| Peak | Mt Wilson |
|---|---|
| Group | N/A |
| Trailhead | Chantry Flats |
Drove from South Orange Country at 4:45, got to the Chantry Flats road before the gate opened at 6am, and waited in a line of cars that had arrived earlier. Gate opened at 6am and we were parked by 6:15 in the lot, very grateful I bought my pass online two weeks prior so as not to have to hassle with it. Ate breakfast, got our gear ready, and the rest of our group showed up at 6:45.
The weather was pretty chilly, but nice and clear at 7am, so we were layered as started the hike at 7:10, but quickly warmed up with the first few miles. The trail seemed to be in great condition all the way up, the streams were pretty easy to cross, and some of the rocks along the path were slippery, but we were safe and slow through those parts. Stopped a handful of times along the way for short breaks/snacks.
Last few miles to the top were “cloudy/foggy” with moisture building up on my sweatshirt, but nothing crazy.
Made it to the summit at 11:45am, and took a break for lunch by the cafe (closed). Grateful for the complimentary hot coco and coffee, very nice. There was a little bit of snow around the observatory, but nothing on the path itself.
Unfortunately, it was cloudy, with the sun breaking through overhead, so while it was nice to be in the warm sun, the view was obscured and we couldn’t see the neighboring peaks or LA city view.
Headed back down around 12:30, and moved much quicker on our way down, getting back to Chantry Flats/the cars at 3:45.
I was pleasantly surprised with my abilities going up, and quite proud, but going down I really did a number on my knees : ( They tightened up the last two miles and the drive home was pretty tough. Definitely planning to invest in some knee brace options before Cucamonga.
