Telegraph Peak via Manker Flat

This hike starts at the Manker Flat parking area, situated at 6000 ft of elevation. Head towards a cluster of portable restrooms by the road and you will see the trail. The first section of trail past the locked gate is paved, and will take you to San Antonio Falls. Take some time to view the falls – depending on the season, you'll see a pretty nice flow.

From the Falls, continue on the fireroad for 3.5 miles until you hit the Baldy Notch. At the Notch, you will see the ski lifts and a restaurant. You can stop at the restaurant first, or wait until you are on your way down.

If you walk directly away from the ski lift due east, you will see a junction. Turning left at the junction heads towards Devil's Backbone and Mt. Baldy. For this hike, turn right towards Thunder Mountain. You will reach the summit of Thunder Mountain after a nice climb and see another portion of the ski lift. On the southwest side of the Thunder Mountain, head towards a big sign for Three T's Trail.

You have already bagged the first "T" of Three T's Trail, so continue on towards the second, Telegraph Peak. You will make a small descent on the trail before reaching a saddle, and then climbing back up. After about a mile you will see a use trail – go left towards Telegraph Peak, and leave the main Three T's Trail that continues on. It's about a quarter of a mile from here to the summit.

The summit offers incredible views of Victorville and the high desert. On clear days you can see San Gorgonio and San Jacinto.

If you continue on the Three T's Trail, you will hit Timber Mountain before reaching the Ice House saddle. You can try this, or head back the way you came and get some lunch at the Notch.