Angeles National Forest in Los Angeles County, California — The American West (Pacific Coastal)
The White City
Mount Lowe Railway
— Echo Mountain —
Photographed By Craig Baker
1. The White City Marker
Photo showing the Echo Mountain Complex, known as the White City, as it appeared in the late 1890's. The Chalet Hotel is the small low building at the far left. The Echo Mountain House is the larger building just left of center. To the right is the power plant, car house and gas storage.
The complex was called the "White City" because the buildings, which were painted a brilliant white, could be seen over a area of 100 square miles on a clear day.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Industry & Commerce • Parks & Recreational Areas • Railroads & Streetcars.
Location. 34° 12.791′ N, 118° 7.292′ W. Marker is in Angeles National Forest, California, in Los Angeles County. Marker can be reached from Sam Merrill Trail north of Echo Mountain. Hike three miles up a steep trail with a 1,500-foot altitude gain from the Cobb Estate trailhead. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Altadena CA 91001, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. New Line to Alpine Tavern (within shouting distance of this marker); The Lowe Observatory (within shouting distance of this marker); End of the Line (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); Echo Mtn Service Pit (about 400 feet away); Casino, Tennis Courts, Power Plants, and Car Barn
this page online
Regarding The White City. During the early 1900’s, tourists could take the Pacific Electric trolley from Los Angeles to Rubio Canyon, then take the Incline Railway to the top of Echo Mountain, and then take another electric trolly to the Alpine Tavern hotel. The buildings at White City on Echo Mountain were destroyed by fires in 1900 and 1905. The Alpine Tavern hotel burned down in 1936.
Photographed By Craig Baker
2. Lowe Observatory Ruins
The marker is below the observatory ruins.
3. Echo Mountain House
from Wikimedia Commons
4. Mount Lowe Railway Map
Credits. This page was last revised on June 20, 2024. It was originally submitted on June 20, 2024, by Craig Baker of Sylmar, California. This page has been viewed 44 times since then. Photos: 1. submitted on June 20, 2024, by Craig Baker of Sylmar, California. 2. submitted on June 11, 2024, by Craig Baker of Sylmar, California. 3. submitted on June 4, 2024, by Craig Baker of Sylmar, California. 4. submitted on May 28, 2024, by Craig Baker of Sylmar, California.
