San Gabriel Peak via Red Box is a 4.6-mile out-and-back hike located in the Angeles National Forest, east of Pasadena. Despite the trail's short length, it is steep and challenging, climbing almost 2,000 feet within the first two miles. It features a pine shaded trail, scenic switchbacks, and 360-degree views from the top of San Gabriel Peak (6161 ft.), the second tallest mountain in the front range of the San Gabriel Mountains. This area is a population destination for trail running, hiking, and mountain biking.
DESCRIPTION
Parking is available at RedBox located off of Angeles Crest Highway (CA-2). From Red Box, start by traversing for .3 on the Mt. Wilson-Red Box Road. Then, take the tree lined Bill Reilly Trail for 1.25 miles. When the trail reaches the Mount Disappointment Fire Road, turn left, head south, and look for a junction with the San Gabriel Peak Trail. Turn left onto the San Gabriel Peak Trail and follow the path to the summit.
Turn left onto the paved road and continue for about 0.2 miles to where the road makes a sharp bend. The road goes up to the Mt. Disappointment electronic site. Continue going straight east passing the foundation of an old Nike missile site then onto a dirt trail where there is a junction with the San Gabriel Peak Trail #12W24. Turn left and follow the trail to the summit where you will be rewarded with 360-degree views.
TRAILHEAD AMENITIES
The Red Box parking area features bathrooms, potable water, picnic tables, and a visitor center with a limited selection of snacks.
COMMON VEGETATION
Oak and pine trees, chaparral, and manzanita.
and ceanothus are widely seen on sunny slopes.
MORE INFORMATION
Angeles National Forest: https://www.fs.usda.gov/angeles.
San Gabriel Peak Trail: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/angeles/recarea/?recid=42086.
Red Box: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/angeles/recarea/?recid=41980.
Comments
Sign In and share them.