01
Best first mountain hike
Big Horn Mine Trail via Vincent Gap
Vincent Gap Along Angeles Crest Highway • Historic Mine Trek Through High Pine Forest • Most Approachable Mountain Escape
A mellow, view-filled walk to an abandoned gold mine perched on the slopes below Mount Baden-Powell.
This roughly 4-mile out-and-back follows a gently rolling old road with about 700 feet of elevation gain, making it a friendly introduction to high-country hiking. The trail contours along the mountainside with consistent views toward Mount Baldy before ending at the dramatic ruins of the Big Horn Mine. Expect some cliff exposure near the end and limited shade at mid‑day, but overall it’s a great pick for newer hikers who want real mountain scenery without a punishing climb.
02
Classic summit day
Mount Baden-Powell via Vincent's Gap
High San Gabriel Mountains Above Vincent Gap • High-Altitude Switchback Climb To A Peak • Iconic Summit Route
A sustained switchback climb to one of the San Gabriels’ signature peaks, with sweeping views and cool mountain air.
From Vincent’s Gap, the trail winds through shady forest before tackling about 35 steady switchbacks to the ridge and 9,000‑plus‑foot summit. Plan on roughly 8–9 miles round-trip and close to 3,000 feet of gain, so this is best for hikers comfortable with longer, aerobic days. On clear mornings you’ll get panoramic views over the San Gabriel Valley, plus the novelty of sharing the route with the Pacific Crest Trail along the upper stretch.
03
Best summer heat escape
Icehouse Canyon to Icehouse Saddle
Near Mount Baldy Village • Shaded Canyon And Ridge Hike With Creek • Go-To Moderate Challenge
A classic San Gabriel outing that starts along a bouldery creek and climbs to a breezy saddle ringed by higher peaks.
Beginning near Mount Baldy Village, this route follows Icehouse Creek past cabins and old ruins before tightening into a rocky, pine-filled canyon. The trail then climbs in earnest to Icehouse Saddle, where multiple ridges meet and you can gaze out toward Cucamonga Peak and the inland valleys below. Expect about 7–8 miles round-trip with solid elevation gain; it’s strenuous but manageable for fit hikers, especially if you start early to take advantage of the canyon shade.
04
Big-mountain challenge
Mount Baldy via Devil's Backbone
Mount Baldy Ski Area Above San Gabriel Valley • Alpine-Style Peak Ascent With Airy Ridge • Best For Strong, Experienced Hikers
A demanding loop or out-and-back to the 10,064-foot high point of Los Angeles County, featuring steep grades and a narrow ridgeline.
Many hikers start from the ski area parking and use the ski hut and Devil’s Backbone trails to form a strenuous 8–11 mile outing with close to 4,000 feet of climbing. The route feels surprisingly alpine, with long, exposed stretches above tree line and a knife-edge section along the Backbone where footing and wind demand attention. It’s a standout training hike for bigger objectives, but between altitude, exposure, and loose terrain, it’s best reserved for seasoned hikers who are prepared with layers, plenty of water, and an early start.
05
Best all-day adventure
Bridge to Nowhere via East Fork Trail
East Fork San Gabriel River North Of Azusa • River Canyon Hike With Multiple Crossings • Most Unique Destination Hike
A long, rocky river walk to a surreal concrete bridge stranded deep in the San Gabriel River canyon.
Starting from the East Fork trailhead above Azusa, this popular route spends about 10 miles round-trip weaving between rough use paths and the riverbed itself. You’ll wade the East Fork multiple times, hop boulders, and pass remnants of old road cuts before emerging at the famous arching Bridge to Nowhere. Expect slow going, wet feet, and summer crowds, but the combination of canyon walls, swimming holes, and the unexpected bridge makes this one of the most memorable adventures within an easy drive of Vincent.