Mount Disappointment

This is a short steep trail in the San Gabriel Mountains that starts from Mount Wilson Highway, 1/2 mile north of Red Box ranger station and ends at the summit of Mount Disappointment. The trail is about 3 miles long with an altitude gain of 1200 feet. Starting altitude is 4760 feet.

A scenic view toward the North West.

A view toward the East from just below the summit. We have gained a lot of altitude! The tiny ribbon in the foreground is the Mount Wilson Highway that we started from. The valley heading toward the right is the West end of the San Gabriel West Fork trail.
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A panoramic view at the top of Mount Disappointment. At one time, this was a Nike missile site. It has since been converted into a radio relay site although some of the original buildings are still here. The Los Angeles basis is directly below. Click here for a larger view. (Elevation 5971 feet). San Gabriel Peak, Mount Markham and Mount Lowe (Mount Lowe bike trail) are visible in the distance.
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Click here to find out what happens when you try to take creative pictures while oxygen starved at high altitudes.

Other connecting trails in this area include the Mount Lowe and West Fork trails.

Rating: * * * *
Maps: topo
Season: Spring and Fall
Difficulty: Strenuous.
Hazards: Environment.

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