Lunch optional after hike. Date & Hike Leaders: April 7, 2010, Marsha Hansen & Iona Scapple

MORROW TRAIL (BEGINNING) LA QUINTA COVE LOOP Easy Hike: 3 ½ miles; Elevation Gain: 300 feet; Area: La Quinta Cove; Duration of Hike: 2 hours; Driving Time One Way: 20 minutes First ¾ mile on a hard jeep road. Next ½ mile on sandy rocky washes. Short climb on rocky trail to top of ridge. Fantastic views of quarry golf course and mountains. Return back the same way to the base of a rock dam. Continue west on easy wash to end of dam. Climb short ridge and continue to La Quinta oasis & Ramada. Short break and then return on easy trail to “Art Rock” and cars. Date & Leader: Jan. 12, 2010, Paul Gershick

MURRAY HILL LOOP VIA ARABY/WILD HORSE/SHANNON & HENDERSON TRAILS Advanced Hike: 10 miles Elevation Gain: 1,800 feet; Duration of Hikes: 6 hours Drive Time One Way: 30 minutes; Area: Santa Rosa Mtns The Murray Peak Loop hike via Araby trail will return via the Wild Horse trail, Shannon Trail, and the Henderson trail. The trail is well defined and hikers will get a good view of Murray Peak, San Jacinto Mountain, Mt. San Gorgonio,Indio Hills, Little San Bernardo Mountain range, Coachella Valley, Palm Springs, and Cathedral City. Date & Leader: Oct. 23, 2009, Wesley L. Bond

MURRAY HILL AND DUNN STEEP MINING ROAD Advanced: 10 miles; Elevation Gain/Total Ascent: 1734’/2400’;Area: Santa Rosa Mts.; Duration of Hike: 6-7 Hours; Driving Time One Way: 30 minutes The hike involves going down a cement levee, crossing a sandy wash, walking on well defined dirt roads and trails, and walking down a 23% grade for 1/3rd of a mile. Hikers will have a panoramic view of the Coachella Valley and the mountains that border the valley from Palm Springs to Indio. This hike is for experienced hikers and requires good hiking boots. Hiking sticks are recommended. Date and Leader: March 5, 2009, March 2, 2010, Wes Bond

PACIFIC CREST TRAIL: AUTUMN FOLIAGE HIKES, WARNER SPRINGS Moderate Hikes: Day #1: 8.8 miles Day #2: 8.5 miles; Elevation Gain: Day #1: (net loss). Day #2: 300-400 feet; Duration of Hikes: 4-5 hrs. ea. Day; Drive Time One Way: 1.5 hrs; Area: Warner Springs This is an overnight venture with accommodations plus dinner & breakfast at Warner Springs. If you prefer not to stay overnight you can leave early from Sun City and join in on either or both day hikes. Day 1. Meet at Warner Springs, drive to Indian Flats Campground. Most of the hike follows beautiful Agua Caliente Creek down to Highway 79. Day 2. Hike up a trail following Canada Verde Creek to Eagle Rock. A unique natural rock. Call leader in advance for hike info and/or reservations at the Warner Springs Ranch, an interesting historic location. Date & Leader: October 27,2009, Burt Falk

PACIFIC CREST TRAIL, CHIHUAHUA VALLEY ROAD TO TULE TRUCK TRAIL ADVANCED Hike: 10.3 miles; Elevation Gain: 1000 ft., Area; San Diego Cty; Duration of Hike: 4 hours; Driving Time One Way: 1.5 hours This is an extremely scenic trail offering wondrous views of both Anza-Borrego State Park and the southern slopes of the Santa Rosa Mtns Date & Leaders: October 17, 2008, Ken Linville & Burt Falk; April 6, 2010, John Beringer & Burt Falk

PACIFIC CREST TRAIL, FULLER RIDGE TO SNOW CREEK VILLAGE ADVANCED, Segment B-8; Hike: 17.4 miles (R/T); Elev Loss, 6,000’; Area: San Jacinto Mtns; Duration of Hike: 7-8 hours; Drive Time One Way: 1 1/2 hours going, 2-1/4 hrs. returning Two vehicles are necessary on this all downhill hike, one to be left at Snow Creek Village, the other, with all participants, driven on to the Fuller Ridge Trailhead. The vehicle left at the Fuller Ridge Trailhead must be picked up (involving a long drive) by the hikers after arriving at Snow Creek. Date & Leaders: November 1, 2011, Ray Cheeney and Ernie Manson

