Rattlesnake Peak Trail

Steep, overgrown, and lightly-traveled, the Rattlesnake Peak Trail is a great option for those who want a more secluded adventure. Make sure that you bring a GPS, plenty of water/snacks, and have your adventure pass displayed in your vehicle prior to setting out.

If you fancy a challenging climb in the San Gabriel Mountains but want to get away from the crowds that can be found on more popular trails, then this is certainly the route for you. Featuring sweeping views and a small chance of encountering other hikers, there is hardly a better option in the Angeles National Forest for the solitary adventurer!

Setting out from the trailhead, you will continue following Shoemaker Canyon Road as it leads north for another 1.5mi. Here, you will turn left onto a footpath and begin climbing up the steep mountainside in a northwest direction.

From this point on you won’t find any more intersecting trails, so simply stick to the path and take your time traversing the steep and rugged terrain. As previously mentioned, there are some areas of overgrowth that are quite thick, so even though it is a fairly straightforward hike a GPS can still come in handy.

After a tough 2.6mi of uphill climbing, you will arrive at the summit viewpoint atop Rattlesnake Peak, where you will enjoy sweeping views across the undulating landscape of Angeles National Forest. To the northeast you should be able to spot Iron Mountain, which will likely be experiencing a much higher volume of foot traffic compared to the route you just traversed.

Once you have finished taking in the views, simply turn back and carefully retrace your steps down the mountainside to return to the trailhead where you began your adventure.

Trail Highlights

Rattlesnake Peak

With an elevation of just 5814ft, Rattlesnake Peak is one of the smaller mountains in the San Gabriel Range; however, it is also one of the most challenging to hike. Thick brush and steep terrain make this a rugged adventure, and although you might run into the odd rattlesnake, they aren’t as common as the name would imply.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Rattlesnake Peak?

Rattlesnake Peak is a part of the San Gabriel Mountain Range that is located within Angeles National Forest. The trailhead can be found along Shoemaker Canyon Road.

Are dogs allowed on the Rattlesnake Peak Trail?

Yes, dogs are permitted on the Rattlesnake Peak Trail, although they must remain on a leash at all times.