Windy Gap, Mount Islip, and Big Cienega Trail
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Windy Gap, Mount Islip, and Big Cienega Trail
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The Windy Gap, Mount Islip, and Big Cienega Trail is a rough and rocky trail in Angeles National Forest that traverses a rugged summit for amazing views. While out on the trail, you will climb uphill to the Windy Gap and track west to reach the stunning viewpoint atop Mount Islip, before a downhill return along the Big Cienega Trail. Microspikes/crampons and hiking poles will be needed if you plan on completing this trail during the colder months when ice and snow will be present along the trail.
Getting there
The trailhead for the Windy Gap, Mount Islip, and Big Cienega Trail can be found at the Crystal Lake Campground at the end of Crystal Lake Road.
About
| Backcountry Campground | Crystal Lake Campground |
| When to do | March-October |
| Pets allowed | Yes - On Leash |
| Family friendly | Older Children only |
| Route Signage | Average |
| Crowd Levels | Moderate |
| Route Type | Lollipop |
Windy Gap, Mount Islip, and Big Cienega Trail
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Windy Gap, Mount Islip, and Big Cienega Trail Description
For those who want to take in the rugged and mountainous beauty of Southern California, the Windy Gap, Mount Islip, and Big Cienega Trail will make for a fun day on the trails. Make sure to display your adventure pass in your car prior to beginning your hike. For a longer and more challenging adventure in the same area, be sure to check out the Crystal Lake, Mount Islip, and Windy Gap Loop Hike.
Setting out from the trailhead at the Crystal Lake Campground, you will head north through some scattered tree cover, before pushing uphill to reach the Windy Gap. Here, the trail will turn to the west and take you slightly further uphill to the summit of Mount Islip, where you can stare out at the sprawling landscape before you.
Descending to the southwest, you will eventually meet up with the Big Cienega Trail and follow it to the left in order to begin a descent just below the ridge. From here, you will meet up with your original path and continue downhill to return to your starting point.
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