Altitude Series: San Bernardino Peak via Angelus Oaks (16mi/4,691ft)
Details
Join us for the next hike in our Altitude Series, a structured training track designed to build the endurance, pace, and elevation tolerance needed for bigger mountain objectives such as San Jacinto, San Gorgonio, and Mt. Whitney.
This route climbs San Bernardino Peak (10,649 ft) from Angelus Oaks via the San Bernardino Peak Trail. The ascent gains elevation steadily through oak and pine forest before transitioning into higher elevation manzanita and exposed ridge terrain near Limber Pines and Washington’s Monument. The final section follows the ridgeline to the summit with expansive views across the San Bernardino range and toward San Gorgonio.
Approximately 16 miles round trip with 4,691 ft of elevation gain. Typical time 7 to 9 hours depending on pace and stops.
Expect a long sustained climb, significant time on feet, and extended exposure to altitude above 9,000 ft during the final portion of the route.
Here’s the full activity from our recent Altitude Series benchmarks, including all splits and details, to give a clear sense of how each day flows:
[Altitude Series] Cucamonga Peak | Benchmark 1 | NSC | Hike | Strava
[Altitude Series] Mt. Baden-Powell | Benchmark 2 | NSC | Hike | Strava
[Altitude Series] Big Horn and Ontario Peak | Benchmark 3 | NSC | Hike | Strava
[Altitude Series] Mt. Baldy | Benchmark 4 | NSC | Hike | Strava
Who This Hike Is Suited For:
- Hikers comfortable with 15+ mile routes
- Ability to sustain a steady climbing pace on long uphill terrain
- Ability to maintain continuous forward movement for 7–9 hours
- Experience fueling and hydrating during extended efforts
Group Size & Admission Policy: Group size is intentionally limited to maintain safety, cohesion, and steady mountain pacing on long, sustained routes.
All hikers will initially be placed on the waitlist. Admission is based on pace compatibility and experience with sustained elevation routes.
First-Time Participants (Altitude Series): If you have not previously hiked with us on a comparable route, please message the organizer with:
1. Date of your most recent 15+ mile hike
2. Distance, elevation gain, and completion time
3. Your average moving pace
4. Comparable peaks or routes completed
Submission of this information does not guarantee admission. We intend to keep the group intentionally small and will admit hikers off the waitlist as space allows, based on overall pace compatibility and training alignment.
Trailhead: San Bernardino Peak Trailhead via Angelus Oaks
Parking: Limited roadside parking near the trailhead (Adventure Pass required)
Directions: From Angelus Oaks, turn east off Highway 38 onto Manzanita. Then turn to the immediate left onto the frontage road that parallels Highway 38. Turn right onto Forest Service Road No. 1W07 and stay to the right up the dirt road 300 yards to the trailhead.
https://www.google.com/maps/dir/?api=1&destination=34.146021,-116.978423
Essentials:
• Water (3-4L; electrolytes strongly recommended)
• Snacks/fuel
• Hat, sunscreen, sunglasses
• Hiking poles (recommended)
• Extra layers for summit conditions
• Offline maps/navigation recommended
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.