Within the Cleveland National Forest on Palomar Mountain there is a trail through a pleasant woodland that has broad valley vistas en route to a world-renowned destination. What more could you want? Strap on your hiking boots and set out up Observatory Trail, which is 2.2 miles long from point to point with 700 feet of elevation gain. The trail starts at Observatory Campground and ends just outside the Palomar Observatory. From the top of Observatory Trail, it is a third of a mile walk to observatory’s main dome where you can visit the viewing deck of the impressive 200-inch Hale Telescope.

Start from Observatory Campground, operated by the Cleveland National Forest, where there are 42 astronomically-friendly campsites. On the east side of the campground loop road you will find a sizeable day use parking area at the beginning of Observatory Trail. Start up the trail, which immediately passes to the left of a campground amphitheater.

There are no junctions to concern yourself with along Observatory Trail, so unwind and enjoy a hike up a wooded mountainside shaded by a mixed forest of Jeffrey pines, ponderosa pines, black oaks, live oaks, and various chaparral. There are three benches along the trail, allowing you to take a break amidst the 700 feet of elevation gain. The first bench comes just over a third of a mile from the start.

If you hike Observatory Trail in the spring you will spot monkeyflower, lupines, and other wildflowers blooming alongside the dirt single track. The trail heads east for 0.6 miles to Mendenhall Valley Overlook. Step out onto the wooden platform on the right side of the trail, which provides a window through the trees over Mendenhall Valley, a large grassy meadow cradled by the Palomar Mountains. Gaze over the long meadow, which is broken up by clusters of trees and a grouping of small ponds.

Mendenhall Valley Overlook

Mendenhall Valley

Beyond Mendenhall Valley Overlook, Observatory Trail bends to the left, heading north toward Palomar Observatory. The trail parallels South Grade Road (the road between the campground and the observatory) and you will hear occasional vehicle noise along this hike. Cross a wooden footbridge, a tenth of a mile past Mendenhall Valley Overlook and continue up the dirt trail. Shortly thereafter you will pass another bench.

At 1.2 miles from the start you will pass through a national forest boundary, leaving Cleveland National Forest. Outside the national forest, the trail continues over the same terrain and is similarly well maintained. Reach a third bench, 1.75 miles from the start. At two miles from the start, you will come to what looks like a trail junction. To the left there is a short spur out to an outcropping of rocks. Climb up the small boulder pile and enjoy a lovely view. The unofficial overlook peers west over ponds in Upper French Valley, another mountain meadow in the Palomar Mountains.

Upper French Valley

Continue up Observatory Trail for the final 0.2 miles to the top of the trail, 2.2 miles from the start. When you reach the top of the trail, turn right on Canfield Road and walk up the paved road, immediately entering the Palomar Observatory grounds.

Palomar Observatory features a world-class telescope, the enormous 200-inch Hale Telescope named in honor of the legendary American astronomer George Hale, whose vision it was to create an observatory of this magnitude, but past away before it was complete. Edwin Hubble, another legendary astronomer, was the first to operate the telescope. Palomar Observatory has allowed mankind to see further into the universe then ever before. The observatory is owned and operated by the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) and is open to the public.

The path to the dome for the 200-inch Hale Telescope

To reach the Hale Telescope, walk straight through a parking lot at the end of the road and continue along a level paved path. You will pass a museum and gift shop on the right along the way to the massive white dome for the 200-inch Hale Telescope, which is 1/3 of a mile from the top of Observatory Trail. You can walk a circle around the grand dome and go inside to the visitors gallery. Hike up a flight of stairs to an observation area where you can look in on the famous working telescope in action.

The dome for the 200-inch Hale Telescope

The 200-inch Hale Telescope

After scoping out Palomar Observatory, hike back to Observatory Trail and down to Observatory Campground. Observatory Trail is 4.4 miles round trip. If you hike from the top of the trail to the Hale Telescope and back, the total distance of the hike will be around 5.1 miles with 700 feet of elevation gain. If you wish to camp at Observatory Campground, there are 42 sites with amenities like fire rings, picnic tables, charcoal grills, vault toilets, flush toilets, and showers, and special astronomy events. The campground is open from April through October. If you are not staying overnight at Observatory Campground, there is a sizeable day use parking area inside the campground at the start of the trail. If you park at the trailhead (instead of camping), a National Forest Adventure Pass is required for each vehicle and can be purchased for $5 per day. If you don’t have or don’t want to buy an adventure pass, it is free to park at the Palomar Observatory at the top of the trail. The Palomar Observatory is open every day except Christmas and Christmas Eve from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. during Standard Time and from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. during Daylight Savings Time. Hazardous road conditions can also restrict access to the observatory. Dogs are welcome on leashes. Mountain bikes are permitted on Observatory Trail but you are asked to walk your bike on the Palomar Observatory property. No permit is required to hike Observatory Trail to Palomar Observatory, so get out and enjoy!

To get to the trailhead: Take the 15 Freeway to exit 46 for Route 76 east toward Pala. Drive east on Route 76 for 20.4 miles and turn left onto South Grande Road (S6). Take South Grade road for 6.8 miles to an intersection with East Grade Road and angle left to continue up South Grade Road, driving north for another 2.4 miles to Observatory Campground. Turn right into the campground. The trail starts from the day use parking area at the far side of the campground loop road.

Trailhead address: South Grade Road, Cleveland National Forest, Palomar Mountain, CA 92060
Trailhead coordinates: 33.342414, -116.878697

Use the map below to create your own directions:

Photos

 

                                                       

These photos were taken in March of 2013. Click to enlarge.

 

Nearby Trails

 

	Indian Flats Trail This easy half-mile round trip hike from Indian Flats Campground explores seasonal pools in the East Fork of the San Luis Rey River.
	More hikes in Southern California Explore more trails in Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, and San Diego counties.

 

Nearby Camping

 

Observatory Campground This 42-site campground in Cleveland National Forest offers camping near the world-renowned Palomar Observatory for $15 per night.

 

More Info

 

Observatory Trail on sandiegoreader.com

Observatory Trail in 100 Classic Hikes in Southern California by Allen Riedel

Observatory Trail on wildernet.com

Observatory Trail on localhikes.com

Observatory Trail on abhiking.blogspot.com

Observatory Trail on nobodyhikesinla.com

Observatory Campground on wildernet.com

Observatory Campground on campsitephotos.com

Palomar Observatory on wikipedia.org

The official webpage for Palomar Observatory

The official Cleveland National Forest webpage for Observatory Campground

 

Located in the Cleveland National Forest near Warren Springs, The live oak-shaded Indian Flats Campground is the start of a short trail to a trickling river fork. It is a 0.5-mile round trip hike from the campground down to the East Fork of the San Luis Rey River, which flows down a mountain slope covered in granite boulders filled with interesting pools and passageways to explore.

It is not an exaggeration to say that Jerry Schad, the author of Afoot and Afield San Diego County and several other hiking guides, probably knew the trails of San Diego County better than anyone, and he though Indian Flats Trail was perfect for children, writing:

What better way is there to pique a child’s interest in nature than to introduce him or her to a shallow, lazily flowing river full of tadpoles and frogs?

This short trail has just 75 feet of elevation change, making is easy for kids of any age to reach the pools, which could fascinate them for hours. Plan an overnight trip to Indian Flats Campground and young and old can enjoy a great weekend in the outdoors.

