Lake Hughes to Sawmill CG + Burnt Peak

This quiet, rugged backpacking route traces remote sections of the Sierra Pelona Mountains, beginning in Lake Hughes and leading to Burnt Peak—the highest summit in the range. Expect long stretches of solitude, expansive desert views, and a blend of shaded forest, exposed ridgelines, and historic fire roads. While not the most direct route to Burnt Peak, this makes for a rewarding weekend trip for those looking to escape the city, hike a scenic stretch of the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), and bag a peak on the Sierra Club’s Hundred Peaks list. Ideal for experienced backpackers seeking a lesser-traveled adventure with moderate mileage and elevation gain.

Start your hike from the trailhead near Pine Canyon Road in Lake Hughes. The route climbs gradually along forest roads and singletrack trails through oak groves, chaparral, and scattered pines. For most of the journey, you’ll follow the PCT, with some sections along fire roads.

Just north of Burnt Peak, you’ll reach Sawmill Campground—a primitive backcountry site that makes a convenient overnight stop. (Note: You can skip this segment if you're looking for a shorter, more direct approach to Burnt Peak.)

The next day, pack up and head south on the PCT, retracing your steps. Just south of Sawmill Mountain, turn right onto Forest Route 7N23A and follow the dirt road to the summit of Burnt Peak (5,788’). The summit offers sweeping views of the Antelope Valley, the Los Padres backcountry, and even glimpses of the high Sierra on clear days.

From the summit, retrace your steps to return to Lake Hughes and complete the 30.6-mile round trip.

Flora and Fauna
This route transitions through chaparral, oak woodland, and pockets of pine forest. You may spot mule deer, foxes, coyotes, and a wide variety of birds including hawks and scrub jays. Rattlesnakes are also common in warmer months, so stay alert on exposed stretches. In spring, the hills may be dotted with wildflowers like lupine, poppies, and Indian paintbrush.

Permits
No wilderness permit is required, but check with the Angeles National Forest for current fire restrictions, seasonal closures, or any trail conditions before heading out. Campfires are typically not allowed—bring a stove for cooking.

Considerations

• Water is scarce along this route—bring all you’ll need or cache ahead of time. 

• Temperatures can vary widely, especially between day and night, and shade is limited along much of the trail. Best completed in spring or fall when temperatures are milder.

• In the spring, the area may be slightly more crowded due to the influx of PCT hikers.