Hikes in Angeles National Forest
Activities 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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Route guides for Hiking in Angeles National Forest
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Eaton Canyon Trail Route Guide
Hiking the Eaton Canyon Trail is a fantastic family-friendly adventure in the Angeles National Forest that leads to a beautifully scenic waterfall. While out on the trail, you will make your way through the canyon and traverse several stream crossings, before arriving at the wonderful sight of the 40ft tall Eaton Canyon Falls. Be sure to check out the free and informative exhibits at the Eaton Canyon Nature Center, located just next to the trailhead.
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Dawn Mine and Sunset Trail Loop Route Guide
The Dawn Mine and Sunset Trail Loop is a popular adventure in the Angeles National Forest that is easily accessible from Pasadena and features beautifully scenic views. While out on the trail, you will work your way through the rugged terrain of the Millard Canyon, before visiting the historic Dawn Mine. Make sure to display your adventure pass on your dashboard prior to setting out on your hike.
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Blue Ridge Trail Route Guide
Hiking the Blue Ridge Trail is a great experience in Angeles National Forest that will take you uphill for gorgeous views of the mountainous California landscape. While out on the trail, you will work your way up through the forest to reach the top of a ridge, where you will enjoy sweeping views across the undulating landscape. Be cautious if hiking this route in cold/icy weather and make sure to bring microspikes and hiking poles for better traction.
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Mount Wilson Observatory Walking Trail Route Guide
The Mount Wilson Observatory Walking Trail is a quick and easy journey in the Angeles National Forest that offers beautiful views of the mountainous landscape. While out on the trail, you will navigate a paved pathway leading around the observatory at the summit of Mount Wilson, where you will be able to take in the majesty of Southern California. This is a fantastic little adventure to pair with an afternoon exploring the museum and historic telescopes of the observatory.
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Mount Islip via Little Jimmy Campground Hike Route Guide
The Mount Islip via Little Jimmy Campground Hike is a fun outdoor excursion in Angeles National Forest that will see you climb high into the mountains for stunning views. While out hiking the trail, you will gain elevation through a beautiful stretch of forest terrain, before passing by the campground and pushing on to the summit of Mount Islip for views that sweep across the mountainous Southern California landscape.
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Spruce Grove Campground Trail Route Guide
The Spruce Grove Campground Trail is a great intermediate-length hiking route in the Angeles National Forest that features scenic views and a charming waterfall. While out on the trail, you will make your way through the Santa Anita Canyon, before visiting Sturtevant Falls and continuing on to the Spruce Grove Trail Camp. An adventure pass is needed when hiking in the Angeles National Forest recreationally, so make sure to have one displayed on your dashboard.
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Mount Baldy via Bentley’s Dream Hike Route Guide
The Mount Baldy via Bentley’s Dream Hike is a fun adventure in the Angeles National Forest of California that explores the rugged terrain around the Mount Baldy Resort. While out on the trail, you will climb uphill through the mountainous landscape along Baldy Road to reach the Mount Baldy Notch, where you will have beautiful views of the surrounding area. Be sure to pop into the Top of the Notch restaurant at the top of the trail for a quick mid-hike snack.
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Strawberry Peak Trail Route Guide
The Strawberry Peak Trail is a challenging Southern California hiking route that will see you reach a summit vantage point with stunning views. While out on the trail, you will gain elevation across the mountainous landscape and push on to the summit of Strawberry Peak, where you will enjoy an incredible sightline across the peaks, valles, and woodlands of the Angeles National Forest. The road leading into the trailhead is closed seasonally, so make sure to check on its status prior to setting out on your hike.
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Crystal Lake Trail Route Guide
The Crystal Lake Trail is a lovely little hiking route in Angeles National Forest that loops around a charming body of water. While out on the trail, you will work your way through a beautiful woodland setting, while taking in the views of the surrounding mountain peaks across the small lake. Make sure to purchase and display your adventure pass prior to setting out on your hike.
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Mount Disappointment and San Gabriel Peak Hike Route Guide
The Mount Disappointment and San Gabriel Peak Hike is a great adventure in the Angeles National Forest that will take you up two different summits. While out on the trail, you will gain a fair amount of elevation through the forest, before pushing on to the top of Mount Disappointment and then San Gabriel Peak for beautiful views. Make sure to have your adventure pass visible in your vehicle before setting out on your hike.
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Mount Lukens via Dunsmore Canyon Hike Route Guide
The Mount Lukens via Dunsmore Canyon Hike is a long and challenging excursion in Southern California that climbs up into the mountains for beautifully scenic views. While out on the trail, you will gain a large amount of elevation on the way to the summit of Mount Lukens, before loping around and descending through the canyon. Be sure to arrive early for parking, as this is a popular area for hiking and exploring the outdoors.
