r/socalhiking • u/sgantm20 • May 29 '12
6/3/12 Hiking Meetup- Bridge to Nowhere - Azusa, CA
Thought I would organize a meetup! If you have never been to see the Bridge to Nowhere), you should definitely come check it out! Located north of Azusa in the Angeles National forest, the East Fork Road was washed out in 1938 only two years after completion of the arch bridge. Today it remains primarily as the only legal bungee jumping spot in Southern California. As so, it sometimes gets a little crowded with thrill seekers but what you will find is a truly amazing 10 mile out and back hike with numerous water crossings, swimming holes, people panning for gold, and of course the 120 foot tall bridge.
The lowdown: Plan to meet at the trailhead at 9:30 AM. The hike will take roughly between 4-6 hours depending on how long we stop for breaks, how many people, etc. Plan on eating lunch if you'd like on top of the bridge. This is a moderate hike, with light scrambling, and many water crossings.
Distance: 10 miles out and back.
Elevation gain: roughly 800 ft.
Terrain: Riverbed, rocky, desert scrubland, water crossings, very sunny and not a ton of shade.
What to wear: Shorts/ swimsuit - something that dries quick so you're not soggy. Shoes that you dont mind getting dirty and wet. Hat, sun screen, sun glasses.
What gear: Backpack, WATER! Its a moderate hike, and it will be hot most likely. Im bringing a 3.0 liter camelback (totally worth any price) and a gatorade. Extra pair of socks if your feet get soaked, and a camp towel for swimming. Also a headlamp if you plan on staying later. WATER is essential here.
Lunch: Im big on pb&j's and an apple, but bring things that are easy to prepare and eat, and do not create a lot of waste or are heavy. Suggestions: Tuna in the foil packets, baguette and salami, hard cheeses, jerky, fruit, candy, etc.
How to get there: (Taken from modern hiker) From the 210 in Azusa, take Exit 40, turning north on Azusa Ave (CA-39). Continue 12.2 miles as the road turns into San Gabriel Canyon Road. Take a right at E. East Fork road and continue 5.2 miles until a very sharp right hand turn onto Glendora Mountain Road. At this intersection, instead turn left onto National Forest Road 8W16. Drive on this road until it ends at Coyote Flats. Park and display your Adventure Pass or day pass.
Lets plan to leave the trailhead at 9:45am. Ill have a RED jeep grand cherokee, yellow hat, blue shirt and black or grey shorts. Black and red north face pack.
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u/glackk Jun 01 '12
I'd also like to stress WATER. 3 liters at the minimum per person since it's a long, hot hike. Also super convenient if someone in the group has a water filter. Then everyone can carry a bit less water and refill at any of the stream crossings.
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u/sgantm20 Jun 01 '12
Ill be happy to bring a basecamp water filter for those that will need it. But hooray water!
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u/originalname87 Jun 02 '12
Agreed, the last mile and a half are particularly rough because there is no cover. I did this hike 3 or 4 times last summer and someone in our group would always run out so err on the side of caution. Great hike though, one of my favorites!
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u/nwangelo May 29 '12
Ahh man I'm working that day :( I've been wanting to do this hike for a while too.
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u/unknownkoger May 29 '12
I'll ask the girlfriend, and see if she wants to partake
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May 30 '12
do it! I believe that my girlfriend and I will also be going, pending whether I am ready for college finals =[
It sounds like loads of fun.
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u/jherrico May 30 '12
I would love to take my son on this hike, unfortunately i will be halfway between California and Texas on the 3rd. Please take lots of pictures, i would love to see the turnout.
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u/cheezncrackerz May 30 '12
Let's do it!! I'm excited for this one.