Stone Canyon Trail

Stone Canyon Trail is an 8-mile out-and-back trail that ascends from Big Tujunga Canyon Road to the top of Mount Lukens. Mount Lukens is the highest peak within Los Angeles city limits at 5,075 feet, and while there are a few ways to get there, the Stone Canyon Trail is the shortest and steepest. It features various chaparral species such as manzanita, buckthorn, buckwheat, and yucca along with some big-cone Douglas-Fir trees. For the most part this route is exposed and shadless with little to no water and can get hot in the summer months. Stone Canyon Trail is a great trail for anyone looking for a challenging climb in a more rugged area of Angeles National Forest.

The trailhead parking is located near Wildwood Picnic Area off Big Tujunga Canyon Road. Take note of several spots along Big Tujunga Canyon Road where you can get an overview of your route and see the trail clearly carved into the mountainside. 

The Stone Canyon Trail winds steeply up the ridge next to Stone Canyon along a series of switchbacks. After 3.5 miles, the trail reaches Mount Lukens Road, a wide dirt road. Turn left and follow the dirt road to the top of Mount Lukens. 

Despite being the shortest route, Stone Canyon Trail is not necessarily the easiest. During the four-mile journey to the top, the trail climbs steeply, gaining over 3,000 feet of elevation.

In order to locate the official summit, look for a small survey marker behind a fenced area. Take a few moments to enjoy the panoramic views of the San Gabriel Mountains front range, Los Angeles Basin, Verdugo Mountains, and Griffith Park. On a clear day, you may be able to see all the way to the Pacific Ocean. To get back to the start, turn around and return the way you came. 

WHEN TO VISIT

This challenging adventure is accessible year round, however, spring and fall are best when the temperatures are less extreme.  

CONSIDERATIONS

• Some parts of the trail may be overgrown, long pants are recommended. 

• Water is unreliable and visitors should plan to bring and carry all that they will need. 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Angeles National Forest: https://www.fs.usda.gov/angeles. 

Backcountry Camping Information: https://www.fs.usda.gov/activity/angeles/recreation/camping-cabins/?actid=29&recid=41672.

Wildwood Picnic Site: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/angeles/recarea/?recid=41934. 

Mount Lukens Climbing Routes: https://www.summitpost.org/mount-lukens/154665.