Mount Wilson Trail

Mount Wilson Trail. This historic footpath ascends the southern front of the San Gabriel Mountains in Los Angeles County, California, connecting the city of Sierra Madre to the summit of Mount Wilson. Originally established in the 19th century, it served as the primary access route for the construction of the famed Mount Wilson Observatory and other summit facilities. Today, it is a popular and challenging recreational hike, offering panoramic views of the Los Angeles Basin and the San Gabriel Valley.

History

The trail's origins trace back to 1864, when Benjamin "Don Benito" Wilson, a pioneering rancher and former mayor of Los Angeles, blazed a route to the summit seeking timber. This path was later improved and used by the Forest Service and became vital for the transport of materials via mule train for the construction of the Mount Wilson Observatory, founded by George Ellery Hale, and the Mount Wilson Hotel in the early 20th century. The trail survived significant threats, including the devastating 2009 Station Fire, which led to prolonged closures and subsequent restoration efforts by organizations like the Sierra Madre Search and Rescue Team and the Mount Wilson Trail Conservancy. Its enduring legacy is celebrated annually in Sierra Madre with the Mount Wilson Trail Race, one of the oldest continuously run footraces in the United States.

Route description

The trail begins at the northern end of Mira Monte Avenue in Sierra Madre, immediately entering the steep, rugged canyons of the Angeles National Forest. It follows the course of Little Santa Anita Canyon, passing historic remnants like the First Water and Orchard Camp sites, which were waystations during the trail's early pack mule era. The path involves a relentless ascent with numerous switchbacks, crossing seasonal streams and traversing chaparral-covered slopes before reaching the final, forested approach to the summit plateau. The terminus is at the paved Mount Wilson Road, near the grounds of the Mount Wilson Observatory, the Cosmic Cafe, and the array of telecommunications towers operated by entities like American Tower Corporation.

Flora and fauna

The lower slopes are dominated by drought-resistant chaparral plant communities, including chamise, California lilac, and manzanita. As elevation increases, the trail passes through zones of coast live oak and bigcone Douglas-fir, eventually reaching Ponderosa pine and incense cedar forests near the summit. Common fauna include mule deer, western gray squirrels, and abundant birdlife such as the Steller's jay and mountain chickadee. Hikers may also encounter rattlesnakes, bobcats, and, more rarely, black bears or the elusive mountain lion.

Recreation and access

The trail is a strenuous day-hike destination for its historic significance and commanding views of landmarks like the Rose Bowl and downtown Los Angeles. It is managed by the Angeles National Forest and requires the display of a National Forest Adventure Pass for parking at the trailhead. Key considerations for hikers include extreme summer heat, carrying ample water, and checking for trail closures due to fire danger or restoration work. The annual Mount Wilson Trail Race draws hundreds of participants, while the trail also serves as a training ground for local search and rescue teams and members of the Pasadena Audubon Society.

In popular culture

The trail and its dramatic setting have been featured in various media, often representing the rugged wilderness bordering the Los Angeles metropolis. It has appeared in episodes of the classic television series *M*A*S*H*, which was filmed in the nearby Malibu Creek State Park area, and has been referenced in hiking guides like those from Wilderness Press. The trail's challenging nature and historic aura have also made it a subject in local publications such as the Pasadena Star-News and the Los Angeles Times, cementing its status as a Southern California outdoor icon.

Category:Hiking trails in California Category:Angeles National Forest Category:Los Angeles County, California Category:Mount Wilson (California)