Martin Luther King Jr. Day Hike To Potato Mountain

Let's celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. day with a nice hike to Potato Mountain. We'll hike 1.5 miles through the picturesque Evey Canyon elfin forest and then follow the somewhat steep fire trail for another mile to the top. This is a great starter hike for those who aren't quite ready for dicey mountain trails, but who still want to experience the Outdoor Nation and don't mind a little huffing and puffing.

http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/c/e/6/a/600_304552842.jpeg

Technically, Potato mountain is considered a mountain peak although it does not at all compare to the surrounding peaks of Mt. Baldy, Ontario Peak, Cucamonga. But, if you have never climbed a mountain then this spud could be for you!

Potato Mountain stands at an elevation of 3422 feet. The hike is five miles round trip with a 1200 foot gain. (estimated 480 ft/mile) This is considered a moderate hike, only because it has a fairly steady climb and if you are not in decent condition you will definitely feel it!

We will walk at a slowpoke pace but please know your limits! Do not attempt this hike if you have not been walking regularly. The hike should take no longer than 2 to 2 3/4 hours depending on the group.

http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/4/e/7/8/600_433160088.jpeg

WHAT TO BRING: Bring at least 1 1/2 to 2 liters of water, snacks, hat, sunrscreen, dress in layers, Could be cool in am then warm later. Hiking shoes or trail shoes recommended.

DIRECTIONS: From the east, take 210 fwy West and exit on Baseline Rd. Go West (right) on Baseline to the first light (Padua). Turn right on Padua to Mt. Baldy Road, a lighted intersection. Turn right on Mt. Baldy road and go about 1/4 of a mile past San Antonio dam to a dirt turn out on the right. There is a closed gate on the left side of the road. From the West, take 210 East and Exit Baseline. Go east (left) and turn right on Padua. (All directions are now the same as if coming from the east.) The trailhead starts across the road beyond the gate. Carpooling is encouraged. Use the meet up comment section if you wish to carpool with those in your area.

We will meet in the dirt parking area on the right side of the road. Meet 15 min. early for introductions.

NO PLUS ONES: As with most Lazy Ass Hikes, there won't be any Plus Ones. That's so each participant will be fully aware of the hike details and waiver of liability. It also helps the organizers know who's joining the hike. If you have someone you'd like to attend, just have them join the group.

Heavy Rain or a fire closure cancels. Check Meetup site 24 hours before hike.

WAIVER OF LIABILITY AND ASSUMPTION OF RISK

By joining and/or participating in this and any Lazy Ass Hiking event or activity you agree to be fully responsible for your own safety and behavior and to hold the organizers and participants harmless from any loss, damage or liability that may occur during this event or while in transit to and from the event. You are responsible to know your limits and determine whether you are in adequate physical shape to complete the hike or not. In addition, you understand and accept that hiking is an inherently dangerous activity that can lead to serious injury or death and that the organizers are not professional hikers or trained leaders and are not medically trained to handle emergencies.