Hiking down Indian Flats Trail

To hike to the East Fork of the San Luis Rey River, make your way to the far end of the single loop in Indian Flats Campground where there is a wooden panel labeled Indian Flats. Next to it, you will find a worn path heading northwest on a gradual downhill grade. Most of the trail crosses exposed bedrock and there are numerous granite outcroppings along the trail. Pass through the oak woodland for just 0.2 miles to reach the river fork. There are a few spur paths along the way, so stick to the most worn trail. When you pass a boulder shaped like a mushroom on the left side of the trail, follow the main route as it curves to the right. You will quickly pass a wooden post and begin descending to the creek.

Looking up the dry East Fork of the San Luis Rey River

When you reach the East Fork of the San Luis Rey River, turn upstream (to the right) where you will find water coming down a granite slope. Large boulders surround the stream, covering it in many places. There is only a small drainage for the East Fork of the San Luis Rey River, so you may find it quite dry outside of the wet winter season. If you are in the mood to explore, you can follow the water up the mountain slope, climbing around boulders or wading through shallows to reach miniature waterfalls and caves. Wildlife like frogs and snakes can be found in the pools. Explore as much as you like before returning the way you came.

A pool in the rocks along the East Fork of the San Luis Rey River

No permit is required to hike Indian Flats Trail to the East Fork of the San Luis Rey River. Dogs are permitted on a leash. There is a $12 fee to stay overnight at Indian Flats Campground. Otherwise, you will need a National Forest Adventure Pass ($5 per day) to park at the trailhead. Indian Flats Campground has 17 sites with picnic tables, fire rings, charcoal grills, and vault toilets.

Trail and campground closure: Indian Flats Campground and Indian Flats Trail are closed to the public in April and May during the active season for the endangered arroyo toad, whose habitat includes the area around Indian Flats Campground. The specific closure dates may vary from year to year, so check the national forest webpage for Indian Flats Campground or call the Palomar Ranger District of the Cleveland National Forest at (760) 788-0250 before visiting in the spring. If you see an arroyo toad in the East Fork of San Luis Rey River, please do not approach it.

To get to the trailhead: Take Route 79 to Lost Valley Road in Warren Springs. Lost Valley Road is located 1.5 miles northwest of the center of the small town. In the other direction, the intersection is 18 miles southeast of Aguanga on Route 79. There will be a sign for Indian Flats Campground at the bottom of Lost Valley Road. Drive north up the narrow paved road for 7 miles to the campground at the end of the road. The trail begins from the far end of the loop. If you are not staying overnight at Indian Flats Campground, there is additional parking near the group camping area at the start of the loop.

Trailhead address: Lost Valley Road, Cleveland National Forest, Warner Springs, CA 92086
Trailhead coordinates: 33.349488, -116.661797

Use the map below to create your own directions:

Photos

 

Indian Flats Trail
                                       

Indian Flats Campground
         

These photos were taken in March of 2013. Click to enlarge.

 

Nearby Trails

 

Observatory Trail The 5.1-mile round trip hike travels between Observatory Campground and Palomar Observatory, crossing a pleasant mountain woodland with valley views along the way.

 

Nearby Camping

 

Indian Flats Campground This 17-site campground in Cleveland National Forest offers first-come first-serve camping for $12 per night.

 

More Info

 

Indian Flats Trail and Indian Flats Campground on sandiegoreader.com (written by Jerry Schad)

The official Cleveland National Forest webpage for Indian Flats Campground

 

Mount Baden-Powell is a special summit in the San Gabriel Mountains. It is one of the range’s tallest peaks at 9,399 feet and holds particular importance to the Boy Scouts of America because it memorializes the lofty accomplishments of Lord Baden-Powell who founded the Scout Movement. The views are lofty too, lording over an expanse of rugged mountains framed the San Gabriel Valley to the south and the Mojave Desert to the north. The hike to the top is a thigh-burning 8.25 miles round trip with lots of switchbacks and 2,834 feet of elevation gain. The effort is rewarded by substantial views including a summit 360.

The hike begins 6,565 feet above sea level at Vincent Gulch Divide, located near the northeast end of the San Gabriel Mountains. Vincent Gulch Divide (Or Vincent Gap) is a divide below Mount Baden-Powell that separates the drainage of Big Rock Creek to the north from the drainage of the upper forks of the San Gabriel River to the south. You will find a large pullout along Angeles Crest Highway at Vincent Gulch Divide where the trail sets out southwest up Mount Baden-Powell. The trail up Mount Baden-Powell is a well-maintained section of the Pacific Crest Trail and the Silver Moccasin Trail (Silver Moccasin Trail is a 53-mile route used by boy scouts and other backpackers to cross the San Gabriel Mountains between Chantry Flat and Vincent Gap, topping out on Mount Baden-Powell).

Make your way up the dirt single track, climbing through Jeffrey pines and firs that exude pleasant mountain aromas. The trail maintains a steady grade, never getting too steep as it chips away about 700 feet per mile. If you like switchbacks, you are in luck, because there are about 30 along the way. At the top of the sixth switchback, and 0.95 miles from the start, you will arrive at a bench that presents an early opportunity to pause and enjoy the view. The bench looks east over Mine Gulch below Vincent Gulch Divide.

Looking east down Mine Gulch

Above the bench, the trail continues to climb with switchbacks alternating between the northern slope of the mountain and a ravine on the eastern face. At 1.8 miles from the start you will arrive at a junction with a spur to Lamel Springs, marked by a large sign. A narrow track heads to the left, extending to a water source in the ravine. Assuming you packed enough water for the trek, simply continue up the main trail to the summit of Mount Baden-Powell. About half a mile above the spring, the trail passes a landing on the side of the mountain that could make a nice backcountry campsite.

The Pacific Crest Trail up Mount Baden-Powell

The switchbacks continue, weaving further around the north side of the mountain. As you climb above 8,000 feet, the lodgepole pines thin and the views expand, allowing you to gaze down the north side of the range toward the Mojave Desert. The switchbacks shorten as you climb a false summit east of the actual peak, taking you to new views northwest over canyons carved by Big Rock Creek.

Looking northwest over the canyons carved by Big Rock Creek

Catch your breath as the trail crosses a narrow ridge just below the actual summit (that is like a short taste of the Devil’s Backbone Trail east of Mount Baldy). Along the ridge, you will reach the Mount Baden-Powell Pacific Crest Trail Junction, 4 miles and 2,625 feet from the start. To the right, the PCT heads downhill to Windy Gap (5.2 miles) and Islip Saddle (7.2 miles). To reach the summit of Mount Baden-Powell, turn left and continue up the ridge to the peak.

Just past the Mount Baden-Powell Pacific Crest Trail junction you will pass the Wally Waldon Tree, a limber pine clinging to the spine of the ridge that is estimated to be 1,500 years old. The tree honors the scout leader most responsible for the creation of the monument for Lord Baden-Powell on the summit, which you will reach after just a couple more switchbacks.

The ridge east of Mount Baden-Powell

From the junction, it is only 1/8 of a mile to the summit of Mount Baden-Powell. The impressive mmemorial has four sides labeled with compass arrows and the guiding principles of scouting, duty to God, country, others, and self. Each side of the monument bares a plaque of significance to Baden-Powell and the Boy Scouts of America. There is a summit register next to the monument, where you are invited to write a message, having completed the climb to the 8,399-foot summit!

