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.
Glendora Mountain
- Location: Angeles National Forest north of Glendora. From the 210 freeway, take the Lone Hill exit and go north for 1.1 miles. Turn left on Foothill Blvd and go 0.5 miles. Turn right on Valley Center, go 0.8 miles and turn left on Sierra Madre, and take an immediate right on Glendora Mountain Road. Drive a total of 8.2 miles on Glendora Mountain Road and park in a turnout just past mile marker 6.51, on a saddle between two deep canyons, across the street from a big pine tree. According to the trip report listed (see link below), a National Forest Service Adventure Pass ($5 for a day or $30 for the year) is required, although there is no sign indicating that at the parking area. Trail head coordinates are N 34 11.966, W 117 49.666.
- Agency: Angeles National Forest
- Distance: 2 miles
- Elevation gain: 500 feet
- Difficulty Rating: PG
- Suggested time: 1.5 hours
- Best season: Year round (Hot during the summer)
- USGS topo map: Glendora
- Recommended gear: hiking poles
; sun hat
; long pants
- More information: here; Everytrail report here
- Rating: 6
Glendora Mountain is a “sky island” of sorts in the foothills above Big Dalton Canyon. At 3,322 feet, it’s high enough above the San Gabriel Valley to provide a bit of an escape from summer heat, providing nice views of Mt. Baldy and the Ontario/Cucamonga Ridge to the east and the San Gabriel Canyon below.
There’s no formal trail leading from the road to the peak, but the footsteps of hikers have worn a path across the ridge. It is overgrown in spots (long pants are recommended) and the exact route is poorly defined, but navigation shouldn’t be an issue: the peak is visible from the road, and the road is visible from the peak. Expect that the route there and back won’t match exactly.
From the turnout, follow the highway in the direction from which you came, carefully making your way across the saddle (there’s no shoulder or sidewalk so you pretty much have to walk in the street, but cars are few and far between). Look for a steep, loose fire break heading uphill to the left of the road, first west and then bending south.
Most of the climbing happens in the first 0.2 miles as you ascend to the ridge, which divides two deep canyons. On your right, you can see the Morris Reservoir far below. The ridge descends, goes over two more small bumps and finally makes its final climb to the rounded summit of Glendora Mountain (elevation 3,322 feet). From the peak, you get a nice view of the San Gabriel Valley, the canyons and the higher summits.
Wonderful little hike!