What started as a hike up Strawberry Peak turned into something more meaningful. After signing the summit register and flipping through pages of entries, we stumbled upon a mention of “Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge.” We looked at each other and said “hike yeah – let’s do this!” This challenge was the perfect reason to hike all summer. Over the next six months, each summit felt less like a checklist and more like a transformation – building strength and confidence. If you’re looking for an adventure, say “hike yeah” to the Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge.
This blog is your inspiration for lacing up your hiking boots, setting bold goals, and embracing the kind of adventure that challenges and transforms. Whether you’re beginning to explore local trails or a seasoned hiker, the Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge is an unforgettable way to grow stronger while enjoying stunning mountain views.
Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge
The Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge was created as a way to help hikers progressively train for bigger adventures like Mount Whitney or the John Muir Trail. The goal is not only to summit all six but to build strength, endurance, and confidence over time. The challenge has since expanded to include regions across the U.S., each with its own unique lineup of peaks. Whether hikers are chasing personal fitness goals, preparing for a thru-hike, or simply seeking connection with nature, the Six-Pack of Peaks offers a supportive framework and a strong community of fellow adventurers to cheer them on.
Destination Insights
Here are the mountain peaks that we conquered during our Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge:
1. Strawberry Peak
Trailhead: Strawberry Peak Trail
Distance: 7.5 miles round trip
Elevation: 6,165 ft
Gain: ~1,800 ft
We began our journey here, a rugged but rewarding climb that threw us into a Class 2 rock scramble near the top. This climb was supposed to be a “one-off weekend” hike, but everything changed at the summit. We found the little metal box, signed our names in the logbook, and spotted a note about the Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge. In that moment, despite being tired and exhilarated, and we decided to chase the rest.
2. Sitton Peak
Trailhead: Ortega Oaks Candy Store
Distance: 2 miles warm up + 9.5 miles
Elevation: 3,273 ft
Gain: ~2,100 ft
This was our “easiest” hike — but don’t be fooled. We accidentally took the wrong trailhead and ended up on an unexpected “warm-up lap” that tacked on extra miles to our already long day. Pro tip: always double-check the signs (we were supposed to cross the street—oops). We stumbled upon the Candy Shop and treated ourselves to ice cream sandwiches before the real hike even started. The final half-mile push to the summit was steep and exposed. The views stretched out toward the coast, and we sat in silence for a while, grateful for a clear day and strong legs.
3. Cucamonga Peak
Trailhead: Icehouse Canyon
Distance: 11.6 miles
Elevation: 8,859 ft
Gain: ~4,300 ft
Cucamonga Peak was one of those “we got this” hikes. We powered through the switchbacks and reached the summit in no time. We found a spot with sweeping views, unpacked our lunches to soak in the views. We felt accomplished, content, and totally in our element.
4. San Bernardino Peak
Trailhead: Angelus Oaks
Distance: 17 miles
Elevation: 10,649 ft
Gain: ~4,700 ft
San Bernardino was the “very long” hike. The wilderness was absolutely serene. When we climbed to the summit, everything felt still. On the way down, each step felt like its own little meditation. The trail unfolded in silence, broken only by the rhythm of the wind and the steady crunch beneath our boots. San Bernardino peak was one that stays with you.
5. Mount Baldy
Trailhead: Manker Flat up Devil’s Backbone then down Baldy Bowl
Distance: ~11-mile loop
Elevation: 10,064 ft
Gain: ~3,900 ft
Mount Baldy was our “cloud nine” hike. Devil’s Backbone ridgeline lived up to its name being narrow, windy, and not for the faint of heart. Together, we climbed into the clouds and were rewarded. We stood on cloud nine, gazing out over a world that stretched endlessly below. Mount Baldy is the highest peak in the San Gabriel Mountains (and the highest point in Los Angeles County). Talk about a great lunch spot with stunning views!
6. Mount Baden-Powell
Trailhead: Vincent Gap
Distance: 8.3 miles
Elevation: 9,399 ft
Gain: ~2,800 ft
Switchback after switchback, we climbed through a forest of ancient pines. Near the summit, we spotted a gnarled tree with a twisted trunk shaped by centuries of wind and weather. This limber pine (Pinus flexilis) is estimated to be ~1500 years old and is among the oldest trees in the San Gabriel Mountains (PBS SoCal 2019). When we reached the summit, we were bursting with joy and pride — we completed the Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge!
Wilderness Wisdom
The most beautiful views often come with real risks—altitude, heat, dehydration, and fatigue. Here’s what we learned (sometimes the hard way):
- Know the forecast: Conditions at trailhead elevation are often vastly different at the summit. Always check the full mountain forecast.
- Pack smart: Always carry more water than you think you need, plus snacks, headlamp, and extra layers.
- Bring a map (digital and paper): On one hike we accidentally went down the wrong trailhead and added an unexpected “warm-up lap” to our already long day. Lesson learned: always read the trail maps carefully and double-check the signs at junctions—excitement at the summit can lead to wrong turns on the descent.
- Speak up: Feeling dizzy, exhausted, or unsure? Say something.. We had one hike where altitude made one of us feel foggy and nauseous. Trail pride should never come before safety so talk to your hiking buddy.
- Know the forecast: Conditions at trailhead elevation are often vastly different at the summit. Always check the full mountain forecast.
Trailside Ties
During the roadtrip to each trailhead, we listened to some pre-hike hype songs. One of our favorites was the German rock band, Milky Chance. Such a great motivator! There’s just something about the songs and their rhythm that amped us up for switchbacks and summit scrambles. What songs get you pumped before an adventure?
Summary
We started with curiosity and ended with conviction. The Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge gave us more than views and checkmarks. This adventure gave us a trailhead for growth, laughter, and stories that will echo for years.
If you’re thinking about the Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge, our advice is simple: lace up your boots and start with one peak. The rest will follow.
