Mt. Lowe Railway & Inspiration Point

Please bring a Face mask we will be Practicing Social Distancing.
Hand sanitizer helps as well. This is a LONG hike bring at least 3 liters of water.

This is a moderate hike which includes the historic Mt. Lowe Railway, "Ye Alpine Tavern", Inspiration Point and the famed Echo Mountain. We will meet at the top of Lake St. in Altadena at 6:50 AM to begin our hike up the Sam Merrill Trail at 7:00 am. The Sam Merrill Trail switchbacks up the east wall of Las Flores Canyon about 2.5 miles to the intersection of the Echo Mountain Trail - the beginning of the loop - where we will turn left and follow the old rail bed of the Mount Lowe Railway to the former site of “Ye Alpine Tavern” for a brief stop and restroom break.{ 4 miles } From there we will follow the fire road to the pavilion at Inspiration Point where we can enjoy the view while having a snack/lunch break. From Inspiration Point we will take the Middle Sam Merrill Trail about 2 miles down to Echo Mountain for a short break to visit this historic site. Those who do not want to stop at Echo Mountain may continue back down the Sam Merrill trail to the Cobb Estate at the top of Lake where we started.11 miles over all.

Directions: Take the 210 Freeway towards Pasadena, get off on Lake St., go North until Lake St. ends and meets with Loma Alta Dr. On the right side where it ends is the gate to the trail head where we will meet.

Things to bring: Comfortable hiking shoes (this is a long hike), ample water,3 litters, Sun screen, some type of nutrition bar (or similar) for the hike up and something for the snack/lunch break at Inspiration Point.

Stats: 11.4 miles – 5 miles to/from the loop and 6.4 loop miles. 2800’ elevation gain/loss Total time expected to be about 6 hours.

Liability: The Organizer, Assistant Organizers and event hosts in this group are not professional guides. The function of the organizer is only to organize the trip. Each person who signs up for a trip/meetup/or outing is responsible for his or her own safety and the safety of his or her guests. By signing up for a hike, or any other event organized by this group, you are acknowledging that you are aware and have made your guests aware of the risks, dangers and hazards associated with any outdoor activity and freely accept and fully assume all such risks, dangers and hazards, and further agree to release and discharge the Organizer, Assistant Organizers and event hosts of this Meetup Group from and against any and all liability arising from your and your guest s participation in the group activities.