PACIFIC CREST TRAIL: MISSION CREEK TRAIL CAMP TO MISSION CREEK PRESERVE, Segment C-1 (partial) Advanced Hike: 19 miles total; Elevation: Zero Gain, 5100’ Loss:Duration of Hike: 9 hours: Driving Time One Way: 2 hours; Area: San Gorgonio Wilderness This section of the PCT mostly follows Mission Creek at elevations between 8,000 and 2,900 feet. We will be dropped off at Mission Creek Campground to start the hike and will trek down the PCT (16.9 mi.) to a junction with the West Fork Trail. We will then hike down the West Fork Trail (2.1 mi.) to Mission Creek Preserve where we will be picked up. You must contact leader before doing this very advanced hike. Date & Hike Leaders: May 15, 2009, Burt Falk & Ken Linville PACIFIC CREST TRAIL: DEEP CREEK BRIDGE TO SILVERWOOD LAKE, Segments C-7 & C-8 ADVANCED Hike: Day 1: 15.9 miles, Day 2, 15.4 miles; Duration of Hikes: Days 1 & 2: 7 hrs ea. Drive Time One Way: 1 hr. 45 min; Area: San Bernardino Natl Forest Day 1: Day 1: Hike 15.9 miles from Deep Cr. Bridge to Hwy 173. Stay overnight at area motel. Negligible Gain and 1,400’ Loss Day 2: Hike 15.4 miles from Hwy 173 to Silverwood Lake. 400’ Gain and 200’ Loss. This section of the PCT starts east of Lake Arrowhead and treks northerly, then westerly to 1/2 mile west of Silverwood Lake. Elevations along this section of the PCT vary from 4,600’ at Deep Cr. Bridge to 3,200 ft at Hwy 173. On Day 2, we may do a key exchange hike depending on the amount of hikers and transportation. Dates & Leaders: Nov. 17-18, 2009, Ken Linville & Burt Falk

PACIFIC CREST TRAIL: SILVERWOOD LAKE TO SWARTHOUT CANYON, Segments C-9 & D-1 Advanced Hike: Day 1: 13.6 miles Silverwood Lake to I-15 Area: Cajon Pass, East & West of I-15; Day 2: 5.5 miles Swarthout Canyon Rd to I-15; Elevation: Day 1: Gain: 1400 feet, Loss: 1800 feet; Day 2: Gain: 1200 feet, Loss: 1800 feet Duration of Hike: Day 1: 6 hours Drive Time 1 Way: Day 1: 1.5 hours; Day 2: 2.5 hours Day 2: 15 minutes Depending on the number of participants, we’ll attempt to hike as a group on both days. Plan for overnight stay at Best Western Cajon Pass Motel, and group dinner in nearby Wrightwood. Must call hike leader to reserve a space for both hike and motel. Date & Leaders: Jan. 21 & 22, 2009, Burt Falk & Ken Linville

PACIFIC CREST TRAIL: BOUQUET CANYON TO SOLEDAD CANYON, Segments D13 & E1; ADVANCED Hikes: Area: Angeles National Forest; Drive Time One Way: 2-1/2 hrs. Day 1: Drive to Palmdale area, hike 10.3 miles from Bouquet Cyn Rd to Agua Dulce; Elevation gain: 1,100’ gain, 1,300’ loss (approximate); Duration 5 hours. Day 2: Hike 9.7 miles from Agua Dulce to Soledad Cyn Rd.; Elevation gain: 1,200’ and 2,100’ loss (approximate); Duration, 5.5 hours 5.5 hours; Drive back to Sun City These segments of the PCT are at elevations between 2,200’ and 4,800’. We may do one or both days as a key exchange hike depending on the amount of hikers. YOU MUST BE AN EXPERIENCED, ADVANCED HIKER. Contact hike leaders for details, starting time, car pooling and motel reservations. Dates & Leaders: March 29 & 30, 2011, Burt Falk & Ken Linville

