Echo Mountain Trail — Attraction in Altadena

One of the great trails for hiking in the San Gabriel Valley. This is the only hiking trail does not require reservation during the pandemic.

It's a beautiful trial with easy to medium difficulty. Getting there is easy. Just get off on lake from 210 freeway and go all the way north to the end of lake Ave. There is a small entrance gate to the trail.

The path to the top is right straight from the gate across the dried up stream to the starting point of the trail. The trail is about 2.5 miles to the top. On top, there is the inspiration point where you can see the whole of LA. On a clear day , you can even see Catalina island.

While on the top of the trail, you can see the remains of the train gears where there used to be a train hauling passengers up to this top to a hotel here.

Even though the hike is relatively easy, you do need a good shoe for hiking as the road is not even. Please do bring a mask to the hike.

Parking is along the street and don't have a lot of spots. If you can, carpool...

Amazing views on this hike from start to finish. Easy parking. There is a Great picnic area on top complete with picnic tables so bring a delicious lunch. Quickly found out why this Hike is called Echo Mountain...great echo spot on top. Must try it out!

It is a popular hike. Near city limits so expect to see plenty of hikers and runners on the trail.

Trail etiquette is to pull over and let hikers on a faster pace , pass you by.

Pro-tip. Start early it can get warm. 3-4 mile hike may not sound like a lot, but it's a hiking trail so there are lots of switchbacks so it feels like a lot longer. Wear comfortable shoes. That means hiking or trail running shoes. Strongly advise real hiking or trail running shoes... Oh and Bring lots of water. At least 2 liters.

Not a lot of parking so get here early.

There are a few variations of this hike so you can come back and test yourself on a slightly different hike. Plus. There is a campsite up there so that is an option for the...

Excellent trail. Moderately challenging trail, but the views are breathtaking. About 5 miles out-and-back. Some sections of the trail are a bit narrow. Seeing the resort ruins at Echo Mountain is worth a visit.

Hike the loop to Inspiration Point. Start at the Sam Merrill trailhead to Echo Mountain that also leads to the ruins. Take Castle Canyon trail to Inspiration Point (Elevation 4700 feet), continue loop on Medium Sam Merrill trail back to Echo Mountain trail. 12 miles RT.

Breathtaking views, several downed trees, gushing waterfalls, lots of fun in the snow. Micro spikes were required.

Parking available on the street and...