Echo Mountain via Sam Merrill Trail

Route Description for Echo Mountain via Sam Merrill Trail

If you are looking to take in the natural beauty of the San Gabriel Mountains of Southern California, then the Echo Mountain via Sam Merrill Trail is a great route to explore; however, there are also a few downsides to hiking this trail. As the area sees fairly high volumes of foot traffic, you will want to ensure that you arrive early to secure parking and beat the crowds. Additionally, you will need to display a valid adventure pass in your vehicle prior to starting your hike.

Even though you will almost certainly be sharing the trail with other adventurers, this hike is a great experience that will showcase the history and natural beauty of Angeles National Forest. For starters, you will hike past the ruins of the Echo Mountain House, which was once a luxury resort in the area for the wealthy. You will also be exposed to some incredible views from the summit of Echo Mountain itself, making for a great day-hike that is accessible for a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts.

Setting out from the trailhead, you will make your way east to enter the Cobb Estate and pass through the gate after roughly 30 m. From here, you will keep straight along the Sam Merrill Trail, continuing to the east for another 0.3 km to cross over Las Flores Creek.

Here, the trail will begin to climb uphill and turn to the northeast, working through the rugged terrain of the mountains for the next 1.7 km. At this point, you will turn left at a junction and continue along the path for another 2.2 km, enjoying the pleasant views of the surrounding landscape.

At the next junction, keep to the right as you pass by the ruins of the former Mount Lowe Observatory and the ruins of what was once the Echo Mountain House luxury resort. Shortly after the ruins, you will continue uphill to the summit of Echo Mountain, where you will enjoy some beautiful views of the Southern California landscape. From here, simply turn back and work your way downhill to return to the trailhead where you began your adventure up Echo Mountain via the Sam Merrill Trail.

Trail Highlights

Ruins of Echo Mountain House

Opening in 1894 along the newly built Mount Lowe Railway, Echo Mountain House was a luxury resort that served wealthy tourists looking to explore the San Gabriel Mountains. It contained 80 rooms, a dance hall, casino, astronomical observatory, and even a zoo. Several setbacks eventually led to its closure, including two fires and the government realization that the railway was built on Federal lands. The ruins can still be seen by hikers passing through the area.