The best hikes from bus stations in San Gabriel Mountains National Monument
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(297)
5,325
hikers
22
hikes
Bus station hiking trails in San Gabriel Mountains National Monument traverse a landscape characterized by rugged peaks, deep canyons, and chaparral-covered slopes. The monument encompasses over 346,177 acres, featuring diverse ecosystems and significant waterways that support native flora and fauna. Geological formations, including ancient rocks and the San Andreas Fault, contribute to the varied terrain. The region offers a range of elevations, from lower canyons to majestic summits, providing varied hiking experiences.
Best bus station hiking trails in San Gabrielβ¦
Last updated: May 11, 2026
4
hikers
3.01km
01:22
310m
10m
Hike the moderate First Water via Mount Wilson Trail for canyon views, waterfalls, and historical sites in Angeles National Forest.
2
hikers
2.99km
00:46
20m
10m
Hike the easy 1.9-mile Duarte Recreational Trail, enjoying mountain views and a historic bridge, with an option to connect to Fish Canyon Fa
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27.4km
12:04
2,110m
1,540m
This exceptionally difficult 17.0-mile loop in the San Gabriel Mountains challenges experienced hikers with rugged terrain and panoramic vie
5.0
(10)
61
hikers
23.1km
08:18
1,280m
1,280m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
5.0
(9)
55
hikers
17.4km
05:58
910m
910m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Panoramic overlook, with a somewhat technical approach trail for the last couple of hundred yards off the main trail, offering a pleasant flow trail descent. There are some old visor pipes installed to help identify distant landmarks and peaks.
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Just below the Mtβ―Wilson Trailhead on Red Box Road, this overlook and memorial is a perfect place to pause. Sit and take in sweeping views of the San Gabriel Valley, and read the memorial plaque honoring early conservation efforts.
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For a ride with history and views, check out the Ye Alpine Tavern ruins in the San Gabriel Mountains. Once a popular mountain resort, it burned down in 1936 and was later demolished, but you can still spot the stone fireplace, foundation, and water tank.
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Leafy park with lawns and shaded seating, restrooms, drinking water fountains, and a bike repair station. Great for a break or as trailhead to ride west along the dedicated Duarte Bike Trail, a multi-purpose trail that was founded in 1977. It stretches 1.6 miles from Royal Oaks Park at Vineyard Avenue to Buena Vista Avenue. Next to the paved cycling path runs a dirt jogging and equestrian trail shaded by oak trees. The gently sloped trail follows the historic Pacific Electric Railway route, passing an arched bridge that once carried Red Trolley Cars to Los Angeles.
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A site with spectacular views over Los Angeles County. Additionally, beneath the pavilion, you'll find various sighting tubes, each pointing to a different location, such as Redondo Beach, Catalina Island, Hollywood, etc.
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If you are looking for a historical and scenic trail run in the San Gabriel Mountains, you might want to check out the Ye Alpine Tavern ruins. This was once a popular mountain resort that welcomed over three million visitors in its forty-one years of operation. It was destroyed by fire in 1936 and demolished by the U.S. Forest Service in 1959. You can still see some remnants of the resort, such as the stone fireplace, the foundation, and the water tank.
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Due to a series of disasters in the early 1900s, including fires, floods, and wind storms, this area was brought to ruin. Several remnants of that era, in the form of ruins, can still be found on the summit. Combined with the stunning views, this makes it a must-see in the area.
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A series of disasters has eroded the properties in this area. In 1900, a kitchen fire destroyed the main house, and in 1905, another fire consumed the remaining structures. From 1909 to 1938, a combination of flooding, wind storms, and additional fires destroyed the rest. Here, you can now observe the ruins of the observatory and enjoy the beautiful view from this point.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many bus station hiking trails are available in San Gabriel Mountains National Monument?
There are over 20 hiking routes accessible from bus stations in the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument. These trails offer a variety of experiences, from easy strolls to challenging mountain ascents.
What types of trails can I expect when hiking from bus stations in this region?
The trails accessible from bus stations in the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument range from easy to difficult. You'll find everything from gentle, paved paths like the Duarte Recreational Trail to more strenuous climbs such as the Mt Zion, Mt Wilson, Mt Harvard, Mt Yale, and Jones Peak Loop, which covers over 27 km with significant elevation gain.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes accessible by bus?
Yes, for an easy and family-friendly option, consider the Duarte Recreational Trail. It's an easy 3 km route with minimal elevation gain, perfect for a relaxed outing. The San Gabriel Mountains also offer many nature walks suitable for families, often found near accessible areas.
What are some notable natural features or landmarks to look out for on these trails?
The San Gabriel Mountains National Monument is rich in natural beauty. Depending on your chosen route, you might encounter dramatic peaks, deep canyons, and diverse ecosystems. Keep an eye out for scenic viewpoints like San Gabriel Canyon Road Scenic View or geological formations such as the Devil's Chair. The area is also home to significant waterways that sustain native wildlife.
Can I find any circular routes that start and end near a bus station?
Yes, there are circular routes available. For a challenging full-day adventure, the Mount Lowe Summit β Inspiration Point loop from Altadena is a difficult 23 km loop that offers stunning panoramic views. Another option is the slightly shorter but still difficult Inspiration Point loop from Altadena, covering about 17 km.
What do other hikers say about the bus-accessible trails in San Gabriel Mountains National Monument?
The komoot community highly rates the hiking experiences in San Gabriel Mountains National Monument, with an average score of 4.7 out of 5 stars from nearly 300 ratings. Hikers often praise the diverse landscapes, from shaded canyons to panoramic mountain vistas, and the accessibility of these trails via public transport.
Are there any trails that lead to water features or lakes?
While specific bus-accessible routes leading directly to major lakes aren't highlighted, the San Gabriel Mountains are known for their crucial rivers and scenic water features. You can find highlights like the Crystal Lake Recreation Area and Jackson Lake within the monument, which may be reachable via connecting trails or a combination of bus and hiking.
What is the best time of year to hike these bus-accessible trails?
The San Gabriel Mountains National Monument offers hiking opportunities year-round. Spring brings wildflowers and pleasant temperatures, while fall provides cooler weather and clear views. Summer can be hot, especially at lower elevations, so early morning hikes are recommended. Winter can bring snow to higher peaks, offering unique experiences but requiring appropriate gear and caution.
Are there any permits required for hiking in the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument?
Some specific areas within the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument, particularly designated wilderness areas like Sheep Mountain Wilderness (where the Bridge to Nowhere is located), may require a free Wilderness Permit. It's always advisable to check with the Angeles National Forest or monument authorities for the latest permit requirements before your hike.
Can I find trails with significant elevation gain for a more challenging experience?
Absolutely. For those seeking a challenge, many bus-accessible trails offer substantial elevation gain. The Mt Zion, Mt Wilson, Mt Harvard, Mt Yale, and Jones Peak Loop, for example, involves over 2,100 meters of ascent, providing a strenuous workout and rewarding views.
Are there any shorter, moderate trails accessible by bus?
Yes, for a moderate hike that isn't too long, consider the First Water via Mount Wilson Trail. This route is about 3 km long with a moderate difficulty grade and offers a good balance of challenge and accessibility.
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