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Mount Lowe Railway Loop Trail Route Guide
The Mount Lowe Railway Loop Trail is a great hiking route in Angeles National Forest that climbs into the mountains and visits historical sites. While out on the trail, you will make your way through Millard Canyon and enjoy views of the surrounding mountains, before visiting some historical ruins scattered throughout the area, such as Ye Alpine Tavern. Make sure that you present a valid adventure pass in your vehicle prior to your hiking excursion.
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Little Jimmy Campground Hike Route Guide
The Little Jimmy Campground Hike is a fun little trail in Angeles National Forest that will take you up to a campsite. While out on the trail, you will gain a small amount of elevation and enjoy some scenic views as you hike through the forest to reach the Little Jimmy Campground. If you are planning on camping in the area, make sure to practice proper outdoor etiquette and to pack out any trash/waste.
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Gabrielino Trail Route Guide
The Gabrielino Trail is a fantastic family-friendly hiking route in Angeles National Forest that utilizes a multi-use path through scenic canyon. While out on the trail, you will traverse a variety of terrain that is both man-made and natural, passing through the beautiful Fern Canyon before turning back for the return leg. As this is a multi-use trail, make sure to keep an eye out and leave enough room for others to safely pass.
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Sunset Ridge Saddle Loop Hike Route Guide
The Sunset Ridge Saddle Loop Hike is a great activity in the Angeles National Forest that will take you to view a scenic waterfall. While out on the trail, you will climb uphill through the scenic Millard Canyon and take in the views of the surrounding landscape, before looping around past the cascading waters of Millard Falls. Make sure to present your adventure pass in your vehicle prior to setting out on your excursion to avoid being fined.
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Glendora Ridge Motorway Hike Route Guide
The Glendora Ridge Motorway Hike is a laid back, intermediate-length adventure in Angeles National Forest that will lead you along a ridge with scenic views. While out on the trail, you will follow along an old road that can no longer be accessed by vehicles, creating a pleasant path for both hikers and mountain bikers alike. Hikers should take note that the road leading up to the trailhead is closed seasonally, and will require you to reach it by foot during the winter months.
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Dawn Mine Hike Route Guide
The Dawn Mine Hike is a fun adventure in the Angeles National Forest that will take you through a scenic canyon to visit an historic mining site. While out on the trail, you will work your way through the Millard Canyon and experience views of the Millard Falls, before investigating the old gold rush site at the Dawn Mine. Make sure to have your adventure pass visible in your vehicle or else you might receive a fine.
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San Gabriel Peak Trail Route Guide
The San Gabriel Peak Trail is a short, but rugged, adventure in the Angeles National Forest that will take you up to a scenic summit viewpoint. While out on the trail, you will traverse a gravel road and break off onto a footpath with loose terrain, before making the final push uphill to the viewpoint to be inundated with stunning scenery. There is a fair amount of rugged and uneven terrain along this route, so bring sturdy footwear and hiking poles for stability.
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Sunset Ridge Road Hike Route Guide
The Sunset Ridge Road Hike is a wonderful adventure in Southern California that follows a fire road past Sunset Peak. While out on the trail, you will climb uphill along the road as it traverses a ridge and passes below the summit of Sunset Peak to provide some nice views of the surrounding landscape. Hikers should take note that seasonal road closures can limit access to this trailhead at certain times of the year.
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Vincent Gap to Mount Baden-Powell Hike Route Guide
The Vincent Gap to Mount Baden-Powell Hike is a challenging, yet beautiful scenic excursion in Angeles National Forest that traverses three rugged summits. While out on the trail, you will make your way up a switchbacking path, before visiting the summits of Mount Baden-Powell, Mount Burnham, and Thropp Peak for stunning views of the Southern California landscape. Be sure to wear sturdy hiking boots and bring plenty of water for this leg burning adventure.
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Three Ts Trail Route Guide
The Three Ts Trail is an exceptional hiking route in Angeles National Forest that is quite long, but offers amazing scenic views of Southern California. While out on the trail, you will climb uphill through the Icehouse Canyon to reach a saddle, before traversing Timber Mountain, Telegraph Peak, and Thunder Mountain. If you are after a shorter trail in the same area, be sure to check out the Mount Baldy Notch via Bentley’s Dream Hike.
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Mount Bliss: Van Tassel Trail Route Guide
Hiking the Mount Bliss: Van Tassel Trail is a tough adventure in Southern California that traverses a winding mountain road with views of the surrounding landscape. While out on the trail, you will steadily gain elevation as you work your way into the mountains, eventually arriving at the summit of Mount Bliss for a great sightline across SoCal. Be sure to have your adventure pass visible in your vehicle prior to setting out on your excursion.
