Mt. Wilson via Rim Trail Loop

– Distance: 17 miles

– Elevation Gain: Apx. 4200 feet

– Time: 7 - 8 hours, with rests.

– Difficulty: 8/10, Very Strenuous

– Pace: Moderate

– Parking are Limited, be sure to Arrive early

– Cosmic Cafe will be Open, be sure to Bring Cash or Credit Card for Lunch

– Meet at the Lower Parking Lot of Chantry Flat by the Gate

http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/1/0/b/9/event_24064281.jpegThis event is for strong, adventurous hikers who would like to experience a little-known and rarely hiked trail from Chantry Flat to the Mt. Wilson Summit. Our route takes us to Sturtevant Camp, but then we'll leave the more common trails behind, heading first to Newcomb Pass, and then on to the surprising Rim Trail for the last three miles to the Wilson summit. The Rim Trail route offers fascinating, panoramic views to the north of Wilson, including the vast Station Fire burn areas. There are also dramatic views to the south, looking down onto the Big Santa Anita watershed and trails that this group calls home.

At 10 miles of steady uphill, this route to Wilson is longer than the two 7-mile options out of Chantry that we've often hiked. Because it's longer, the route is not as steep, but the more rugged, less-traveled nature of the trail adds its own challenges, so it's best not to think of this as the "easy" way to the Wilson summit. For my money, though, it's definitely the most interesting and unusual.

Once the Rim Trail tops out at the Wilson telescopes, we'll make our way to the Cosmic Cafe pavilion for lunch, and then descend via Manzanita Ridge and Upper Winter Creek. A lot of our route is shaded, but there will be plenty of sunny stretches throughout the day.

Parking Info: A National Forest Adventure Pass (http://www.fs.fed.us/r5/sanbernardino/ap/pass-options.shtml) is required for parked vehicles parked. They are available at Big5, Sport Chalet or Online vendors. Fees are $5.00 daily and $30.00 for an annual pass.

Please Bring: At Least 3 Liters of Water, Sturdy shoes, Trekking Poles, Snacks or Lunch, Sunscreen, a Hat, Layers and your Ten Essentials. Don't forget to Bring a camera and share your pictures with us after the hike.

DISCLAIMER / RELEASE OF LIABILITY

IMPORTANT, PLEASE READ BELOW IN ITS ENTIRETY:

I am a volunteer (i.e. not liable for the group). Safety is a priority for everyone in the group. Think of this as hiking with a group of friends.

Outdoor sports and other events we plan can be inherently dangerous and accidents may happen. By participating in any posted event, you're taking responsibility for your own safety and well-being. The SGV Hikers Meetup Group and its organizers are not trained leaders and we do not confirm the qualifications of any of its members to lead or participate in trips. All participants take full responsibility for their own actions. If you choose to sign up for any SGV Hikers Meetup events, you are releasing the SGV Hikers Meetup Group and it's organizers from all liability in case of possible injuries as stated in paragraph 6.2 of the Meetup “Terms of Service” located on the bottom of the Meetup website. Your personal safety depends on your own judgment and experience.

http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/c/d/6/6/event_106972582.jpeg

http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/9/8/4/6/event_90578982.jpeg

http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/9/8/7/8/event_90579032.jpeg

http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/5/b/4/2/event_105203362.jpeghttp://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/5/b/a/6/event_105203462.jpeghttp://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/5/c/0/a/event_105203562.jpeghttp://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/5/c/6/e/event_105203662.jpeghttp://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/5/c/c/8/event_105203752.jpeg http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/4/9/d/6/event_85098902.jpeg