Near Bridge to Nowhere - East Fork Trail #8W13
Bridge to Nowhere from below
Near Bridge to Nowhere - East Fork Trail #8W13
The John Seales Bridge, the bridge to the Bridge to Nowhere, renewed in 2009.
Near Bridge to Nowhere - East Fork Trail #8W13
Bridge to Nowhere, Angeles National Forest
Near Bridge to Nowhere - East Fork Trail #8W13
09•21•2019
Near Bridge to Nowhere - East Fork Trail #8W13
Beginning of the trail.

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Hike Route

Bridge to Nowhere - East Fork Trail #8W13

4.5 (82 Ratings)
A great out-and-back to a large solitary bridge.
9.2
mi
Distance
978
ft
Gain
moderate
Difficulty
Family FriendlyRiver/CreekSwimmingViewsWildflowers
Access Issues
Trailhead parking requires an Adventure Pass and a self-issued Wilderness Permit needs to be obtained from the trailhead.

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
9.21mi
Distance
978ft
Elevation Gain
978ft
Elevation Loss
--%
Max Grade
2,811ft
High Point
2,003ft
Low Point
Path Type
There and Back
Description
Route finding is a bit challenging with many day-use trails mixed in with the main trail, washed out sections of trail, and over a half dozen stream crossings (bring waterproof shoes even when the water is low). I was also astounded at the number of swimming holes. This place must be a zoo in the heat of the summer!The trail along the East Fork of the San Gabriel River to the Bridge to Nowhere is not only one of the best trails in Southern California, but it's also one of the most unique hiking experiences you'll ever have.After you leave the crowded (and overused) trailhead area, you'll increasingly find yourself awed by the rugged canyons deep in the Sheep Mountain Wilderness. Multiple river crossings and shaded glens await you on this trek, with the final destination a 130-foot concrete span bridge leftover from an attempt to build a road north through the canyon.There are some small trails that lead down to the stream just after you cross the bridge. This is a stunning setting with sheer pink tinted granite walls, roaring cascades, and the lovely bridge in the background.

Route Conditions

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Contributors
Sameera Kommidi