EISPIRATEN

Hiked up to Mt. Hawkins then down to Copter Ridge, starting from Dawson Saddle. Some TR's recommend this as a great hike and some people I've talked to say don't bother. The air was very hazy and smoky today so views were basically awful compared to what they could have been. I imagine the views (and the hike) would be awesome if there was a nice marine layer (like when Travis and Taco did it) or if the skies were crystal clear. Enjoyed it despite the less than ideal conditions. I vote "do it".

Drank about a liter and a half of water and 20 oz. of G2. Not bad considering the winds were calm and it got kind of warm near the end. Fortunately there is plenty of shade to be had if you stop for a rest in the right places!

About 9.5 miles round trip and 3000' total gain (~1300' out, ~1700' back).

The use trail from Hawkins to Copter seems to only appear when it is the least useful. In any case, the route is obvious and the walking alternates between easy and ankle twisting. No bushwhacking required - just avoid unnecessary climbing over intermediate bumps and avoid all of the fallen trees.

No register on Hawkins. Register on Copter.

Pics.

Hazy skies over Copter Ridge (Rattlesnake beyond)...


Copter Ridge Register...


Dead mouse on Copter Ridge...

so peakbagger, how many are you up to?

Cool deal. Yeah, it's a real nice hike on a cool day.

Zé wrote:so peakbagger, how many are you up to?

59 HPS peaks in the San Gabriels
11 non HPS peaks in the San Gabriels
2 HPS peaks outside the San Gabriels

HikeUp wrote:Hiked up to Mt. Hawkins then down to Copter Ridge, starting from Dawson Saddle. Some TR's recommend this as a great hike and some people I've talked to say don't bother.

Dont bother? Wha??? Are these hardcore non-peak baggers :D? Tough customers?!

all ridges make a good hike

HikeUp wrote:

Zé wrote:so peakbagger, how many are you up to?

59 HPS peaks in the San Gabriels
11 non HPS peaks in the San Gabriels
2 HPS peaks outside the San Gabriels

heh someone's keeping track!

you're gonna have to do some more jaunts outside of the San Gabriel's if you want to get 100

Zé wrote:heh someone's keeping track!

Yes I can count!

Zé wrote:you're gonna have to do some more jaunts outside of the San Gabriel's if you want to get 100

The world is flat outside of the San Gabriel's isn't it?

AW wrote:Dont bother? Wha??? Are these hardcore non-peak baggers? Tough customers?!

A member of Sierra Madre SAR told me not to bother! Not sure what to make of that.