Poopout and Punk Out Trails (Big Dalton Canyon)

Location: Angeles National Forest foothills north of Glendora. From L.A. and points west, take I-210 to Grand Avenue. Head north on Grand Avenue for 2.2 miles and turn right on Sierra Madre. Go 2 miles and turn left on Glendora Mountain Road. In 0.6 miles, park on the left side of the road in a dirt turnout just past the intersection with Big Dalton Canyon. From San Bernardino/Riverside, take I-210 to Lone Hill. Turn right on Lone Hill, go a mile and turn left on Foothill. Go 0.5 miles and turn right on Valley Center. Go 0.8 miles and turn left on Sierra Madre. Make a quick right on Glendora Mountain Road and go 0.6 miles to the parking area.
Agency: City of Glendora/Angeles National Forest
Distance: 3 miles
Elevation gain: 1,500 feet
Difficulty Rating: PG-13 (Steepness, elevation gain, terrain)
Suggested time: 2 hours
Best season: November – May
Recommended gear: hiking poles
Dogs: Allowed on leash
Cell phone reception: Good; weak to fair in some spots
Water: None
Restrooms: None
Camping: Available at Big Dalton Canyon Campground
More information: Park map here; AllTrails report here; trip description here; Punk Out Trail Facebook page here
Rating: 6

Since the indefinite closure of the Garcia Trail, this short but challenging hike has become a favorite of San Gabriel Valley and Inland Empire residents in search of a quick, rigorous workout. The essence of this hike is two short but very steep and loose trails: the Poopout and Punk Out. Those who slug out the difficult ascent will be rewarded with panoramic views of the San Gabriel Valley and beyond.

The Poopout Trail wastes no time ascending from the east side (opposite the parking area) of Glendora Mountain Road, gaining more than 500 feet in less than half a mile. Recent rains have caused erosion, adding to the challenge of an already loose and slippery trail. Near the top, you get a short breather before making one final push to meet the Monroe Truck Trail. By this point you have gained 750 feet of elevation in only 0.6 mile.

The next 0.4 mile, on the Monroe Truck Trail, is the eye of the storm, a pleasant jaunt along a ridge that quietly gains another 100 feet. On the right (south) is Big Dalton Canyon; to the left you can see the Lower Monroe Truck Trail’s twisting course. However, straight ahead, the intimidating contour of the Punk Out Trail plunges straight up the ridge, an ominous reminder of the task at hand.

One mile from the start, you reach a wooden marker indicating the start of the Punk Out Trail. The lower part of this trail isn’t too bad – there’s even a brief descent – but much of the work comes in the last 0.3 mile, which gains 400 feet. As with the Poopout Trail, erosion has made the terrain more difficult; unless you have the agility of the acrobat from the film “Ocean’s 11” expect to use your hiking poles. The brutal climb reaches a false summit where the grade becomes a little less severe before rejoining the Monroe Trail.

The views from this spot are predictably impressive, including the San Jose and Puente Hills, downtown L.A. and on clear days, the ocean. If you are up for more climbing, you can continue another 0.2 mile and 100 feet to Summit 2760 or even farther along the Monroe Truck Trail. Otherwise enjoy the view and rest your legs for the steep descent.

Poopout Trail, Glendora, CA — Start of the Poopout Trail

Monroe Truck Trail, Glendora, CA — Monroe Truck Trail above the Poopout Trail

Punk Out Trail, Glendora, CA — Start of the Punk Out Trail

Text and photography copyright 2017 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. By reading this, you agree not to hold the author or publisher of the content on this web site responsible for any injuries or inconveniences that may result from hiking on this trail. Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.