Inspiration Point is a good destination to use as a halfway point for a hike.  It has picnic tables under a roof structure, shade, a great view, and is a hub that many trails connect to.  This makes it possible to create loops so that at least part of your hike isn’t simply a return along the same trail that go you to Inspiration Point.  There is also signage telling some of the history of the area and a remnant of the old one man and mule railway.

Hikes:

Cobb Estate to Echo Mountain to Inspiration Point via Castle Canyon: 9.2 miles, 2709′ gain and loss

Sam Merrill Trail to Inspiration Point: 11.2 miles, 2709′ gain and loss.

Muir Peak from Cobb Estate: 11.6 miles, 2947′ gain and loss.

Sam Merrill Trail, Castle Canyon Trail, East Mt. Lowe Trails to Mt. Lowe: 12.8 miles, 3862′ gain and loss.

Cobb Estate to Tom Sloan Saddle: 16 miles, 3969′ gain and loss. 

Cobb Estate to Bear Canyon Campground: 19 miles, 4619′ gain and loss.