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!
Smith Mountain is one of the lower peaks in between Azusa Canyon and the Sheep Mountain Wilderness. That being said, though, it is quite prominent, featuring a very steep burst of climbing when going up its side.
Smith Mountain climbs steeply from the saddle.
To reach the peak, The Bear Canyon Trail leaves Highway 39 and snakes its way along the canyon rims. At a saddle where it begins to descend into Bear Canyon, a trail breaks off to the south in the direction of the peak.
Pausing to glance west toward Twin Peaks while climbing.
Steep climbing up its sides ensues almost immediately. While climbing in chunks and taking several winded breaks, I eventually made it to the top. As with most peak climbs, the views are a suitable reward.
On the summit.
Due to the steepness, the descent needs to be handled just as carefully. However, it was much faster getting back down. On the way down, I took some extra time to photograph the numerous spring blooms.
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