Mountain Training Series – Cucamonga Peak via Icehouse Canyon (~11.7 Mi)

Join us for the third hike in our Mountain Training Series, continuing our progression toward longer, steeper, and higher-elevation routes such as the Southern California Six-Peak Challenge, San Jacinto, San Gorgonio, and Mount Whitney–style efforts.

This hike tackles Cucamonga Peak (8,862 ft) via Icehouse Canyon, a classic Southern California mountain route featuring a long, sustained approach, a steeper upper climb, and a demanding descent.

Starting from the Icehouse Canyon trailhead, we’ll follow the canyon trail for several miles of steady uphill movement before reaching Icehouse Saddle. From there, the route steepens significantly on the final push to the summit. We’ll return the same way.

Route Overview:

• Distance / Elevation: ~11.7 miles round trip with ~4,183 ft of cumulative gain
• Route Style: Out-and-back
• Estimated Duration: ~6–8 hours, depending on pace and breaks

The route emphasizes sustained climbing and cumulative elevation gain, followed by a long, demanding descent, rather than short, isolated climbs.

Training Focus — Sustained Climbing & Descent Durability:

Cucamonga Peak introduces a higher level of vertical gain and sustained climbing than previous hikes in the series. The long approach builds aerobic efficiency and pacing discipline, while the upper section tests climbing strength under accumulated fatigue. The extended descent reinforces downhill control—an essential skill for longer mountain days later in the series.

This hike emphasizes steady effort, efficient movement, and controlled pacing, particularly on the descent.

Pace & Group Flow

We’ll maintain a steady pace with limited stops, prioritizing continuous forward movement. Breaks will be brief and planned, with regrouping only at key junctions and logical points along the route.

Who This Hike Is Best Suited For

• Hikers comfortable with 10+ mile routes
• Experience with sustained elevation gain
• Ability to maintain a steady pace for several hours
• Comfort navigating independently if needed

Limited Group Size: Group size will be intentionally limited to keep things organized on a long, demanding route. There will be no backup leads or sweep, so please be comfortable maintaining pace and navigating independently if you fall behind. We’ll regroup at major junctions or logical stopping points. If the event fills up, please join the waitlist—additional spots may open.

Logistics:

• Trailhead: Icehouse Canyon Trailhead
• Parking: Icehouse Canyon Parking Lot (carpool recommended)
• Permit: Forest Adventure Pass required (purchase in advance)

Route Map (AllTrails):
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/icehouse-canyon-to-cucamonga-peak-trail?u=i&sh=pxabuh

Additional Resource: Detailed route guide and tips for the Cucamonga Peak hike — https://hikingguy.com/hiking-trails/los-angeles-hikes/cucamonga-peak-hike/

Essentials:
• Traction hiking shoes
• Water (2.5-3L; electrolytes recommended)
• Snacks
• Hat, sunscreen, sunglasses
• Hiking poles (recommended, especially for the descent)
• Microspikes (recommended depending on conditions)
• Extra layers for cold and windy summit conditions

Note on Punctuality & RSVP: Please be on time — we’ll wait up to 5 minutes past the start. If you’re running late, you can post your ETA in the event discussion, but the group may still begin without you. If your plans change, please update your RSVP — it helps us know who to expect on the trail.
Disclaimer & Safety Notice: Not So Casual Hikes are challenging outings designed for hikers in strong shape who know their limits and show up prepared. Organizers are volunteers—not guides—and cannot be responsible for your pace, navigation, or safety. We hike at a steady pace and the group may spread out. Please be prepared to navigate independently if you fall behind, though we’ll aim to check in at major junctions when possible. By signing up, you accept full responsibility for your fitness, gear, hydration, and navigation, and agree to hold harmless the Organizer, Co-Organizer, Assistant Organizers, and fellow participants for any incidents or injuries. Participation also means you agree to Meetup’s Terms of Service. Hiking carries inherent risks, including trip/fall injuries, bee stings, poison oak, ticks, snakes, coyotes, or mountain lions. Be prepared for sun exposure, heat, or marine layer conditions depending on the day.