Mount Islip Trail
Ascend to 8,250+ feet for breathtaking 360° views of the San Gabriel Mountains, including Crystal Lake. A rewarding moderate hike.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom, fewer crowds
Mount Islip Trail
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ascend to 8,250+ feet for breathtaking 360° views of the San Gabriel Mountains, including Crystal Lake. A rewarding moderate hike.
"Great summit! One of my favorite areas to hike. You can get off track due to a sign near the campground."
Adventure Pass Needed
:ticket: Purchase an Adventure Pass before heading up for parking.
Check Snow Conditions
:snowflake: North face can have packed snow/ice; check conditions before you go.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mount Islip Summit
Mount Islip Peak
Reach 8,250+ feet for breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of the surrounding San Gabriel Mountains.
Little Jimmy Campground
On the trail to Mount Islip
A charming stopover point, perfect for a break or as part of a longer exploration of the area.
Crystal Lake Views
From Mount Islip Peak
Enjoy scenic vistas of Crystal Lake and the expansive Angeles National Forest.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Conditions & Gear
Best Starting Point
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Adventure Pass Needed
:ticket: Purchase an Adventure Pass before heading up for parking.
Check Snow Conditions
:snowflake: North face can have packed snow/ice; check conditions before you go.
360° Summit Views
:camerawithflash: The summit offers incredible panoramic views, perfect for photos.
Trail Navigation
:round_pushpin: Signs near campground can be confusing; follow PCT or walk through Little Jimmy.
Tips
from all over the internet
Adventure Pass Needed
:ticket: Purchase an Adventure Pass before heading up for parking.
Check Snow Conditions
:snowflake: North face can have packed snow/ice; check conditions before you go.
360° Summit Views
:camerawithflash: The summit offers incredible panoramic views, perfect for photos.
Trail Navigation
:round_pushpin: Signs near campground can be confusing; follow PCT or walk through Little Jimmy.
Solo Hike Potential
:woman_hiking: You might have the trail to yourself, especially on weekday mornings.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Mount Islip Trail is praised for its accessible summit and stunning 360-degree views, making it a favorite for many. Hikers appreciate the moderate difficulty and the chance to enjoy nature away from the city. Some find trail navigation slightly confusing near the campground, and preparedness for variable weather, especially snow, is advised.
"Great summit! One of my favorite areas to hike. I recommend passing through Little Jimmy on the way to or from here."
Mark English
"Easy hike / summit. Hiked the PCT/service road up and then walked the closed section of 2 back to the trailhead. Good view of the surrounding area including Crystal Lake."
Shelby Grochowski
"Nice weather in mid October. Great views for a majority of the hike. I started from Islip Saddle. You can get off track due to a sign near the campground appearing to direct towards the PCT trail when in fact you need to walk thru Little Jimmy Campground"
Justin Lewis
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common trailhead is Islip Saddle, located near the intersection of CA-2 and CA-39 in the Angeles National Forest. Parking is available there.
Yes, you can drive to Islip Saddle. The roads leading to the trailhead are generally well-maintained, but it's always good to check current road conditions before you go.
While the trail is generally well-marked, some hikers recommend using a map or GPS device. Pay attention to signs, especially near Little Jimmy Campground, as they can sometimes be misleading.
Road conditions can change, especially during winter months. It's advisable to check the Angeles National Forest website or local ranger district for any current road closures or advisories before your trip.
While Islip Saddle is the most popular, other access points might exist depending on your route. However, for a direct hike to the summit, Islip Saddle is the recommended starting point.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You will need an Adventure Pass for parking at the Islip Saddle trailhead. These can be purchased online or at various outdoor retailers.
The trail is generally open year-round during daylight hours. However, access may be restricted due to weather conditions, especially snow and ice.
The primary cost is for the Adventure Pass, which is typically around $5 for a day pass. There are no entrance fees for the trail itself.
No, tickets are not required for Mount Islip Trail. You only need to ensure you have a valid Adventure Pass displayed in your vehicle.
Yes, parking at Islip Saddle requires a valid Adventure Pass, which must be displayed on your vehicle.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The hike to Mount Islip is generally considered moderate. It involves some elevation gain, but the trail is well-maintained and not overly technical.
The hike typically takes about 3-4 hours roundtrip, depending on your pace and how long you spend at the summit.
You'll be rewarded with stunning 360-degree panoramic views of the San Gabriel Mountains, including Crystal Lake and the surrounding wilderness.
Yes, it's a great hike for beginners looking for a rewarding summit experience with incredible views. Just be prepared for the elevation gain.
Restroom facilities are typically available at the Islip Saddle trailhead. There are no facilities along the trail itself.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers the most spectacular 360-degree views, making it the prime location for photography. The trail itself also provides scenic opportunities. +1
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for landscape photography. Midday can be harsh but still offers clear, expansive views.
Drone usage in national forests is subject to specific regulations. It's essential to check the Angeles National Forest's drone policy before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the panoramic views. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating distant peaks. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light shots.
Keep an eye out for interesting rock formations, native flora, and the changing light as you ascend. The views of Crystal Lake are also a popular subject.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of snacks and water for the kids, and encourage them to explore the natural surroundings. The summit views are a great reward for their efforts, and the sense of accomplishment can be very empowering. Remember to purchase an Adventure Pass for parking at Islip Saddle.
Solo Hikers & Peace Seekers
This trail offers a great opportunity for introspection and enjoying the quiet beauty of the mountains. The well-defined path and moderate difficulty allow you to focus on the experience without excessive navigational stress. Just be sure to inform someone of your hiking plans and carry essential safety gear.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Trail and Conditions
Conditions on the trail can vary significantly with the seasons. During colder months, the north face of the mountain, particularly between 7100 and 7600 feet, can be covered in packed snow and ice. This necessitates appropriate gear such as sturdy hiking boots with good traction. As you ascend above this elevation, the snow often diminishes. Always check recent trail reports and weather forecasts before your hike, especially if you plan to visit during winter or early spring.
An Adventure Pass is mandatory for parking at Islip Saddle. These passes can be purchased online or at local outdoor recreation stores. Ensure the pass is clearly displayed in your vehicle to avoid any citations.
The Summit Experience and Views
Many hikers describe the summit as a peaceful place to relax and soak in the scenery. The relatively short distance and moderate difficulty make it an accessible peak for many, including families. The feeling of accomplishment combined with the breathtaking vistas makes the effort well worth it.
For photographers, the summit is a dream. The expansive views offer endless possibilities, from grand landscapes to capturing distant peaks. Golden hour – the period shortly after sunrise or before sunset – provides the most dramatic and flattering light for your shots.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit