Highest Point in Orange County, CA, USA
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Rumpled
N 33° 42.516 W 117° 32.112
11S E 450407 N 3729975
The highest point in Orange County is Saddleback Mountain, or more properly Santiago Peak. Combined with Modjeska Peak the two comprise Saddleback Mountain as they are known in the area.
Waymark Code: WM81N8
Location: California, United States
Date Posted: 01/09/2010
Views: 18
Santiago Peak is the highest point in Orange County and the Santa Ana Mountains. First known ascent was 01/26/1861 by William H. Brewer and Josiah Whitney.
The peak is covered by many radio and telecommunications facilities. Also, one may find numerous benchmarks in the summit area.
There are numerous ways one could take to get to Santiago Peak, representing the highest point in Orange County.
It is possible to drive right to the summit, though high clearance and four wheel drive is recommended. Or, one could ride a street legal dual sport or off road motorcycle on the dirt roads to get to the top.
One can also hike or mountain bike from any number of trailheads to get to the top. Any hike or bike will be long and difficult and gain between 3000 and 4000 feet of elevation to reach the peak.
For any journey to the peak, check with the Forest Service to see what areas are open and whether road gates may be closed.
An adventure pass would be required if one is taking a motor vehicle to the peak. Check also with the Forest Service.
Here is a link to the Cleveland National Forest where this peak and the majority of the Santa Ana Mountains are.
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Wikipedia also has a page on Santiago Peak
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Summitpost also has a page on Santiago Peak, geared mostly to hiking.
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A telecommunications provider has weather and camera pages for Santiago Peak as well.
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