Strawberry Peak: A Spectacular Sunset Hike!
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In my journey to conquer the peaks of the SoCal six-pack of peaks challenge, I aimed for Strawberry Peak for my latest adventure. This day turned out to be one of the highlights of the year so far. From the drive up to LA to reaching the summit and enjoying chocolate-covered strawberries against a breathtaking sunset, every moment exuded excitement and wonder. It was indeed a memorable day, blending the thrill of exploration with the simple joys of nature.
Strawberry Peak Trail Overview
Located near Mount Wilson, California, Strawberry Peak is a challenging 7.0-mile out-and-back trail with an elevation gain of 1,771 ft, offering hikers a thrilling adventure. With an average completion time of approximately 3 hours and 52 minutes (according to AllTrails), this route promises both excitement and endurance.
Logistics to hike Strawberry Peak
The trail’s peak times for exploration span from January to October, providing ample opportunities to immerse oneself in its natural splendor. While furry companions are welcome, it’s important to note that dogs must be leashed throughout the hike.
Before you venture into the forest, make sure to slap that adventure pass on your dashboard once you’ve parked at the Red Box picnic area. It’s essential! Remember that rangers are vigilant about passes and parking, so be sure to follow the rules. On the bright side, you’ll find toilets conveniently located in the parking lot, making your pit stops hassle-free.
What to expect
The trail starts with a clear path along the Strawberry Peak Trail, offering stunning landscapes. However, note that the final stretch diverges from the main trail, following a social path to the summit. Expect several false summits, but the breathtaking 360-degree views at the peak make the effort worthwhile. To navigate this tough terrain, it’s wise to download and study the trail map beforehand.
Tips for Success
Prepare!
Before embarking on any hiking adventure, it’s crucial to prioritize preparation. Take the time to plan, check weather conditions, and familiarize yourself with the trail. Knowing what to expect can make all the difference in ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. This trail can be covered in snow in winter, so preparation is key!
Leave no trace!
As stewards of the outdoors, it’s our responsibility to leave no trace. Respect nature by packing out all trash, staying on designated trails, and avoiding disturbing wildlife.
Stay healthy!
Lastly, prioritize safety at all times. Stay hydrated, especially in hot weather, and be mindful of signs of fatigue or injury. Keep an eye out for wildlife and know how to respond in case of emergency.
Gear Recommendations
In conjunction with the famous ten essentials, explore the following gear recommendations:
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Personal Experience hiking Strawberry Peak
Reaching the trailhead
I drove up from San Diego on a Sunday, reaching the Red Box parking area by 3 pm. The parking was quite busy, but fortunately, I snagged one of the last two spots available. Vault toilets are accessible in the parking lot. The trailhead was conveniently located just a few steps up from the parking lot.
First two miles
The trail starts easily with gorgeous views of the San Gabriel Mountains range and is very easy to follow. About 0.9 mile into the hike, be sure to turn left to head towards Strawberry Peak. There is no sign posted, but there are rocks that mark the turn and lead you to the left instead of going straight. Just be aware of your surroundings.
You then reach a section with gorgeous views and a steep drop to one side, so be aware of that if you’re afraid of heights. the trail is wide enough that it doesn’t feel dangerous, but the trail is rocky at times, and it gets windy too.
Summit push
The last mile to the summit is the steepest, with some rock scrambling and increasingly stunning views.
There were three wooden signs marking the summit when I went, and the summit offered amazing 360 views of the surroundings, including snow-capped San Antonio.
I spent nearly an hour at the summit, soaking in the scenery, snapping photos, and savoring strawberries dipped in Nutella as the sun set. As the temperature dropped and the wind picked up, I felt compelled to reluctantly leave the breathtaking view behind and begin my descent.
The descent
I found trekking poles helpful for descending the steep section, so I recommend bringing yours.
Overall, I finished the return trip in 2 hours and 52 minutes of moving time (3 hours and 44 minutes total). While I did not see any wildflowers nor did I encounter any wildlife on this hike, the views were magnificent throughout. And the sunset was just exquisite at the summit. I really enjoyed this hike and I am so glad I completed it!
Relive My Strawberry Peak Hike
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Final Thoughts on Strawberry Peak
Reflecting on my hike to Strawberry Peak, I’m amazed by nature’s beauty and the excitement of reaching new heights. If you’re reading this, I strongly suggest hitting the trails yourself – whether it’s Strawberry Peak or another adventure. Believe me, the views and feeling of achievement are absolutely worth it. I appreciate every moment in nature and look forward to exploring more.
So, why wait? Go out there and hike to your heart’s content!
Post originally published on February 28, 2024, and last updated on December 14, 2024.