The monument at the summit of Mount Baden-Powell

The views from the mountaintop are epic. To the north lies the expansive Mojave Desert. To the west, Hawkins Ridge extends toward Throop Peak. To the south, when not consumed by clouds, you will spot Iron Mountain. The dominating form of Mount Baldy, the tallest mountain in the San Gabriels, rises to the southeast and just north of that round bald summit you’ll see Pine Mountain and Dawson Peak. If you aren’t afraid of heights, look southeast over the deep trench called Mine Gulch and the canyons carved by the upper forks of the San Gabriel River. The views in every direction are mesmerizing.

Looking west toward Throop Peak from the summit of Mount Baden-Powell

The summit is roughly pyramid-shaped with three ridges extending east, west, and south. If there are crowds on Mount Baden-Powell, the south ridge is a great place to get away and enjoy a private view. You can hike a quarter mile down this ridge (dropping 125 feet) before the terrain becomes steep. There are fantastic views southeast over the chasm of Mine Gulch toward Mount Baldy. The path down the south ridge offers bonus exploration for those who want to spend a little extra time on the summit.

Looking down Mine Gulch from the summit of Mount Baden-Powell

Linger as long as you like before hiking back the way you came (it’s all downhill), completing the 8.25-mile round trip hike between Vincent Gulch Divide and the summit of Mount Baden-Powell. Do not hike up the mountain in a lightning storm or when the trail is icy or made dangerous by other questionable weather. Dogs are allowed on the trail, but mountain bikes are prohibited. A National Forest Adventure Pass is required for vehicles parked at the trailhead, but no other permit is required to hike to the summit of Mount Baden-Powell, so get out and enjoy!

To get to the trailhead: From the 210 Freeway in La Cañada Flintridge, head northeast on Angeles Crest Highway (CA 2) for 50.3 miles to Vincent Gulch Divide where there is a large pullout on the south side of the road at the start of the trail. From the 15 Freeway, take exit 131 for Route 138 west. Drive 20 miles and turn left up Angeles Crest Highway (CA 2). Go 14 miles and turn left into the trailhead parking area.

Trailhead address: Angeles Crest Highway, Azusa, CA 91702
Trailhead coordinates: 34.372947, -117.752282

Use the map below to create your own directions:

Photos

 

                                                                                                                 

These photos were taken in December of 2012. Click to enlarge.

 

Nearby Trails

 

	Mount Waterman This 5.5-mile hike methodically ascends 1,300 feet, passing through a pine forest to reach the round summit of Mt. Waterman.
	Cooper Canyon Falls This 3-mile hike leaves from Buckhorn Campground and visits a short waterfall in an enchanting glen of tall pines.
	Winston Ridge and Winston Peak This 4.85-mile partial loop bags a summit and a scenic ridge in the high San Gabriel Mountains.
	Mount Hillyer This 6,215-foot summit can be reach from two trailheads for a 3 to 6.25-mile hike gaining between 575 and 1,000 feet.
	Bridge to Nowhere This adventurous 10-mile round trip hike reaches an abandoned and out-of-place bridge with a unique history.
	Heaton Flats Trail This hike of 3.6 to 6 miles (or more) starts from the same trailhead as the hike to the Bridge to Nowhere and climbs toward Iron Mountain and panoramic views.
	Smith Mountain This 7-mile hike ascends 1,800 feet to a 5,111 foot summit with panoramic views over the San Gabriel Mountains.
	Mount Baldy Loop This 11.3-mile hike incorporates the Devil’s Backbone and the Baldy Bowl – Ski Hit Trail into one see-all loop.
	More trails in the Los Angeles Explore other destinations in the Santa Monica Mountains, San Gabriel Mountains, and elsewhere.

 

More Info

 

Mount Baden-Powell on wikipedia.org

Mount Baden-Powell on summitpost.org

Mount Baden-Powell on Dan’s Hiking Pages

Mount Baden-Powell on hike-socal.com

Mount Baden-Powell on wrightwoodca.com

Mount Baden-Powell on opadventureteam.com

Mount Baden-Powell on abhiking.blogspot.com

Mount Baden-Powell on localhikes.com

Mount Baden-Powell on everytrail.com

Mount Baden-Powell on alltrails.com

The official website of the Angeles National Forest

 

Once you break out of the trees at the trailhead, there are broad canyon views all the way to Fisherman’s Camp in the San Mateo Canyon Wilderness. Fisherman’s Camp Trail descends 1.66 miles down what was once a road to what was once a campground nestled at the mouth of Tenaja Canyon. Grassy plots remain where backpackers can put up a tent in the shady creek-side retreat. Campfires are prohibited, but Fisherman’s Camp is still a serviceable trail camp. Enjoy a quick escape on this 3 1/3-mile round trip hike with 400 feet of elevation change, or head deeper into the wilderness on one of the trails extending beyond the camp.

Fisherman’s Camp Trail

A few hundred feet down Fisherman’s Camp Trail, the roadside oaks are replaced by sage-covered slopes. As you travel west along the south side of Upper San Mateo Canyon, you will be struck with expansive views of the surrounding mountains. The first 2/3 of a mile is easy going, losing and then regaining 50 feet of elevation to reach a saddle on the side of the canyon. Ahead is an even bigger view down San Mateo Canyon, a wide depression made up of finger-like ravines spread out in the shape of a maple leaf. Continue down the trail, for a more intimate look at the canyon. This is what backcountry hiking in the peninsular ranges is supposed to be like — impressively remote, rugged, and natural.

San Mateo Canyon below Fisherman’s Camp

Beyond the saddle, the trail turns downhill and finally begins an earnest descent into the canyon. Follows the winding curvature of the canyon for another mile down to the canyon floor near the confluence of San Mateo Canyon and Tenaja Canyon. The trail ends at a junction with San Mateo Canyon Trail. To the right, this trail heads northeast up the canyon for two miles to meet Cleveland Forest Road near the start of Tenaja Falls Trail, 1.6 miles up the road from Fisherman’s Camp Trailhead.

Turn left and walk a few hundred feet, crossing Tenaja Creek, to arrive at the decommissioned campground in a shady riparian zone of sycamores and oaks. There are two more trails extending out of Fisherman’s Camp. The first is the other end of San Mateo Canyon Trail, which heads southwest deeper into San Mateo Canyon.  Tenaja Trail heads southeast up Tenaja Canyon to the Tenaja Trailhead on Cleveland Forest Road (aka Wildomar Road) 1.7 miles before the Fisherman’s Camp Trailhead. Both trails leaving the camp are well marked.

If you are simply returning the way you came, take a moment to linger at Fisherman’s Camp. There aren’t any picnic tables or benches, just a couple downed logs that are perfect for resting on. If you are camping overnight, obtain a permit in advance from a Cleveland National Forest Ranger Station. The camp sits at an elevation of 1,120 feet and can be quite warm in the summer. A National Forest Adventure Pass is required to day hike in the San Mateo Canyon Wilderness in the Santa Ana Mountains, by no permit is required to hike to Fisherman’s Camp. Dogs and mountain bikes are prohibited, but the trail is a great breakaway for hikers, so get out and enjoy.

Looking back up Fisherman’s Camp Trail

To get to the trailhead: Take the 15 Freeway to exit 68 for Clinton Keith Road located in Murrieta north of Temecula and south of Lake Elsinore. Head west on Clinton Keith Road for 5.2 miles, before staying to the right as the road becomes Tenaja Road. Proceed for 1.7 miles and turn right to remain on Tenaja Road. After another 3/4 of a mile, make another right, sticking with Tenaja Road. Drive 3.5 miles further up Tenaja Road and turn right on Cleveland Forest Road. Follow this narrow paved road for 3.7 miles to a small dirt pullout at the Fisherman’s Camp Trailhead on the left side of the road (2.7 miles past the Tenaja Trailhead).

