Sitton Peak via Bear Canyon Trail (~10mi, 2,100 ft Gain, Moderate - Challenging)

Get a sneak peek here: Sitton Peak via Bear Canyon Loop

Disclaimer: This hike reflects the spirit of Not So Casual Hikes - steady, purposeful, and rewarding. It is not suitable for beginners. If you're looking to challenge yourself in good company, we’d love to have you join us. Please come prepared, know your limits, and be ready for a strong, sustained effort on challenging terrain.

⚠️ Limited Space: This event is capped to maintain a safe, focused group experience. Priority will be given to members who regularly attend hikes. If the event is full, please join the waitlist - we may open spots as space allows.

Shorter Route: We’ll have an option that skips the final mile to the summit for those who prefer to avoid the steep, technical descent.

About the Hike:

Join us for a summit hike up Sitton Peak, a hidden gem in the San Mateo Canyon Wilderness near Lake Elsinore. This peak is part of the SoCal Six Pack of Peaks and is often considered the most approachable of the six - though the final push to the summit and exposure to heat make it a serious workout. This out-and-back route totals 9.7–10 miles with roughly 2,100 feet of elevation gain, making it a great intermediate challenge. On clear days, expect panoramic views of San Diego County, Orange County, the Santa Ana Mountains, and even Catalina Island.

Meeting Details:

• Location: 34040 Ortega Hwy, Lake Elsinore, CA
• Trailhead: Bear Ridge & Sitton Peak Loop Trail (near Ortega Oaks Candy Store). Look for the sign that reads “Bear Canyon Trailhead”.
• Parking: Free street parking is available across from the Candy Store. The parking lot is temporarily closed, so park on the side of the road. Carpool if possible, as space is limited.

Hike Details:

• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
• Distance/Elevation Gain: ~10 miles, ~2,100 feet elevation gain.
• Hike Start: 6:30 am - Please arrive early enough to park, gear up, and be ready to hit the trail on time.
• Estimated Duration: ~4.5-5 hours
• Trail Type: Mostly single-track; wide early on, with a short scramble near the summit. The descent from the peak is the most challenging part of the hike, about 0.36 miles of steep terrain with loose rocks and sandy sections. Good balance and coordination are essential here. Trekking poles are highly recommended to help with stability.
• Restrooms: None on trail — plan accordingly
• More Info: Sitton Peak via Bear Canyon Trail on AllTrails

Essentials Checklist:
✔ Sturdy hiking shoes or boots (good traction)
✔ Hiking poles (recommended)
✔ Water (3–4 liters minimum)
✔ Electrolytes + snacks
✔ Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
✔ A positive attitude and a smile 😊

Punctuality & RSVP Etiquette:
We kindly request that all participants aim to be punctual. Our group will wait for a grace period of 5 minutes past the scheduled start time for any latecomers. However, if you realize that you're running late, please inform us through the message board. This will help us know to wait a bit longer for you and ensure we don't leave anyone behind.
If your plans change and you're unable to attend after RSVPing, please cancel your RSVP before the event begins. This consideration allows us to manage the group size effectively and opens up space for others who might be on a waiting list.
REMINDER: By joining the meetup, you agree to Meetup Terms of Service, releasing the Organizer, Co-Organizer, and Assistant Organizers from any liability related to incidents during gatherings.
IMPORTANT SAFETY NOTICE: Hiking is a rewarding activity, but certain dangers exist. These may include trip and fall injuries, bee stings, poison oak exposure, ticks, snake bites, coyotes, mountain lions, or wildlife encounters. By registering for this event, you explicitly recognize that our organizers and participants are not professional guides or certified experts. You assume responsibility for yourself and your safety, agreeing to hold harmless the hike organizer, co-organizer, assistant organizers, and fellow participants for any injuries sustained during the hike. This acknowledgment extends to any unforeseen incidents or accidents that might take place, emphasizing your commitment to personal responsibility for your safety throughout the entire event. Your participation implies your understanding and acceptance of the shared responsibility for ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
Tags: #Hiking #OutdoorAdventure