Mt. Waterman Trail #10W04

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Features Spring · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Adventure Pass required to park at the Three Points Trailhead. There are two official Mt. Waterman Trails. This trail (10W04) is formally named "Mt. Waterman Trail #1". The trail from Buckhorn to the summit is "Mt. Waterman Trail #2".

This is a remote trail up the south side of Waterman Mountain that starts from the junction with the Pacific Crest Trail. From the Three Points Trailhead off Angeles Crest Highway (it is reached by following a short part of Sulphur Springs Road) follow the PCT down to the highway, cross it safely, then proceed up the south side for 0.2 miles to the trail junction.

The trail starts in a section shaded by oaks, enters the wilderness, then climbs a series of switchbacks with limited shade. Most of the trees burned in the Station Fire (2009) and recovery is very slow. After 1.5 miles the trail turns east with views of Twin Peaks and Devils Canyon to the south and the Mt. Wilson area to the west.

It meanders along the south-facing slope of Mt. Waterman with occasional shade from Jeffrey pines and incense cedars. At 3.5 miles, there is a nice meadow with a spring which makes a good destination. About 4 miles the trail begins to descend and reaches a junction in 5 miles with the Twin Peaks Trail #10W04.A. This spur trail passes a delightful spring in just 0.2 miles (a worthwhile detour) then steeply descends to Twin Peaks Saddle in a mile.

Keep left at the junction and the trail begins a steep climb with many switchbacks. The trail ends at the junction with the Mt. Waterman Trail #10W05. To reach the summit, take the left fork and proceed another 1.5 miles to the summit. The right fork leads back to the Buckhorn Trailhead in 2 miles.

Jeffrey and sugar pines, live oaks, incense cedars provide limited shade. Nice wildflowers in spring. A good place to see deer and bighorn sheep, especially early or late in the day.