Devil's Punchbowl to Baden Powell Loop

This 35.3-mile loop offers a challenging and rewarding backpacking experience in the San Gabriel Mountains, starting and ending at Devils Chair Trailhead. The route is best suited for experienced hikers and backpackers who are comfortable with long distances, sustained elevation gain, and navigating high-elevation trails in Southern California. Along the way, hikers will traverse a mix of forested trails, open ridgelines, and alpine-like terrain, with opportunities for side trips, peak bagging, and scenic exploration.

The loop highlights include the iconic Baden-Powell Peak, portions of the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), and quieter stretches along the South Fork Trail, offering a combination of classic Southern California backcountry hiking with chances to explore less-traveled sections of the Angeles National Forest.

DESCRIPTION

Begin at Devils Chair Trailhead and follow the Devils Chair Trail, gradually ascending through mixed conifer and oak woodlands. Connect with Manzanita Trail, which leads to Vincent Gap, a key junction offering access to multiple peaks and trails. From Vincent Gap, make the climb up to Baden-Powell Peak, gaining sweeping views of the surrounding ridges, valleys, and forested slopes.

After summiting, continue north along the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), enjoying open ridgelines and forested backcountry terrain before reaching the South Fork Trail. Follow South Fork Trail east toward South Fork Campground, a scenic spot to rest or camp before retracing your steps north back along the same route to the starting trailhead.

This loop provides flexibility for hikers to explore side trails, take detours to nearby peaks, or spend extra time at scenic overlooks and meadows along the route.

Flora & Fauna

The trail passes through diverse Southern California ecosystems, ranging from oak and pine woodlands to open ridgelines and chaparral. Wildflowers bloom seasonally in meadows, including California poppies, monkeyflowers, and lupine. Wildlife is abundant and may include mule deer, bobcats, coyotes, and occasional black bears. Birdwatchers can spot raptors such as red-tailed hawks, golden eagles, and peregrine falcons, along with scrub jays and woodpeckers in the forested sections. Reptiles such as western fence lizards and rattlesnakes are also present, particularly in sun-exposed areas.

Safety and Considerations

• Navigation: Trails are well-marked, but some connectors and side trails may be less obvious. Carry a map, compass, or GPS device.

• Difficulty: Challenging due to distance, elevation gain, and the potential for remote backcountry conditions. Suitable for experienced hikers.

• Water: Water sources may be scarce along certain sections; carry sufficient water and a method for treatment.

• Weather: Conditions can change rapidly, especially at higher elevations. Summer heat can be extreme, while winter may bring snow or icy sections.

Permits and Camping

• Overnight camping may require permits depending on the section of Angeles National Forest. Check local regulations prior to your trip.

South Fork Campground provides established campsites, but dispersed camping is permitted in other areas following Leave No Trace principles.