Trailhead address: Tenaja Truck Trail, Cleveland National Forest, Murrieta, CA 92562
Trailhead coordinates: 33.532281, -117.393036

Use the map below to create your own directions:

Photos

 

                                           

These photos were taken in December of 2012. Click to enlarge.

 

Nearby Trails

 

	Ortega Falls This 1/3-mile round trip hike visits a refreshing waterfall, cascade, and swimming hole off Ortega Highway in the Santa Ana Mountains.
	Little Sycamore Canyon – Serrano Ridge – Camarillo Canyon – Stagecoach South Trails Loop in Laguna Coast Wilderness Park This 5-mile loop used four trails to explore two canyons and and a ridge in Laguna Coast Wilderness Park.
	Redwood Grove in Carbon Canyon Regional Park This level 2.5-mile round trip hike visits a small grove of small coastal redwoods that is the largest grove of these large trees in Southern California.
	More hikes in Southern California Explore more trails in Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, and San Diego counties.

 

More Info

 

Fisherman’s Camp Loop on www.sandiegoreader.com

Tenaja Trail to Fisherman’s Camp on nobodyhikesinla.com

Tenaja Trail to Fisherman’s Camp on Brian and Ashley’s Hiking Blog

The official webpage for Cleveland National Forest

 

How far would you be willing to hike to reach an idyllic swimming hole beneath a 35-foot waterfall – 5 miles, 10 miles? In fact, you will only have to hike a third of a mile round trip to reach Ortega Falls, a refreshing seasonal waterfall just off Ortega Highway in the Santa Ana Mountains.

The hike begins from an unmarked turnout on Ortega Highway in a beautiful part of the Santa Ana Mountains that is protected by the Cleveland National Forest. Ortega Falls is on the west side of Riverside County close to the Orange County border. Take the path behind the “Display Your Adventure Pass” sign and begin hiking down into the ravine below Ortega Falls. The top of the waterfall should be visible from the start.

When a path to the right presents itself, seize the opportunity to avoid dropping all the way down to the creek, which would lead to a more arduous approach to Ortega Falls. Instead, go uphill along the lip of the canyon on a dirt and rock trail headed straight to the base of the falls.

Ortega Falls

Less than quarter mile from the start, you will arrive at a rock amphitheater enclosing the 35-foot Ortega Falls. Unlace your hiking shoes and slip into the shallow sandy pool beneath the falls. On a hot day, there is nothing as refreshing as a shower beneath the waterfall.

Showering beneath Ortega Falls

Below the Ortega Falls there is a cascade of about the same height as the waterfall. At its base you will find a deep pool that is inviting for swimmers. Ortega Falls is a refreshing swimming hole in the spring but typically runs dry in summer and fall. When the seasonal waterfall disappears, the remaining dry falls is enjoyed by rock climbers.

It is about a third of a mile round trip to Ortega Falls with 50 feet of elevation change. A National Forest Adventure Pass is required to park at the trailhead, but no permit is required to hike to Ortega Falls. Dogs are welcome, so get out and enjoy!

The pool and cascade below Ortega Falls

To get to the trailhead: Take Route 74 (Ortega Highway) to an unmarked pullout on north side of the road, 1.5 miles north of Ortega Oaks Candy Store and two miles south of El Coriso Visitor Center. It is eight miles to the trailhead from Lake Elsinore to the east and 21 miles from San Juan Capistrano to the west.

Trailhead address: Ortega Highway, Cleveland National Forest, Lake Elsinore, CA 92530
Trailhead coordinates: 33.625765, -117.426339

Use the map below to create your own directions:

Photos

 

                         

These photos were taken in June of 2011. Click to enlarge.

 

Nearby Trails

 

	Fisherman’s Camp This 3 1/3-mile round trip hike follows an old road to an old campground with views over San Mateo Canyon in the Santa Ana Mountains.
	Little Sycamore Canyon – Serrano Ridge – Camarillo Canyon – Stagecoach South Trails Loop in Laguna Coast Wilderness Park This 5-mile loop used four trails to explore two canyons and and a ridge in Laguna Coast Wilderness Park.
	Redwood Grove in Carbon Canyon Regional Park This level 2.5-mile round trip hike visits a small grove of small coastal redwoods that is the largest grove of these large trees in Southern California.
	More hikes in Southern California Explore more trails in Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, and San Diego counties.

 

Similar Trails

 

	San Antonio Falls This 1.4-mile hike visits a multi-tier waterfall along the trail to Mount Baldy.
	Eaton Falls This 3-mile hike visits a 40-footer.
	Trail Canyon Falls This 4-mile hike visits a 40-foot beauty on the east side of the San Gabriel Mountains.
	Escondido Falls This 3.8-mile out and back hike visits a 200 foot waterfall that is split into two tiers. The upper tier is 150 feet tall and stunning after a rainstorm.
	Rose Valley Falls in the Los Padres National Forest This 1-mile round trip trail leads to the lower tier of this two-tier 300 foot waterfall. From there one can scramble off trail to the much taller upper tier.
	Tangerine Falls in Los Padres National Forest This 2.5-mile hike visits a beautiful waterfall on the edge of Santa Barbara.
	More waterfalls around Los Angeles Explore other waterfalls in the Santa Monica and San Gabriel Mountains.

 

More Info

 

Ortega Falls on greeneadventures.com

Ortega Falls on world-of-waterfalls.com

Ortega Falls on nobodyhikesinla.com

Ortega Falls on Brian and Ashley’s hiking blog

Ortega Oaks Candy Store on Ortega Highway

The official website for Cleveland National Forest

 

How is it possible? How is it possible that a perfectly heart-shaped hole could form in the rock wall flanking Seeley Creek Falls? This amazing formation does exist and can be reached via a short, relatively easy one-mile round trip hike in the San Bernardino Mountains near the town of Crestline.

The dirt trail to Heart Rock descends 200 feet, following Seeley Creek on a gradual northward descent through a mountain forest of black oaks and Jeffrey pines. At 0.3 miles from the trailhead, the trail drops close to the creek at a junction with a path breaking off to the right down to babbling water shaded by tall alders. Stay to the left to continue toward Heart Rock. There are blue hearts and arrows painted onto rocks along the trail to keep you on course.

Heart Rock Trail along Seeley Creek

The trail passes a hallow tree above Heart Rock Overlook

After half a mile of hiking along the sylvan stream, the trail climbs to a landing where a large dead pine will attract your attention. Heart Rock Overlook is near! If you find yourself going down a steep narrow path, you missed the trail to the overlook. Beyond the landing, the steep path drops to the creek where you can find a natural water slide (when the water is flowing) just below Seeley Creek Falls. Venture upstream to the base of the 20-foot waterfall for a non-optimal perspective of Heart Rock.

Standing at Heart Rock Overlook

The best view of Heart Rock comes from the overlook. When you reach the landing by the big hallow tree trunk, stay to the right, following the painted signs down to an outcropping above the waterfall. Be cautious as you peer over the ledge’s edge at the perfectly carved and completely natural heart-shaped hole in the granite wall alongside the waterfall. The heart is a few feet wide, a couple feet deep, and surprisingly symmetrical.

