Buckhorn to Three Points Peak Bagging Loop

This 17.5-mile loop begins and ends at Buckhorn Trailhead on Angeles Crest Highway. It’s a rugged and rewarding tour of the high country in the San Gabriel Mountains, linking the steep climb to Twin Peaks East with a scenic traverse over Mount Waterman, a stretch of Pacific Crest Trail, and the historic Three Points junction. The route combines steep climbs, rolling forested ridges, and expansive views, making it ideal for strong day hikers, ambitious trail runners, or anyone looking for a short overnight backpacking trip.

Start at Buckhorn Trailhead and take the Mount Waterman Trail to Twin Peaks Trail. Ascend to Twin Peaks East and then retrace your steps back to the Mount Waterman Trail. 

Return to the saddle and continue on the Waterman Trail making your way to Three Points. The Three Points Trailhead has a bathroom and trash but no potable water. 

Here, pick up the Pacific Crest Trail for the return journey. The PCT leads through a mix of oak and pine forest, with stretches of ridge walking and open views. Look for a use trail / ridge trail that will bring you to the ridge with Mount Waterman. Summit Mount Waterman and continue to make your way back to Buckhorn Trailhead.

Flora & Fauna

• Flora: Jeffrey pine, white fir, black oak, manzanita, and chaparral. In spring, wildflowers like lupine, mariposa lilies, and paintbrush brighten the slopes.

• Fauna: Deer, coyotes, hawks, woodpeckers, and lizards. Rattlesnakes are possible on sunny slopes.

Permits

• No wilderness permit required for day hiking.

• Adventure Pass or America the Beautiful Pass is required for parking at Buckhorn.

Camping

• Buckhorn Campground (developed) is near the trailhead and makes a good basecamp.

• Dispersed camping is permitted in Angeles National Forest with a valid California Campfire Permit.

Best Season

• Spring and fall are ideal for moderate temperatures and clear skies.

• Winter can bring snow and icy conditions—check trail reports before attempting.

• Summer can be hot, especially on exposed sections.

Need to Know

• Bring plenty of water; reliable sources are limited.

• The use trail to Twin Peaks East is steep and faint in sections—good route-finding skills help.

• The ridge along Waterman is less maintained than the official Mount Waterman Trail.