Thirty-one hikers managed to find the start of our trip, in spite of late
changes necessitated by the closure of Mitchell's Campground. Starting at the
now locked gate at Mitchell's, we proceeded along the California Riding and
Hiking Trail to a jeep road junction, thence to the abandoned Pawnee Mine for a
short break and some picture taking. Continuing up the jeep road, we reached
Beauty Peak summit just in time for lunch. After eating, four people elected to
return to the cars, with the remainder of the group continuing cross-country to
Iron Springs Peak. Along the way, four more people turned back and so the
remaining 23 signed in on top. Thanks to beautiful weather, we enjoyed views of
most of the peaks between Mt. Baldy to the north and Rabbit Peak to the south.
We returned via Talmadge Canyon and Pawnee Mine, reaching the cars just at dark,
having covered the 16 miles and 3,700 feet of gain in nine hours.
I should add that this trip involved crossing a considerable amount of private
property. We were granted permission by the landowner to hold this trip, and may
be allowed to lead a group trip in the future. However, because of
previous vandalism, individuals are warned against entering without permission,
as the landowner will prosecute.
