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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.

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34.33777, -118.05394
Open in OpenStreetMap
5-Day Forecast

Weather at Alder Creek Trail

Live forecast for the trailhead. Use it to pack and time your hike.

Avg High92°F
Avg Low66°F
Peak Rain Chance0%
Humidity25%
UV (avg)9
Air Quality122 · Unhealthy for Sensitive
Today
🌤
Mostly Clear
88°/71°
🌬 11mph
5:59 AM7:57 PM
Tue
☀️
Clear
88°/69°
🌬 11mph
6:00 AM7:56 PM
Wed
☀️
Clear
89°/63°
🌬 12mph
6:01 AM7:56 PM
Thu
☀️
Clear
96°/61°
🌬 9mph
6:01 AM7:55 PM
Fri
☁️
Overcast
98°/65°
🌬 9mph
6:02 AM7:54 PM

Forecast data © Open-Meteo. Refreshed every 6 hours. Always check the most recent forecast before heading out.

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

  • 👕
    UPF sun shirt (long sleeve)
    Cooler than direct sun on bare skin.
  • 🩳
    Light shorts/skirt
    Loose-fit, breathable.
  • 🧢
    Wide-brimmed sun hat
    Plus a buff/bandana you can wet for cooling.
  • 🕶
    Polarized sunglasses
    Critical for glare from sun + sand/water.

🎒 What to Pack

  • 💧
    Water
    Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
  • 🍫
    High-energy snacks
    A snack for the trail.
  • 🧴
    Sun protection (UV 9)
    SPF 50+ sunscreen, lip balm w/ SPF, sunglasses, sun 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.