Altadena and the Sam Merrill Trailhead

 

Altadena is a city with a small-town feel and a diverse community focused on building local businesses. It is located just 14 miles from Los Angeles and features many opportunities for enjoying the outdoors. Residents frequently hike Eaton Canyon, enjoy incredible sunsets along San Gabriel Peak and take in the scenic views of Echo Mountain.

Hiking Trails in Altadena CA

The Sam Merrill Trail is a popular hiking route that leads up Echo Mountain and down to Inspiration Point. It is also a popular route with mountain bikers. The trail starts at the Cobb Estate and is a very easy and dog-friendly hike.

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This trail is one of the most popular trails in the area and has received accolades from both the Los Angeles Times and Sunset Magazine. It is a relatively short and easy hike that takes you through some interesting historical sites, including the ruins of the Mount Lowe Observatory and the Echo Mountain House.

A Walk Through History

The Cobb Estate is a 107-acre property that was once owned by Charles H. Cobb, a lumber magnate and wealthy businessman. It is a place known for its haunted history and has become the site of a number of paranormal occurrences.

You can enter the estate through a gate on Lake Avenue and begin your hike by crossing a ravine and spillway, then following the switchbacks that meander along the edges of the mountains. Bring plenty of water, a hat, sunscreen and a clean-up bag with you on this trail.

For more information, visit the Altadena Parks and Recreation website. The park offers a variety of hiking trails and picnic areas, as well as a range of activities for all ages.

There are a variety of things to do in Altadena, from taking a tour of the infamous Cobb Estate, to walking the famous Christmas Tree Lane on Santa Rosa Ave. Other attractions in the area include Farnsworth Park, Descanso Gardens and Huntington Library Museum and Gardens.

The ruins of Echo Mountain are another popular spot for those who enjoy hiking, and the Middle Sam Merrill Trail takes you up to them in less than two miles. The ruins are located near the top of the mountain and offer incredible views of the California landscape.

Starting at the Cobb Estate, follow Lake Avenue for 0.1 mile to the iron gate and turn east on the trail. This path will then lead you through open chaparral of laurel sumac, sage and scrub oak.

A junction is reached at 2.6 miles where the trail forks left and joins the Mount Lowe Railway Trail. The left fork leads to the ruins of the Mount Lowe Observatory, while the right fork will lead you uphill through some rugged terrain.

The Middle Sam Merrill Trail will then lead you to the ruins of Echo Mountain, where you can take in the incredible views of the surrounding countryside and cityscapes. After you have enjoyed the views, you can head back to the trailhead at the Cobb Estate to complete your day of exploring.