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Sierra Madre

The best hikes from bus stations around Sierra Madre

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2,078

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6

hikes

Bus station hiking trails around Sierra Madre offer access to a diverse mountain landscape characterized by rugged canyons, oak woodlands, and significant elevation changes. The region features prominent peaks such as Mount Wilson, providing expansive views of the surrounding terrain. Trails often traverse varied ecosystems, including forests and rocky ridges, with some routes leading to historical sites. This area provides a range of hiking experiences, from moderate ascents to challenging mountain paths.

Best bus station hiking trails around Sierra Madre

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Last updated: May 11, 2026

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hikers

#1.

First Water via Mount Wilson Trail

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.

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Moderate

This exceptionally difficult 17.0-mile loop in the San Gabriel Mountains challenges experienced hikers with rugged terrain and panoramic vie

Hard
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.

Moderate

5.0

(4)

53

hikers

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.

Moderate

Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.

Hard

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Tips from the Community

maniboyflex
June 29, 2025, Mount Wilson Trailhead overlook and memorial

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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Explore the looped road around the summit of Mount Wilson, a prominent peak known for its historic Mount Wilson Observatory. The summit houses telescopes, solar towers, and the modern CHARA Array for stellar research. Standing at 5,710 feet, Mount Wilson offers sweeping views of the Los Angeles Basin, the Pacific Ocean, and the Channel Islands on clear days. This site also serves as a major broadcast hub for the Greater Los Angeles area, easy to see with the numerous antennas and relay facilities sticking out all over the summit.

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Mount Wilson is a 5,710-foot summit in San Gabriel Mountains. It's easy to distinguish from the other tall peaks around this area due to how many antennas is has near the top of the mountain. They don't interrupt your views once you're up here, though.

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Mount Wilson has a summit at 5,710 feet. It's easier to distance from a distance because of the large number of antennas near its summit. These are utilized for the relay broadcasting of radio and television in the Greater Los Angeles Area. It's a popular hiking spot, so it can get busy on weekends.

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Mt. Wilson Trail offers exposed narrow edges on small segments with unique trail structures along the way.

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This telescope was built in 1917 and took over 11 years due difficulty hauling all the components up Mt. Wilson Toll Road. The glass mirror weighs around 9,000 pounds and remains the largest solid glass mirror ever made. This was the largest telescope until the 200" telescope was built on Palomar Mountain. mtwilson.edu/building-the-100-inch-telescope

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Hoegees Camp offers a hike-in first come first serve campground. There is a stream for water and it is well shaded. For more information regarding closures and amenities, visit: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/angeles/recarea/?recid=41702

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Valerio Peri
February 15, 2023, The Cosmic Cafe

Iconic cafΓ© spot atop Mount Wilson. Observatory visits start from here

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many bus-accessible hiking trails are available in Sierra Madre?

There are 6 hiking trails in Sierra Madre that are easily accessible from bus stations. These routes offer a range of difficulties, from moderate to difficult, ensuring options for various skill levels.

Are there any family-friendly bus-accessible hikes in Sierra Madre?

While the routes listed are generally moderate to difficult, some sections of trails like the First Water via Mount Wilson Trail offer shorter, less strenuous options suitable for families looking for a taste of the Sierra Madre's natural beauty. Always check the route details for elevation and distance to ensure it matches your family's capabilities.

What kind of natural features can I expect to see on these bus-accessible trails?

The Sierra Madre region is known for its diverse terrain, including lush forests, rugged canyons, and panoramic viewpoints. You can encounter impressive natural features like Eaton Canyon Waterfall, Monrovia Canyon Falls, and the iconic Sturtevant Falls. Many trails also lead to stunning vistas, such as Inspiration Point, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Are there any historical landmarks along the bus-accessible hiking routes?

Yes, the Sierra Madre area is rich in history. Hikers can explore sites like the Mount Lowe Railway Ruins, which offer a glimpse into the region's past with relics and explanatory signs from circa 1900. The Remains of an old mountain cabin loop from Sierra Madre also provides a historical context to your hike.

What is the best time of year to hike the bus-accessible trails in Sierra Madre?

The Sierra Madre offers hiking opportunities year-round, but spring and fall generally provide the most pleasant conditions with milder temperatures. Summers can be hot, especially on exposed trails, while winters can bring cooler weather and occasional rain. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.

Are there any circular routes accessible by bus?

Yes, several bus-accessible routes in Sierra Madre are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Remains of an old mountain cabin loop from Sierra Madre, the Mount Wilson Trail loop from Sierra Madre, and the more challenging Mount Wilson Trail – Mount Wilson Summit Viewpoint loop from Sierra Madre.

What do other hikers enjoy most about the bus-accessible trails in Sierra Madre?

The bus-accessible trails in Sierra Madre are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.77 stars. Reviewers often praise the challenging ascents leading to rewarding panoramic views, the diverse landscapes, and the historical elements found along the routes.

Are there any trails that offer significant elevation gain for a challenging workout?

For those seeking a strenuous workout, the Sierra Madre bus-accessible trails deliver. The Mt Zion, Mt Wilson, Mt Harvard, Mt Yale, and Jones Peak Loop is a particularly difficult option with over 2,100 meters of elevation gain, traversing multiple peaks and offering an intense hiking experience.

Can I find waterfalls along the bus-accessible hiking trails?

Yes, the Sierra Madre region features several beautiful waterfalls. While not directly on every bus-accessible route, trails in the vicinity can lead to stunning natural attractions like Eaton Canyon Waterfall, Monrovia Canyon Falls, and Sturtevant Falls, offering refreshing stops and picturesque views.

Are there any specific peaks or summits I can reach via bus-accessible trails?

Many trails in the Sierra Madre lead to prominent peaks and summits offering incredible views. While the full ascent of Mount Wilson is a significant undertaking, routes like the Mt Zion, Mt Wilson, Mt Harvard, Mt Yale, and Jones Peak Loop will take you to multiple high points. Other notable summits in the area include Mount Disappointment and San Gabriel Peak.

What should I consider when planning a bus-accessible hike in Sierra Madre?

When planning your bus-accessible hike, consider the trail's difficulty and length, as some routes are quite challenging. Always check bus schedules for your return journey, carry enough water and snacks, and wear appropriate footwear. The diverse terrain means conditions can vary, so be prepared for changes in elevation and surface.

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