San Gabriel Mountains National Monument
San Gabriel Mountains National Monument
The 20 Most Amazing Peaks in San Gabriel Mountains National Monument
Best mountain peaks in San Gabriel Mountains National Monument offer diverse experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. This region features a collection of impressive peaks, including the highest point in Los Angeles County. The landscape provides varied terrain, from challenging ascents to trails with panoramic views of the surrounding areas. The San Gabriel Mountains are a prominent natural feature visible from the Los Angeles metropolitan area.
Best mountain peaks in San Gabriel Mountains National Monument
- The most popular mountain peaks include Mount San Antonio ("Mt. Baldy"), a summit that is the highest peak in the San Gabriel Mountains at 10,064 feet (3,068 meters). It is known for its treeless summit and is a popular destination for strenuous hiking.
- Another must-see spot is Strawberry Peak, a summit accessible via moderate trails or more challenging routes involving scrambling. It offers views over the Angeles National Forest.
- Visitors also love Mount Baden-Powell, a summit and the fourth highest peak in the San Gabriel Mountains at 9,406 feet (2,867 meters). It features over 40 switchbacks and is part of the Pacific Crest Trail.
- San Gabriel Mountains National Monument is known for summits, viewpoints, and challenging trails. The area offers a variety of mountain peaks to see and explore, ranging from intermediate to challenging difficulty.
- The mountain peaks in San Gabriel Mountains National Monument are appreciated by the komoot community, with 10 upvotes and 36 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: April 24, 2026
Mount San Antonio ("Mt. Baldy")
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Strawberry Peak
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Colby Canyon Trail
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Josephine Peak Road
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Josephine Peak also is a great spot to look over Los Angeles and catch the sunset.
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Devil's Backbone Trail
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Mount Baden-Powell
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Since it is very close to the Pacific Crest Trail, you should always take the short side trail to the summit. You will find a monument and stunning views over Los Angeles.
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Mount Islip
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Waterman Mountain
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Vetter Mountain Fire Lookout Tower
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Smith Mountain
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Popular around San Gabriel Mountains National Monument
Pacific Crest Trail from Mexico to Canada โ 4,200 kilometres of wilderness
Hiking in San Gabriel Mountains National Monument
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Cycling in San Gabriel Mountains National Monument
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Tips from the Community
difficult but beautiful trail..less traffic during the week and very early in the morning.
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Josephine Road leads all the way up to a connection with the Strawberry Spur and Strawberry Peak Trails. The gravel road is rarely used, so you can be confident that you will find some calmness there. Josephine Peak also is a great spot to look over Los Angeles and catch the sunset.
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This is a stunning well maintained trail. multiple micro climates. You cross a stream a few times thus plan ahead for rainy days as they are near the bottom and it would suck if they were impassable.
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Mount San Antonio, also known as Old Baldy or Mount Baldy, is the highest peak in the San Gabriel Mountains at 10,069 feet (3,069 m) and the highest point in Los Angeles County, California. The sometimes snow-capped summit of Mount San Antonio is also visible in Los Angeles on clear days and is a dominant sight from the city.
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Mount San Antonio is also called Mount Baldy because of its treeless summit. The summit is at 10,064 feet, or 3,068 meters. Mount San Antonia gets an average of 130 inches of snow per year. In the winter, some suit up with ice axes and crampons and climb in the snow.
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Mount San Antonio is also called Mount Baldy because of its treeless summit. The summit is at 10,064 feet, or 3,068 meters. Mount San Antonia gets an average of 130 inches of snow per year. In the winter, some suit up with ice axes and crampons and climb in the snow.
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The Devils Backbone Trail is one of the most popular trails to summit Mount San Antonio (Mt. Baldy). Unlike the other most popular trail, the Baldy Bowl, or Ski Hut, Trail this trail is longer and more gradual making for a somewhat easier, but still very challenging experience. You also get amazing views off of the exposed ridge line as you hike up to the tallest point in Los Angeles County.
