Chaney Trail Loop

This adventure is a 13.7-mile loop in the San Gabriel Mountains front range located outside of Altadena, California. This fun and challenging loop climbs through oak woodlands and open areas of chaparral, it passes by several backcountry campgrounds and the historic Dawn Mine, one of the most popular and famous gold mines in the front range. The San Gabriel Mountains are accessible year round and the trails in this area a popular for trail running, hiking, backpacking, and mountain biking. 

This loop begins on the Chaney Trail, which is located off of East Loma Alta Drive. In order to reach Sunset Ridge Trail, follow the chaparral-lined Chaney Trail up a steep and exposed terrain. Take Sunset Ridge Trail to Mount Lowe Motorway and Dawn Mine Trail. The Dawn Mine Trail leads to Tom Sloan Saddle, followed by Tom Sloan Trail towards Mount Lowe Motorway. You reach the high point after 7.5 miles. After that, it's all downhill from Mount Lowe Motorway to Chaney Trail. 

COMMON VEGETATION

Oak, Douglas-Fir, Manzanita, Yucca, Buckwheat, sumac, and more. 

WATER

Although seasonal streams may provide water that can be treated and consumed, it is recommended that visitors bring all their water since these sources may not be reliable. 

PARKING
Street parking is available on West Loma Alta Drive. 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Dawn Mine History: https://www.secretmines.com/p/dawn-mine.html. 

Sunset Trail: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/angeles/recarea/?recid=42198. 

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. 

Millard Campground: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/angeles/recarea/?recid=41706.