Trek68
Member
- Joined
- Aug 22, 2019
- Threads
- 3
- Messages
- 18
- Reaction score
- 14
- Location
- California
- Vehicle(s)
- 2020 Wrangler Rubicon
- Thread starter
- #1
Living in Orange County, I've always wanted to drive to the top of Saddleback Mountain. For those not familiar, Saddleback is comprised of two highest peaks in the Santa Ana Mountains; Santiago (5,689ft) and Mojeska (5,496ft). From most vantage points in Orange County, the two peaks form a 'saddle'.
Full disclosure, I hiked to the top with my wife several years back and vowed the next time I go up I would be driving. It was a tough hike and not made easier with the heat and flys/gnats that seemed to get worse as we climbed in elevation...but I digress.
I started the drive up via Maple Springs Road (5S04) around 6:30AM. Only saw a few hikers on the trail and no other vehicles until I started the trip back down. Had the peak to myself for about an hour where I stopped long enough to take some photos and finish my coffee. Was pleasantly surprised to find there was still some snow on the trail.
For those in OC who are looking for a local getaway and have not made the trip up, I highly recommend it.
Although this was a spur of the moment decision, I'll post here the next time I'm headed up to see if anyone else wants to tag along. Aside from a couple of loose and/or snowy spots, I was in 2WD the majority of the way up.
Nice way to start the weekend.
Full disclosure, I hiked to the top with my wife several years back and vowed the next time I go up I would be driving. It was a tough hike and not made easier with the heat and flys/gnats that seemed to get worse as we climbed in elevation...but I digress.
I started the drive up via Maple Springs Road (5S04) around 6:30AM. Only saw a few hikers on the trail and no other vehicles until I started the trip back down. Had the peak to myself for about an hour where I stopped long enough to take some photos and finish my coffee. Was pleasantly surprised to find there was still some snow on the trail.
For those in OC who are looking for a local getaway and have not made the trip up, I highly recommend it.
Although this was a spur of the moment decision, I'll post here the next time I'm headed up to see if anyone else wants to tag along. Aside from a couple of loose and/or snowy spots, I was in 2WD the majority of the way up.
Nice way to start the weekend.
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