OPT OUTSIDE WITH WTC! Big Cienega-Mt. Islip (8250′)-Windy Gap Loop. Hike to the Angeles high country peak Mt. Islip from Crystal Lake Campground via the Big Cienega Trail. We’ll make a loop out of it by returning over Windy Gap. Mt. Islip was named for Canadian prospector George Islip and once had a lookout tower and stone cabin on its summit. The tower footings and cabin walls are still there. This moderate hike is 7.2 miles with 2400 feet of gain. Bring hiking footwear, at least two liters of water, lunch, snacks, hat, sunblock and layers. A day pass ($5) or National Forest Adventure Pass is required to park at the trailhead. Leaders will provide an overview of the Wilderness Travel Course (WTC), which begins January 2024 (www.wildernesstravelcourse.org). Subjects include safe mountain travel, map & compass and wilderness first aid. This backcountry outing requires a completed Local Outing Medical Form to be reviewed by the Leader prior to the hike. Register online (<-click link to RSVP) to save time at the trailhead. This is a Sierra Club Angeles Chapter-sponsored hike and you must sign a waiver to participate. Leader: SHARON MOORE Co-Leader: DAVID MELTZER
Bring: Layers, lunch, at least 2 liters of water, suitable hiking footwear. Trekking poles for steep sections and a head net for gnats recommended.
