1.6 hr
Overview
The Upper Sam Merrill Trail, also called the "Mt. Lowe West Trail", starts along the Mt. Lowe Road #2N50 about 0.3 miles north of the junction with the Muir Peak Road #2N50.A, Middle Sam Merrill Trail 12W14.2 and Idlehour Trail 12W16. It should not be confused with the Mt. Lowe East Connector Trail, just 50' feet south, that leads to the Mt. Lowe East Trail 12W14.3A. It climbs moderately along the west side of Mt. Lowe with occasional shade from oak, bigcone spruce, and bay trees. <br><br>The trail ascends a series of switchbacks and reaches a junction with a spur trail to the summit of Mt. Lowe. The trail contours around the north side and reaches a junction with the Mt. Lowe East Trail 12W14.3A. From there, it goes north to a saddle where a very popular use trail leads to the summit of Mt. Markham. <br><br>Finally, it parallels Mt. Lowe Road #2N50 to the end at Markham Saddle. Mt. Lowe Road #2N50 can be taken another 0.5 miles to reach the parking area at Eaton Saddle.
Trail Stats
3.7 km
327 m
1685 m
1389 m
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Photos
Historical information on top of Mt. Lowe.
Historical information on top of Mt. Lowe.
Summit of Mt. Lowe
Summit of Mt. Lowe
Mt. Lowe East and Upper Sam Merrill Trail junction.
Mt. Lowe East and Upper Sam Merrill Trail junction.
San Gabriel Peak (left) and Mt. Markam (right) with Upper Sam Merrill Trail.
San Gabriel Peak (left) and Mt. Markam (right) with Upper Sam Merrill Trail.
Upper Bear Canyon with Brown Mountain
Upper Bear Canyon with Brown Mountain