(E)CBO

Three progressively nicer peaks, all in one day!

ECBO stands for Etiwanda Cucamonga Bighorn and Ontario. We decided to skip Etiwanda as it is not as scenic and doesn't really make the day significantly more interesting.

We started out at Ice House Canyon parking lot, which is a zoo at the best of times, but we were reasonably early (7am) and found a spot in the parking lot as opposed to having to park along the road.

The start of the trail features an actual running stream (so rare in Southern California), and the bubbling of water made for a nice beginning to the day. The hike steadily climbs until it reaches the saddle between Etiwanda and Cucamonga. From here, there are many trails that go in every direction.

Summit of Cucamonga

The summit of Cucamonga was broad and flat, but a bit lower down were some rocks that we decided to spend some time on.

A more interesting area near the summit of Cucamonga 

From Cucamonga, there is a slightly less used trail that leads directly to Ontario via Bighorn, without having to descend back to the saddle. We took this route, which at times was not that obvious, but the overall direction was clear so there was no risk of getting lost.

Summit of Bighorn, peak 2!

The route from Bighorn to Ontario was a bit meandery and not very direct, but was relatively easier than what we had already done. By this time though, we were all quite tired.

The ridge to Ontario

Ontario was probably the nicest peak of the three, with interesting rocks and trees to keep us entertained as we rested up for the long hike back to the parking lot.

The summit of Ontario, peak 3!

In general, Ontario feels like the most popular of the three peaks, as this is where we saw the most people.

A quiet moment before heading down

The hike back to the car was uneventful and due to the gentle slope, it was possible to run most of it. I was wearing my mountaineering boots, in preparation for an upcoming trip, so wasn't very nimble on my feet.

Field of pinecones

Overall, a great day and a nice change from Mount Baldy.

http://app.endomondo.com/workouts/505692549/3101909