Stone Canyon to Mt. Lukens

6 of the 7 Ramblers who ascended Mt. Lukens via the Stone Canyon trail on Saturday 12/6.

Despite a locked gate at the Wildwood Picnic gathering point assembled Bramblers were able to start up the Stone Canyon trail by 8:15 and summit between 10:15-10:45 AM.

Water level in Big Tujunga creek was low enough that we were able to scramble across without wading and we walked up the Stone Canyon wash until we located the trail to the west. Next time we'll go straight to the trail head - it's not a well marked as it could be!

The trail itself is partly shaded bu overhanging foliage and has a moderate incline. It's just rather long at 3.5 miles to gain the 3000' feet of elevation before coming out on the flat top of the mountain.

We're still waiting for Mike's GPS watch to dump its KML goodies. Look forward to that and photos from other Bramblers.

Next hike - Strawberry Peak on Saturday 12/20.


Sun on the final approach to the summit

Mt Lukens - Highest Point in LA City Limits

The Brand Ramblers hike Saturday December 6 to the highest point in Los Angeles city limits, Mt. Lukens at 5074 feet.

• Start Time: 7:30 AM, Saturday 12/6
• Trailhead: Wildwood Picnic Area in the Angeles National Forest (6 miles up Big Tujunga Canyon road from Sunland).
• Duration: Approximately 4-5 hours
• Distance: 8.5 Miles
• Elevation Gain: 3200 feet
• Total Elevation: 5074 feet

Brand Ramblers Google map for the Mt. Lukens hike

Checklist:

• Assemble at 7:30 AM at the Wildwood Picnic area. Plan to arrive early so we can start the trek on time. Cell phone reception in the Big Tujunga wash is terrible so you should not expect to call ahead about running late. Give yourself some extra time - you can use it to warm up and stretch before the hike.
• All cars will need a Angeles National Forest Adventure pass (either a day pass or annual pass). Day passes are $5 and Ken will be picking up passes at the Big 5 sporting goods store in Glendale on Friday - just let him know if you need one before noon Friday.
• To reach the Stone Canyon trail we need to cross the Big Tujunga creek which usually entails wading across. Removing your foot gear and rolling up pants works well but you might want to wear shorts to make this easier. Some Bramblers may bring trekking poles and these can be shared for the crossing.
• Gear: Good hiking shoes, hats, sun glasses, trek poles, etc. and dress in layers as it is expected to be chilly in the morning and warming up later in the morning.
• Food & Water: Bring at least 1-2 liters of water and some snack food. The usual suspects will be bringing extra snacks including smoked sausages to share.
• Car Pooling: Confirm your attendance by contacting Ken before Friday afternoon. If we can carpool we can save on the Adventure Passes and at least one USC area Brambler still needs a ride.
  

Some reviews of the hike:
LocalHikes.com
ModernHiker blog