Calvin L.

This is an excellent hike near LA. When you go make sure you go early. There is limited parking. Off season may be easier to find parking. I took this hike with my daughter and she loved it as well. There is lots of shade although on our way back there was little shade. Just bring plenty of water. There are a few steep areas so be careful. Some of these steep areas have significant social trails made. This also has caused erosion so it is hard to tell which one is the real trail. They all go back to the main trail but just watch out for signs to help you stay on the trail. Leaving the trail significantly hurts the trail. Especially with bikes.

Alex K.

First time on this trail/hike and absolutely loved it. The scenery was amazing. Absolutely love the stream that runs along the trail. Don't know if it flows all year or just from all the rain we've been getting. Perfect for a solo hike or with a group as I did. Nice to have another trail that's not far from LA as all the one in the city is to congested with people. IE, Runyon canyon, Griffith. Highly recommended this place and will be returning.

Cindy N.

I visited Dawn Mine trail this past Sunday, March 26, 2017. I tried following the directions given on a few different Yelp reviews, but unfortunately, I was still pretty confused. Apparently, there are a few different ways to reach the mines. This is the way we went. My friends and I parked along Chaney Road. We headed past the white gate onto the fire road. We followed the paved road for over than an hour. It's all uphill with zero shade so it was pretty tough. We came across a handful of bikers who were on their way to Inspiration Point. I started getting scared that we were on the wrong path. We finally came across a group of hikers who told us that we were going the right way. Thank goodness for friendly strangers! You will hit a fork in the road where you can either go left or stick right; just stick right. Keep walking for another 30 minutes and you'll pass a brown structure that has some benches on your left (I think it was a restroom but I didn't check). Stay on the paved path until it becomes a dirt road. You'll walk maybe 5 minutes until you see a tree on your left with the sign "DAWN MINE," leading to a path that goes downhill. Walk all the way to the bottom (it takes about 40 minutes) where you'll see a small, pretty waterfall. After enjoying the sight of the waterfall, cross the stream and find the abandoned goldmine hidden between some large boulders. Make sure you have headlamps! The cave is filled with water (up to your ankles) and you'll want both hands so you can navigate without getting too wet. There's a small waterfall within this cave too, but you'll have to walk past this hole that's apparently 50 feet deep, so tread carefully ! We wanted to explore past the waterfall but that path was knee-deep in water, so we passed. We returned the way we came in and we were so exhausted! It's a gorgeous and interesting trail but it was definitely a challenge. I highly recommend checking out Dawn Mine!

Candace L.

If you're looking for a climbing, scaling, crawling over and under, sometimes jungle like experience filled with plenty of mosquitos, spiders, butterflies, dragonflies, snakes, bumps, scrapes and bruising this is the hike for you! I can admit, for a hike short in mileage it sure made me it's b*tch! My boyfriend and I had decided to hike to the Dawn Mine vs hiking Mt Wilson but boy did we really have to work for it. Getting there was a trek! We took several wrong turns so it took a lot longer than it did heading back from the mine. We started the hike at 11A and were finished by 4P, including wrong turns, back tracking and spending time in the mine. We had printed out extremely detailed instructions to which I yelled "crazy mother f*cker" at least a dozen times at. This is definitely not the hike for the faint at heart. Be prepared to take some wrong turns. I think our instructions were too detailed. Once finally reaching the mine, I really had no intention of going in but we met a guy who was up there and we both decided we'd go in. He had a good flashlight, headlamp, and we had our flashlights on our phones. Going into the mine and exploring so many different tunnels was probably the coolest part. I was scared silly of course but what a cool experience! Someone had set up a system for the water the drain out a bit so it surely wasn't calf deep when we went in. Most areas were around 4 inches deep, except for the 50 foot deep area which you absolutely do not want to f with. I'd sum up directions in simple form. Park at the trail head (Sunset Ridge) above the Millard parking lot (where an Adventure Pass is not needed and some shade is provided by trees). Proceed up the fire road, passing the sign in book. Don't turn either way onto any trail, continue past this and look towards your left for the Sunset Ridge Trail 12W18. Take this trail until you come to a fork in the road and hang a left down below the cabin. Once on this trail you'll hit another point at the creek where you can turn left or right, hang a right and this is where I say basically stick to the right hand side the entire time always following what appears to be a trail. There are times you'll seem confused or not really see a clear path, take a few steps always in search for something that appears to be it and more than likely that's it. I guess my main stress point here is Keep Right on the way in and on the way out keep Left and this helps you follow the trail best. Look at for cairns and ribbons tied to things to help you along the way. Of course there will be tons of weaving left to right and crossing over the stream but keep Right or you will end up going to wrong way (which we did at least 2 or 3x). You'll eventually start to see black arrows painted on boulders, continue to follow these up and you'll get there! Descending and coming back to where you've parked should take roughly 90 or so minutes give or take how swiftly you're moving. I'd say its a hike that is more than moderate but I can see how if you get it right the first time, it can be somewhat moderate. I have a good feeling we went through a lot more than we needed to have to get to the mine. My advice is start early in the day, so in case you do take a few wrong turns you still have plenty of time to get back on track and don't give up once getting to the mine. I'd also say don't get to the mine and take a picture of the entrance like I was all set to do. Go in! It's scary looking but how many times have you explored an old gold mine. Bring flashlights and headlamps it's pitch black inside. Pack snacks and water. My boyfriend drank his entire 3L camelbak. I had 1.5 liters of mine. We had one or two snacks in total. Sunscreen and a hat/visor aren't a bad idea either, and pants are probably a REALLY good idea! Happy Trails!

