Ontario Peak

Ontario Peak stands as the front peak in a row of superstar peaks and incredible hikes. This rugged ridge and peak was named in 1908 for the nearby city sitting far below its peak. Sometimes overshadowed by its bigger neighbors Baldy and Cucamonga, Ontario is a worthy destination on its own or a fantastic add on to a Cucamonga and Bighorn hike.

Route 1 is the primary trail to the top and it runs up the always gorgeous and almost always crowded Icehouse Canyon Trail, a tree-shaded and magical area. This trail is one of the few trails in Southern California that has a year-round creek running alongside it. With ample tree cover and a reasonable grade all the way to Icehouse Saddle, this is a great three season hike. From Icehouse Saddle, turn right towards the ruins of historic Kelly’s Camp and then follow the trail up and over and around a few ridges to the top. Be sure to stop for a break at Columbine Spring on your way. As the name implies, the winter cold often makes for icy and dangerous trail conditions. It should be avoided under such conditions; there are many accidents here every year, and some deaths.

There are numerous alternative routes. One can hike to Ontario by first summiting Bighorn (you can refer to that peak guide), then following a use trail west to join Route 1. Bighorn itself can be climbed several ways, including from its east ridge, accessed from the saddle between Bighorn and Cucamonga, or a brushy use trail that starts from Icehouse Saddle about 100 yards toward Cucamonga. Ontario is also hiked as an add-on to a hike to Sugarloaf; the route continues on clear but challenging use trail to the summit of Ontario, from which people usually opt to descend Route 1 on trail rather than descending the dangerous trail back over Sugarloaf.