5-PEAKS ISNOTFORTHEWEAKATHEART BACKGROUND: Mt Islip is named for George Islip, a Canadian prospector who moved to Los Angeles in the 1850’s. He first inhabited the abandoned«halfway house» that Wilson constructed(then abandoned) along his lumber hauling trail in Little Santa Anita Canyon. It’s noted that Islip planted a small grove of cherry, apple, pear and plum trees on a sloping bench just behind the hut. Mt. Hawkins is named by the USFS for Nellie Hawkins, a very popular waitress at the rustic«Squirrel Inn» at nearby Crystal Lake(1901-06). It’s rumored that«she charmed and attracted miners, hunters, campers-just about every mountain man for miles around.» Throop peak was named for Anne G. Throop, founder of Caltech, formerly called Throop College. Mt. Burnham is named for Frederick Russell Burnham the famous American military scout who taught Scoutcraft to Robert Baden-Powell became one of the inspirations for the founding of the Boy Scouts. Mount Burnham was officially recognized by the USGS at a dedication ceremony in 1951. Its original designation was(West Twin) «North Baldy Mountain». Lord Baden-Powell, was a lieutenant-general in the British Army, writer, and founder of the Boy Scout Movement. Mount Baden-Powell is a peak in the San Gabriel Mountains of California. It was officially recognized by the USGS at a dedication ceremony in 1931. Its first designation was East Twin or North Baldy named by C. F. Saunders in 1923. At 9,407 feet in elevation, Mount Baden-Powell is the 4th highest peak of the San Gabriel Range. STATS: Distance: 14.5 miles Elevation Gain: 5000 Trail: One way car shuttle Rating: Strenuous-for seasoned hikers ESSENTIALS: At least 2 liters of water Know your limits Comfy hiking shoes with good lugs Layered Clothing High protein food/snacks Electrolytes Camera Hat(optional) Sunscreen Trek poles CHECKTHEWEATHER! OURROUTE: Me and The Crew met at the Vincent Gap Parking Lot, consolidated cars and shuttled to the Mt. Islip Saddle where we began our one way hike back to the cars that were left at Vincent Gap(a.k.a. shuttle hike). From the words, «Let’s hike it up,» «up» was the operative word. About 60% of this hike is uphill and doesn’t level off until Little Jimmy Campground, mile two. But don’t set your poles down, there is so much more to climb. From Little Jimmy, we followed the trail toward to Mt. Hawkins, at 7,782 ft. followed by Throop Peak, 9,142 ft. The views from Throop are far and wide, with a 360 degree view you can see Mt. Baldy, Mt. Baden-Powell, the Mojave Desert, and the ocean. Onward and upward to Mt. Burnham, one of the highest peaks in the San Gabriel Mountains sits at 8,997 ft. finishing off with Mt. Baden-Powell, 9,406 ft. Trails are fairly easy to follow and directional signs are posted along the way and much of this trail runs parallel to the Angeles Crest Highway which detracts from the feel of seclusion. It’s fun to follow the ridge to bag Throop, Burnham and Hawkins on the way down. If you’re looking for a roller coaster ride of a trail, one with lots of up and down, do this hike. If you’re looking for more seclusion, try something else. DISCLAIMER: Hiking is not something that can be taken lightly. It can be life-threatening as you see and hear on the news, people die or get lost all time. Please, if you are going to hike, never go alone and prepare for the worst, hope for the best. Remember when going for a hike, no matter how short you think it may be, always be prepared. Carry at least two liters of water for every five miles(more if the weather is warm), protein bar, nuts, and electrolytes. Wear sturdy lug sole shoes and protective clothing. Some areas the weather can change quicker than a fireman can put on his gear. It is also very important, always always always let a family member or friend know where you are going and when you expect to be back. Lastly, have fun when you hike it up.