Heart Rock

Spring and summer are a popular time to visit Heart Rock when Seeley Creek flows and the waterfall gushes. The trail remains enjoyable even when the creek dries out in late fall as autumn colors appear, brightening the black oaks along the trail. This short trail is good for children who can spend hours playing in the creek (but watch them closely on the overlook above Seeley Creek Falls). No permit is required to hike to Heart Rock, but you will need a National Forest Adventure Pass to park at the trailhead. Dogs are welcome, so get out and enjoy!

To get to the trailhead: From the 210 Freeway in San Bernardino, take exit 76 for Waterman Avenue (Highway 18). Drive north on Waterman Avenue, which leaves the city after 2 miles and becomes Rim of the World Highway. At 11.3 miles from the 210 Freeway, take the exit ramp onto Route 138 West. Drive 2.6 miles through Crestline and the Valley of Enchantment to the entrance of Camp Seeley. Turn left on Forest Service Road 2N03, pass the camp and follow the dirt road across Seeley Creek and over a rise to the trailhead, 0.4 miles from Route 138 where the dirt road becomes gated. The trail to Heart Rock begins next to a marker labeled 4W07.

Trailhead address: Route 138, San Bernardino National Forest, Crestline, CA 92325
Trailhead coordinates: 34.257001, -117.305862

Use the map below to create your own directions:

Photos

 

                                                 

These photos were taken in November of 2012. Click to enlarge.

 

Nearby Trails

 

	Marshall Peak This 3.25-mile round trip hike reaches a panoramic summit above the foothills of the San Bernardino Mountains.
	Towne Trail This 2 2/3-mile round trip hike takes a gradual course across the mountains on the south side of Big Bear Lake.
	More hikes in Southern California Explore more trails in Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, and San Diego counties.

 

More Info

 

Heart Rock in San Bernardino Mountain Trails by John W. Robinson

An LA Times article on Heart Rock

Heart Rock on nobodyhikesinla.com

Heart Rock on californiathroughmylens.com

Heart Rock on everytrail.com

Heart Rock on world-of-waterfalls.com

The official national forest webpage for Heart Rock

The official website of the San Bernardino National Forest

 

The San Bernardino Mountains are a rugged east-west running mountain range in San Bernardino County east of the San Gabriel Mountains. While the range tops out at the 11,500-foot summit of San Gorgonio Mountain, you can find great panoramic view from a 4,000-foot peak that is much easier to reach. Marshall Peak rises above the foothills of the mighty San Bernardino Mountains and is just a short trip from cities in the San Bernardino Valley. It is a 3.25-mile round trip hike (with 375 feet of elevation gain) to the summit, which serves as a popular paragliding launch site.

Starting from a pullout along Rim of the World Highway between the City of San Bernardino and the mountain town of Crestline, the hike follows a dirt service road south toward Marshall Peak. If the white gate at the bottom of the Forest Road 2N40 is open, as it typically is, high clearance vehicles may drive all the way to the summit. This is certainly useful to paragliders, but means that hikers should stay on the lookout for vehicles.

Hike south up the narrow dirt road, which follows a chaparral-covered ridge toward the summit, presenting periodic eastward views across Waterman Canyon toward loftier summits in the San Bernardino Mountains like Strawberry Peak and Keller Peak. The winding trail climbs about 125 feet before dropping to a saddle just over half a mile from the start. Here you can enjoy a new view across the rippling foothills at the southwest end of the San Bernardino Mountains, followed by the rising summits of the San Gabriel Mountains to the west.

Looking west from the saddle along the road to Marshall Peak

Fiery California buckwheat and a view down Waterman Canyon

Passing the saddle, the road continues its uphill trajectory on the east side of the ridge. Far below the road there is a small community tucked into Waterman Canyon along Rim of the World Highway. The summit of Marshall Peak comes into view about 1.25 miles from the start, and at 1.4 miles you will reach an intersection with another dirt service road, Cloudland Truck Trail. Make a right on Cloudland Truck Trail, followed by an immediate left to continue up Fire Road 2N40 toward the summit of Marshall Peak.

The road crosses a junction below the summit of Marshall Peak

Less than a tenth of a mile past the junction, you will cross an overgrown firebreak that ascends to the right toward the top of the mountain. The firebreak can be used as an alternative route to the summit, which the road reaches after another tenth of a mile. The road wraps up the south side of the mountain to deliver sweeping views over the valley below.

Looking down the fire break on the north side of Marshall Peak

From Marshall Peak, there are unimpeded views south across the vast San Bernardino Valley. The high summits of the San Bernardino Mountains rise to the east and the tops of the San Gabriel Mountains are visible to the west beyond the outstretched foothills of the San Bernardinos. The bare wind-swept summit is a well utilized launch point for paragliders who take advantage of the desert mountain thermals. The Marshall Peak Launch is operated by the U.S. Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association and the Crestline Soaring Society. On weekends you will likely see foot-launched gliders taking off and hovering above the 4,003-foot summit.

Higher summits east of Marshall Peak

Descend via the firebreak or the dirt road and hike back the way your came, remembering to be aware of vehicle traffic on the narrow road. A steeper alternative route to Marshall Peak is to hike up Cloudland Truck Trail from Rim of the World Highway. The fire road meets the highway five miles below the main trailhead, and it is three miles up Cloudland Truck Trail to the junction near the summit. A National Forest Adventure Pass is required to park your vehicle in the San Bernardino National Forest, but no permit is required to hike to Marshall Peak. Dogs and mountain bikers are welcome, so get out and enjoy!

To get to the trailhead: From the 210 Freeway in San Bernardino, take exit 76 for Waterman Avenue (Highway 18). Drive north on Waterman Avenue, which leaves the city after 2 miles and becomes Rim of the World Highway. At 8.8 miles from the 210 Freeway, near mile marker 14.8, pull off the road and park in a large dirt pullout on the south side of the road. Display an Adventure Pass in your vehicle, and begin hiking south through the white gate up Forest Road 2N40.

Trailhead address: Rim of the World Highway (Highway 18), San Bernardino National Forest, San Bernardino, CA 92404
Trailhead coordinates: 34.22432, -117.299559

Use the map below to create your own directions:

Photos

 

                                                                     

These photos were taken in November of 2012. Click to enlarge.

 

Nearby Trails

 

	Heart Rock This 1 to 1.4-mile round trip hike follows a mountain stream to an overlook of an amazing heart-shaped formation in the rock wall along Seeley Creek Falls.
	Towne Trail This 2 2/3-mile round trip hike takes a gradual course across the mountains on the south side of Big Bear Lake.
	More hikes in Southern California Explore more trails in Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, and San Diego counties.

 

More Info

 

Marshall Peak on trimbleoutdoors.com

Marshall Peak via Cloudland Truck Trail on nobodyhikesinla.com

Marshall Peak on myown100hikes.blogspot.com

Marshall Peak on everytrail.com

The Crestline Soaring Society webpage for Marshall Peak

The official website of the San Bernardino National Forest

 

Half a mile from the start of the crowded trail to the Bridge to Nowhere, you’ll find a junction with Heaton Flats Trail, which rises above the canyon carved by the East Fork of the San Gabriel River to offer big views and plenty of solitude. Enjoy panoramic perspectives of some of the most notable peaks in the San Gabriel Mountains (including Mount Baldy, Mount Baden-Powell, and Iron Mountain) along the trail to a 4,000-foot high clearing on the ridge. The trail becomes faint beyond this point, so to avoid doing any bushwhacking, turn around for a 6-miles round trip trek with 2,000 feet of elevation gain. Those with less time and energy may shorten the hike by venturing up the canyon wall only as far as the first saddle on the ridge for a 3.6-mile round trip hike with 1,000 feet of elevation gain. On the other hand, those with endless amounts of time and energy can continue up the ridge to the summit of Iron Mountain for a 15-mile leg-busting adventure with 6,000 feet of elevation gain.

