At 3,273 feet above sea level, Sitton Peak has commanding 360 degree views of the Cleveland National Forest. On clear days, you can see the ocean and even Catalina Island. The elevation gain and distance makes this a good intermediate level hike.
Time: 4 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation gain: 2,150 ft
Dogs: OK
When to go: Fall through Spring
As you get closer to Sitton Peak, keep an eye out for the trail marker (it will be on your right). The “trail” to the top is not maintained and often overgrown. If you’re not paying attention, you could pass it by. The last quarter mile requires a little scrambling and bushwacking to reach the summit. No special equipment required, but you might want long pants to protect your legs from scratches.
The summit makes a great place to break for a snack or lunch and enjoy the views. When it’s clear, you can see the Pacific Ocean. On the return trip, take the ridge trail option. It adds a little extra mileage, but gives you some different scenery to enjoy and takes you back to the same junction with the Morgan Trail.
There is no water along the trail, so bring plenty for the round trip. This area gets pretty hot in the summer months. It’s still do-able, but you’ll enjoy the fall through spring season best. If possible, hike this on a clear day so you can really appreciate the views.
Trailhead
There is ample parking in a lot across Ortega Highway from the Candy Store. You’ll need a National Forest Adventure Pass, which can also be purchased at the Candy Store. If you do more than six hikes in National Forest a year, it’s worth buying the annual pass.
Photo Gallery
Click any image for a larger version, and to browse through all of the photos.
Great website! I liked your Sitton Peak review. We hiked it last weekend and it was a real fun hike. I posted some pixs on our site.
Cheers!
Frank
Thanks, Frank! I just checked out your site. Great pics. Sounds like you hiked it on a really clear day if you could see San Clemente Island!
I’m thinking that with all the rain we’ve been having, this would be a good time to hike Sitton Peak again.
Hello,
I just came upon your site as I’m searching for trails in the Cleveland National Forest area. We live in Sycamore Creek just off the 15 south of Corona (on the other side of the 15 from Lee Lake – Indian Truck Trail exit). Is it possible to hike to Santiago Peak from this area? Have you done this hike? Any info would be helpful.
Your site is helpful; particularly the maps and visuals of the area. The contour maps and elevations have helped me identify the peaks I see from my neighborhood. After relocating from the relative flat land of the Upper Midwest, it’s fun to explore the immediate surroundings.
Happy hiking!
Hi Pamela! Thanks for stopping by the site!
I haven’t hiked up Santiago from the east, but it technically is possible. Both Bedford Motorway and Indian Truck Trail roads become fire roads that climb all the way to the Main Divide road, which then leads to Santiago and other peaks in the range. As for trails, I’m pretty sure they are there, but can’t vouch for how well maintained they are. I would suggest calling the ranger at the Forest Service and asking if they have any info.
If you do find out about a trail from “your” side of the mountain, let me know! I’ll add it to my hiking wish list.
A newbie to hiking. Want to take my niece, nephew and son on a hike up to to Sitton Peak in mid July. Any advice would be appreciated? Will it be too hot? How long will it take and what is the earliest possible start.
Thanks
Vikram, it will likely be hot and dry in July. If you go, take plenty of water and start early. There is no limit to how early, but I would plan for 6am or so.
Did this hike once in January and again 2 weeks ago. Cool weather is the way to go as this trail is exposed to the sun about 1/2 the time and the last scramble to the top can be a bit much in hot weather. Bring at least 3 liters of water (none available on the trail). Don’t miss the well pump in the back parking lot, very refreshing after a long hike.
Very informative site. Keep up the good work. I’m pretty new to hiking but I’ve recently caught the bug. Where do I find maps the same as the one you linked above “Sitton Peak trail topo with elevation profile”? I’d like to have a similar map for all of my planned routes.