Los Angeles: Mount Bliss

Don't be fooled by the name--this 9.3-mile out-and-back climbs more than 3,000 feet. But it rewards hikers with some of the most spectacular views in the LA foothills.

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Trail Facts

  • Distance: 7.4

Waypoints

MBT001

Location: 34.1532440185547, -117.931747436523

Swing NW up the entrance road past horse stables

MBT002

Location: 34.156135559082, -117.935577392578

Trail begins; turn L @ 3-way across Van Tassel Canyon Creek

MBT009

Location: 34.183177947998, -117.952430725098

Turn R @ 3-way, bearing SW

MBT010

Location: 34.1828308105469, -117.953552246094

Veer L @ 3-way onto faint access trail; follow NE under electrical towers

MBT011

Location: 34.1845092773438, -117.951019287109

Metal stake marks Mt. Bliss summit (3,720 ft.); fantastic views of San Gabriel, Santa Ana, and Santa Monica Mnts.; look for Catalina Island on clear days; return to car via same route

MBT003

Location: 34.1563339233398, -117.941337585449

Old roadbed steeply switchbacks through thickets of waxy chaparral

MBT004

Location: 34.1596221923828, -117.945022583008

Rest spot; enjoy the views starting to open up to the S

MBT005

Location: 34.1649436950684, -117.947120666504

After a short stint under power lines, head NW; several steep and narrow canyons sit S of the trail

MBT006

Location: 34.1688766479492, -117.956451416016

Next half-mile gains more than 500 feet on rock-riddled trail

MBT007

Location: 34.1754035949707, -117.957000732422

Trail flattens slightly on tiny plateau before your last push to Mt. Bliss

MBT008

Location: 34.1789894104004, -117.954872131348

Continue straight up merciless steeps