Sunset Ridge trail to Mt. Lowe camp hike

Hike Basic Details

• 12 miles round trip.

• 6-7 hours

• 2600 feet elevation gain (one way 7.5 miles)

THIS IS NOT A BEGINNERS HIKE!! This is a strenuous hike that should only be undertaken by REGULAR HIKERS. This is a "balloon" loop. The sunset ridge trail is the "string". Then we'll take the Echo mountain railroad trail to the Mt. Lowe camp and Inspiration point. From there we will take the Sam Merrill Trail to the Echo mountain tavern and hotel site, which many hikers are familiar with, then the Mt. Lowe railway trail back to Sunset Ridge.

Keep in mind, that there are microclimates, the peaks are windy, the north facing sides are shady and cool (good in the summer, but keep in mind it might be cold this time of year). Please bring the usual suspects: Your hiking shoes, basic first aid supplies, flashlight/headlamp (just in case) , two-three liters of water, lunch (we'll eat at Inspiration Point), sunscreen, hiking poles if you use them . . . you know the drilll.

For parking: From Loma Alta Rd (if you've done the basic Echo Mountain hike from Cobb estate), you turn uphilll on Chaney Trail road. (its just called Chaney trail, but is an actual road). Take this to a fork one way (the left goes to the Millard Canyon campground, the right is gated. Find a place to park. You WILL need an adventure pass as it is Angeles National Forest parking. See picture below:

http://hikingangelesforest.files.wordpress.com/2012/04/p11105931.jpg

Once again, this is NOT, I repeat NOT a beginner hike, but one for experienced hikers. Many of my hikes are beginner hikes, which I will post for next month. Some photos.

http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/5/c/8/c/600_294623692.jpeg

DISCLAIMER: The hike leaders in this group aren't professional hike leaders. You are responsible for yourself. By signing up for these events, you agree not to hold the Meetup organizers of LA Hiking Group responsible for whatever happens to you on these events. LA Hiking Group does not certify the expertise of the organizers, the event, or assistant organizers (hike leaders), and LA Hiking Group is NOT responsible for any possible losses or injuries.