Hikes in Angeles National Forest
Angeles National Forest Hikes
Angeles National Forest hikes are a great escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, providing Angelenos with the perfect outdoor getaway without having to travel too far. Located just north of the Greater Los Angeles Area and situated mostly within Los Angeles County, the Angeles National Forest is a vast area that blends the rugged nature of the Southern California wilderness with the convenience of nearby metropolitan areas. Whether you are visiting L.A. or consider yourself a local, Angeles National Forest Hikes are the best way to experience the picturesque landscapes around the city.
Established in 1908, the Angeles National Forest covers an area of 700,176 acres (1,094 mi²/2,833.5 km²), most of which is characterized by the rugged terrain of the San Gabriel and Sierra Pelona mountains.
With such an undulating landscape, the Angeles National Forest is a popular destination for a wide variety of outdoor enthusiasts, particularly hikers, mountain bikers, horseback riders, and OHV drivers. Due to the arid climate of the region, it is prone to wildfires that have historically devastated stretches of the park, most notably the Loop Fire of 1966, the Station Fire of 2009, and the Bobcat Fire of 2020. Even still, the Angeles National Forest remains a beautifully scenic stretch of Southern California and there are many Angeles National Forest hikes that beg to be explored, making it the ideal jumping off point for your next outdoor adventure.
10 Epic Hiking Routes in the Angeles National Forest
Featuring hundreds of miles of multi-use trails and a diverse landscape of green forests, stunning peaks, and undulating canyons, the Angeles National Forest is an amazing place to set out on your next hiking adventure. While some of the terrain here can seem a bit on the rugged side, easy access from metropolitan areas and a wide range of trail types means that this is the perfect place to explore, no matter your age or skill level. Whether you are an accomplished trekking enthusiast or are simply hoping to get outside for a few hours with the kids, check out the following list of Angeles National Forest hikes that we’ve put together to start experiencing the natural beauty of Southern California:
- Echo Mountain via Sam Merrill Trail: This hike can be a bit on the crowded side, but what it lacks in personal space it more than makes up for with gorgeous views from atop Echo Mountain.
- Mount San Antonio and Mount Baldy Notch Trail: If you are looking to push your physical limits while still experiencing some stunning views, this route will take you through some rugged terrain to scenic waterfall and mountain top viewpoints.
- Bridge to Nowhere via East Fork Trail: A great intermediate length trail with a scenic waterside setting, this hike will take you along the banks of the East Fork San Gabriel River for some beautiful canyon views.
- Eaton Canyon Trail: Featuring an interesting nature center and some cascading waterfalls, the Eaton Canyon Trail is the perfect Angeles National Forest hike that the entire family will be sure to love.
- Dawn Mine and Sunset Trail Loop: Beautiful canyon views and an historic mine await on this intermediate length hike just outside of Pasadena, California.
- Lewis Falls Trail: Quick and fairly easy, the Lewis Falls Trail is a lovely waterfall adventure that serves as the perfect outdoor escape when you can’t commit to a longer journey.
- Millard Canyon Falls Trail: Another relatively short waterfall hike, the Millard Canyon Falls Trail passes through a campsite and follows alongside the banks of Millard Creek for some beautiful views of the canyon and a cascading waterfall.
- Sturtevant Falls Trail: One of the most popular waterfall hikes within Angeles National Forest, this route will take you to a charming cascade that flows into a peaceful pool of water.
- Switzer Falls via Gabrielino Trail: Featuring a campsite and several sets of waterfalls, this is a nice trail if you are looking for a beautiful day hike or an easy-going multi-day adventure.
- Sturtevant, Mount Wilson, and Winter Creek Trail Loop: A bit on the longer side, this rugged hiking route will take you to the beautiful cascades of Sturtevant Falls, the historic Mount Wilson Observatory, and through the mountainous terrain of the Angeles National Forest.
When is the Best Time to Hike in Angeles National Forest?
A good portion of the Angeles National Forest hikes are accessible year-round, although some - particularly at higher elevations in the mountains - are not suitable for use during the winter. If you are looking to experience as many trails as possible while on your next hiking adventure in the Angeles National Forest, then make sure to time your trip for the spring to autumn window to catch the best weather.
Other Outdoor Activities in the Angeles National Forest
With its close proximity to both the city and a vast expanse of wilderness, the Angeles National Forest is certainly filled with plenty of outdoor activities to occupy your time. As the area features hundreds of miles of recreational trails, hiking is definitely one of the more popular activities in the Angeles National Forest; however, other popular adventures include camping, cycling, horseback riding, hunting, fishing, and wildlife viewing, in addition to water sports like canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. If you would rather head outdoors during the winter months, alpine activities like skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and even snowmobiling can be available in some higher elevation areas close by.