Monica M.

I love how adventurous this hike was. I would definitely suggest to wear good, slip resistant, well gripped hiking shoes. There is definitely some rock climbing involved. Most of the trail is covered with rocks; so be very careful. Overall, the views of this hike were so amazing; very quiet and serene. It was a 5.0 moderate mile hike. And you will encounter a few friendly squirrels along the way.

Jennifer T.

Where there's a will, there's a way. This is definitely a hike for adventure seekers! This 5 mile round trip hike is not too difficult, but definitely not for beginners...especially if you choose to take the exact same path to and from. There's so much foliage, logs, creeks, and rocks or boulders that you have to hike through, under, over, around, etc. You won't find trail runners on this hike. Since there is no clear trail, you should always look out for signs that other hikers have left to show you you're on the right track. There may be many moments when you'll wonder if you're even going in the right direction at all, but just look for spray painted arrows, stacked rocks, ribbons, and (I hate to say it) even trash. There are also many moments where you'll feel like there's no way to go forward, but you'll just need to tap into that flexible, acrobatic, bouldering mindset and you'll be okay. If you don't pay attention, you may get lost for a few minutes, but it's not impossible to find your way back to the right path. I try to look backward as I walk forward so that I can get a visual of the path back. The mine itself...I can't really tell you because after staring into the small tunnel, my claustrophobia prevented me from going all the way in. It was, however, a great feeling to know that we actually made it! I hiked with a friend, but I've seen multiple hikers doing this one solo. A few tips: - Bring lots of water and food or snacks to munch along the way. Also just in case you get lost on a trail for longer than expected. - Bring a flashlight in case you find the mine and wish to go in. - Hike in long pants and/or be prepared with bug spray. I almost doused myself in bug spray because of the amount of bugs. Also, there are lots of rocks, logs, and other things that may cut you along the trail. - Keep your adventure pass on your car so that you won't get a ticket. Would I do this hike again? Definitely! I feel like I have a better gage of the trail, so it should be slightly easier with less moments of feeling confused. Hopefully the foliage won't grow too much by then.

John T.

First time on this hike and this one is a doozy. I'll telll you guys later in my review. Adventure pass: Adventure pass is required but others that haved hiked at this place risk it and don't have one or don't know where to get one.. If you don't want to risk a hefty fine, go ge an adventure pass. Parking: Parking is accessable along Chaney Trail Rd. Early birds get to park near the trail head. Make sure you have your parking pass. Hiking Mileage: 2 1/2 miles out...2 1/2 miles back. Visual markers to follow to mine: Look for pink ribbons, small rock formations, and black arrows graffiti on big boulders. Way to get there.... Look at pictures! Hiking observation: Intermediate 1) Adventure hike seekers should love this hike. You can easily get lost. For the most part there are no signs. 2) Steep narrow hiking trail (single line) and at times the hike goes off trail. 3) Isn't really a well maintained hike trail. Lots of overgrown foliage 4) A lot of insects... bring bug repellent. I think i got bitten couple of times on this hike 5) Expect to get dirty! A lot of sliding down rocks, brushing up against branches, and stream crossings. Streams were very shallow today. 6) Watch out for bushes and trees stabbing you with their branches. Bring long pants. 7) A lot of over and unders with tree logs. Be very cautious. Its physically and mentally draining when you bump your head into tree logs. I ducked one log then the next one clobbers me when I stand up! Might have a concussion. (DOOZY) 8) Stay hydrated and bring some snacks to sustain you.... My two liter bottles weren't enough. Both of my legs started cramping on the way back and was basically dragging myself to finish. 8) Last part to the mine is primarily boulder hopping and sections off trail hiking. trail. Make sure you have hiking shoes. As for me I was doing this with running shoes. No bueno. Felt at times I would sprained my ankle, but those were minor tweaks. If you get lost, try to find pink ribbons, black arrows, and small rock formations. My friend and I put about three or four on those on the way back for reaching hiking destination easily. Came home fatigued and battered up, but will definitely come back for more fun.

Never S.

