Sitton Peak – Easiest Hike In The SoCal Six Pack of Peaks

Sitton Peak, nestled in the San Mateo Canyon Wilderness near Lake Elsinore, CA, is a hidden gem and an excellent choice for those embarking on the SoCal Six Pack of Peaks challenge. Standing at 9.4 miles with a relatively modest elevation gain of 2,060 ft, Sitton Peak is often regarded as the easiest hike in the challenge. It’s also the closest hike to San Diego for this challenge, so I tackled it first for my new SoCal adventure.

Sitton Peak Hike

Sitton Peak is most likely the easiest hike in the SoCal SoCal Six Pack of Peaks challenge due to only being challenging in the last half mile to the summit. The hike is 9.4 miles total, out and back, with an elevation gain of under 2,300ft. AllTrails’ average completion time is just under 5 hours. It took me 3 hrs 48 minutes of moving time to complete the hike, and about 5 hours in total counting the time at the summit.

Gear Recommendation

While the trail presents breathtaking vistas, readiness for challenges is key. Certain segments may feature overgrown areas, causing my leggings to endure a few pulled threads. For prospective hikers, a valuable tip is to opt for clothing resilient to wear and tear.

Moreover, considering the steepness of the final half-mile, having trekking poles can prove beneficial for the descent. I didn’t take mine with me but wished I had.

In conjunction with the famous ten essentials, explore the following gear recommendations:

Accessing Sitton Peak (Bear Canyon Loop trailhead)

Journeying to Sitton Peak begins with a visually stunning drive up from the 15 Freeway, offering captivating views of Lake Elsinore that you can fully relish if you’re not behind the wheel.

As you approach the trailhead, accessing the Sitton Peak trail is a breeze, thanks to the well-placed parking lot conveniently situated just across from the Candy Store. A bonus for trail enthusiasts is the presence of restroom facilities in the parking area.

Remember, securing a Southern California Adventure Pass is crucial for parking, but fret not if you haven’t obtained one beforehand – a hassle-free day pass can be easily obtained at the Candy Store before embarking on your hike.

With your pass proudly displayed, you’re all set to begin your exploration of the Bear Canyon Loop trailhead, just a stone’s throw west of the Candy Store. Get ready to immerse yourself in the adventure!

The Ascent Unveiled: A Gradual Incline

I experienced the beauty of this trail on a sunny Sunday in mid-January, with temperatures hovering in the comfortable upper 50s. The initial section of the trail offers a moderate incline, with certain stretches appearing flat. What sets Sitton Peak apart is that the hike only becomes steep during the last half-mile leading to the summit. A touch of rock scrambling might be useful for the final ascent, adding a hint of adventure to the journey.

The trail starts easy and you’ll quickly encounter a trail sign-in form where all visitors must sign in as they visit the San Mateo wilderness.

Throughout the ascent, The trail was very well-marked and easy to follow, and it treats hikers to picturesque views of the San Mateo Canyon Wilderness, providing a captivating backdrop to the entire hike.

However, it’s at the summit where the real magic unfolds. From this vantage point, one can marvel at panoramic views that extend to the ocean, making Sitton Peak an ideal choice for a sunset hike. The beauty of the landscape, coupled with the serene atmosphere, creates a memorable experience that is well worth the effort.

Sunset on the way back down

Plants spotted on Sitton Peak trail

Relive my Sitton Peak hike

Embarking on yet another exciting journey into the great outdoors, I’ve captured the essence of my latest hike in a captivating Relive video. This immersive experience takes you beyond mere photographs and static maps, offering a dynamic 3D topographic display that brings the trail to life.

For those who share a passion for adventure, Relive provides an unparalleled platform to document and share your own outdoor escapades. By joining the Relive community, you can craft personalized videos that encapsulate the spirit of your journeys, transforming your memories into dynamic, shareable stories. Let the world see the beauty of your adventures, and inspire others to explore the wonders of nature through the engaging lens of Relive. Take the plunge into this vibrant community and turn your every escapade into a visual masterpiece. Adventure awaits – capture it with Relive!

Final Thoughts

Sitton Peak’s relatively moderate difficulty level, combined with its breathtaking views, makes it an accessible yet rewarding endeavor for those taking on the Southern California Six Pack of Peaks challenge. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a novice seeking a picturesque adventure, Sitton Peak is a must-try destination in the San Mateo Canyon Wilderness. And now, I’m one down, 5 (or 11!) to go for my challenge! Are you ready to embark on this challenge too? Sign up here now!

Post originally published on January 25, 2024, and last updated on March 20, 2024.