PACIFIC CREST TRAIL: BOUQUET CANYON TO LAKE HUGHES ROAD, Segments E-2 & E-3 Advanced Hike: Day 1 – 7.6 miles;Elevation Gain: 1050 feet; Duration of Hike: Day 1- 3 1/2 hours; Day 2 – 12.4 miles; Elevation Gain: 1000 feet; Day 2 – 51/2 hours Area: Angeles Nat’l Forest ; Drive Time One Way: 20 minutes Day 1: Drive to San Francisquito Canyon Road and hike to Lake Hughes Road, which has approximately 500’ of gain and 1,300’ of loss. Check into area motel for one night stay. Day 2: Hike from San Francisquito Canyon Road to Bouquet Canyon Road, which has approximately 1,000’ of gain and 1,500’ of loss. Drive back to Sun City. Dates & Leaders: Jan. 20 & 21, 2010, Ken Linville & Burt Falk PACIFIC CREST TRAIL: LAKE HUGHES RD. TO PINE CANYON RD., Segments E-4 & E-5,. ADVANCED; Day 1, 14.5 miles; Day 2, 9.6 miles; Elevation Gain: NA; Area: Angeles Nat’l Forest; Duration of Hike: Day 1, 6.5 hours; Day 2, 4.0 hours; Driving Time One Way: 2.5 hours This section of the PCT varies in elevation between 3,000 feet and 5,700 feet. Depending on the number of hikers, we may have the option of doing a key exchange for Day 2 and Day 3. These two segment take us to the northwesterly end of the Angeles National Forest with the remaining to the north. Contact hike leaders for details, starting time, car-pooling and motel reservations. YOU MUST BE AN EXPERIENCED ADVANCED HIKER AND CONTACT HIKE LEADER IN ADVANCE. Date & Leaders: Oct. 19- 21, 2010, Burt Falk & Ken Linville

PALM VIEW PEAK (7,160’) A Nifty Fifty Peak ADVANCED Hike: 8 miles; Elevation gain: 2000 feet; Area: Desert Divide, San Jacinto Mtns.; Duration of Hike: 4-5 hours; Drive Time One Way: 1 hour Drive up Morris Ranch Road to Cedar Springs trailhead (5,430ʼ). Climb 2.5 miles on a wellgraded trail to junction with Pacific Crest Trail (6,830ʼ) on the Desert Divide. Turn left on PCT and proceed north about 1.5 miles. Turn right and hike a short distance through brush ad trees to summit. Truth in Advertising: Neither palm nor view is visible from the summit. Great views from the PCT, however. Date & Leader: October 3, 2011, Burt Falk

PINE MOUNTAIN, A Nifty Fifty Peak ADVANCED Hike: 8 miles; Elevation Gain: 2,300 ft.; Area: Desert Divide; Duration of Hike: 5 hrs.; Driving Time One; 45 minutes The hike ascends the Cedar Springs trail to the Desert Divide where it intersects with the PCT. From there, we will continue south along the Desert Divide to a use trail ascending the flank of Pine Mountain to the summit. The use trail was very overgrown when last seen and will require some bush whacking and some scrambling through rough spots to get to the top. Long pants are recommended. On our return, if time permits and energies allow, we will also ascend Pyramid Peak which is a short distance from the Pine Mt. trailhead. Must call hike leader in advance Date & Leaders: April 15, 2010, John Beringer, Burt Falk

RAMONA TRAIL/EAST THOMAS MTN RD Advanced Hike: 11 miles; Elevation Gain: 2000 feet; Area: San Jacinto Mtns Duration of Hike: 6 hours; Drive Time One Way: 45 minutes Our hike will start on Ramona Trail through growths of Manzanita, Ribbonwood, and Sage ascending to Tool Box Springs and then to the pinnacle of Thomas Mtn. We will ascend approx. 2,000 feet in five miles (to a total elevation of approx. 6,800 feet). The views will be of Anza Valley to the South, the San Jacinto Mountains to the North and Garner Valley in between. The descent will be via the same route. Date & Leader: April 21, 2009, Nov. 10, 2009, Ray Cheeney

