Crystal Lake to Mt. Islip Register

Date and Time:
Sat, Jun 21, 2025; 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM  (Pacific)

Organized By: Angeles Chp Gay and Lesbian

Event Organizers:
Gail Wise
   gailwise2@gmail.com
   (310) 433-2298
Heidi Lennartz
   heidilennartz@gmail.com
   (818) 519-0117

Join us for a strenuous, beautiful and classic 7.5 mile loop to Mt. Islip.  We will start at the Windy Gap trailhead at an elevation of 5,880’ feet and ascend steeply (about a 12.5% grade) for about two and a half miles to Windy Gap.  Initially, we will follow a dry creek through woodland, until the trail becomes exposed to reveal views of the San Gabriel Valley and surrounding mountains.  We will break at Windy Gap before we continue another mile or so up to Mt. Islip, topping out at 8,250’, where we will take another break and enjoy spectacular 360 degree views.  We will return via the Big Cienega Trail, winding our way down along a beautiful ridge and then further through meadows and more woodland.  The total elevation gain will be approximately 2,400’.

Meet at 8:00 am sharp at the Azusa ride share point on Santa Fe St. just E of Azusa Ave, one block N of Foothill, just before the railroad tracks. From there, participants can carpool or drive themselves up Hwy 39 to the Crystal Lake campground. (Note:  Carpool transportation is at the sole risk of the participants.)  The trailhead is in the campground a bit uphill from the ranger station and camp store/café.

The hike itself should take approximately 4-5 hours, but plan on an additional hour getting to and from the trailhead.  Bring two-three liters of water, snacks, sturdy shoes with a good tread and appropriate layers. Mountain weather can be unpredictable even in summer, so a rain/wind shell and fleece are recommended.  Well-behaved dogs are allowed on-leash. Rain, snow or wildfires cancel.

This is a back country hike, which requires a completed and signed medical form. Help save time by going to this link, printing out the form and filling it out ahead of time: Medical Form.

All participants in Sierra Club activities are also required to sign a standard Participation Agreement. If you would like to read the Participation Agreement in advance, you can find it here.

For questions, text Gail at 310-433-2298 or email her at gailwise2@gmail.com.

Level: Strenuous

Bring: Shoes with good treads, 2-3 liters of water, snacks, a rain layer.

Carpool: Yes

Note: Carpool transportation is at the sole risk of the participants.

Cancellation Policy: Steady rain cancels