Echo Mountain, Los Angeles

Rated as a moderate hike in the Angeles Forest, this trail takes you from a dirt parking lot in Altadena up a 1400-foot elevation gain on Sam Merrill trail to the beautiful mountaintop of Echo mountain. Here, you may relish the sweeping views of the valley below and roam the ruins of a luxury hotel complex, dating back to the early 20th century. Stroll the grounds and take the time to read the informational plaques and imagine the lavish operation in full glory back in its heyday. Do not neglect to ascertain the legitimacy of the mountain's name by taking a shout or two through the primitive echo funnel perched on the side of Castle Canyon, which lends to striking audio phenomenon. Be sure to arm yourself with a Park Pass for this adventure and place it in the windshield of your parked car before you take off. - Jamie Zum

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