ROCK POINT, 5,280’, A Nifty Fifty Peak MODERATE Hike: 4 miles Elev. gain: 720 feet total Area: Desert Divide, San Jacinto Mtns.; Duration of Hike: 3 hours Drive Time One Way: 1 hour Located north of the intersection of Hwy. 74 & Hwy 371, Rock Point is a prominently peak overlooking theGarner Valley.The hike involves road, use trail and a short bit of rock scrambling. Date & Leader: April 26, 2011, Burt Falk ROUND VALLEY LOOP MODERATE Hike: 4.5 miles Elevation Gain: 550 feet; Duration of Hike: 3 hours; Drive Time One Way: 40 minutes; Area: Mt. San Jacinto State Park The hike starts with a ride up the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway and begins at an elevation of 8500 feet at theMountain Station. We depart from the State Park Visitors Center and descend into Long Valley to the RangerStation. There the trail winds 2 miles up through the pine forest, with many birds to see in beautiful Round Valley.After a brief rest we continue on the loop to see lodge pole and sugar pines with spectacular views of Jean Peak and Mt. San Jacinto Peak. Bring lunch. Tram fee required Date & Leaders: October, 14, 2009, Marsha Hansen and Iona Scapple

SALTON SEA BAT CAVES EASY Hike: 2 miles; Elevation gain: 300 feet; Area: Salton Sea Duration of Hike: 2 hours; Drive Time One Way: 1 hour We hike under a railroad bridge along a gently rising jeep trail amidst rapidly changing landscape and arrive at the Bat Caves Butte. Enjoy exploring a large group of sea caves formed by wave action from the ancient Sea of Cortez that are home to bats, owls and ? We’ll climb to top of the butte for a panoramic view of the entire Salton Sea! This is the only place where all shores of the Salton Sea can be viewed at the same time. Our “trail” back home leads to delicious date shakes at Oasis Date Garden (Optional). Date & Leaders: November 14, 2011; Shirley Hastie and Bill Pivar

SAN GORGONIO VIA VIVIAN CREEK TRAIL ADVANCED Hike: 17 miles; Elevation gain: 5,500 feet; Area: San Gorgonio Wilderness; Duration of Hike: 9 hours; Drive Time One Way: 1.5 hours Join us on a trek up Southern California’s highest peak which tops out at 11,499 feet and enjoy magnificent 360 degree views. This is a hike for the hardy and brave. Due to potential weather conditions, this hike may be replaced with one on Martinez Mountain which comes in at around 16 miles and 4,300 feet elevation gain. Date & Leader: November 11, 2011, Ray Cheeney

SANTA ROSA PLATEAU ECOLOGICAL RESERVE MODERATE/ADVANCED: 6.5 miles Elevation gain: 830 feet Area: Murrieta Duration of Hike: 4 ½ hours Drive Time One Way: 1 hour 40 minutes Our hike will be on a loop trail in the Santa Rosa Reservoir located on the southeastern spur of the Santa Ana MTS at elevations of 1,700 to 2,000 feet and is well worth the drive. This ecological reserve has a vernal pool with rolling hills covered with native grasses, Engelmann and California Oak trees and trickling brooks. The area wild grasses and flowers should be spectacular this time of the year. Late lunch optional after the hike in Murrieta. Date & Leader: March 17, 2011, Ken Linville

SCHEY AND HOPALONG CASSIDY TRAILS ADVANCED Hike, 7 miles; Elevation Gain, 1,192 ft., Duration of Hike, 5-6 hours; Area, Santa Rosa Mtns.; Drive Time One Way, 30 Minutes This hike provides many majestic views of Palm Desert Cove from the Art Smith, Schey and Hopalong Cassidy Trails. Hikers will have excellent view of the Big Horn Country Club, the Stone Eagle Golf Resort, Haystack Mountain and Eisenhower Mt. The trail will take hikers through beautiful mountain canyons and up a sandy wash through an oasis. Some parts of the trail are steep in ascent and descent; therefore, hiking sticks are strongly recommended Date & Leader: January 11, 2011, Wes Bond SHEEP MOUNTAIN, A NIFTY FIFTY PEAK ADVANCED Hike: 13 miles Elev. gain: 2,900 feet total--2,100 feet going in, 800’ on return; Area: Santa Rosa Mountains; Duration of Hike: 6-7 hours; Drive Time One Way: 45 minutes Take Cactus Spring to Cactus Spring, turn north-northeast, cross-country over bump 5,067 feet, descend through a saddle, then go north past a false summit to the peak Sheep Mountain (5,141’) is the peak visible from Hwy. 74, approximately 3 miles northwest of Martinez Mountain. Cancel, if weather is bad. (note—cancelled due to bad weather) Date & Leader: February 26, 2011, Burt Falk

