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 Reporter |
Summary: The Devil's Punchbowl is a point where 2 earthquake faults collide, creating upwards jutting vertical walls as high as 300 feet. It is a spectacular setting, with the high desert spreading out on one side, and the pine covered Angeles National forest on the other. The hike takes you along the mostly shaded rim of the Punchbowl, to the dramatic Devil's Chair, a breathtaking overlook with 360 degree views of the geologic formations. A rainbow of rock surrounds the Devils Chair with pink streaked chalk white cliffs, undulating tan crags, chocolate brown slabs, and green-gray ledges. This, combined with the green of the mountains and the blue sky, makes for a memorable image. Hikers with extra energy, may want to also take the 1 mile loop trail, which drops down into the punchbowl amongst the stunning rock formations. Summer hikers should bring lots of water as it can get seriously hot in this area! Trailhead: Exit the Antelope Valley Freeway (14) at Pearblossom highway (138), and follow it to the town of Pearblossom where you will turn right (south) on Longview Road (County N6). Follow the signs to the park 7 miles ahead. Note that facing the nature center, the Burkhart trailhead is on the right side of the parking lot. (Lat:34.41381 Lon:-117.85858) Trail Guides for Devils Punchbowl - Devils Chair: 101 Hikes in Southern California by Jerry Schad (Wilderness Press) California Hiking by Tom Stienstra & Ann Marie Brown (Foghorn Press) Best Seasons: Fall, Winter, Spring User Groups: Hikers, Dogs Ranger Contact: Devil's Punchbowl Nature Area (661) 944-2743 Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Jim Zuber, who has posted 104 other hikes on this site Trail Reviews Page 2 of 10 Submit your own review 
Reviewed by hezikiah (zeke) on 1/12/2009 Went up yesterday (1/11/2009) the trail is packed with ice spots and super slick in places. Took my wife and friend from Hiroshima they were tred at the end 3 hrs 47 minutes round trip. Word to the wise pack warm, I was seeing some people wearing t-shirts at 1600 when the shadows are going long and 2 miles into it. That leads to a bad experience when the winds are kicking up and ice is afoot.
Reviewed by hezikiah on 1/4/2009 I love this trail. About 20 minutes from my house and went yesterday with my dog Stubbs. Snow and Ice are still on the trail and new trees have been downed crossing the trail at several points. Great hike! 
Reviewed by Jim on 1/1/2009 Great Hike!
Reviewed by Mike on 12/27/2008 No storm today but plenty of snow on the trail. Avg 35 degrees. Burkhardt Trail joins fireroad for about a 1/2 mile. Then sign indicates 2.8 to chair-veer off to left.
Reviewed by David on 12/25/2008 Did the hike today in the snow and rain - great scenery, but unfortunately I must have missed the turn-off for the chair, and with the storm coming I retreated lest I become a news story. Anyone have any feedback on where to leave the Burkhardt Trail to get to the Devil's Chair?
Reviewed by mike dale on 12/20/2008 Great website Jim, This is a year round area and has been a part of my life since the mid seventies. I'm planning on a day visit with my family during the next winter snow, our kid has never seen snow. We live Hawaii and at 10 he needs to see what real weather looks and feels like. For Zion, it'll be a real white Christmas! PS anyone have extra kids down coats??? Mike
Reviewed by Ron on 12/8/2008 12-08-08 Hit the trail again, cool, windy day, not a soul on the trail. Another peaceful day in the mountains.
Reviewed by Ron on 11/18/2008 Hit the trail again yesterday 11-17-08. To the chair and back in 2 hrs. 55 min. A beautiful cool morning that was quiet and peaceful. Even the critters were hiding. Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site. Keys: California Hiking, California Trails, California Hikes, Los Angeles County Hiking, Los Angeles County Trails, Los Angeles County Hikes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||