I want to thank everyone who entered Modern Hiker’s recent Horny Toad Contest – I got a ton of great submissions AND a list of great local places to add to my own personal post-hike list of watering holes and refueling stations.

There were a lot of shout-outs to some of my favorites- the Mount Baldy Lodge, Adams Pack Station, the Nickel Diner, Fred 62, and even Chipotle. Honestly, I’m a little surprised I haven’t run into more of you at one of these places! But unfortunately, there could be only two winners …

Whether it’s a hot summer hike or a chilly winter trek – I’m always up for a good craft brew after spending time outdoors. This year, I started brewing my own beers, but it’s easier when you can chill out on a porch and have someone else do all the work for you. Reader Adam Martinez not only shares my love of a good brew, but he also knows that The Pub at Golden Road is the most relaxed brewpub in L.A. Their in-house Hef and Point the Way IPA are always solid, they’ve got an excellent rotating list of guest taps, and their food is tasty (and surprisingly vegan friendly, if you’re into that). Congrats, Adam – you’ll be getting a nice new Cloudcover Vest to take on those winter hikes … and feel free to say hi if you ever see me at the bar.

For those who hike the San Gabriels near Altadena, Kat recommended her own personal favorite haunt, the Altadena Alehouse. A locally-owned, recently-haunt, the Altadena Ale House looks like a great, laid-back neighborhood bar with friendly owners, a good sense of local beer history and an excellent beer and wine list. Their food selection’s a bit limited but it seems like they occasionally have some seasonal specials – and their bartenders are notoriously friendly. Kat loves the ambiance and recommends it after a long trek up to Mount Wilson and back. Kat can take her new Adjunct Hoodie onto the trail and leave it on when she sits at the bar for another pint.

Tags: brewpubs, clothes, contest, Hiking, horny toad, Los Angeles