Beauty Peak, Iron Spring Mountain

13 December 1969

By: Paul Lipsohn

Leader: Paul Lipsohn
Asst.: Les Stockton

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.