Jules B.

In the 1800's, Big Horn Mine obtained its name from Civil War veteran, Charles Tom Vincent. Supposed fugitive, admitting to killing 3 men who robbed him, he fled out to live in the San Gabriel Mountains. Here is where he discovered gold, while hunting Big Horn Sheep. If you're reading this, there is NO MORAL of this story, lol. Due to the heavy snowstorm the night before, I started hiking from Grassy Hallow Visitor Center. Ended up hiking 11.7 miles out and back. The highest point 6,890 ft with 1,873 ft total elevation gain. During winter months, snowshoes definitely needed, microspikes, hiking poles and the remainder of your "10 essentials" (REI has a good list online, if you don't know what I'm referring to). Look out for the posted signs for directions or use AllTrails to help you navigate to the mines. I parked along the main road (lot was full when I arrived around 8AM), and used an Adventure Parking Pass/Permit in case. Due to Snow Summit Ski area nearby, traffic during winter season is horrendous. So plan your trip here, accordingly. Happy adventuring to you and yours. Lastly, stay safe and healthy (mind, body and soul) Yelping out there :)

Ed T.

This place was somewhat interesting to see even with all that unnecessary graffiti at the mine. There's a parking lot right at the trail and most likely packed over the weekends. The trail itself was ~3.9 miles total and took about 1.5 hours to complete. It was mostly a dirt road with rocks all over. Highly recommend wearing two socks plus hiking shoes for some cushioning. It kind of feels easy to roll your ankle too. There were a few areas where the path was narrow and you really want to pay attention and take it really slow. Not too many shades so hiking during the summer could be brutal. Once you reach the building, the mine is located at the top. Watch your steps and bring a flashlight if you're into that. I did not go into the mine so not sure what's in there.

Marcus F.

One of the better hikes I've been on this summer (2020). It's about a 4 mile hike (total), mostly uphill over a gravely rocky road. Lots of great views of the Angeles Forest. Lots of graffiti too. TIP, there are two trailheads from the parking lot. You must take the trail behind the white gate.. If you take the other path (very busy with hikers) you'll end up at the top of Mount Baden-Powell. When you arrive the at mine building you have to walk up behind the building to find the mine entrance. Yes, you can walk into the mine because people have cut the steel bars off. Bring a flashlight or just use your cell phone light.. Beware, the mine has bats and is full of mosquitoes... Bring plenty if deet repellent. Note, the parking lot will be full by 8AM on weekends. There is limited street parking in this area so get here early, or after the morning rush 2pm... An adventure Pass is required to park in the lot.. The pass can be purchased in town for $5.. There are conflicting reports if the sheriffs are actually enforcing the Adventure Pass or not, but I recommend to play it safe. - Not good for dogs, too many sharp rocks on the trail.

Cal W.

Very unique, one of a kind hike. Most hikes you get nice views and nature. This one you get a mine and old structure you can take photos and chill. Inside the mine is pitch dark so make sure you bring a flashlight. Very fun to explore but be safe.

Felicia Y.

Love this place! Worth the hike! Definitely bring plenty of water, take breaks to enjoy the views and surroundings. I did it early in the morning and watched the sun rise.

Karen L.

Hiked this over Memorial Day weekend to get away from the house during covid quarantine. Be warned that there are road closures on the 2 freeway currently, so make sure to check here before going: https://roads.dot.ca.gov/ When I went, the 2 was closed between Islip Saddle and Grassy Hallows. If you're trying to get to this hike, come around the 15 and 138 to drive through Wrightwood/Big Pines. Then take the 2 as about as close as you can get to Vincent Gulch Divide, which means parking on the side of the road at Grassy Hallows since the 2 was closed for further car entry for us at that point. You can then start walking - there's the option to take the Pacific Crest Trail, although we ended up walking directly on the 2 since the road was closed at this section and we didn't have to worry about cars. Don't underestimate this hike if you're new to hiking. Normally this hike is more on the easier end, but the road closures add an extra 3-4 miles one way, making this hike closer to 9-10 miles round-trip. Also I'm not sure if this trail was in a better / easier shape in past years, but there were about 3 trickier washed out spots when we went, and required making sure you had a good footing / balance before proceeding. There was quite a bit of loose rock and narrow spots where the trail was washed out, so I personally wouldn't recommend younger kids on here since you might slip off the side if you're not paying attention.

Lindsay D.

