Are dogs allowed on Echo Mountain via Sam Merrill Trail?

Yes, dogs are allowed on Echo Mountain via Sam Merrill Trail but must be kept on a leash at all times. Pack out waste and respect wildlife.

Do I need a permit to hike Echo Mountain via Sam Merrill Trail?

No, Echo Mountain via Sam Merrill Trail does not currently require a permit. Still check for seasonal closures or day-use fees with the managing agency before heading out.

How difficult is Echo Mountain via Sam Merrill Trail?

Echo Mountain via Sam Merrill Trail is rated difficult. It is 5.4 miles long. Difficulty ratings reflect a combination of distance, elevation gain, and terrain — your experience will depend on your fitness level and trail conditions.

This trail is currently closed

CLOSED: USFS Eaton Fire Area Closure through 2027-12-31 (fs.usda.gov/r05/angeles/alerts/eaton-fire-area-closure, verified 2026-06-11). Verify current status with the land manager before visiting.

See California trail conditions

DifficultOut and Back

California

Echo Mountain via Sam Merrill Trail

Altadena, California

5.4 mi

Distance

2h 31m

Est. Time

Out & Back

Route Type

Difficult

Difficulty

About This Trail

Imported description

The trail is good for running, but can be crowded. The Lower San Merrill trail leads to Lake. Take the second trail further back towards the mountain. At the top, turn right. The sign for Sierra Saddle should be on the right if you turn left once you hit the paved road.

Trail Conditions

Closed

Updated Unknown

CLOSED: USFS Eaton Fire Area Closure through 2027-12-31 (fs.usda.gov/r05/angeles/alerts/eaton-fire-area-closure, verified 2026-06-11).

No recent condition reports. Be the first to share what you see on the trail.

Elevation Profile

Min:557 ft

Max:983 ft

1,194 ft

Trail Details

Route Type: Out & Back
Surface: Dirt

Official sources & verification

We don't have curated agency sources for this trail in our cache yet. Outdoors is not the permitting authority — confirm conditions, permits, and access with the managing agency before you go. If you know who manages this trail, please tell us.

Reviews

No reviews yet

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Legacy import — verify before navigating

Path geometry came from our pre-launch legacy database. Routes have not yet been re-verified against the operator and may differ from the actual trail.

Hunt context