Pleasant View Ridge from Islip Saddle

Pleasant View Ridge from Islip Saddle is a 12.6-mile point-to-point route that traverses a high ridge in the San Gabriel Mountains within Angeles National Forest. The trailhead is located at Islip Saddle, off the Angeles Crest Highway (CA-2), northwest of Wrightwood, California. This hike begins with an ascent of Mount Williamson and continues across rocky, rugged, and steep terrain with spectacular views of the surrounding jagged peaks and the Mojave Desert. The trail is strenuous and best suited for experienced hikers. 

DIRECTIONS

From Islip Saddle, ascend Mount Williamson and continue along the Pleasant View Ridge Trail. From Burkhart Saddle, follow an unmarked trail up and around the slopes of Thrall Peak. You should be prepared for a steep climb as the trail gains almost 1,000 feet of elevation between Burkhart Saddle and Pleasant View Ridge (7,983'). In return for your hard work, you will be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and desert. After climbing Pleasant View Ridge, descend back to Burkhart Saddle and take the Burkhart Trail down to Buckhorn Campground.

LOGISTICS AND CONSIDERATIONS

• The Pacific Crest Trail has been closed for many years between Islip Saddle and Buckhorn Campground therefore making it difficult to complete this trip as a loop. 

• Camping is available at Buckhorn Campground on a first-come, first-serve basis. 

• It is possible to complete the route in either direction. Both Islip Saddle and Buckhorn Campground offer day use and overnight parking. 

TRAILHEAD INFORMATION

• Islip Saddle is located in the middle of Angeles Crest Highway (CA-2) which runs through Angeles National Forest from La Canada/Flintridge to Wrightwood / Cajon Pass.  

• The day use area features a moderately sized parking area with picnic tables and bathrooms.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Pleasant View Ridge Wilderness: https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/angeles/specialplaces/?cid=stelprdb5210348. 

San Gabriel Wilderness: https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/angeles/specialplaces/?cid=stelprdb5194633. 

Buckhorn Campground: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/angeles/recreation/recarea/?recid=41690&actid=31.