The Sunset/Tom Sloan Lollipop is a 13.4-mile, challenging route in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains. It connects a number of trails in the area, and is recommended for trail runners and hearty hikers. The trail is primarily dirt single track and fire road, and is moderately trafficked, thinning out near the top of the climb. You will pass some iconic places of Los Angeles history, including the former site of Ye Alpine Tavern near Mt. Lowe Trail Camp, the Mt. Lowe Railway, and the Dawn Mine.
Park off the road on Loma Alta Drive near Loma Alta Park (no permit needed).Take Sunset Ridge Road to the junction with Altadena Crest Trail, which soon becomes the Chaney Trail. You are climbing from the get-go here. Turn right for a brief jaunt on Mt. Lowe Motorway before taking the left onto Sunset Ridge Trail. Follow signs for Echo Mtn. on Sunset Ridge Trail. Near mile 3.8, reconnect with Mt. Lowe Motorway where you’ll continue climbing for the next 3.5 miles toward Mt. Lowe Trail Camp. Half a mile after the trail camp, turn left onto the Tom Sloan Trail, arguably the most scenic 2 miles of this route. According to Trails of the Angeles, the Tom Sloan Trail once connected Mt. Lowe Tavern with the mountain resort at Switzer’s. At mile 8.7, hit the Tom Sloan Saddle and take the left onto the Dawn Mine Trail. This descent carries you into the pleasant forest retreat of Millard Canyon and alongside Millard Creek. This is a wonderful respite from the heat on a hot day, and an overall mysterious place to explore. Near mile 11.2, reconnect with the Sunset Ridge Trail, where you’ll retrace your steps toward Chaney Trail and back to your humble beginnings.
Referenced:
Robinson, J. W. (2013). Trails of the Angeles: 100 hikes in the San Gabriels. Wilderness Press.
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