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Crane Flat Lookout Trail Route Guide
The Crane Flat Lookout Trail is an awesome, versatile adventure that the whole family can enjoy. No matter the season, eager adventurers can climb up to the overlook and old fire tower to revel in the sweeping vistas of the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range.
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Shoemaker Canyon Road Hike Route Guide
The Shoemaker Canyon Road Hike is a fairly laidback adventure in Southern California that follows along a road leading nowhere and offers scenic canyon views. The road was built during the Cold War as an escape route out of the Los Angeles area in the event of a nuclear attack, but was abandoned shortly after construction began. This left an interesting road through Shoemaker Canyon that is mostly used as a hiking route.
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Mount Baldy and San Antonio Falls Hike Route Guide
The Mount Baldy and San Antonio Falls Hike is a tough, but wonderfully scenic, excursion in Southern California that will take you up into the mountains. While out on the trail, you will pass by the cascading waters of the San Antonio Falls, before climbing further uphill to traverse the summits of Mount Harwood and Mount San Antonio. This is a fantastic route if you are fit enough to handle the large amount of elevation gain.
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Orchard Camp via Mount Wilson Trail Route Guide
The Orchard Camp via Mount Wilson Trail is a great hiking route in the Angeles National Forest that offers some beautiful views overlooking the city. While out hiking the trail, you will steadily gain elevation and take in the amazing Southern California views, before arriving at an historic camp along the trail. Make sure to bring bug spray along for this adventure, as there are sure to be plenty of insects along the trail.
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Gould Mesa Road Hike Route Guide
The Gould Mesa Road Hike is a fun little adventure in the Angeles National Forest of Southern California that features a nice waterfall. While out on the trail, you will descend to the edge of a stream, following it along flat ground until you arrive at the Paul Little Picnic Site and the nearby Brown Mountain Dam, which is home to the aforementioned waterfall. As there are several stream crossings along this route, it is advised to bring waterproof hiking shoes and poles for stability.
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Angeles Crest Scenic Byway Hike Route Guide
The Angeles Crest Scenic Byway Hike is a great family-friendly excursion in Southern California that follows the Gabrielino Trail alongside Arroyo Seco. While out on the trail, you will traverse a mixture of quiet roads and walking paths, as you take in the beauty of this riverside setting within Angeles National Forest. This is an easy-going, intermediate-length trail that is great if you are looking to spend a few hours outdoors with the kids.
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Little Jimmy Springs Hike Route Guide
The Little Jimmy Springs Hike is a great family-friendly adventure in the Angeles National Forest that climbs uphill to a camp near Mount Islip. While out on the trail, you will gain a moderate amount of elevation and some beautiful SoCal views, as you work your way into the mountains to reach the Little Jimmy Campground. Make sure to pop into the nearby ranger station to pick up a trail map, and also to display an adventure pass in your vehicle.
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Mount Lowe via Eaton Saddle Hike Route Guide
The Mount Lowe via Eaton Saddle Hike is a great moderate-length trail in Southern California that will take you up to a summit with some amazing views. While out hiking the trail, you will follow along Mount Lowe Road and break off onto a footpath leading up to the saddle between Mount Lowe and Mount Markham, before reaching the scenic summit viewpoint. Make sure to bring microspikes and/or hiking poles if you are planning on completing this hike in cold or icy weather.
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Switzer Falls and Bear Canyon Camp Hike Route Guide
The Switzer Falls and Bear Canyon Camp Hike is a fantastic outdoor excursion in the Angeles National Forest that features a gorgeous riverside setting. While out on the trail, you will trek through a lovely stretch of forest and make your way into the canyon, where you will be able to take in the beauty of the upper and lower Switzer Falls. Remember to purchase and display your adventure pass in your vehicle prior to setting out on your journey.
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Jupiter Mountain Loop Trail Route Guide
The Jupiter Mountain Loop Trail is a challenging hiking route in the Angeles National Forest that features steep terrain and scenic views across the landscape. While out hiking the trail, you will climb up the steep mountainside to reach the top of Jupiter Mountain for some amazing views over the Bouquet Reservoir, before descending into a saddle and looping around downhill on the return. Although this route is fairly short, it is very steep and features a pretty treacherous descent. Make sure to bring hiking poles for increased stability.
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Jones Peak Loop Trail Route Guide
The Jones Peak Loop Trail is a moderate length hike in Angeles National Forest that features some rugged terrain and a good challenge for experienced hikers. While out on the trail, you will climb up the steep slopes of Jones Peak for some incredible Southern California view, before descending through a canyon on the return leg. Hikers should take note that most people choose to tackle this hike in a clockwise direction, as there is a very steep section of trail leading up to the peak that would be too difficult to descend.
