Clouds mass like airships in the crisp blue sky above Mentone, CA.
I determined that I would finally confront Yucaipa Ridge Trail via the old Edison building on Hwy 38. Although Yucaipa Ridge is a Forest Road, its access is blocked on all sides by private property owners. However, a very steep switchbacking trail pops up in Edison's backyard.
1926 plaque
Bits and pieces
Edison outbuilding
A ruined house perched on the hillside
The way was very steep indeed, and I actually climbed a couple short sections on my hands and knees! The trail just kept climbing straight up the ridgeline without mercy.
Finally, even my dog asked to call it quits with the climbing. It was not graded for hiker enjoyment, it seemed rather to be designed for utilities and aquaduct access by atv.
View of Crafton Hills and beyond.
Even a secondary foray up the ravine was foiled by private property.
You shall not pass!
I cannot say I was undaunted, because I really was quite daunted and left the premises a little weepy. I decided to venture into the Mill Creek floodplain and see how far I could go down the Old Fish Hatchery Road.
The Edison approach to Yucaipa Ridge as viewed from the floodplain.
The road was washed out very close to the turn off, and I got out to explore the aquaduct ruins on foot and let Brisket play in the water.
If you zoom in, you can see an aquaduct tunnel entrance. It is currently occupied by a person living off the grid.
Water tower of native river cobble in the willows.
Elmer
The floodplain was also cut off at the end by more private property, old ranches and such. As a side note, this whole area is slated for destruction by Orange County developers.
Onward to more Mentone adventures in part two, wherein I encounter an illicit open-air art gallery!
Thank you for joining me on my wanderings today. Remember, if the task gets dangerously steep, discretion might be the better part of valor.
