Despite its rather uninspiring name, the hike to Potato Mountain (3,432'), north of Claremont and just barely in the Angeles National Forest, offers tranquil canyons, a charming stream, and amazing summit views, as well as a moderate workout. This hike is very convenient for the suburb dwellers of the Southland's Inland Empire, as it is only about 3 miles off the CA-210 Fwy in Cleremont. Because this hike traverses through prime chaparral country, it is a trek better left to the winter and early spring.
Stats:
Category: Easy/Moderate
Miles: 4.6
Elevation Gain: 1,300' (total gain)
Location: Pomona College property and Angeles National Forest (No Adventure Pass Required)
The Trail: From the Palmer-Evey Canyon Trailhead off Mt. Baldy Road, walk past the yellow gate and soon you will find yourself walking alongside a seasonal stream, carpeted by stately oaks, maples and sycamores. You steadily gain elevation as you trek near the stream on the northside of the canyon. To your north, the Sunset Peak Telecommunications Center can be seen rising steeply above the canyon floor. Glance around at the pines soaring towards the heavens at the higher elevations. After about 1.5, you reach Potato Saddle, straddling the long Sunset Ridge to the west and the bulk of Potato Mountain to the east. Here, you are greeted by a sign from the city of Cleremont explaining the trails. From the saddle, you will see Potato Mountain to your left, very close. Take the trail east, above the canyon you have just traversed, which steeply rises then drops and rises again above Evey Canyon. Follow this steep footpath, which winds around the mountain, for about a mile until in leads to the red-rock 3,400' summit of Potato Mountain, topped by a water reservoir from the Los Angeles County Fire Dept. Take in the views which expands from San Gorgonio and San Jacinto to the east, the Inland Empire in front, Santiago Peak in the distance, the Pomona Valley to your right, and the Mount Baldy-Ontario-Cucamonga Peak massifs right behind you. After your rest on summit, return the way you came.
Saint Peter, Prince of Apostles, Pray for Us!
Hiked 2-22-14, Los Angeles County. No Adventure Pass Required.
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| The Yellow Gate |
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| The Red-Rock Summit |
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| Views |
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| The End of San Antonio Canyon |
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| The Parking Lot |
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| Towards Mt. Baldy |
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| The Valley floor |
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| Sign towards the summit |
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