Slide Mountain Trail

Coordinates: 34.61620, -118.74348
Start time: 8am
Miles: 11
Elevation Gain: 2559 ft
Level: Moderate
Adventure Pass is required for parking.

Slide Mountain (elevation 4,631) is one of the taller peaks in the western corner of the Angeles National Forest and is home to an active lookout tower which was constructed in 1969. The hike is an exercise in delayed gratification: it starts with a 1.6-mile walk on pavement followed by 2.3 miles of steady uphill, much of which is on exposed south-facing slopes. However, the views during the last mile and a half and from the summit are worth the effort. Navigation and terrain are easy, making this a great training hike for those who want to build their endurance. The hike is unique in a lot of ways. First, you’ll hike through the dramatic Piru Gorge, but you’ll do it on an abandoned highway, giving the stretch a surreal post-apocalyptic feel. Then you’ll sweat as you climb over 2000 feet on dirt trails toward the summit. Along the way, you’ll get spectacular views into the rugged backcountry of the Sespe Wilderness. At the top is a fire lookout, manned by volunteers and only accessible by hiking.

And yes, we will go out for a lunch after hiking!