Start as though you were hiking to the Bridge to Nowhere, leaving the large (and usually full) trailhead parking area at the end of Camp Bonita Road. Head north on the wide dirt service road 2N21, which parallels the East Fork of the San Gabriel River. After half a mile of level and slightly downhill hiking, the trail arrives at Heaton Flats Campground. The trail camp is home to the hike’s only marked junction. Turn right up Heaton Flats Trail, leaving East Fork Trail to begin climbing up the ridge.

Heaton Flats Trail Camp

Heaton Flats Trail weaves up the east side of the canyon, passing through chaparral and some of the hike’s only shade. After half a mile of switchbacks, the trail crosses a draw in the canyon wall and continues to climb. Views down the river expand as you reach a saddle on the top of the ridge, 1.3 miles and 1,000 feet above the campground.

Turn left when you reach the saddle, avoiding the use trail that heads to the right up a 500-foot rise on the ridge. After a sixth of a mile, you will pass a sign at the boundary of the Sheep Mountain Wilderness (a free wilderness permit is required to proceed). The trail wraps around the east side of the ridge, heading north to quickly deliver the first views of Mount Baldy. The often snow-covered summit is the highest point in the San Gabriel Mountains. Coldwater Canyon and Cattle Canyon are below the ridge to the east. For those who decide to turn around at the saddle for the shorter hike, it is definitely worth carrying on for another quarter mile up the trail for the impressive view of Mount Baldy.

Mount Baldy

A switchback in Heaton Flats Trail lifts you to views facing southwest down the drainage of the East Fork of the San Gabriel River. The trail sticks to the east side of the ridge, leading to a level area where you can look down the west side of the ridge. On the other side of the canyon, you’ll spot Shoemaker Canyon Road, an ill-plotted dead-end road that passes through a tunnel in the mountain on the opposite side of the East Fork of the San Gabriel River.

A steep path pushes up the ridge’s spine, while the trail continues along the east side of the ridge, employing a switchback for a more gradual climb. The trail wraps around the west side of the ridge and ascends to a small clearing, 3 miles from the start, and 1.2 miles from the first saddle on the ridge. Located at just over 4,000 feet above sea level, the gap in the brush at this crest on the ridge has room for just a couple backpackers’ tents. For the first time of the hike, you’ll get an expansive in-you-face view of Iron Mountain, looming to the north across Laurel Gulch, which drops to the East Fork of the San Gabriel River (across from Swan Rock). The faint line of Allison Trail can be seen tracing the skirt of the mountain on the opposite slide of the gulch, leading to another canyon housing Allison Mine, an old gold claim. Looking further up the canyon carved by the East Fork of the San Gabriel River, you’ll have a good perspective of Mount Baden-Powell.

Iron Mountain and Mount Baldy from the clearing at the top of the ridge

Beyond this rise on the ridge, the trail turns downhill for the first time and becomes faint and overgrown as it travels over rolling bumps in the ridgeline, eventually climbing to Heaton Saddle, an obvious notch 1.3 miles further up the ridge. Heaton Saddle is marked by exposed bleached rocks and is the last point along the ridge before the grueling assault on Iron Mountain, considered by writer John Robinson to be the toughest summit hike in the San Gabriel Mountains.

Rather than going through the undulations of the overgrown ridge trail, you may turn around when you reach the ridge crest. After gaining 2,000 feet over the last 2.5 miles, your legs will probably be ready to turn around, so take one last look at Mount Baden-Powell, Iron Mountain, and Mount Baldy before heading back the way you came.

Looking up the canyon carved by the East Fork of the San Gabriel River toward Mount Baden-Powell

A wilderness permit is required to access Sheep Mountain Wilderness. You may self-register for a permit at the kiosk at the south end of the trailhead, or obtain one at the East Fork Ranger Station located on the road to the trailhead (or at other ranger stations in the Angeles National Forest). This trail begins within the national forest so an adventure pass (day use pass) is required, and can also be purchased at the ranger station. Dogs are welcome.

To get to the trailhead: From the 210 Freeway in Azusa, take exit 40 north on Route 39. Drive 11.6 miles north, passing the East Fork Ranger Station at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains. Pass San Gabriel Reservoir and turn right on East Fork Road. After 5.2 miles, when the road makes a sharp bend to the right, continue straight ahead on Camp Bonita Prairie Forks Road, sticking with the river for an additional 3/4 of a mile to the trailhead parking area.

Trailhead address: Camp Bonita Road, Angeles National Forest, Azusa, CA 91702
Trailhead coordinates: 34.23696, -117.765119

Use the map below to create your own directions:

Photos

 

                                                                     

These photos were taken in August of 2012. Click to enlarge.

 

Nearby Trails

 

	Bridge to Nowhere This adventurous 10-mile round trip hike reaches an abandoned and out-of-place bridge with a unique history.
	Smith Mountain This 7-mile hike ascends 1,800 feet to a 5,111 foot summit with panoramic views over the San Gabriel Mountains.
	Mount Baden-Powell This 8.25-mile round trip hike ascends 2,834 feet to one of the tallest summits in the San Gabriel Mountains and a monument to Lord Baden-Powell, a BSA icon and the founder of the Scout Movement.
	Azusa Peak (and Glendora Peak) via Garcia Trail This 2 2/3-mile or 4 2/3-mile hike ascends Garcia Trail to “the A” and one or two picturesque summits along Glendora Ridge Motorway.
	Mount Baldy Loop This 11.3-mile hike incorporates the Devil’s Backbone and the Baldy Bowl – Ski Hit Trail into one see-all loop.
	More trails in the Los Angeles Explore other destinations in the Santa Monica Mountains, San Gabriel Mountains, and elsewhere.

 

Camping

 

Coldbrook Campground This 20-site campground in the Angeles National Forest in the San Gabriel Mountains offers first-come first-serve camping year-round.

 

More Info

 

Heaton Flats Trail on Dan’s Hiking Pages

Heaton Flats Trail and South Ridge on summitpost.org

Heaton Flats Trail on myown100hikes.blogspot.com

Heaton Flats Trail on myown100hikes.blogspot.com (again)

Iron Mountain via Heaton Flats Trail on everytrail.com

The official website of the Sheep Mountain Wilderness

The official website of the Angeles National Forest

 

Winston Ridge and Winston Peak are name-sharing neighbors in the high San Gabriel Mountains near the Mount Waterman Ski Area. While Winston Peak is the high point of the hike at 7,502 feet, the summit is covered with pines that leave little room for panoramic views. The best vistas come from the shorter 7,003-foot Winston Ridge, which has fewer pines and broader views. To bag the Double Winston, you’ll tackle some tough terrain, including a half-mile long 775-foot ascent. The 4.85-mile round trip hike to Winston Ridge and Winston Peak combines a dirt service road, the Pacific Crest Trail, and a few backcountry use trails to form a partial loop. The trek is a bit of an adventure, with 875 feet of elevation between the high and low points of the hike. The journey is strenuous in places, and you’ll go up and down enough to feel like the hike has over a thousand feet of elevation gain.

