Mount Wilson Via Sierra Madre, CA. Perfect mountain for breathtaking views.
Details
Overview
Mount Wilson Trail is a 13.6 mile out-and-back trail located near Sierra Madre that offers scenic views.
The trail is challenging, and the first part can be very hot during the summer that is why I have planned it for the Fall. This trail is not recommended for beginners it is consired a hard hike.
Need to Know
There is plenty of free street parking, and a water fountain at the trailhead. Please respect local residents and keep noise to a minimum. There is a narrow, rocky section of trail at 4.3 miles otherwise the trail is in fine shape. Bugs can be annoying during warm weather and a face net might be useful.
Description
Look for free street parking in front of Lizzie's Trail Inn and The Richardson House. Mt. Wilson Trail #11W22 starts about 50 yards north of Mira Monte Ave.
The first mile off the trail is on a sandy single track with little shade. It passes a fork to First Water (stay left) and contours around the side of the mountain, and in 2 miles enters an oak and bay shaded section of trail. At 3.5 miles are the remains of Orchard Camp next to a seasonal stream. This shady spot is a good place to take a rest.
The trail then climbs a series of switchbacks through forest then open chaparral finally reaching Manzanita Ridge at 4.8 miles. There is a nice bench with a good view and a junction with the Winter Creek Trail #11W20 on the right. Stay left and continue up the trail to a junction with the Mt. Wilson Toll Road #2N45 at 5.5 miles. Turn right and continue up the road for half a mile enjoying the fine views of the high mountains to the east. At the Mt. Harvard Saddle, turn right onto the Mt. Wilson Summit Spur Trail which leads to the a parking lot. Cross the lot and go up the trail to the pavilion where there are picnic tables and restrooms.
Return down the same way you came. This is when the fun begins!
Flora & Fauna
Oaks and bigcone spruce provide shade on the slopes. Maple, alder and bay trees shade canyon areas. Chaparral species of manzanita, ceanothus, scrub oak, laurel sumac are common. Some rare madrone trees around 2.3 miles. Poison oak is abundant.
History & Background
One of the most visible mountains in Los Angeles. The Mt. Wilson Observatory is world famous for many important astronomical discoveries.
There is also a free museum. Many television and radio stations have transmitters on the summit.
13.6 Miles
Out and Back
5,668' High
1,044' Low
4,739' Up
4,739' Down
13% Avg Grade (8°)
46% Max Grade (24°)
Things you will need:
LOTS and LOTS of water MINIMUM 4-5 LITERS OF WATER, ELECTROLYTES, GATORADE , hiking shoes, sunscreen, sunhat, food item, snacks, Snack Bars and candies just in case the blood pressure goes down.
Group organizer and assistant organizers assume no liability; hike at your own risk. By being a member of this group you hereby agree to assume all risks and liability related to or resulting from any and all group functions. You agree that neither you nor any third party will hold any of the group's leaders, officers, or representatives liable for any injury, loss, or damage to your own person or any members of your family, friends, acquaintances, children, pets, or property, arising directly or as a consequence from a group activity. You also agree that your membership of this group is based on an "at will" basis.
https://www.cityofsierramadre.com/services/recreation/hiking
(*Multiple Meetup groups are co-organizing so the RSVP's shown are just a very small portion of the total members attending).