TELEGRAPH TIMBER, THERE'S THUNDER ON THE MOUNTAIN!
BACKGROUND:
Thunder Mountain: (Elevation 8587ft) Thunder is the northernmost of what Southern California peak baggers refer to as the "Three T's", the other two being Telegraph Peak (8,985) and Timber Mountain (8,303). Thunder Mountain is by far the easiest of the three, due to the existence of a road (closed to vehicle traffic) to the summit, and a trailhead 1,000' higher than the typical approach for the other two.
Telegraph Peak (elevation 8985ft): Named for uncertain reasons. Telegraph is set on the border between the Angeles National Forest and the San Bernardino National Forest. Often overshadowed by its neighbor to the northwest, Mount Baldy (San Antonio), Telegraph Peak is much less visited, but no less magnificent.
Timber Mountain: (elevation 8303ft.)Name given by early Sierra Club skiers and hikers (ca. 1930). It was singled out by Walt Wheelock as one of 30 early peaks.
STATS:
10.5 miles shuttle route w/the ski lift
Elevation gain: 2500 (overall)
Elevation starts at 5600' at the trail head
ESSENTIALS:
At least 3 liters of water
Know your limits
Hiking boots that can withstand water, ice, and snow
Layered Clothing
Gloves
High protein food/snacks
Electrolytes
Camera
Hat (optional)
Sunscreen
Trek/ski poles
OUR ROUTE:
Me and The Crew started our day as the sun was rising in Ice House Canyon at the ski hut below the Top of the Notch, at 7800ft. Here we purchased our round trip ski lift ticket. Two-by-two we hopped on ski lift chairs and accompanied by a guitar, sang our way to the top. At the top of the notch, we prepared our gear for a long, strenuous for some, day of trekking.
Our first stop was Thunder Mountain. From Top of the Notch, we followed a fire/service road till we hit a ski slop. hiking up the slop was by far the most strenuous portion of Thunder, but eventually all prevailed.
As if we hadn't climbed enough, after peaking on Thunder, we head up to Telegraph. If you don't like switchbacks, this one is not for you. However, unlike Whitney's 99 switchbacks, Telegraph has far less, but they are short and steep. The upside to going up Telegraph is the shaded trail and scenic view.
As you can imagine, based on the elevation gain/loss, Timber was less strenuous then Thunder and Telegraph. Nice way to ease back into the lower elevation of our final resting place, Top of the Notch. Some ate a hardy lunch and toasted to our feat with a tasty beverage, while others rested before taking the ski lift down and heading to The Baldy Village for some grub and brew.
Yelper Matt P. wrote in his review, "Make no mistake, hiking this isn't for the faint of heart...". His statement is on point. This is a good practice hike before heading to San Gorgonio, San Jacinto, and Mt. Whitney. However, if those are not on your bucket list, Three T's is a very scenic hike with over 2500ft of elevation gain.
DISCLAIMER:
Hiking is not something that can be taken lightly. It can be life-threatening as you see and hear on the news, people die or get lost all time. Please, if you are going to hike, never go alone and prepare for the worst, hope for the best. Remember when going for a hike, no matter how short you think it may be, always be prepared. Carry at least two liters of water for every five miles (more if the weather is warm), protein bar, nuts, and electrolytes. Wear sturdy lug sole shoes and protective clothing. Some areas the weather can change quicker than a fireman can put on his gear. It is also very important, always always always let a family member or friend know where you are going and when you expect to be back. Lastly, have fun when you hike it up.
Review 54 Yelp 100+ Challenge 2015
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