From a small paved pullout along part of the Angeles Crest Highway (CA 2) called Cloudburst Summit (itself at 7,018 feet), hikers are given two options. There is a dirt single track, Winston Peak Trail, which heads straight to the summit, reaching Winston Peak after 2/3 of a mile. This is the return route for hikers who are first setting out for Winston Ridge. To the right of the trail is National Forest service Road 3N02, which also heads north from the trailhead, easing downhill around the east side of Winston Peak toward Winston Ridge, further to the north. Start hiking down this dirt road, enjoying views through the pines toward Cooper Canyon to the east.

The dirt road at the start of the hike

After 0.8 miles of gradual descent, you will come to a junction with the Pacific Crest Trail at the lowest point of the hike. Turn left on the single track, heading uphill toward a saddle on the north side of Winston Peak. When you reach the saddle, after 0.6 miles on the Pacific Crest Trail, you might notice a faint path on your left heading up Winston Peak. You will use this dauntingly steep route later…

Between Winston Peak and Winston Ridge, there are two saddles separated by a small peak that tops out at 6,903 feet. How you get around it appears to be a matter of choice. There are three worn routes to the second saddle below Winston Ridge:

• The recommended option is to head around the left side of the mini-summit on the ridge
• The more punishing option is to hike up and over the nasty little peak, gaining 175 feet of elevation
• The third option is to go around the right side, lingering a little longer on the Pacific Crest Trail

Unfortunately, if you take the third option, it is tough to spot the path connects the PCT with the northern saddle. You could easily walk right past it and end up descending into Cooper Canyon. It is preferable to save this side for the way back, when it is easier to follow the trails.

The footpath along the left (west) side of the ridge crosses some loose gravel, so be attentive on the steep slope. There are views west toward Squaw Canyon as you approach the saddle below Winston Ridge, 0.33 miles after the saddle below Winston Peak.

The faint path to Winston Ridge

From the second saddle, Winston Ridge runs roughly east to west and the saddle is near the east end of the ridge. Things become momentarily steep as you follow a use trail up the side of Winston Ridge, reaching a dip in the ridgeline after 0.15 miles. Head west, climbing just over 200 feet in the next half-mile to the unpronounced highpoint of the ridge. There are boulders dotting the ridge, and well-spaced Jeffrey pines that allow plenty of sightseeing. You’ll have numerous chances to look northeast across a canyon toward Pleasant View Ridge, which is topped by Pallett Mountain and Will Thrall Peak.

For the best views of the hike, continue west a little further along the ridge. When the ridge turns downhill and becomes topped with jagged rocks framed by steep narrow slopes, it’s a smart time to turn around. Before you do, you’ll find mesmerizing panoramas looking north down canyons carved by Little Rock Creek that lead all the way out to the Mojave Desert at the base of the mountains. It is a dramatic presentation of the transition from mountains to desert.

The west end of Winston Ridge

After enjoying the views from Winston Ridge, the next task is to hike back to the first saddle on the north side of Winston Peak. Descend off Winston Ridge and shimmy over or around the spike between the saddles to retrace the last mile of the hike.

The saddle beneath Winston Peak

If you’re tired, the easiest option is to hike back down the Pacific Crest Trail and up the service road for a 5-mile round trip hike. Otherwise, you’ll gain 775 feet in the next 0.55 miles while ascending the north face of Winston Peak, followed by a 2/3 of a mile descent to close the loop back at the trailhead.

From the saddle, the path heads straight up the north side of Winston Peak, and “straight up” is not much of an exaggeration because the mountainside is quite steep. When you stop to catch your breath, you’ll find occasional views north toward Winston Ridge and the surrounding San Gabriel Mountains.

The steep north face of Winston Peak

Boulders and pines cover the mountainside so you should at least have shade for the tough ascent. You’ll cross what looks like an old dirt road on the way up, but stick to the path to reach the top. Bagging the summit of Winston Peak delivers bragging rights, but it’s not much of a vantage point. From the rock pile at the top, the surrounding trees block out any climactic views of the surrounding mountains.

Having gotten your exercise for the day, enjoy a nice cool down, descending 500 feet over the last 2/3 of a mile on Winston Peak Trail. The lofty Mount Waterman will appear through the trees to the south as you descend, finishing the hike a few feet from where it began.

Surrounding pines obscure the view from the summit of Winston Peak

Mountain bikes are not allowed on this hike, but dogs are. Winston Peak and Winston Ridge were named after a Pasadena man who froze to death in a blizzard while hunting on Winston Ridge in 1900. It is common for snow to cover these mountains in the winter months, so be prepared. A National Forest Adventure Pass is required to park at the trailhead, but no permit is required to hike Winston Ridge or Winston Peak, so get out and enjoy!

To get to the trailhead: From the 210 Freeway in La Cañada Flintridge, head northeast on Angeles Crest Highway (CA 2) for 32.7 miles. The pullout will be on the left. Look for the yellow gate at the top of National Forest Service Road 3N02. If you pass the Mount Waterman Ski Area, you drove a third of a mile too far.

Trailhead address: Angeles Crest Highway, Angeles National Forest, Pearblossom, CA 93553
Trailhead coordinates: 34.35132, -117.934352

Use the map below to create your own directions:

Photos

 

                                                                                       

These photos were taken in June of 2012. Click to enlarge.

 

Nearby Trails

 

	Mount Waterman This 5.5-mile hike methodically ascends 1,300 feet, passing through a pine forest to reach a round summit with big views.
	Cooper Canyon Falls This 3-mile hike leaves from Buckhorn Campground and visits a short waterfall in an enchanting glen of tall pines.
	Mount Hillyer This 6,215-foot summit can be reach from two trailheads for a 3 to 6.25-mile hike gaining between 575 and 1,000 feet.
	Mount Baden-Powell This 8.25-mile round trip hike ascends 2,834 feet to one of the tallest summits in the San Gabriel Mountains and a monument to Lord Baden-Powell, a BSA icon and the founder of the Scout Movement.
	More trails in the San Gabriel Mountains Explore other destinations in the range.

 

Nearby Camping

 

	Buckhorn Campground Buckhorn Campground is an hour drive up the Angeles Crest Highway from LA and a great weekend spot for summer tent camping.
	Horse Flats Campground This 25-site campground in the Angeles National Forest in the San Gabriel Mountains offers first-come first-serve equestrian-friendly sites.
	Coulter Group Campground This single-site campground accommodates up to 50 people per night, offering fresh mountain air and sweeping views at 5,300 feet.

 

More Info

 

Winston Peak on summitpost.org

Winston Ridge on summitpost.org

Winston Ridge, Winston Peak, Mount Akawie, and Cooper Canyon Falls on socalhikes.com

Winston Ridge on Bob Burd’s Trip Reports

Winston Ridge on peakbagger.com

Winston Ridge and Winston Peak on everytrail.com

Winston Ridge and Winston Peak on walkingboots.wordpress.com

Winston Ridge on sierraclub.org

Winston Peak on sierraclub.org

The official website of the Angeles National Forest

 

Rising to just over 6,200 feet, Mount Hillyer is actually one of the easier summits to reach in the high country of the San Gabriel Mountains. Beyond its boulder piles and pine forests, the stretched-out summit offers several sweeping views of nearby peaks and canyons. The shortest route to the summit involves hiking 1.33 miles up Mount Hillyer Trail from Horse Flats Campground, gaining 575 feet. A firebreak clears the ridge that runs along the top of Mount Hillyer, and you will want to hike a mile around the summit to pursue all the views. For a longer hike, you may start from a nearby trailhead located between the Chilao Visitor Center and Chilao Campground, and hike an additional 1.25 miles up Silver Moccasin Trail to reach Horse Flats Campground. There is 1,000 feet of elevation gain on this longer venture, spread out over a 6.25-mile round trip hike.

