COLORADO RECREATION » CAMPGROUNDS » ANGELES NATIONAL FOREST
ANGELES NATIONAL FOREST
California, United States
Activities to Do
Hiking
With 53 trailheads and over 200 trails, Angeles National Forest is a playground for anyone who loves hiking. From easy to trek, family-friendly trails to extremely challenging ones for experienced hikers, the forest offers something fun for all of its visitors. The best part about hiking in Angeles National Forest is that your four-legged friend can accompany you on most trails — on a leash, of course.
If you’re looking for an easy and fun Angeles National Forest hike to enjoy with the family, try the 1.4-mile long San Antonio Falls Trail. The out and back hike shouldn’t take you more than 40-minutes to trek, and it will lead you straight to a beautiful waterfall and striking views of the region. But if you like a good challenge, go for the Mount San Antonio and Mount Baldy Notch Trail. The 11-mile, loop trail will take you well over six hours to finish, and will reward you with views that will blow your mind.
Kind reminder: All these trails require a national forest adventure pass, so go prepared.
Biking
Anglers, did you know that some of the best mountain biking trails in the state sit in your backyard? Angeles Forest offers a few awesome trails that prove to be challenging enough and yet extremely relaxing. With 73 miles of national recreation trails and 176 miles of the Pacific Crest Trail, cyclists of different levels and interests can easily find the perfect trail for them here.
Breathtaking and unobstructed views of Southern California and the Mojave Desert await you near the end of Mount Baldy Via Devil’s Backbone Trail. The 14-mile trail is also popular among hikers, backpackers, and campers, so you’ll probably encounter many others enjoying the route. If you’re looking for an easier trail to ride, you should check the 8.3-mile Brown Mountain Dam Waterfall trail. Biking the highly-shaded trail makes for a great family outing.
Boating
With many of the best lakes in Los Angeles and beyond located in the Angeles National Forest, you’d be right to assume that the forest offers some of the most breathtaking boating destinations in the Golden State. The forest’s Los Angeles Gateway District is home to the famous Pyramid Lake, as well as Elizabeth Lake. Motorized boating lovers can head to Pyramid Lake for an unforgettable experience, while those who prefer non-motorized boats can choose between both lakes. At Pyramid Lake, you can even ditch your boat and go for a jet-skiing or water-skiing cruise.
Skiing
Winters in Los Angeles hit differently when you’re visiting Angeles National Park. The snow not only creates marvelous, snow-covered landscapes to admire, but it also allows for an array of exciting and adventurous winter activities. Skiing, snow camping, hiking, and snowmobiling are a few of the activities you can enjoy at the forest’s commercial ski resorts. Mt. Baldy Resort, Mountain High Resort, and Mt. Waterman Ski Lifts are three of SoCal’s top skiing destinations, and they’re all located in our favorite national forest. Pack your favorite skiing apparel and head for an adventure like no other.
Places to Visit
Trail Canyon Falls
Get to know this 4.6-mile out-and-back trail near Sunland-Tujunga, California. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 2 h 22 min to complete. This is a very popular area for hiking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash.
Sturtevant Falls
The Sturtevant Falls Trail in Sierra Madre, California is currently closed, but reviewers mention that the hike is off-trail and beautiful to explore. Volunteer trail crews are working to repair and restore this and other trails in the area, with most expected to be open by Summer 2024. Some hikers have taken alternate routes, such as hiking down from Mt Wilson and back up, with no closures or trespassing signs encountered. It is mentioned that both Sturtevant and Hermit Falls are nice to see. The trail itself is described as practically non-existent, but those up for a challenge may enjoy the journey. Typically in April, the area may experience mild temperatures and clear skies, making it a popular time for outdoor activities in the region.
Santa Anita Race Park
Santa Anita Park is a Thoroughbred racetrack in Arcadia, California, United States. It offers some of the prominent horse racing events in the United States during early fall, winter and in spring. The track is home to numerous prestigious races including both the Santa Anita Derby and the Santa Anita Handicap as well as hosting the Breeders' Cup in 1986, 1993, 2003, 2008, 2009, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2016, 2019, and 2023. In 1984, Santa Anita was the site of equestrian events at the 1984 Olympics.
The Huntington Library, Art Museum and Botanical Gardens
The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens shares its world-renowned collections to support scholarship, foster learning, inspire creativity, and offer transformative experiences for diverse audiences. A popular tourist stop, this 207 acre complex houses a library, art collection and stunning gardens. The library and art gallery contain rare books and one of the most complete collections of 18th century art from London.