Mount Wilson Lollipop via Eaton Canyon is a challenging, 30-mile loop route through Angeles National Forest. This is a strenuous adventure that features interesting biodiversity and scenic mountain views. It begins and ends at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains in a low elevation desert environment and passes through scrub, chaparral, oak woodlands, and pine forest. To experience this kind of variety amongst plants and animals, one can assume there will be major elevation changes throughout the journey.
The first 10 miles climb steadily to Mount Wilson where you can take a break and grab a bite or beverage at the Cosmic Cafe. Next, you’ll descend along the Gabrielino Trail and then another climb, this one five miles long, on the Winter Creek Trail. The final section is a long and winding descent on the Mount Wilson Toll Road back to where you started. This route is a popular training area for mountain runners, hikers, backpackers, and mountain bikers.
The route can be completed in a day or as an overnight backpacking trip. The Mount Wilson Toll Road is long and exposed and it is recommended that visitors start early to avoid the strong sun and heat of the day.
For information about parking passes, camping permits and more please visit https://www.fs.usda.gov/main/angeles/passes-permits.
WATER
Water is unreliable and visitors should plan to bring and carry as much as they will need to reach the summit. Cosmic Cafe has potable water.
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS
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Black bears live in the area, make sure to practice proper food storage if you are camping.
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Watch out for poison oak.
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Street parking may be available near Eaton Canyon, read signs carefully and be respectful to the residents.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Eaton Canyon: https://www.ecnca.org/.
Angeles National Forest: https://www.fs.usda.gov/angeles.
Mount Wilson Observatory: https://www.mtwilson.edu/.
Cosmic Cafe: https://www.mtwilson.edu/cosmic-cafe/.
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