We originally planned to hike Olancha ysterday, but since it was a long ways to go with a threat of bad weather, we hiked 6 peaks in the San Bernardino Mountains, the opposite ridge as the 9 Peak Grand Traverse. It was fun, rain threatened but never materialzed.
Nice loop! Which direction did you go? I assume you went for Little SG first? I've used both of those ascent/descent routes though not in the same day. That Camp Creek route is pretty steep. Just how I like it. Btw, you haven't done Little SG to Galena have you? That's the sweet part of the ridge -- kinda like a pumped up version of the Iron-Baldy traverse. It's an awesome traverse, quite adventurous, but not lacking in brush and some intimidating obstacles. I thought it was interesting enough that I never even posted my photos preferring to keep it secret. Oops. Secret's out.
And Rick, no, we did not do the Galena to Little San G traverse, but we checked it out and I want to now. Had I known we would have incldued it in this traverse. Also, we did not ascend Camp Creek, we hiked up a ridge to the east. However I also want to try this as a descent route. I think I will hike up Galena's famos Headwall, traverse over to Little San G and then descend the Camp Creek Gully. Sounds like a great hike.
Ridge east of Camp Creek is what I meant. I suggest doing the traverse from Little San G to Galena for asthetic reasons. There's a stunning view you get in that direction which probably won't be so striking in the opposite direction. Oh, and descending the headwall is quite an experience. I thought I was going to die! hehe.
I live in Redlands and I still haven't done any of the peaks along the Yucaipa Ridge except Galena. Travis, your report on summitpost is great - thanks for all the info - it certainly has prompted me to plan on getting out there and checking out the ridge soon.
I have done the traverse Galena to Little SG twice and it is hike for those without fear and addicted to adrenalin or testosterone. Very cool Xcountry hike but be careful of your footing. One mis-step could be your last.