PEEKINGONJOSEPHINE’S PEAK!!! BACKGROUND: Named for Josephine Lippencott, wife of USGS surveyor Joseph Barlow Lippencott who used this elevation for a triangulation station(1894). He would later insure the city of Santa Barbara with a steady source of water by planning the Gibraltar Dam on the Santa Inez River(1903, completed 1921), and was later the Hydraulic Engineer of the Owens Valley Aqueduct(1919). He was also involved in the planning of the Angeles Crest Highway. STATS: Distance: 8 miles Trail conditions: Fire Road & single track Route: Up and back Elevation gain: All uphill to the top(1900′ gain) Restroom: Porta potty at the info center ESSENTIALS: At least 2 liters of water Know your limits Comfy hiking shoes with good lugs Layered Clothing High protein food/snacks Electrolytes Camera Hat(optional) Sunscreen Trek poles(optional) OURROUTE: On a warm and sunny morning, me and The Crew headed up Angeles Forest Highway for an uphill climb to Josephine Peak. Parking on the side of the road just across from Clear Creek Visitors Center, we threw on our packs, adjusted our straps, stretched our trekking poles, and headed up a fire road that seemed to never end. There’s really not much to say about this hike, it is a straightforward hike on an easy to follow fire road to the top. On your way up, if you start going down, you are going the wrong way. The biggest challenges are, hike is fully exposed to the elements, so if you hike it in the warmer months dress appropriately, wear sunscreen and a hat, as well as bring lots of water and electrolytes. The views going up are amazing and from the top, the 360 degree view is breathtaking, DISCLAIMER: Hiking is not something that can be taken lightly. It can be life-threatening as you see and hear on the news, people die or get lost all time. Please, if you are going to hike, never go alone and prepare for the worst, hope for the best. Remember when going for a hike, no matter how short you think it may be, always be prepared. Carry at least two liters of water for every five miles(more if the weather is warm), protein bar, nuts, and electrolytes. Wear sturdy lug sole shoes and protective clothing. Some areas the weather can change quicker than a fireman can put on his gear. It is also very important, always always always let a family member or friend know where you are going and when you expect to be back. Lastly, have fun when you hike it up. Review 100 Unilocal 100+ Challenge 2015 #HIKEITUP #HIKING #ANF
Sean M.
Place rating: 5 Los Angeles, CA
A well maintained access road up to radio masts at the top of the peak. The hike is just a little under 8 miles round trip. Once you pass the yellow vehicle gate at the bottom of the access road, then its just a case of following this road up. No chance to get lost or off trail. It can get a little chilly first thing in the morning, even if its warm down in LA. parking: there’s only 15 mins parking at the ranger station at the junction, so instead park on the gravel area on the other side of the street. Theres a sign nearby the says that you need to display your adventure pass.
Christian A.
Place rating: 5 Los Angeles, CA
Gorgeous 360 degree panoramic view of the San Gabriels. I have had my eye on this peak since 2009 station fire closure. Hike is all on a fire road and highly enjoyed this hike. It is Possible to get to Strawberry Peak from fire road. Make sure you go early since there is little to no shade. The elevation gain is the hardest thing about this hike and the views are totally worth the trek. Check out my link below for this awesome adventure. Josephine Peak Video — Strawberry Peak Video — San Gabriel Peak, Mount Disappointment & Mount Deception — Subscribe & Like! Distance: 8 miles round trip Elevation Gain: 1900 ft Hike Time: 4 hours Difficulty: Moderate Trail Condition: Fire Road Hike Type: Out and Back Animals: Dog Friendly Activities: Hiking, Running & Mountain Biking Fee: Adventure Pass
