Mt. Wilson Trailhead — Attraction in Sierra Madre

Excellent trail, but not for beginners. I went there with my running group, Azusa Pacers, at 6 a.m. on June 22nd. The start time was late in my book since the heat picked up quickly and much of the intermediate hike is un-shaded. Our goal was to hike to First Water but we took the wrong turn and missed First Water. The route we took was challenging with many Rocky areas with loose dirt. I slipped and luckily caught on to a branch or else I may have slid down thr canyon. We only hiked about 2.5 miles each way but the entire time, we were huffing and puffing. We turned around because someone from my team got lightheaded and we didn't want to risk it by going up further.

The views are beautiful, but it's a very popular trail, so be ready to get out of the way of the experienced hikers. One guy started yelling at me at one point because I was really taking my time going down a very rocky stretch. He kept telling me to use the poles which I was and kept saying "That's what they're for." Maybe he didn't see I had them or assumed I was using them to pick my nose. Either way, he was a jerk.

Take lots of water, go as early as possible and wear shoes with good tread. Trekking poles are highly encouraged and helpful, especially on the way down. Don't forget the hat and bug spray. Dengue Fever is on the rise in SoCal, so take care of yourself.

Lastly, be nice. Many people, like myself, are afraid of hikes. You will gain some elevation on this hike with much of it looking directly down the canyon. Don't freak out if we slow you down as we attempt to face our fears. You...

To be around nature is the best kind of aphrodisiac. And so my adventure begins around 0930 am. Mount Wilson Trail with Jones Peak and Bailey Canyon Loop is a 14.9 mile loop trail located near Sierra Madre that features beautiful wild flowers, wild cats, eagles, bees and lizards. This trail is recommended for experienced hiking adventurers. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. The trails were well kept and wide but it gets narrower as you ascend and you'll definitely feel your legs and thighs. However, the view of the mountain and terrain were amazing as you elevate. The highlight of my hiking adventure was seeing a Bobcat on the trail. Yass!! He vanished around the corner as I approach. I reached the First Water Bench at 1,089 ft and explored the water stream a few feet below. It was nice to cool off a bit and under the trees. I went back to the trail and headed north. After a few mile or so, I decided to head down back because I ran out of water. Going down I was jogging and walking and enjoying the mountain view. In this voluminous review, I truly enjoyed this trail and its amazing view. Overall, I highly recommend Mt Wilson trail in Sierra Madre. I will...

Mt. Wilson via Little Santa Nita Canyon

4/27/2019

Parking is free and is on a residential street. There is a public restroom in the park. We arrived around 6:45 am and were able to grab a close spot

Beautiful mostly covered trail that does feature a creek. The sound of running water is good for the soul. Feels like you are not in So Cal. First few miles are a steady climb, but not too bad. Trail does get steep, I would not recommend for a novice hiker.

Day started overcast, but we did hike above the clouds and the views were amazing, like s white carpet.

There is a cafe at the summit that serves hot dogs, chili, looked like homemade apple pie, Gatorade, sodas and water. Tours of the observatory are available. Credit cards are accepted. There is a station to fill water bottles.

I definitely recommend bug spray, a couple spots were very bad. Be careful, we did see a lot of poison oak, but it is easily avoidable.

Dogs on leash are allowed.

Trail Rating

• I’d do it again tomorrow ** I’ll do it again, it after I hike new trails *I’ll do it again if someone asks **I’ll begrudgingly do it again *I’ll...