Mount Lowe (California) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Mount Lowe |
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Mount Lowe from west side
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 5,606 ft (1,709 m) NAVD 88 |
| Geography | |
| Location | Los Angeles County, California, U.S. |
| Parent range | San Gabriel Mountains |
| Topo map | USGS Mount Wilson |
| Climbing | |
| Easiest route | Hike |
Mount Lowe is a beautiful mountain located in the southern part of the San Gabriel Mountains in California. It stands tall at 5,606 feet (1,709 meters) above sea level. This mountain was once known as Oak Mountain. It was later renamed to honor Professor Thaddeus S.C. Lowe. He was the first person to reach its top and place an American flag there. Professor Lowe also built a special train line, the Mount Lowe Railway, to the base of the mountain in 1896.
The name "Mount Lowe" became official thanks to Andrew McNally. He was a famous map printer from Chicago. Mr. McNally lived in Altadena during the summer. He promised to print "Mount Lowe" on all his maps. This mountain became an important part of the Mount Lowe Railway. It was used as an alternative route when plans to reach Mount Wilson did not work out.
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Exploring Mount Lowe's History
Mount Lowe has a rich history connected to the early days of tourism in the San Gabriel Mountains. Professor Lowe's railway made it easier for people to visit the mountain. This led to the building of a popular hotel.
The Mount Lowe Railway
The Mount Lowe Railway was a famous electric mountain railway. It was built by Professor Thaddeus S.C. Lowe. The railway allowed visitors to travel high into the mountains. Mount Lowe was the highest point reached by the Alpine Division of this railway. Professor Lowe first started the company as the Pasadena and Mt. Wilson Railroad Co.
The Mount Lowe Tavern
A hotel called the Mount Lowe Tavern was built near the summit. It was located at a spot called Crystal Springs. The tavern was open from 1895 to 1936. It offered a place for visitors to stay and enjoy the mountain views. Many trails started from the tavern, making it a hub for explorers.
Discovering the Trails
Mount Lowe is a great place for hiking and exploring. Many trails lead from the mountain, offering different adventures. These trails were once used by visitors staying at the Mount Lowe Tavern.
The Historic Mount Lowe Eight
One of the most famous trails was called the "Mount Lowe Eight." This was a special mule ride for hotel guests. The trail was shaped like a figure eight. It started at the Tavern and went up to the summit of Mount Lowe. Then, it returned to the Tavern. From there, it crossed over to a trail that went down into Castle Canyon. The trail then continued to the Echo Mountain resort. Finally, it climbed back up to the Tavern. This ride offered amazing views and a unique way to see the mountain.
How to Reach Mount Lowe
Today, you can still visit Mount Lowe. It is a popular spot for hikers. You can get to Mount Lowe from Echo Mountain or Chaney Trail. A fire road now follows the path of the old railway. This makes it easier to walk or bike along the historic route.
