Upper Sam Merrill Trail 12W14.3

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This trail is sometimes referred to as "Mt. Lowe West" and is listed in the Forest Service database by that name although historical maps show this route as the Upper Sam Merrill. Most people reach the summit of Mt. Lowe by taking the Mt. Lowe Road #2N50 from Eaton Saddle to the Upper Sam Merrill Trail.

The Upper Sam Merrill Trail, also called the "Mt. Lowe West Trail", starts along the Mt. Lowe Road #2N50 about 0.3 miles north of the junction with the Muir Peak Road #2N50.A, Middle Sam Merrill Trail 12W14.2 and Idlehour Trail 12W16. It should not be confused with the Mt. Lowe East Connector Trail, just 50' feet south, that leads to the Mt. Lowe East Trail 12W14.3A. It climbs moderately along the west side of Mt. Lowe with occasional shade from oak, bigcone spruce, and bay trees.

The trail ascends a series of switchbacks and reaches a junction with a spur trail to the summit of Mt. Lowe. The trail contours around the north side and reaches a junction with the Mt. Lowe East Trail 12W14.3A. From there, it goes north to a saddle where a very popular use trail leads to the summit of Mt. Markham.

Finally, it parallels Mt. Lowe Road #2N50 to the end at Markham Saddle. Mt. Lowe Road #2N50 can be taken another 0.5 miles to reach the parking area at Eaton Saddle.

Oak, bay, and bigcone spruce offer limited shade. Expect some nice areas of manzanita as well.