On the Ridge Route trail
On the Canyon Route trail
Text and photography copyright 2011 by David W. Lockeretz, all rights reserved. Information and opinions provided are kept current to the best of the author’s ability. All readers hike at their own risk, and should be aware of the possible dangers of hiking, walking and other outdoor activities. The author does not take any responsibility for injuries sustained during hikes or walks on the routes described here. Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.
Steep Canyon Loop
- Location: Diamond Bar, corner of Steep Canyon Road and Clear Creek Canyon Drive. From the 57 freeway, take the Diamond Bar Blvd. exit go northeast (right) for 3.7 miles. Turn right on Steep Canyon Drive and head uphill. Park on the corner of Steep Canyon Road and Clear Creek Canyon Drive.
- Agency: River & Mountains Conservancy
- Distance: 1.6 miles
- Elevation gain: 600 feet
- Suggested time: 1 hour
- Difficulty rating: PG
- Best season: Year-round
- USGS topo map: “San Dimas”
- More information: here
- Rating: 5
This short but surprisingly challenging loop hike takes in a nice variety of scenery in less than two miles. Although some parts of it are exposed, it’s short enough that it’s doable during the summer, if you plan accordingly.
From the Steep Canyon trailhead, head up the stairs. If there are any doubts about how Steep Canyon got its name, this initial climb up the stairs should lay them to rest. After about a hundred quick feet of elevation gain, look for a single-track trail branching off to the right. (The fire break which continues to ascend in front if you is your return route). The trail follows the side of the hill, descends to a residential area and arrives at the Canyon Route. Head left on the fire road and climb uphill again, past some power lines, and into a wooded area. Here, other than some road noise and the power lines above, the signs of civilization are virtually nil.
The trail levels out for a short distance and then makes another steep climb to a fire road. Head left here, and take an optional spur (signed for the Diamond Bar Center), to a vista point with great views to the east. The fire road continues and becomes the Ridge Route, makes a descent and one final climb to a vista point, where hikers can take a well-earned break on a bench. Here, the scenery includes the San Gabriels, Santa Ana Mountains, Puente Hills and downtown L.A. After you’ve finished enjoying the 360-degree view, you continue the route with a steep descent that takes you back to the staircase.
