Devil's Punchbowl Loop

The Devil's Punchbowl Loop is a 24.1-mile challenging journey located in the Angeles National Forest. This strenuous loop promises an exhilarating adventure across the rugged terrain of the San Gabriel Mountains, featuring significant elevation changes that test your endurance and resolve. The route passes through areas that are popular for trail running, hiking, and backpacking, as well as sections that are much more remote, offering plenty of opportunities for solitude. The trail begins at the Devil's Punchbowl Visitor Center, a gateway to a geological wonderland. Here, you'll find a naturally formed, bowl-shaped canyon, sculpted over millennia by water and erosion. This dramatic landscape draws hikers and nature enthusiasts from all over, offering a blend of awe-inspiring rock formations and dense, forested areas.As you traverse the Pleasant View Ridge Wilderness, the trail's complexity increases, especially during the steep climb along an unmaintained path to the summit of Mount Williamson. This segment is not for the faint-hearted but rewards the persistent with breathtaking views.The Devil's Punchbowl Loop is more than a hike; it's an exploration of Southern California's natural history and a testament to the relentless forces of nature. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or an enthusiastic nature lover, this trail offers an unforgettable experience of challenge, discovery, and unparalleled natural beauty.FLORA AND FAUNAThe area is teeming with wildlife, including rattlesnakes, woodpeckers, Cooper's Hawks, and mountain chickadees. Mule deer, mountain lions, black bears, lizards, and hummingbirds also inhabit this diverse ecosystem. The trail is a botanical paradise, adorned with pine trees like pinyon, Jeffrey, sugar, and California incense-cedar. The undergrowth is rich with ferns, lupine, mountain mahogany, chaparral, juniper, yucca, cacti, and more.TRAILHEAD INFORMATIONVisit Devil's Punchbowl Natural Area and Nature Center website for information about parking and trailhead amenities. PERMITS AND PASSESVisitors should note that parking may require a National Forest Adventure Pass. Always check the latest Angeles National Forest Alerts and Notices before your trip for updated information.ADDITIONAL INFORMATIONPleasant View Ridge WildernessSan Gabriel WildernessAngeles National Forest Alerts and Notices