The Indian Canyon Loop is an 18-mile route in Angeles National Forest, located east of Santa Clarita and south of Palmdale. This is a rugged and remote corner of the Angeles National Forest that can be reached within an hour's drive of Los Angeles. Amidst a dry, hilly desert terrain, the route follows dirt roads and singletrack trails through wooded shrubs and over sandy ridgelines with scenic views of corrugated hillsides and unique rock formations.

Starting from the Indian Canyon Trailhead, follow the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) south for about a mile to the junction with Indian Canyon Road. Next, take Indian Canyon Road south, ascending a moderate and winding climb that skirts the eastern edge of Magic Mountain Wilderness.

Follow Forest Road 3N17.7 east, and then the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) north. You will come back to an intersection with Indian Canyon Road along the PCT, but this time turn north to ascend back to the trailhead.

This is a moderately challenging trek that is multi-use trail and open to running, hiking, backpacking and horseback-riding.

COMMON VEGETATION

Most of the area consists of California chaparral and woodlands with scrub oak, juniper, yucca, manzanita, sagebrush, and buckwheat.

WATER

Plan to carry enough plenty of water as there may not be reliable sources along the route. For information about water on the Pacific Crest Trail section please visit: https://www.pcta.org/discover-the-trail/backcountry-basics/water/pct-water-report/.

WHEN TO VISIT

The trail is open year round however, it does not provide much shade or water, so spring, fall, and winter are the best times to visit when the temperatures are cooler.

TRAILHEAD AMENITIES