Six Pack of Peaks Challenge: A Nationwide Hiking Series

Have you heard of the Six Pack of Peaks Challenge? I’d heard about a “six peak challenge” around San Diego for years, but didn’t look into it until 2023. Turns out, it’s a nationwide hiking series with 17 regional challenges. Each one includes six mountains to hike within a year. Whether you choose San Diego, Southern California, or another region, it’s a great way to get outside, explore new trails, and reconnect with nature.

What Is the Six Pack of Peaks Challenge?

The Six Pack of Peaks Challenge is a hiking series where you complete six designated peaks in a specific region before the end of the year. It actually started back in 2010 when Jeff Hester, the founder of Social Hiker, was training for a thru-hike of the John Muir Trail. To build strength and endurance, he picked six progressively tougher peaks in Southern California to tackle over six weekends. Eventually, others caught on, and in 2015, it became an official challenge.

Since then, it’s grown into a national hiking series with 17 regional Six Pack of Peaks Challenges across the U.S. Each one features a curated list of six mountains (with optional alternates), and when you complete them and upload your hike logs, you officially “graduate.”

What started as JMT prep has now evolved into a motivating, community-based hiking goal for outdoor lovers of all levels.

How the 6 Peak Challenge Works

• Runs January through December each year
• Choose a region and sign up on Social Hiker
• Hike the six required peaks (or alternates)
• Upload your proof and track your progress
• Join local hiking groups and events via the platform

Shortly after signing up, you’ll receive a welcome pack with fun swag: a custom Hiker Tag, stickers, and a Leave No Trace reference card. It’s a nice touch and makes it feel official.

The 17 Six Pack Of Peaks Challenge Hiking Series

Why I Joined the Challenge

One of my goals for 2023 was to expand my social circle, and I believe this was the perfect opportunity to accomplish that goal. Additionally, the Social Hiker website provides many hiking groups to choose from, so you’re bound to find a local one in your area. I already went to an event organized by the local Facebook group I found on the Social Hiker website, and it was a blast. So what are you waiting for?

Gear Recommendations to Conquer These Challenges

Of course, for any hike, be sure to adapt the Ten Essentials to suit the specific needs and the hike’s conditions.

It’s also important to mention that wearing clothing you don’t mind subjecting to a bit of extra wear and tear is advisable, especially considering that some of these hikes can be quite overgrown.

Navigation and Emergency Gear

• Garmin InReach Mini 2
  (Amazon | Backcountry | REI | Campsaver)
  This satellite communicator tracks waypoints automatically, and you can easily follow your breadcrumbs with the trackback feature. It also offers two-way messaging, but you need your smartphone in conjunction with it (and an app). So be sure also to bring a battery pack on your hike, to be able to communicate with the rescue team in case of emergency. I highly recommend this Anker power bank (Amazon | Anker), which will get you several charges for your iPhone.

• Garmin 67i
  (Amazon | Backcountry | REI | Campsaver)
  If, like me, you prefer not to rely on your smartphone as much and get built-in GPS, I highly recommend the Garmin 67i. My former Garmin (Explorer+) was stolen last year, and I replaced it with the Garmin 67i. It’s an upgrade on the Explorer+; not as clunky, and I find it very useful for navigating on snow-covered trails. It’s also got a bunch of bonus features, like moon and sun schedule, flashlight, etc…

• First aid kit
  (Amazon | Backcountry | Campsaver | REI)
  I can’t say I’ve had to use mine much, but better be safe than sorry, I never hike without it.

Backpacks & Hydration

• Backpack! I’m a big fan of Osprey Talon packs for men (Amazon | Backcountry | Osprey | REI) and Osprey Tempest for women (Amazon | Backcountry | Osprey | REI). Both are available in extended fit, to fit up to 70-inch hips!

• Osprey Water Bladder
  (Amazon | Backcountry | Osprey | REI)
  These Osprey reservoirs have never failed me and I own them in multiple sizes so I highly recommend them. Check out this blog post for tips on how to keep the clean!