Fantastic Adventure Tours Near the Angeles National Forest
There are countless Angeles National Forest hikes that are just waiting to be explored, but the number of options can sometimes make planning a fun hiking trip a bit confusing or complicated, especially if you are unfamiliar with the area.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Angeles National Forest
How much does it cost to go to the Angeles National Forest?
As many areas within Angeles National Forest require maintenance, visitors will need to purchase a valid adventure pass, which costs $5 per day or $30 annually.
Can you hike in Angeles National Forest?
Hiking is one of the most popular outdoor activities in the Angeles National Forest, with over 804.7 km of dedicated trails.
Does it snow in the Angeles National Forest?
Snowfall is common in the Angeles National Forest during the winter months, providing a wealth of opportunity for outdoor activities like skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing.
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Best Hikes in Angeles National Forest
Crystal Lake to Throop Peak Hike
The Crystal Lake to Throop Peak Hike is a lengthy hike in Angeles National Forest with some pretty incredible views. While out on the trail, you will steadily gain elevation as you work your way into the San Gabriel Mountains, where you will enjoy sweeping views that stretch out to Catalina Island in the southwest and Nevada in the East. This is a long and challenging hike, so be sure to arrive prepared with proper hiking boots and trekking poles, as well as plenty of water and snacks to stay fueled.
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Throop Peak via Dawson Gap Hike
The Hike to Throop Peak via Dawson Gap is a great excursion in Angeles National Forest that offers some lovely views across the undulating landscape. While out on the trail, you will climb steadily uphill through the forest, before pushing on to the summit for views that extend out to Catalina Island on a clear day. Be sure to have your adventure pass visible in your vehicle before setting out on your hike.
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Bear Flats via Bear Canyon Trail
The Bear Flats via Bear Canyon Trail is a laid back adventure in the Angeles National Forest that is perfectly suited for a fun family excursion. While out on the trail, you will climb gently uphill to reach Bear Flats for some scenic views of the surrounding mountains. Make sure to have your adventure pass visible on the dashboard of your vehicle, or else you might receive a fine!
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Big Dalton Canyon Trail
Hiking the Big Dalton Canyon Trail is a fun experience in the Angeles National Forest of California that will get you outdoors for a breath of fresh air. While out on the trail, you will meander along a winding trail with little elevation gain, all while taking in the beautiful canyon views surrounding you. Be sure to have your adventure pass visible in your vehicle prior to starting your hike.
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Manzanita Ridge via Mount Wilson Trail
The Manzanita Ridge via Mount Wilson Trail is a tough hike through the rugged terrain of Angeles National Forest that will produce some beautiful views across the undulating landscape. While out hiking the trail, you will steadily climb into the mountains past Jones Peak and Lookout Point, before pushing up to the crest of Manzanita Ridge. Make sure your adventure pass is visible in your vehicle prior to setting out on your hike.
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Mount Lowe Road to Inspiration Point Hike
The Mount Lowe Road to Inspiration Point is a great little adventure in the Angeles National Forest that features scenic views and makes for a fun day outing. While out on the trail, you will traverse a mountain roadway that winds around peaks and through a tunnel, before arriving at the scenic vista at Inspiration Point. Make sure to bring plenty of water along for this hike, as the trail is exposed to the sun.
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Inspiration Point and Mount Lowe Loop Hike
The Inspiration Point and Mount Lowe Loop Hike is a challenging excursion in Southern California that will take you to several scenic vistas. While out on the trail, you will work your way through the undulating terrain of the mountains to Inspiration Point and the summit of Mount Lowe, before looping around on the return leg. Make sure to bring plenty of water and snacks to stay fueled on this lengthy adventure.
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San Gabriel Peaks Hike
The San Gabriel Peaks Hike is a tough, but beautiful hike in the Angeles National Forest that will take you to the top of four rugged mountain peaks. While out on the trail, you will climb up to the top of San Gabriel Peak, Mount Disappointment, Mount Markham, and Mount Lowe, before returning along the same trail. Be sure to display your adventure pass in your vehicle prior to starting your hike.
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Mount Lowe Canyon Loop Trail
The Mount Lowe Canyon Loop Trail is a fun little adventure in the Angeles National Forest that will take you through a scenic creekside setting. While out on the trail, you will follow along the Mount Lowe Motorway, before descending to the edge of Millard Creek for a view of Millard Falls. Make sure that you have your adventure pass displayed in your car prior to beginning your hike.