For information about the DAWN MINE CLOSURE CONTACT MIKE MCINTYRE WHO IS RESPONSIBLE FOR THIS PROJECT AND ITS CLOSURE. Dawn Mine Entry Access Control Project #43653 Commenting on This Project Comments, including anonymous comments, will be accepted at any time. However, comments posted after the close of a designated comment period may not be able to be given full consideration. Anonymous comments and comments submitted after the close of the final designated comment period will not provide the commenter standing for administrative review. The Forest Service values public participation. Communications from the public regarding this project, including commenter's names and contact information, will become part of the public record. Comments, or in some cases other expressions of interest, along with respondent's contact information, submitted during the comment period may be necessary to establish a respondent's eligibility to participate in an administrative review for this proposed action. Interested members of the public should review the proposal's information to determine the applicable administrative review process and the eligibility requirements for that process. The date of the legal notice of opportunity to comment on this proposed action is the exclusive means for calculating the comment period. For proposals to be documented with an Environmental Assessment, the legal notice announcing the comment period appears in the Newspaper of Record . For Draft Environmental Impact Statements, the Notice of Availability announcing the comment period appears in the Federal Register. Submitting Comments If you wish to submit a comment, please send it to: Mike McIntyre Los Angeles River 12371 N. Little Tujunga Canyon Rd , San Fernando, CA, 91342 mmcintyre@fs.fed.us 818-899-1900

Paige T.

Bring an adventure pass. Parking lot accommodates about 10 cars so come early for space. I took the last spot on a Friday afternoon. The loop trail stretches a little over 5 miles with a gain of 1800 ft in elevation. If you choose to only go to the mine and back I would rate that part as mildly moderate, but the whole loop is considered hard. I decided to do it counterclockwise. This portion is highlighted with switchbacks and all the elevation gain for about 3 miles. The path is mostly easy, but towards the end of the ascension it becomes pretty much just carved rock and the trail is very narrow. Shoes with good traction and a hiking stick would make this part much easier because there's loose gravel and you'll have about 10 inches of space hop along this uneven jagged path. Having done this way up accompanied by the sun on a 90 degree day made me finish almost all my 3 liters of water. Once you reach the bed of the creek in the canyon there's a lovely rest stop for you to cool off as temperatures and elevation drops dramatically. The mine gives itself away easily! If you choose to explore it bring sandals. The water looks gross but it's mostly clean, you just don't want to accidentally step on anything sharp. There's a guest book too, but bring your own pen to sign in. The remainder of the trip back was easy and fun to traverse. Many hikers have drawn out arrows and constructed trail markers making the way evident, but since it is in a canyon there's only one way to go back. It shouldn't be too hard to figure out especially since the newest graffitis with derogatory things said about Trump will show you the way. Btw guys we shouldn't be defacing the national forest for our own political statements. It does nothing except reminds us of the annoying current state of our country and I came here to forget about that. Please keep your manners about you.

Ash G.

DO THIS HIKE. It is tough, so pack water and a snack, but incredibly gorgeous and so rewarding. This hike is not for the faint of heart - it is a legit hike, so get ready for that heart rate to go up (and to tone that booty). If you park at the Millard Camp trail head make sure you take the Sunset Ridge Trailhead to get to the Dawn Mine - it's incredible (especially this time of the year... SO GREEN). Definitely one of my favorite hikes I've done in LA. Will for sure be going back. It is a long hike and most of it is in the sun so make sure you have the map (at the trail head and posted here) and bring water and sun screen. Gorgeous views and loads of history.

Sokey A.

Dawn Mine is an easy, short, but exciting hike. There are lots of shade, rock formations, and a waterfall at the end!--oh and the mine!! Also, there's a stream that runs along the hike that you constantly have to cross. Very fun! It's the perfect summer hike. Bring a sweater during the winter months because it gets chilly! I would definitely go more often it wasn't so far inland! There needs to be more hikes like this on the westside!

Bree W.

I love this hike. 1. It is not a glorified walk. 2. It's a great workout. 3. Totally surrounded by nature because you're in the canyon. 4. Lots of rock scrambling, boulder-hopping, stream-crossing. That said, it's not really for beginners or the unprepared. A map is helpful, but you might lose the trail a few times because it's not clearly marked. Don't panic. You're basically following the water up, then back. There are some arrows and cairns and tape, but you have to make a lot of judgement calls. My rule for this hike is: if it seems too precarious, you've probably lost the trail. You don't have to scale any rock faces or climb up tree roots to get there... just backtrack, and find the more reasonable path. The mine is cool, but if you want to go inside, bring a headlamp or flashlight... water shoes or just take your socks off. I don't recommend using a phone flashlight because it helps to have both hands free to brace yourself again the rock walls-- the logs and boards you can step on are not stable, they just help your feet stay a bit drier. Display your adventure pass when you park. Bring lots of water. Wear long pants. Have fun!

Melanie D.

This hike is about 7 miles round trip with about 2000' elevation gain/loss. The hike is not that difficult, but can be a challenging hike in terms of obstacles. If climbing over rocks and boulders and hiking through high brush is not your thing, then I would skip this hike. For me, it was an interesting hike. Most of the trail is single file and there are lots of rocks and boulders to climb over and around. There are also a few streams that you must cross. The elevation really does not seem tough. Parts of the trail are both shaded and unshaded. Once at your destination, you will see a tiny opening in the rock which designates the opening to the old mine. It's small with a lot of humidity and dampness. There is also some water to trek through, depending on how far you decide to go. It's interesting to experience once. parking - small lot. Adventure pass required