Hiking: Owen Brown Gravesite via San Gabrieleno/El Prieto Canyon Trail

[UPDATED] HAG WILD

Signs commemorating abolitionist Owen Brown hang from a fence near his gravesite on Little Round Top in Altadena (Photo – Kitty Cahalan)

Abolitionist Owen Brown, son of the famed John Brown, spent his final years in Altadena and was buried on Little Round Top, near the northwest corner of Altadena.

By Kitty Cahalan

Both his life and the history of the stones that marked his grave are full of twists and turns that are too interesting to try to compress into this column, but we encourage readers to explore his story on their own. The journey there is an enjoyable, moderately vigorous 6 mile out and back hike, starting at the San Gabrieleno Trail at the intersection of Ventura St and Windsor Ave.

From the trailhead there, walk north along the Arroyo Seco until, just past 1 mile, the trail forks. Go right toward El Prieto Canyon trail. The grade steepens here, but the shade of the canyon protects hikers from the heat of the sun. Just past 2.5 miles, you’ll take a sharp right that heads south toward Brown Mountain Truck Road. Just past the Brown Mountain Fire Road Command post, fork right onto the single-track trail. Just before mile 3, you’ll find yourself at Little Round Top. The main trail bypasses the hill to the west, but some switchbacks going up the hill are visible. Take these to the top of the hill, where you will find wooden signs commemorating Owen Brown. Return the way you came.

Double back on the switchbacks down to El Prieto, this time turning left to continue the rest of the way around the hill. El Prieto Rd becomes paved as you reenter The Meadows neighborhood. You’ll head south, looking for the trail access to the right, between 4361 and 4349 El Prieto Rd. A short path takes you back to the El Prieto Canyon Trail, where you turn left and head back the way you came to the San Gabreileno trail.

Fellow hikers include joggers, dog walkers and families. There is poison oak along the canyon and a few minor rock scrambles, so sturdy shoes are recommended.

Parking

A small, free parking lot on Windsor just south of Ventura fills early; street parking is also available on Ventura.

Hiked: 3/20/21

[This article has been to reflect changes based on feedback from nearby residents. July 14, 2:30 pm.]