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Inspiration Point via Mount Lowe Trail
Hiking to Inspiration Point via Mount Lowe Trail is a wonderfully scenic adventure in the Angeles National Forest of Southern California. While out on the trail, you will traverse the slopes of Mount Markham and Mount Lowe along the Mount Lowe Motorway, before arriving at Inspiration Point for some lovely views of the surrounding landscape. Make sure to have your adventure pass displayed in your car before setting out on your hike.
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Le Canada Teepee via Crosstown Trail
The La Canada Teepee via Crosstown Trail is a relatively short and fun hiking experience in the Angeles National Forest that will take you up into the mountains above La Cañada Flintridge. While out on your adventure, you will steadily climb uphill along a path lined with brush, taking in the natural beauty of the Southern California landscape as you gain elevation. Be sure to have your adventure pass visible in your vehicle prior to starting your hike.
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Fern Truck, Brown Mountain, and El Prieto Trail Loop
The Fern Truck, Brown Mountain, and El Prieto Trail Loop is a great intermediate-length trail that climbs into the mountainous terrain of the Angeles National Forest. While out on the trail, you will gain elevation above the cityscape and take in the natural beauty of the surrounding hill, before looping around for the descent. Make sure that your adventure pass is displayed in your vehicle when setting out on this hike.
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Mount Wilson Trail to Bailey Canyon Loop
The Mount Wilson Trail to Bailey Canyon Loop is a challenging adventure in Southern California that features rugged mountain terrain and scenic landscape views. While out on the trail, you will traverse several steep climbs along the slopes of Jones Peak, before looping around for the return leg. Make sure that your adventure pass is visible in your vehicle.
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Mount Lawlor via Strawberry Peak Trail Loop
The hike up Mount Lawlor via the Strawberry Peak Trail Loop is a challenging adventure in the Angeles National Forest that features overgrown paths and technical stretches of trail. While out hiking, you will traverse the difficult to navigate trail and gain plenty of elevation on the way to Lawlor Saddle, before summiting Mount Lawlor itself. Don’t forget to display your adventure pass prior to starting your hike!
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Register Ridge to Mount San Antonio Hike
The Register Ridge to Mount San Antonio Hike is equal parts scenic and incredibly challenging. While out on the trail, you will visit a viewpoint for the San Antonio Falls, before traversing a steep slope on the way to the scenic summit of Mount San Antonio. Make sure to have your adventure pass visible in your car prior to setting out on your hike.
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Sunset Peak Alternate Approach Hike
The Sunset Peak Alternate Approach Hike is a great intermediate-length route in Southern California that features some gorgeous canyon views. While out on the trail, you will make your way along the well-maintained Sunset Ridge Fire Road, before arriving at the summit of Sunset Peak for beautifully scenic views. While this route can be popular at times, it is still possible to find a bit of solitude in the off-peak hours of the day.
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Graveyard Truck Trail
Hiking the Graveyard Truck Trail is a pleasant experience in Southern California that features easy-going terrain and views of the nearby mountains. While out on the trail, you will traverse the mildly-undulating landscape outside of Tujunga, but make sure to exercise caution, as the trail is fairly exposed to the sun. There isn’t much room for vehicles to park at the trailhead, so make sure to arrive early so that you can secure one of the limited spaces.
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Castaic Falls Trail
Hiking the Castaic Falls Trail is a fun little adventure in the Angeles National Forest that features a charming waterfall. While out on the trail, you will follow the banks of Fish Creek along a trail that can be a bit rocky in certain areas, before arriving at the Castaic Falls themselves. While this route is available to hike year-round, try visiting in the spring season when water levels at the waterfall will be higher.
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Mount Zion via Lower Winter Creek Trail Loop
The Mount Zion via Lower Winter Creek Trail Loop is a physically demanding Southern California adventure that features waterfall and mountain views. While out on the trail, you will make your way through the Santa Anita Canyon to Sturtevant Falls, before climbing uphill to the summit of Mount Zion. Make sure to display a valid adventure pass in your vehicle prior to beginning your excursion.
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Millard Canyon Falls Trail
The Millard Canyon Falls Trail is a fantastic hiking route in Southern California that will take you to a beautiful cascade set within the Angeles National Forest. While out hiking the trail, you will traverse the undulating terrain of the Millard Canyon, before arriving at the site of the picturesque Millard Falls. Make sure that you have a valid adventure pass displayed in your vehicle when you set out on this amazing excursion.