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At 8,041 feet, Waterman Mountain is the highest point in the San Gabriel Wilderness and marks the northern boundary of the wilderness. There are a couple small ski areas on its northern side and its summit can be accessed either via roads and trails associated with these ski areas or from the PCT. You get nice views from the top of this relatively flat, treed summit and there it frequently snow in the spring and into the early summer. Even though it is a tall peak, you will probably only encounter one or two other hikers, so its a fantastic place to escape the LA crowds and enjoy the fresh mountain air.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some notable mountain peaks in the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument?
The San Gabriel Mountains National Monument features several impressive peaks. Among the most prominent are Mount San Antonio ("Mt. Baldy"), the highest peak in the range, Mount Baden-Powell, known for its Pacific Crest Trail section, and Strawberry Peak, offering views over the Angeles National Forest.
What is the highest peak in the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument?
The highest peak in the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument, and indeed in Los Angeles County, is Mount San Antonio, often called "Mt. Baldy." It reaches an elevation of 10,064 feet (3,068 meters) and is recognizable by its treeless summit.
Are there challenging hikes to mountain peaks in the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument?
Yes, many peaks offer challenging ascents. For example, the trails to Mount San Antonio ("Mt. Baldy"), such as the Baldy Bowl Trail and the Devil's Backbone Trail, involve significant elevation gains. Mount Baden-Powell also features a challenging hike with over 40 switchbacks.
What kind of views can I expect from the peaks in the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument?
The peaks offer diverse and expansive views. From Mount Islip, you can enjoy panoramic vistas of the Crystal Lake basin, the San Gabriel Valley, the Los Angeles Basin, and the Mojave Desert. Mount Baden-Powell provides stunning views over the San Gabriels, the Mojave Desert, and the Iron Fork of the San Gabriel River.
Do any peaks in the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument have historical significance?
Yes, some peaks have historical elements. Mount Baden-Powell is named after the founder of Scouting, and a monument honoring him stands at its summit. Mount Islip, named after an early pioneer, once housed a fire lookout tower, and its ruins are still visible at the summit.
When is the best time to visit the mountain peaks in the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument?
The peaks are popular year-round, but the best time depends on your activity. Warmer months are ideal for strenuous hiking. In winter, peaks like Mount San Antonio ("Mt. Baldy") receive significant snow, attracting climbers with ice axes and crampons. Always check weather conditions, as some peaks can have snow into early summer.
Are there family-friendly options for exploring the peaks?
While many peaks involve challenging hikes, there are easier trails and areas suitable for families. For example, the Easy hikes in San Gabriel Mountains National Monument guide lists routes like the one to Strawberry Peak from Redbox, which can be manageable for younger kids.
What unique natural features can be found on these peaks?
Beyond the panoramic views, you can find unique natural features. On Mount Baden-Powell, hikers can observe ancient limber pines, including the 1,500-year-old "Wally Waldron Tree," near the summit. Mount San Antonio ("Mt. Baldy") is notable for its treeless summit, which gives it its distinctive name.
What outdoor activities can I do near these mountain peaks?
The San Gabriel Mountains National Monument offers a wide range of outdoor activities. Besides hiking to the peaks, you can explore numerous trails for cycling or more relaxed walks. Check out the Hiking in San Gabriel Mountains National Monument guide or the Cycling in San Gabriel Mountains National Monument guide for detailed routes and options.
Are there less crowded peaks for a more peaceful experience?
Yes, if you're looking for solitude, Mount Islip is noted for being less crowded than some other popular peaks, offering a more peaceful hiking experience. Waterman Mountain is also known for being less trafficked, providing a fantastic escape from crowds.
What do visitors enjoy the most about the mountain peaks in San Gabriel Mountains National Monument?
Visitors frequently highlight the outstanding summit views and the rewarding challenge of the hikes. Many appreciate the opportunity to experience snow in winter on peaks like Mount San Antonio ("Mt. Baldy"), while others enjoy the stunning vistas over Los Angeles and the Mojave Desert from various viewpoints. The sense of accomplishment after a strenuous climb is also a common theme.
Can I access the Pacific Crest Trail from these peaks?
Yes, several peaks and trails in the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument connect with or are part of the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT). A significant portion of the trail to Mount Baden-Powell follows the PCT, and Mount Islip can be summited as a detour from the iconic PCT that runs nearby.
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