South Mount Hawkins Loop | San Gabriel Mountains, CA

South Mount Hawkins is a 7,783 foot mountain peak in the San Gabriel Mountains, contained within the Angeles National Forest. The mountain was named for Nellie Hawkins, a popular waitress at a local cafe in the early 20th century. This route starts at the Crystal Lake Recreation Area. 

The Crystal Lake basin is flanked on three sides by towering mountains forming a giant horseshoe. From the trailhead, the Windy Gap Trail ascends and you will shortly encounter a road crossing (Crystal Lake Road). Pick up the marked trail on the other side. The path is well-designed and easy to follow. Soon you will find again the Crystal Lake Road. This intersection marks the start of our loop.

Now we leave the Windy Gap Trail and continue along the zigzagging Crystal Lake Road that takes to the top of South Mount Hawkins. It has one of the finest views of the peaks in the San Gabriel Mountains. 

⚠ There are washouts along the way and it is strewn with rocks and boulders.

Crystal Lake Road

South Mount Hawkins summit

After resting for a little while, we continued the route along the Hawkins Ridge Trail. The path connects with the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) and takes you to the Windy Gap. Finally, we returned to The Crystal Lake area following the Windy Gap Trail. A sign indicates the direction.

Hawkins Ridge Trail

Pacific Crest Trail

Windy Gap

Windy Gap Trail