SIERRA PEAK, SANTA ANA MOUNTAINS Advanced Hike: 14.3 miles Elevation Gain: 2,900 feet Area: Santa Ana Mtns.; Duration of Hike: 6 hours; Drive Time One Way: 1 hour 40 minutes This hike will go to the top of Sierra Peak at an elevation of 3,045 feet at the Riverside/ Orange County Line above Corona which is the most Northwesterly peak of the Santa Ana Mountains. The Peak offers good views of Prado Dam, the Santa Ana River and the distant San Gabriel and San Bernardino Mountain Range. Most of the trail is on a dirt jeep road. Date & Leader: Nov. 13, 2009, Ken Linville

SUICIDE ROCK VIA DEER SPRINGS TRAIL Advanced Hike: 7 miles; Elevation Gain: 1800 feet; Duration of Hike: 3-4 hours; Drive Time One Way: 1 hour; Area: Idyllwild Suicide Rock is an outcropping of white granite jutting out from the south slope of Marion Ridge, high above Strawberry Valley. It offers fantastic views of the valley floor, Lily Rock and Tahquitz Peak. Optional lunch in Idyllwild. Date & Leader: May 12, 2009, John Beringer, Oct. 15, 2010, Iona Scapple & Marsha Hansen

TAHQUITZ PEAK LOOKOUT, KEY EXCHANGE ADVANCED Hike; 8 miles, Elevation Group 1: 2,400 ft., Group 2: 2,000 ft.; Duration of Hike: 5+ hours; Drive Time One Way: 1 hour; Area: Idyllwild A key exchange hike with one group hiking the Devil’s Slide Trail and the other group hiking the South Ridge Trail, both to the 8,828 ft. summit. Tahquitz Peak affords beautiful panoramic views of the entire surrounding area. Because of the duration of the hike, bring a snack or lunch. Date & Leaders; November 22, 2010, John Beringer & Ray Cheeney

TRAVERSING THE THREE T’S ADVANCED Hike: 8.5 miles; Elev gain: 2,700’, loss 3,400; Duration of Hike: 6-7 hours; Drive Time One Way: 1 1/2 hours to Mount Baldy Ski Lift (fee required), which operates only on weekends during ski season; ’; Area: San Gabriel Mtns. Preserve From Baldy Notch at the top of the ski lift, hike mostly south along a ridge, climbing Thunder Mt. (8,587ʼ), Telegraph Peak (8,985ʼ) and Timber Mt. (8,303ʼ) before descending to pick up vehicle(s) at the base of Icehouse Canyon. Date & Leaders: October 23, 2011, Burt Falk and Ernie Manson WELLMAN’S DIVIDE—MT. SAN JACINTO EXTENSION Advanced Hike: 6 miles; Elevation Gain: 1200 feet;11.9 miles to peak 2300 feet to peak; Duration of Hike: 3.5 hours; Driving Time One Way: 45 minutes; Area: San Jacinto Mtns. The hike starts with a ride up the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway and begins at an elevation of 8500 feet at the mountain station. We depart from the Visitor Center and descend into Long Valley to the Ranger Station. There the trail winds up through the pine forest to beautiful Round Valley. After a brief rest we continue up the last steep mile to Wellman’s Divide with spectacular views of both Tahquitz Peak and the Santa Rosa Mtns. From this point we are only 2.7 miles from San Jacinto Peak. At Wellman’s Divide we will decide whether to push on to the peak – another 1 1/2 hours. THOSE NOT WANTING TO GO TO THE PEAK WILL HAVE A MINIMUM 1 1/2 HOUR WAIT FOR THE PEAK CLIMBERS TO RETURN. Bring lunch and provide the tram fee of approx. $20+ Date & Hike Leader: May 21, 2009, Jack Wersbe

WHITEWATER PRESERVE: WINE & WILDFLOWERS Easy Hike: 3.5 mile; Elevation Gain: 200 feet; Duration of Hike: 2 hours; Driving Time One Way: 50 minutes; Area: Whitewater Canyon Philip Ferranti, the grand guru of Coachella Valley hiking, along with his dog Spot will lead us on a not-to-be-missed afternoon romping through daisies and other assorted flora. We cross a rushing stream and meander up the Grand Whitewater Canyon after which we dine on wine, cheese and assorted gourmet goodies while viewing variegated colors as dusk descends upon the desert. There is a $5 fee to cover wine, soft drinks and food. Make reservations early, as space is limited. Date & Hike Leaders: April 1, 2009, Shirley Hastie & Bill Pivar