• Sawyer Mini Water Filter
  (Amazon | REI)
  I rarely used a Sawyer on these hikes as I always carried enough water, but this lets you source water from anywhere with this filtration system.

Footwear & Trekking Gear

• Altra Trail Runners
  (Amazon | Backcountry | REI)
  I’ve used trail runners since May 2023, and I have enjoyed their lightweight and comfortable fit with a wide toe box. Highly recommended!

• Bug net
  (Amazon | Campsaver | REI)
  In warmer weather, be prepared for swarms of bugs during your hikes; having this bug net could be a lifesaver!

• Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork Trekking Poles
  (Amazon | Backcountry | Campsaver | REI)
  These ultralight trekking poles feature an ergonomic design, ensuring endurance on steep hikes for an extended adventure!

Nutrition & Energy

• LMNT Electrolytes
  (Amazon)
  I looooove these electrolytes, they have made such a difference to my energy levels, I cannot recommend them enough! Try them now!

Hiking the San Diego Six Pack of Peaks Challenge

I signed up for the San Diego Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge in late July 2023. I created individual hike reports after each hike, and this blog post recounts my whole experience.

The six peaks in San Diego are:

Peak (click to go to AllTrails!)	Mileage + Elevation	Completion (click to read blog post!)
Volcan Mountain	5.1 miles; Elevation 5,353′ (1,632m)	Completed 7/29/23
Corte Madera	6.7 miles; Elevation 4,633′ (1,412m)	Completed 9/17/23
Cuyamaca Peak	7.3 miles; Elevation 6,512′ (1,985m)	Completed 9/23/23
Hot Springs Mountain	10.2 miles; Elevation 6,533′ (1,991m)	Completed 11/19/23
High Point	13.8 miles; Elevation 6,138′ (1,871m)	Completed 11/26/23
El Cajon Mountain	11 miles; Elevation 3,675′ (1,120m)	Completed 12/17/23
Mount Woodson (Potato Chip Rock!) (alternate)	7.4 miles; Elevation 2,881′ (878m)	Completed 11/11/23

Hiking the Southern California Six Pack of Peaks Challenge

I also took on the Southern California version in 2024. This challenge includes 12 peaks: six originals and six alternates. Here’s what I tackled:

Peak (click to go to AllTrails!)	Mileage + Elevation	Completion (click to read the hike report!)
Mount Wilson	13.2 miles; Elevation 5,713′ (1,741m)	Completed 05/27/24
Cucamonga Peak	11.6 miles; Elevation 8,859′ (2,701m)	Completed 8/18/24
Mt San Antonio (Mt Baldy)	10.2 miles; Elevation 10,064′ (3,068m)
San Bernardino Peak	16.5 miles; Elevation 10,649′ (3,246m)	Completed 08/04/24
Mt San Jacinto	11.4 miles; Elevation 10,834′ (3,302m)	Completed 07/13/24
San Gorgonio	17.3, 18.4, or 22 miles; Elevation 11,503′ (3,506m)
Sitton Peak (Alternate)	10 miles; Elevation 3,273′ (998m)	Completed 01/14/24
Sawmill Mountain (Alternate)	7.4 miles; Elevation 8,822′ (2689m)	Completed 01/03/25
Strawberry Peak (Alternate)	7.5 miles; Elevation 6,164′ (1,879m)	Completed 2/25/24
Mt Baden-Powell (Alternate)	8.7 miles; Elevation 9,406′ (2,867m)	Completed 7/4/24
Ontario Peak (Alternate)	12.4 miles; Elevation 8,696′ (2,651m)	Completed 11/30/24
Santiago Peak (Alternate) Temporary closed	9.5 or 15 miles; Elevation 5,689′ (1,734m)

10 Benefits of the Six Pack of Peaks Challenge Hiking Series

1. Make new connections

The main benefit is that it has already enabled me to expand my social circle, and it’s only been a week. So I look forward to making new connections and friends thanks to this challenge.

