San Bernardino Mountain Trails: 100 Wilderness Hikes in Southern California (Wilderness Press Trail Guide Series)

Rating:
Summary: Essential for any Southern California Hiker
Review: I own about 30 hiking guides and this book is the one I use the most often and consult before any hike. John Robinson is one of the gurus of Southern California hiking and his guides are usually dependable, accurate and full of information that will ensure your safety while in the mountains. He provides an adequate history of each hike, driving directions and fairly precise descriptions of where to locate each trailhead. It's important to note that some of his information is outdated; for example, you always must display your Forest Adventure Pass when parking your car in a California National Forest. Robinson doesn't mention this because his guide was written before the Pass became "essential."

Another strength of this book is that Robinson usually provides separate descriptions of various ways to summit a peak. He details the standard way of climbing San Gorgonio, as well as three alternate treks to the peak and this is a valuable tool for the experienced hiker. He does the same for San Jacinto, perhaps the premiere hike in Southern California (as well as the most arduous!) The guide is tailored towards seasoned hikers and if you're a neophyte, this probably wouldn't be your best choice. But if you love to hike and live in the L.A. area, the Robinson guide provides indispensible information. Highly recommended.

Rating:
Summary: Great southern California hiking trail book!
Review: This may be an older book but you wouldn't know it. Each trail includes features and descriptions (among the best in print). Mileage, elevation gain and an endurance rating, listed as "classification", rates each trip. The San Gorgonio and the San Jacinto Wilderness areas are covered completely. A huge fold out topographical map is included. Considering the elevation involved the season to hike information is very useful. I recommend picking up a copy and checking out Vivan Creek or San Jacinto Peak! Information about permits is not listed with the trips, the only drawback in my opinion. - Great book for a great area!