Local Hikes: Observatory Road

My knee has been giving me trouble lately, and as a result I have needed to take it easy on hiking.  Yesterday I felt up to trying something easy, so my husband and I opted to "hike" Observatory Road (Or, at least this is what I have always heard it called.  I am not sure if this is the real name).  I use the term hike sparingly; it's more like a meandering walk with rolling hills, and just a couple steep portions.  We usually use this road when we feel like running (something my knee definitely can't take right now), and I have had friends who like it to run with a jogging stroller since it is paved and wide.  It's also a great trail for mountain biking.  In all honesty, I am not sure as to what the rules are for being on this trail since it is there for access to JPL Observatory.  If there were ever issues with using this trail there are several hiking trails that intersect the road anyways, so it would be easy to enjoy the area but just avoid the paved road.

Paved path, wide and open, sweeping vistas; what more could you ask for?

The walk to the top from the turnout is 3 miles.  Once at the top, there is a radio tower and an observatory building.  Please do not mess with these buildings!  I want to continue to enjoy the area, and I would hate for access to be shut down due to irresponsible visitors.  {rant now over}

The trail provides 360 degree views.  In the beginning of the walk, there are views of Mountain High East ski resort, and as you continue there are views of the San Gabriels to the South.  Once you meander away from this (and are almost to the top), you will find views of the desert to the North, including portions of the San Bernardino Mountains.  Something that my husband pointed out as being interesting is that you are in a Yellow Pine Forest most of the walk (you know- Jeffery Pines, Ponderosa Pines- basically all the trees you find in the town of Wrightwood), but as you reach the top (and are at a higher elevation) you find yourself among Pinion Pines.  The desert really does meet the mountains at this point, and with views of the desert for miles, you really feel you are indeed on the edge of these two plant communities.  {botany rant now over}

During the summers we like to use this trail for a night hike on a full moon.  There is less chance of tripping over a root, etc. on this smooth trail.  During the day, bring plenty of water since there is a fair amount of sun exposure on this trail.

To get to this road/trail, drive up Table Mountain Road from Highway 2 (this is where there is a fork in the road at Mountain High West; Table Mountain Road is the fork on the right).  Wind up this road, once you have a good view of Mountain High West, pull over in the large turnout.  Park here and walk on the gated road to the East.

Overall, this is a great trail if you would rather "take it easy," or if you want to bike or run it.  The elevation is pretty high (about 8,000 feet), so its great for training for 5k's or 10k's.  Keep your eye out for wildlife!  We always see at least some red-tailed hawks flying around our heads.

Happy trails!