Bear Necessity

Some hiking secrets are a bear to keep! With nothing to mark the start of the Bear Divide Trail on the west side of the San Gabriel Mountains, few people know that this secluded trail leads toward a stellar 4,000-foot summit. The peak's elusiveness may be because it was part of an air defense network during the Cold War. See for yourself on a 4.5-mile (round-trip) trek. The trail launches into a steep and challenging climb before tapering to a friendlier grade, ascending a pine-covered slope that offers early views over Santa Clarita and canyons to the north. At the top of the trail you'll reach Santa Clarita Truck Trail just outside a Los Angeles County Fire Department fire suppression camp. Though hiking on pavement may not be desirable, make an exception in this case and take the road through the fire station camp and up to the summit to the west. You'll find striking panoramic views: the high peaks of the San Gabriels dazzle; Antelope Valley serves up a taste of the desert. The Santa Susana and Santa Monica Mountains rise and shine. Even the ocean can be seen on a clear day, along with LA's downtown skyline. Bear hug the big views before returning the way you came.

From I-5 take CA-14 north for 2.6 miles to the Placerita Canyon exit. Go east on Placerita Canyon Rd. for 5 miles, turn right on Sand Canyon Rd. and drive another 3 miles up to an intersection by Bear Divide Picnic Area. Turn right up Santa Clarita Truck Trail and drive 0.2 mile to a dirt pullout, where the trail starts near the road. Hike 1.5 miles up Bear Divide Trail and turn right on the paved road at the top. Walk on the road through the fire station area and then bear left at the split to reach the summit. Dog-friendly!