Overview
Mount Williamson is located in the Angeles National Forest. It borders on The Devils Punchbowl, The San Gabriel Mountains, The San Andreas Rift Zone and The Mojave Desert. This makes it a semi-popular place for hikers to enjoy an amazing view of many interesting locations. It's distance from the general population helps to keep the numbers lower than in the front range of the San Gabriels.
From the summit and the Pleasant View Ridge, you can see the remains of a C-119 that crashed into Pallet Mountain in 1966. Be warned, the hike to the crash is a lot harder than it appears. Be sure to bring plenty of water and plan for a much longer day if you plan to make the extended trek to the crash site. Please also be respectful of the site.
Getting There
There are two trailheads along Angeles Crest HWY(SR2)and another at South Fork Campgound, on the the north side.
The Kratka Ridge trailhead is located between Eagles Roost picnic area and the two tunnels. This portion of the Pacific Crest Trail climbs the southwest ridge. The second trailhead along Hwy2 starts at Islip Saddle. Another portion of the PCT, this trail takes you up the east side of Mt Williamson.
The third option is to start from South Fork Campground(4540'). Take HWY 138 to Pearblossom. Turn south on Longview road. Turn east on East Avenue 'W'/ Valyermo Rd. Follow Valyermo Rd for approximately 8 miles to Big Rock Creek Rd. Follow Big Rock Creek Rd to turn off for South Fork Campground, approximately 4 miles from Valyermo Rd. One more mile leeds to parking and the campground. The South Fork Trail Climbs up to Islip Saddle adding 5.2 miles to the hike from the saddle, a total of 7.3 miles one way.
Red Tape
A Wilderness Aventure Pass is required for any parked vehicle.
Currently, a permit is required for the use of stoves outside of developed sites and open fires are restricted to developed sites only. Incase of changes on current permit requirments, check the Ageles Natl Forest site.
When To Climb
Spring through Fall are the most accessable. But even in winter the trail up from *Kratka Ridge stays pretty much snow free due to southern exposure.
*Unnamed Saddle Route.
Camping
There are a few good spots big and flat enoug for tents on the south ridge. There is also South Fork Campground at the begging of the Big Rock Creek trail. This is an additional 5.2 mile (oneway) hike to the summit.
Mountain Conditions
Current weather conditions can also be found on the NWS site.
For up-to-date road information contact Cal-Trans at 1-800-427-7623.
External LinksImages
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