Purpose of the site

This blog will detail 1,000 video hikes in Southern California. By Southern California, I am drawing a line from San Luis Obispo to the Nevada Border. Anything south of that line will be declared "Southern California". In a way, it is a personal challenge to do so many hikes. Mainly, however, it is my way of showcasing how many hiking opportunities there really are right in our own geographic back yard. As a blog, it serves as a companion piece to my Youtube channel "Mike On The Trail". It is also a work in progress, as I don't actually have 1,000 edited videos completed. This will take effort for quite some time before it is declared done. Even then, there will still be more out there. Here's to hiking and all the positive effects it has had on my life...and possibly yours!

Sunday, January 17, 2021

#7 Barker Peak

Approaching Barker Peak.

Southern California Map
Driving Map
Parking Map
Parking is 8.7 miles south of Interstate 10.
Trailhead coordinates: 33.87927°N, -116.83273°W.

Peakery Link: Barker Peak, 4,334 ft.
Hiking Map
Hiking Stats:

Summary
Several peaks tower over the city of Banning.  One in particular (Barker Peak) is reachable after a drive up Highway 243.  To reach the hiking starting point, I drove 8 miles south of Interstate 10 to Twin Pines Road.  From there it is a short drive to Valley Hi Drive on the left.  The road may not be signed, but it is a dirt road passing through ranch properties toward Barker Peak.  To reach the hiking starting point, it is best to find a place to park as the road gets rough.   
Hiking up the road.
The dirt road starts heading uphill.  There is one wide bend in the road, creating a bit of a switchback.  It is pretty much a straight shot from there.  On top is the cement foundation of a former lookout tower.  Great views below, which is the true hallmark of a good lookout site.  As a recommendation, pairing this hike with nearby Ranger Peak will knock off two mountain conquests within a few hours.
On the summit.

Video:
Simulated Hike:



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