Very cool spot to hike go early before the heat and sun are on the whole trail. Par at the Vincent Gulch Divide/Vincent Gap. You need an Adventure Pass to park here. Trail for Big Horn Mine started behind the white gate. At the fork in the road stay to the right. It is a gradual incline with some rocky and narrow spots on the trail. Lovely views and baby waterfall when you reach the end at the mines. Bring really good flashlights if you plan on going into the mine it's pitch black and cold in there. The mine has several bifurcations and a green string to follow to lead you out to the opening. Small stream of water and lots of rocks in the Min also so low points be careful not to hit your head. Definitely will be back.

Mylesha D.

You would never know this hike existed if you drove by, but let me tell you it is definitely a hidden treasure. Like all treasure you're going to have to work for it, just a bit. The hike is about 1.5 to 2 miles one-way. It took us two hours round trip, but that included stopping and admiring the views on the way. On the way there, it's pretty much uphill, nothing steep but it can be a little much if you have any type of lung or heart condition, and I personally wouldn't bring kids. (But there were kids on the trail) About halfway in the trail turns into walking on the side of a mountain so make sure you wear appropriate hiking shoes to avoid any accidents. The trail also can get pretty hot with the sun beaming. Apparently you can climb into the mines when you get there, but we didn't go that far. We just went to enjoy the views with good company and some snacks. I personally wouldn't bring my dog because some parts of the trail are pretty sketch but some people brought their dogs.

Zahira J. G.

Such an awesome hike! Definitely a little rocky! But the end view, beautiful! You can actually go inside the mine too, but definitely need a flashlight. You can't go too far in either, too much water. Little gas station inside the small town is where you can get the parking pass $5.

Danny D.

We arrive there around 8:30 ish, it gave us enough time to hike and have plenty of stops on the way. The hike it self was pretty easy, just be careful and beware of your surrounding . There is a mini waterfall along the way also If you want to hike the mine be prepare to have a good flashlight, it gets pitch black. Overall a fun hike, to take your dog or just for a mini getaway. Tip: Bring a flashlight if you are going to hike the mine. Water resistance jacket because there water dripping in there. Make sure to buy a parking pass $35 for 2 passes, basically $15 each for the whole year. Snacks for the hike is good and for energy.

Vanessa Donna M.

Had such an amazing time yesterday! 420Hikers had an event, hikers and cannabis. We had a big group come down, some camp in for the weekend and others did a one day hike. We just had a good time. Explored and enjoyed some cannabis and edibles. This hike to Big Horn was short hike but once there you can enter the cave and explore what is left of this old mine.

Olivia G.

I'm a hiker, it's in my soul and this hike was one for the books. Don't miss out on it. When me and my family did this hike it was in January and still pretty cold out, Ice was stuck to the ground throughout the trail so I recommend sturdy, appropriate foot wear. We however didn't have any and went to a local store and bought yaktraks.. I believe that's how to spell it. They're this little wire contraption that you attach around your shoe and it hugs it providing support and grip against snow and ice. Id give this hike 100 stars if I could because the views speak for themselves, it's moderate in difficulty. Some portions of the hike are a little scary but so worth it. Just stay smart and safe. And bring water and snacks, the view at the top is breathtaking and a picnic is perfect! The entrance to the mine is technically blocked off but you can still get inside and it was a very cool creepy experience. If you love creepy like myself it's worth a peak!

Jason R.

It is so hard to differentiate between a 4 and 5 star hike for me sometimes...this is a solid 4, wait 5, no 4...you get the picture. We hiked it for the 1st time yesterday and really enjoyed it. We plan on returning to do the Baden-Powell summit since the trailhead for that hike is in the same parking lot. Location- knew it was going to be a pretty long drive coming from the SE part of LA and a car accident on the 15 to and also on our return made it even longer. You have to drive on the winding 2 for a while before you reach the Vincent Gulch parking lot (Paolo and Laramae's reviews were helpful). Parking lot was pretty big and not very many people drive this far to hike so not very many cars at all. Adventure Parking Pass is needed. Trail- right beyond the white closed road gate. You start off downhill and there were quite a few flying bugs in this part until you reach a wooden sign indicating 2 miles to Big Horn Mine and the trail is a steady up hill from there on. It is not difficult but you may have a bit of difficulty acclimating to the higher altitude. Parts of the trail have shade but for the most part it is exposed to the sun. There are some great views. We didn't come across anyone on our ascent and maybe 10-15 on our way back. Mine- outside part of the mine has spectacular views and photo ops. We entered the mine...a bit difficult for my larger body but doable. Make sure to bring flashlights...we went in about 100-150 ft.