Sugarloaf, Ontario, and Bighorn Peak via Falling Rock & Icehouse Canyon

Explore. Observe. Discover.

This hike begins where a narrow canyon climbs toward the high country, linking the rugged ascent of Falling Rock Canyon with the broad ridgelines of Sugarloaf Peak, Ontario Peak, and Bighorn Peak. As we gain elevation, the landscape gradually transforms from steep canyon walls and chaparral into pine forest, open ridgelines, and expansive mountain vistas before descending through the scenic Icehouse Canyon Trail.

Each summit offers a different perspective of the surrounding landscape. To the south, the Inland Empire stretches toward the horizon. To the north lie the rugged canyons of the Sheep Mountain Wilderness and the Mojave Desert. Along the way we’ll have opportunities to observe changing geology, mountain ecology, weather patterns, and how water, elevation, and climate shape the landscape. Rather than simply visiting three summits, we’ll explore a mountain landscape that continues to evolve over millions of years.

This is a full day of hiking, exploring, and discovering one of Southern California’s finest mountain traverses.

Distance: Approximately 12 miles
Elevation Gain: Approximately 4,500 feet

This is a strenuous hike requiring good endurance, confident footing, and steady pacing. Expect sustained climbing, rocky trails, uneven terrain, scree, talus, exposed ridgelines, and sections that require careful route finding. While no technical climbing is required, the length, elevation gain, and terrain make this a physically demanding outing.

Videos from previous group hikes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pLUBX3adP5I&t=586s
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=muIuzffxUZY&t=46s

Group Culture
A beautiful landscape doesn’t merely give us something to look at. It gives us something to wonder about. We explore not simply to see new places, but to widen and deepen our understanding of the world around us.

Our outings emphasize observation, discovery, learning, fitness, collaboration, and good judgment. We value preparation, self-awareness, and respect for both nature and fellow hikers.

If you enjoy exploring beautiful natural places, value health, fitness, and agility, and feel this hiking style and group culture resonate with you, we welcome your interest in joining us.

Please Bring

• Plenty of water (at least 3–4 liters, depending on weather)
• Lunch and trail snacks
• Reliable headlamp
• Sun protection
• Appropriate layers for changing mountain conditions
• Trekking poles (optional but recommended)

Permits

• National Forest Adventure Pass or Interagency National Parks Pass
• Cucamonga Wilderness Permit

Personal Responsibility
Participants are responsible for continuously evaluating conditions, making sound decisions, managing risks appropriately, and looking after their own safety throughout the event.

Acknowledgment of Risk
By RSVPing and participating, you acknowledge that hiking and other outdoor activities involve inherent risks, including injury, illness, falls, changing weather, wildlife, rockfall, and other natural hazards. You are responsible for evaluating your own abilities, equipment, health, and decisions throughout the event.

The organizer will make reasonable efforts to promote a safe and enjoyable experience but cannot eliminate the inherent risks of outdoor activities. Participation is entirely voluntary, and you accept the risks associated with these activities.

Come prepared for a memorable day of challenge and exploration in one of Southern California’s most beautiful mountain landscapes.