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ExpertGround

Alder Creek Trail

Mount Wilson, California · Los Angeles County

Alder Creek Trail is a expert hiking trail near Mount Wilson in Los Angeles County, California.. The surface is ground. Trail data is sourced from OpenStreetMap.

🧭 Get Directions 🗺️ Open in OSM

34.33777, -118.05394

Open in OpenStreetMap

About Alder Creek Trail

Alder Creek Trail is a expert hiking trail near Mount Wilson in Los Angeles County, California.. The surface is ground. Trail data is sourced from OpenStreetMap.

⚠ Note from contributors: trail has recently as of 6/29/2025 had maintenance over most of it with a 0.90 mile segment of low brush yet to go

What “Expert” Means

Long backcountry routes (20+ miles), alpine grades, via ferrata, or extremely technical terrain. For experienced hikers with proper conditioning, navigation skills, and gear.

Difficulty is derived from OpenStreetMap’s Swiss Alpine Club (SAC) hiking scale, trail visibility, surface, distance, and elevation gain. Always verify current conditions before heading out.

What to Pack & Wear

Personalised to this trail’s length, elevation, difficulty, and the live forecast.

👔 What to Wear

👕
Moisture-wicking T-shirt
Light color, breathable.
🩳
Lightweight shorts or pants
Quick-dry preferred — sweat dries fast.
🧢
Brimmed sun hat
Better than a cap for back-of-neck protection.
🥾
Trail runners
Breathable mesh uppers.

🎒 What to Pack

💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
🔦
Headlamp + spare batteries
Long days can run late — never rely on phone flashlight alone.
🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
⛑
Helmet (terrain-dependent)
Expert routes may include scrambling or rockfall risk.

Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.

Trail Safety in California

Trail conditions in California change with weather, season, and fire activity. Closures, washouts, and rerouting are common. Before heading out:

Check with the land manager for current conditions and closures
Tell someone your plan and expected return time
Know your turn-around limits — conditions can change fast
Carry the 10 essentials: water, food, navigation, first aid, light, fire, shelter, knife, sun protection, extra clothes

Frequently Asked Questions

How hard is Alder Creek Trail?

Alder Creek Trail is rated Expert. Alpine, exposed, or technically demanding. For experienced hikers only.

Can I ride a bike on Alder Creek Trail?

Yes — bicycles are allowed on this trail.

What is the trail surface on Alder Creek Trail?

The surface is ground. Natural surface — sturdy footwear recommended; can be muddy after rain.

When is the best time to hike Alder Creek Trail?

California has trail conditions that vary by season. High-elevation routes are typically best from late spring through early fall; expect snow at higher altitudes outside that window. Always verify trail status (closures, washouts, fire restrictions) with the local land manager before going.

References & Maps

View original OpenStreetMap record — source data
Open OpenStreetMap at trailhead
Driving directions (Google Maps)

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