Burkhart Trailhead

Overview: Access to Pleasant View Ridge

This trailhead in the San Gabriel high country is the southern end of the Burkhart Trail and provides access to the beautiful miles-long ridge known as Pleasant View Ridge overlooking the great Mojave Desert. This prominent ridge is separated from the main body of the San Gabriel range by a desert bound drainage, Little Rock Creek.



Pleasant View Ridge rises from the Mojave desert starting near Juniper Hills and winds southeasterly until reaching its end at 8,214’ Mt. Williamson. Three miles along the ridge northwest of Mt. Williamson, there is a distinct gap on the crest between Will Thrall Peak and Pallett Mountain known as Burkhart Saddle (6,959’).

The 7,893 foot summit of the mountain known as Pleasant View Ridge is a little more than a mile from Burkhart Saddle. The other accessible peaks along the ridge are Will Thrall Peak, Pallet Mountain and Mt. Williamson.



Pleasant View Ridge

To get to Pleasant View Ridge, take the Burkhart Trail from the trailhead to the junction with the Rattlesnake Trail just after crossing Little Rock Creek (about 2 miles from the trailhead). The continuation of the Burkhart Trail going north is to the left. Stay on the Burkhart Trail. The Rattlesnake Trail to the right (east) proceeds into a closed endangered species area that ends at Eagles Roost Picnic Area so stay off of it. From this junction with the Rattlesnake Trail, it is 3 miles to Burkhart Saddle and to the use trails on Pleasant View Ridge.

Cooper Canyon

This trailhead also provides access to Cooper Canyon and the Cooper Canyon Trail Camp to the west. The signed Cooper Canyon Trail intersects the Burkhart Trail on your left 1.75 miles from the trailhead and about ¼ mile before the junction with the Rattlesnake Trail.

Driving Directions

From the 210 Freeway, exit at Angeles Crest Hwy (SR 2) and go north. At 9.5 miles, you will come to the Clear Creek Information Station and the junction with Angeles Forest Highway. Continue straight and in 4.5 more miles you will pass the junction with the Mt. Wilson Road at the Red Box Ranger Station and trailhead. Continue on SR2 for 20 more miles to Buckhorn Campground. The campground entrance is about ½ mile past the Mt. Waterman Ski Area. Be looking for the entrance on your left as it can be easy to miss. Proceed into the campground and follow the signs to the day use parking area, about .8 miles from the entrance. The trailhead is at the north end of the parking area.

Red Tape

You will need an Adventure Pass or Golden Eagle Pass to park in the Buckhorn Campground day use area. These passes can be purchased ($5 per day or $30 for a yearly pass) at forest service visitor information stations located along SR2 or at major southern California sporting goods outlets.

When to Visit

This trailhead can be accessed virtually year-round. During the winter, depending on the snow level, you may need 4-wheel drive or chains for your vehicle. Check forecast information in local newspapers or internet weather services during the winter months. Check with the California Department of Transportation (CALTRANS) (see link below) on road conditions and closures during the winter.

Trailhead Amenities

The trailhead is located near the east end of a campground with 35 developed campsites. Currently, the sites are $12 per night. The campground is open April 1 through November 30.

Other Information

USGS Topos Waterman Mountain 7.5 Juniper Hills 7.5

Tom Harrison Angeles High Country Trail Map (1:63,360 scale)

San Gabriel Mtns. Recreation Topo Map (1:62,500 scale), Western Section
(Angeles National Forest and the Verdugo Mountains) by Fine Edge Productions

External Links

Angeles National Forest

Adventure Pass information

California Dept. of Transportation

Images

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