Here’s the page of their website where you can find local groups to join. The group I joined organizes events regularly.

2. Renew your hiking motivation

Discovering the social hiker website and all the challenges renewed my hiking motivation. So if you’re bored of always hiking the same trails, try the challenge. There’s nothing to lose but sweat! And you may feel better, more accomplished, empowered, confident, and ready to tackle any other challenges, off and on the trails.

3. Get a decent workout and spend time outdoors

The hikes in each challenge appear truly challenging, so you’ll get a good workout with each of them. If you are a beginner, I would recommend starting with easier hikes first to acclimate your body to hiking. But as you build strength and complete the designated hikes, your body will thank you, and you will probably feel better overall for completing the challenge, both physically and mentally.

4. Become a better hiker

Connecting with other hikers and attending group hikes may make you a better hiker. You might end up learning something new that others are doing on their hikes that you could incorporate into your hiking habits.

5. Mental Health Benefits

Hiking has been shown to have positive effects on mental health. The combination of physical activity, being outdoors, and connecting with nature can contribute to reduced stress, anxiety, and depression. The serene environment of natural landscapes during a hike provides an excellent opportunity for mindfulness and relaxation, promoting overall well-being.

6. Improved Cardiovascular Health

Regular hiking can contribute to better cardiovascular health. It helps increase heart rate and improve blood circulation, which, over time, can lead to a healthier heart. The varied terrain and elevation changes during hikes also add an element of cardiovascular challenge, contributing to better endurance and stamina.

7. Enhanced Creativity and Problem-Solving

Being surrounded by nature during a hike has been linked to increased creativity and improved problem-solving skills. The break from daily routines and exposure to natural settings can stimulate the mind, fostering creative thinking and helping individuals approach challenges with a fresh perspective.

8. Weight Management

Hiking is an effective way to burn calories and can be part of a weight management or weight loss strategy. The combination of aerobic exercise and the potential for varied intensity levels during different hikes can contribute to calorie expenditure, making it a beneficial activity for those looking to maintain or lose weight.

9. Immersive Learning

Hiking often takes you through diverse ecosystems and natural environments. This presents opportunities for immersive learning about local flora, fauna, geology, and history. Many hiking trails are accompanied by informational signs or guided tours, enhancing your knowledge and appreciation of the natural world.

10. Stress Reduction and Relaxation

The tranquility of nature and the physical activity involved in hiking contribute to stress reduction. Walking in natural surroundings has a calming effect on the mind, promoting relaxation and a sense of peace. This can be especially valuable in today’s fast-paced, urban-centric lifestyles.

FAQ About the 6 Peak Hiking Challenge

What is the 6 Pack of Peaks Challenge?
It’s a nationwide hiking series where you complete six mountains in a specific region within a year.

Is the Six Peaks Challenge hard?
It can be! Some challenges are beginner-friendly, while others (like SoCal and AZ Summer) include steep mileage and tough elevation.

How many Six Pack of Peaks Challenges are there?
There are currently 17 regional challenges across the U.S.

Where can I sign up for the 6 Peak Challenge?
Visit SocialHiker.net to register for any of the regional challenges.

Do I have to hike the peaks in order?
Nope! As long as you complete them during the calendar year and log your hikes, you’re good.

Final thoughts on the Six Pack of Peaks Challenge

If this is your first time hearing about the Six Pack of Peaks Challenge, I hope it sparked something in you, whether it’s curiosity, motivation, or a new goal. And if you’re already familiar but haven’t taken the plunge, maybe this post nudged you closer. Either way, I’d love to hear from you. Have you completed one? Are you thinking about it? Drop a comment and let’s chat!

Want more hiking ideas? Check out my hiking adventures here!

Post originally published on August 1, 2023, and last updated on September 29, 2025.