Starting on Silver Moccasin Trail, you will hike north up the dirt single track, gaining 400 feet in the first 0.9 miles as you enjoy westward views over Chilao Campground toward Big Tujunga Canyon. The trail levels out and finds the shade of Jeffrey pines before coming to a marked junction with Mount Hillyer Trail. Turn left here. After a tenth of a mile, the trail passes Horse Flats Campground, where you may meet hikers setting out from the closer starting point.

Looking down over the area surrounding Chilao Campground from Silver Moccasin Trail

From Horse Flats Campground, Mount Hillyer Trail continues through an aromatic forest of thigh-high sage and lofty pines that reach up toward the piercing blue sky. Hop across a small seasonal creek and begin the westward climb to the summit.

The trail rarely gets uncomfortably steep as it ascends over and around granite boulders, and weaves through thick tree trunks. Two-thirds of a mile from Horse Flats Campground, Mount Hillyer Trail passes a clearing on the right that would make a nice spot for backpackers to set up camp. There are interesting boulder formations nearby too. Around this point, the trail becomes a bit tricky to follow in a few places. Stay vigilant and continue up the mountain. To reward the effort you’ll have refreshing views east over pine treetops toward Mount Waterman and Twin Peaks.

Looking down Mount Hillyer Trail toward Mount Waterman and Twin Peaks

The trail breaks out of the forest onto a firebreak, and before you realize it, you’ve reached the 6,215-foot summit. It is hard to tell when you’ve arrived because the highpoint does not distinguish itself by rising far above the rest of the mountain. Instead, there is a long ridge running across Mount Hillyer that crowns at the unpronounced summit. Mount Hillyer Trail angles north across a shallow saddle to another rise on the ridge, a quarter mile up the firebreak. This northern rise is only a few feet shorter then the actual summit. Ahead, the trail drops off the mountain, eventually reaching Santa Clara Divide Road. If you continued descending this way, you could turn right on the road to loop back to Horse Flats Campground. This is an optional return route that can be used by those who prefer to hike along a paved road rather than go out-and-back along the same trail. Before leaving Mount Hillyer, be sure to see what else the summit has to offer.

There is a rock pile in the dip on the ridge between the two bumps topping Mount Hillyer. This is a natural spot to take a break and rest your legs. On the backside of the boulders, you’ll find a great view looking west toward canyons carved by Alder Creek and north toward Mount Pacifico. Because Mount Hillyer has a round top, the tall dense pines make it is hard to get clear panoramic views elsewhere on the summit.

Looking southwest down the firebreak on Mount Hillyer

The best views from Mount Hillyer by far come from the vantage point at the southwest end of the firebreak. Follow the use trail heading down the firebreak, which breaks off from Mount Hillyer Trail near the summit. To the east, you’ll have clear views toward Mount Waterman and Twin Peaks. The south face of the mountain is covered with short brush instead of pines, to allow unobstructed views. To the south, you can look out over Mount Mooney, Vetter Mountain and several lower summits in the San Gabriel Mountains. To the west, you get a panoramic look at the expansive drainage carved by Alder Creek that feeds into Big Tujunga Canyon. The path ends at Mount Hillyer’s premier viewpoint. Only a very faint path continues down off the mountain, so this is a good place to head back. As a bonus, if you have a look around before you turn around, you’ll find a hidden geocache.

Looking west from the end of the firebreak over the canyons carve by Alder Creek

Prepare to regain about fifty feet as you hike a quarter mile back to the junction with Mount Hillyer Trail. Turn right at the summit and hike 1 1/3 miles back down to Horse Flats Campground, or 2.6 miles back to the trailhead between Chilao Campground and the Chilao Visitor Center. No permit is required to hike Mount Hillyer Trail. A day use pass (adventure pass) is required to park a vehicle at either trailhead. If you pay to camp at Horse Flats Campground (or Chilao Campground) and leave your vehicle at your site, an adventure pass is not needed to hike Mount Hillyer Trail.

Mount Hillyer Trail is a worthwhile venture. While the summit might not appear to offer great views at first, by exploring the mountaintop you can discover fantastic sights of the surrounding San Gabriel Mountains. Dogs and mountain bikes are welcome (though bikers will likely have trouble over rocky parts of the trail between Horse Flats Campground and the summit), so get out and enjoy!

To get to Horse Flats Campground: From the 210 Freeway in La Cañada Flintridge, head northeast on Angeles Crest Highway (CA 2) for 28.4 miles to Santa Clara Divide Road (Forest Road 3N17), which is two miles past Newcomb Ranch. Turn left on Santa Clara Divide Road and drive 2.3 miles west over a winding road, until you turn left again on a final narrow paved road into the campground.

Campground address: Forest Service Road 3N17, Angeles National Forest, Pearblossom, CA 93553
Campground coordinates: 34.345048, -118.010675

To get to the Silver Moccasin Trailhead: From the 210 Freeway in La Canada, head northeast on Angeles Crest Highway (CA 2) for 26.2. A mile after the turnoff for Chilao Campground, and a quarter mile before Newcomb Ranch, turn left toward the closed Chilao Visitor Center. Drive 0.7 miles, passing the visitor center and a picnic area, to reach a small parking area for the trailhead for Silver Moccasin Trail on the right side of the road.

Use the map below to create your own directions:

Photos

 

Silver Moccasin Trail
       
Mount Hillyer Trail
                                           

These photos were taken in June of 2012. Click to enlarge.

 

Nearby Trails

 

	Winston Ridge and Winston Peak This 4.85-mile partial loop bags a summit and a scenic ridge in the high San Gabriel Mountains.
	Mount Waterman This 5.5-mile hike methodically ascends 1,300 feet, passing through a pine forest to reach a round summit with big views.
	Cooper Canyon Falls This 3-mile hike leaves from Buckhorn Campground and visits a short waterfall in an enchanting glen of tall pines.
	Mount Baden-Powell This 8.25-mile round trip hike ascends 2,834 feet to one of the tallest summits in the San Gabriel Mountains and a monument to Lord Baden-Powell, a BSA icon and the founder of the Scout Movement.
	More trails in the San Gabriel Mountains Explore other destinations in the range.

 

Nearby Camping

 

	Horse Flats Campground This 25-site campground in the Angeles National Forest in the San Gabriel Mountains offers first-come first-serve equestrian-friendly sites.
	Coulter Group Campground This single-site campground accommodates up to 50 people per night, offering fresh mountain air and sweeping views at 5,300 feet.
	Buckhorn Campground Buckhorn Campground is an hour drive up the Angeles Crest Highway from LA and a great weekend spot for summer tent camping.

 

More Info

 

Mount Hillyer Trail in Trails of the Angeles by John Robinson

Mount Hillyer Trail on sandiegoreader.com

Mount Hillyer Trail on summitpost.org

Mount Hillyer Trail on nobodyhikesinla.com

Mount Hillyer Trail on everytrail.com

Mount Hillyer Trail on (single)geekhiker.wordpress.com

Mount Hillyer Trail on Dan’s Hiking Pages

Mount Hillyer Trail on localhikes.com

The official website of the Angeles National Forest