Iron Mountain #1 (Big Iron)

Distance: 14 miles (out and back total)

Elevation Gain/Loss: 7200 feet
Summit Elevation: 8,006 feet
Difficulty: 9/10 (Very Difficult)

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Iron Mountain is widely considered the most remote and strenuous summit in the entire San Gabriel range. Only experienced and strong hikers should sign up. This will be an all day hike and we may not finish until after dark. We will be taking the Heaton Flat trail which is an arduous 7 mile climb with 7200 feet of gain.

The final 3 miles to the summit is steep "use trail" on loose rock with spikey Yucca plants crowding our path. Hiking poles are strongly recommended. There is no water available along the route and much of the route is exposed to the sun. Once at the summit we will enjoy the view of nearby Mt Baldy and then begin the steep descent on the same trail.

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Equipment Considerations

6 Liters of Water (minimum)

Hiking Poles

Long Pants

Hiking Shoes

Dress in Layers

Headlamp or Flashlight

10 Hiking Essentials

Some of the water can be stashed along the route for recovery on the way back. Hiking poles are required to keep you from sliding into the Yucca plants and to save your knees on the steep descent. Dress in layers that allow you to adjust to the changing temperatures. Summit temperature is expected to be near 50 degrees F.

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Note that the East Fork Trailhead is the same as the Bridge to Nowhere hike.

A forecast of bad weather will cancel this event. Check the comments section the day before the hike for a weather forecast and to assure we are going. Post questions in the comment section. On the morning of the hike Ken can be reached by cell phone or text at 310-977-1682. Note that there is not likely to be cell phone service at the trailhead or anywhere along the trail.

This is a very strenuous hike. By joining this event YOU are responsible for your conduct and safety and agree to free the event organizer any other organizers and agents associated with the club and this website from any and all liability. Before you begin this trip you are required to review the route and bring GPS or a map. Free topo maps are available on-line from USGS.GOV.