Today that trail remains lost, but with some effort this peak can be accessed via its ridges. Walker and I took a variation of the west ridge route, starting from a toe on the north side.
It wasn't long before the loppers came out of our packs. In the years since the Station Fire heavy brush has reclaimed this area. We spent hours trimming branch after branch, moving very slowly up the steep slopes and ridge.
Some sections required scaling loose rocks and sand.
Fortunately the tough work led to great views around the Arroyo Seco.
Eventually the brushfest ended and the summit could be seen ahead with its distinctive cracked boulder.
Walker climbed the rock where the viewing platform once stood. Panorama was aptly named, as beautiful peaks and ridges pop out in all directions. To the south is the pinnacled ridge above Little Bear Canyon, and to the north stretches the high ridge between Josephine and Strawberry.
We found shade on the north side of the boulder and ate lunch. It ended up being a pleasant day, not too cold, not too hot. Occasionally a cool breeze reached us.
We took our final summit photos and then tried to retrace our route--for minimal bushwhacking experience. We got down in less than half the time it took to ascend. Water in the Arroyo Seco was flowing strong, and the picnic area was packed.
