Travel, Photography, Good Food, Hiking, Landscape, California, Riverside County, San Jacinto Mountains, Orange County, Santa Ana Mountains, Cleveland National Forest, San Bernardino Mountains, San Gorgonio Peak, San Jacinto Peak, Santa Catalina Island, Sitton Peak Trail, Sugarloaf Peak, San Juan Trail
James the "Wolfman" and Charlie the "Hoffman" are two of the "Mountain Maulers" who joined me this hike. They really like to eat up the trail, especially when "bagging a peak" is involved. We met in San Juan Capistrano and car-pooled to Blue Jay Campground. Once we parked and settled into our gear we were off.
Bad form on my part, I forgot to bring a map so everything was stricktly by memory. Fortunately I have a pretty good memory and the trails weren't to confusing. We nailed all the intersections perfectly, I can always rely on my man the "Wolf" with his keen senses whenever I'm not 100%. His senses and my memory were perfect despite my reservations thoughout the hike.
We peaked without any real reststop and had another gourmet lunch/snack. Charlie with his amazing grilled chicken sandwiches and I brought some of my "Persian Pickles".
After our little rest/snack at the peak, we headed back to the car. Different than any of my other hikes, this time we had to climb out. Climb we did through Chiquito Canyon, but after that, the REAL climb began. Steep stair stepping back to the car. I'm breathing heavy just remembering it.
Back to the car we headed to Hells Kitchen. It's a popular "Biker Stop" on the Ortega Highway (California State Hwy 74). Their chili con carne with black beans is dynamite! Their "Napalm Chicken Wings" are INSANE. The Wolfman claimed they were tame and that the cook and/or waitress was holding out on us for the REAL HEAT. They were hot enough for Charlie and I.
Another great day with some great friend! Thank you guys!
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