Mill Creek to Iron Mountain

Mill Creek to Iron Mountain is a great getaway for anyone in the Los Angeles County area seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and embark on a quiet, adventurous, and scenic route with opportunities to explore and peak bag. This 33.4-mile out-and-back backpacking route takes you from Mill Creek Station through scenic stretches of the Angeles National Forest, connecting to the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), and leading up to the summit of Iron Mountain. The route includes notable landmarks like Mount Gleason, offering a challenging but rewarding journey with expansive views of the San Gabriel Mountains. It is rugged and remote, with multiple ups and downs and over 7,000 feet of total elevation gain. This route is ideal for experienced hikers and backpackers seeking solitude, high-elevation views, and a challenging backcountry experience in the San Gabriel Mountains.

The adventure begins at Mill Creek Station in the Angeles National Forest. The first section follows the PCT northbound, gradually ascending through rugged mountain terrain. The trail weaves through chaparral and oak woodlands, with occasional shade provided by pines and firs.

Continuing along the PCT, you'll reach a junction where you leave the PCT and take a faint use trail to the top of Mount Gleason. From there, the route follows a dirt road path leading to Mendenhall Ridge Road. As you approach Iron Mountain, the terrain becomes more remote, with fewer visitors and greater solitude. The final push to Iron Mountain is challenging, with a steep ascent along another faint, rugged ridge trail to the summit. The peak offers impressive 360-degree views of the San Gabriel Mountains, making the strenuous hike well worth the effort.

This is an out-and-back hike, so after summiting Iron Mountain, you'll retrace your steps back toward Mill Creek Station.

Camping: Backcountry camping is allowed along this route, though you should check for any fire restrictions or trail conditions before setting out.
Water: Water sources are limited along the route, so it's crucial to carry plenty of water, especially in hot weather. Seasonal springs may be present, but they are unreliable. Bring a water filter if you find natural sources.
Wildlife: You may encounter wildlife, including deer, coyotes, and rattlesnakes. Be mindful of your surroundings, and follow Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the environment.
Parking: Parking is available at Mill Creek Station, but it’s recommended to arrive early, especially on weekends, as spaces can fill up.

SAFETY AND CONSIDERATIONS

• Navigation:  While most of this route is well-marked along the PCT, the approach to Iron Mountain involves rugged, exposed terrain. Ensure you have a detailed map, GPS, or offline navigation app.

Heat: This route is exposed with few reliable water sources, not recommended in the summer.