Modjeska Peak

Modjeska Peak, the northern summit of the Saddleback in the Santa Ana Mountains, is the range’s second-highest peak and is valued for its open summit and broad views. Long regarded as part of nearby Santiago Peak, it took its present name in 1909 after local supporters honored actress Helena Modjeska, who had lived in nearby Modjeska Canyon. A trail from the canyon improved access, and by 1919 the first recorded civilian hikers reached the summit, helping establish it as a popular destination for Sierra Club outings and other visitors. The peak has also seen recreational events, communications uses, repeated wildfires, and a fatal 1972 plane crash.

Trabuco Canyon, California · United States