Angeles National Forest

Just minutes from the bustling streets of Los Angeles, Angeles National Forest offers over 700,000 acres of rugged beauty, towering peaks, deep canyons, and tranquil forests. Encompassing much of the San Gabriel Mountains, this “urban national forest” provides a refreshing escape for hikers, adventurers, families, and nature lovers. From snow-capped summits to cascading waterfalls, the forest delivers year-round recreation with stunning views of Southern California.

Whether you’re seeking a challenging summit hike, a peaceful picnic, or a weekend camping trip, Angeles National Forest has something for everyone.

Iconic Points of Interest & Must-See Sites

• Mount Baldy (Mount San Antonio) — The highest peak in the San Gabriel Mountains at 10,064 feet. Offers panoramic views and is a bucket-list summit for hikers.
• Mount Wilson Observatory — Historic site at 5,710 feet with telescopes that helped expand our understanding of the universe. Docent-led tours available on weekends.
• Angeles Crest Highway (CA-2) — A scenic 66-mile drive winding through the mountains with breathtaking overlooks.
• Bridge to Nowhere — A famous hike leading to an abandoned bridge in a scenic canyon (popular for bungee jumping adventures).
• Big Santa Anita Canyon & Sturtevant Falls — Lush canyon with one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the forest.
• Switzer Falls — Popular waterfall hike through shaded canyons.
• Trail Canyon Falls — Moderate hike with stream crossings leading to a 40-foot waterfall.
• Other Waterfalls — Millard Canyon Falls, Eaton Canyon Falls, Cooper Canyon Falls, and Lewis Falls.

Activities for Every Season

Hiking & Backpacking With over 550 miles of trails (including sections of the Pacific Crest Trail), options range from easy family walks to strenuous summit climbs. Popular trails include:

• Mount Baldy Notch Trail
• Icehouse Canyon to Cucamonga Peak
• Gabrielino National Recreation Trail

Water Activities Swimming in natural pools, fishing in mountain streams and lakes (like Pyramid Lake and Elizabeth Lake), and waterfall viewing.

Winter Sports Downhill skiing and snowboarding at Mt. Baldy, Mountain High, and Mt. Waterman. Also enjoy cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snow play areas.

Other Adventures

• Mountain biking on forest roads and trails
• Horseback riding
• Picnicking at scenic spots
• Off-highway vehicle (OHV) routes
• Camping and stargazing
• Zip-lining near Mt. Baldy

Camping & Facilities

The forest offers numerous campgrounds, including:

• Chilao Campground
• Appletree Campground
• Table Mountain Campground
• Buckhorn Campground

Many sites feature picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets. Some require an Adventure Pass for day-use parking. Group sites and a few cabins are also available. Always check current conditions, fire restrictions, and reservations.

Visitor Centers

• Mount Baldy Visitor Center
• Chilao Visitor Center
• Big Pines Visitor Center

Stop by for maps, trail information, and interpretive exhibits.

Planning Your Visit

• Location: North of Los Angeles, accessible via I-210, CA-2 (Angeles Crest Highway), and various foothill roads.
• Best Time to Visit: Spring for wildflowers and waterfalls; fall for milder temperatures; winter for snow sports.
• Fees: Many areas require an Adventure Pass ($5/day or $30/annual). Some campgrounds charge additional fees.
• Safety Tips: Stay on marked trails, bring plenty of water, check weather and fire conditions, and be aware of wildlife (including bears).

Angeles National Forest is more than just a getaway — it’s a place to reconnect with nature, challenge yourself on the trails, and create lasting memories with family and friends.

For more information and current conditions, visit the official USDA Forest Service website: fs.usda.gov/angeles

Come explore the majestic San Gabriel Mountains — your adventure awaits!

Angles National Forest Campgrounds