Granite Peaks, Silver Mountain

29 January 1989

By: Dick Akawie

Leaders: Dick Akawie, Frank Goodykoontz

I had driven out to check the dirt roads on January 26th and found that we could drive to the base of the Granite Peaks, but not further east to Tip Top Mountain and Mineral Mountain because of icy snow on the road.

We met in Pomona and carpooled around the north side of the San Bernardinos to the start of the hike. After we parked, I pointed out the Thampion Joshua Tree nearby. Our group of 25 then proceeded up the steep west-facing slope to the top of the ridge, where some snow was encountered. We traversed roughly north toward the high point, dropped down into the canyon and up to the ridge about 1/10 mile southeast of the high point, and then to the top.

After lunch, we retraced our route back to the cars. Frank and I then decided to lead the group to Silver Peak. After a discussion about whether to climb the peak or try to drive up to it, we opted to try the drive-up because it was getting late. So we proceeded to Road 3N36 which leaves Hwy 18 just North of the the San Bernardino National Forest boundary, and then drove to the top in six vehicles. Two of these were two-wheel drive subcompacts, so the road is feasible for any car with a decent clearance underneath.

A new Register was buried in the rock pile at the top by Charlie Knapke - it is marked by a stake. Note that there are many roads taking off from 3N36 which are not shown on the topo map, so one must proceed with care - map in hand.