Smith Mountain lies in the San Gabriel Mountain Range, just west of the North Fork of the San Gabriel River, and just south of Mount Islip. The summit itself lies directly on the easternmost border of the San Gabriel Wilderness area.

Difficulty wise, it's a somewhat long day hike. The hardest part may be the chaparral/low brush in the area that slows things down when it grows in. Lots of loose rock typical of the San Gabriels makes climbing on peaks around Smith Mountain somewhat slow going, and dangerous on exposed sections.

The south summit has a steep northeast face which looks as if it could support a good class 4-5 climb. I may try this route in the future.

Bring extra water, as the area is pretty dry and can get to be pretty hot in the summer.

Snowfall above 3,200ft is limited most years, but we do get the occasional cold AND wet year.

Smith Mountain's Sierra Club HPS list number is 15B.
HPS Smith Page 1
HPS Smith Page 2

Rocky ridgeline on the way to the summit.

Getting There

From the 210 freeway:
Exit AZUSA AVENUE (Route 39), head north towards the mountains.

Take Azusa north through the mountains. Pass the off highway vehicle (OHV) area. After you cross a bridge over the river, there will be a parking area to the left with lights and a restroom. This is the safest place to park.

You can also park at the end where an orange gate blocks the road. There is a dirt parking area to the right side. My car was severely vandalised (had to be salvaged) there one night, so park in this unlit area at your own risk!

TRAILHEADS:
One can access the mountain VIA the Upper Bear Creek trail. Unfortunately, since route 39 is closed, you have to walk from the gate up the road to COLDBROOK campsite. The trail starts in the parking lot there, at 3,290ft.

Other methods of access involve moving up the southern ridge to the summit, basically bushwhacking your way to the top. The southern false summit of Smith Mountain is impressive looking, but loose.

Forward parking area next to closed gate.

From the 210 freeway:
Exit AZUSA AVENUE (Route 39), head north towards the mountains.

Red Tape

Parking in this area requires National Forest Adventure passes, available in most Big 5 sporting store locations, and Ranger stations. There is a Ranger station at the entrance to the mountains on Azusa/R39, right as you enter the mountains, on the right side.

Passes are $5 per day.

Camping

There are several campgrounds in the area. People commonly camp next to the West Fork of the San Gabriel River, to the east of the mountain.

Sunset

External Links

Mt. Wilson Towercam
Mt Wilson Towercam is often oriented to the slight northeast, showing Smith Mountain and surrounding areas.

Gives you a general idea of the weather and visibility. Camera is usually oriented towards and showing Smith Mountain.

Images