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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Hard
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
842 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
15.8 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
5-7h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Directions to Trailhead

Mount Lowe Railway Loop Trail

Measurement:

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Table of contents

The Mount Lowe Railway Loop Trail is a great hiking route in Angeles National Forest that climbs into the mountains and visits historical sites. While out on the trail, you will make your way through Millard Canyon and enjoy views of the surrounding mountains, before visiting some historical ruins scattered throughout the area, such as Ye Alpine Tavern. Make sure that you present a valid adventure pass in your vehicle prior to your hiking excursion.

Route Description for Mount Lowe Railway Loop Trail

For those adventurers who enjoy exploring challenging terrain, taking in stunning views, and visiting interesting historical sites, the Mount Lowe Railway Loop Trail is the perfect hiking route for a fun afternoon on the trails.

Setting out from the trailhead, you will follow the Mount Lowe Motorway to the northeast as it gains elevation along Sunset Ridge and eventually descends into the Mount Lowe Trail Camp, where you will find the site of Ye Alpine Tavern, which was originally constructed in 1898 and burned down in 1939.

From here, you will head southeast to Inspiration Point for some beautiful views, before turning to the southwest on the way to the ruins of the Mount Lowe Observatory near Echo Mountain. Follow the trail as it turns northwest and meets back up with the Mount Lowe Motorway, which you can follow back to the trailhead where you began.

Getting to the Mount Lowe Railway Loop Trail Trailhead

The starting point for the Mount Lowe Railway Loop Trail can be found at the junction between the Brown Mountain Truck Trail and the Chaney Trail, just north of Altadena.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground:

    Mount Lowe Trail Camp, Millard Camp

  • When to do:

    Year-Round

  • Pets allowed:

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly:

    No

  • Route Signage:

    Average

  • Crowd Levels:

    High

  • Route Type:

    Lollipop

Mount Lowe Railway Loop Trail Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

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