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Hermit Falls to Sturtevant Falls Loop Hike Route Guide
The Hermit Falls to Sturtevant Falls Loop Hike is a wonderfully scenic adventure in the Angeles National Forest that features several stunning waterfall viewpoints. While out on the trail, you will follow Big Santa Anita Creek to the cascading waters of Hermit Falls, before turning back to the north to follow the water’s edge to the impressive sight of Sturtevant Falls. Make sure to have your adventure pass visible in your car prior to beginning your hike.
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Old Mount Baldy Trail Route Guide
The Old Mount Baldy Trail is a lengthy hike in the Angeles National Forest of Southern California that features challenging terrain and beautifully scenic views. While out on the trail, you will climb uphill to the north and through Bear Flats, before pushing up the mountainside to reach the breathtaking summit of Mount San Antonio. Make sure that you arrive prepared and have your adventure pass visible in your vehicle prior to setting out on your hike.
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Fall Creek Trail Route Guide
The Fall Creek Trail is a lovely outdoor adventure in the Angeles National Forest that leads to a charming waterfall. While out on the trail, you will follow along the banks of the Big Tujunga River, before branching off to take in the views of the cascade. Make sure to have your adventure pass displayed in your vehicle before starting your hike.
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Fish Creek Narrows Hike Route Guide
The Fish Creek Narrows Hike is a laidback adventure in the Angeles National Forest that is well-suited for a fun family excursion. While out hiking the trail, you will make your way along the winding banks of Fish Creek as they navigate through a tranquil and scenic canyon setting. Make sure that your adventure pass is visible in your vehicle when out hiking this trail.
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Poop Out Trail Route Guide
The Poop Out Trail is a tough hiking route in the Angeles National Forest of Southern California that will be sure to get your legs burning! While out on the trail, you will steadily gain elevation and traverse several rocky scramble sections, before looping around on the return. Make sure to bring plenty of water for this one!
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Haines Canyon to Mount Lukens Trail Route Guide
The Haines Canyon to Mount Lukens Trail is a challenging uphill hike that will take you into the mountains near Tujunga, California. While out on the trail, you will steadily gain elevation and increasingly beautiful views, as you work your way through the undulating terrain alongside other hikers and mountain bike enthusiasts. Be sure to arrive prepared and have your adventure pass displayed in your vehicle prior to starting your hike.
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Cobb Estate to Switzer Station Hike Route Guide
The Cobb Estate to Switzer Station Hike is a lengthy adventure that will take you into the rugged wilderness of the Angeles National Forest. While out on the trail you will leave behind a former estate that is allegedly haunted, before traversing the undulating mountains to experience the beauty of Switzer Falls. Be sure to display an adventure pass in your vehicle before starting your hike.
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Echo Mountain Loop Trail Route Guide
The Echo Mountain Loop Trail is a tough climb into the mountains outside of Altadena that will take you to the top of Echo Mountain for beautiful views.The Echo Mountain Trail is a beautifully scenic, albeit challenging, adventure in the Angeles National Forest that features rugged terrain and beautiful views. While out on the trail, you will pass through the Cobb Estate and climb up into the mountains through a fire break, passing by the ruins of the Mount Lowe Observatory before arriving at the summit of Echo Mountain. Be sure to display your adventure pass in your vehicle before setting out on your hike.
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Mount Wilson via Sierra Madre Hike Route Guide
The Mount Wilson via Sierra Madre Hike is a difficult undertaking in Southern California that will see you climb into the mountains of the Angeles National Forest. While out on the trail, you will steadily gain elevation through the steep undulating terrain, while taking in the stunning landscape views on the way to the summit of Mount Wilson. Be sure to spend some time exploring the Mount Wilson Observatory when you get to the end of the trail!
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Mount Lukens via Stone Canyon Hike Route Guide
The Mount Lukens via Stone Canyon Hike is a rough and rugged adventure in the Angeles National Forest that follows the toughest route up to the summit. While out on the trail, you will cross over Big Tujunga River, before making an unrelenting climb through switchbacks to reach the stunning viewpoints at the top of Mount Lukens. Remember to display your adventure pass in your vehicle prior to setting out on your hiking excursion.
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Muir Peak Loop Trail Route Guide
Hiking the Muir Peak Loop Trail is an epic adventure in Southern California that will see you traverse some rugged terrain for beautiful views. While out on the trail, you will climb uphill into the mountains to reach Inspiration Point, before continuing on to the top of Muir Peak. Make sure to have your adventure pass visible in your car prior to setting out on your hike.
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Gould Mesa Hike Route Guide
The Gould Mesa Hike is a nice and easy hiking route in Southern California that follows along a quiet river. Although busy, the relaxing waterside setting is very peaceful and makes for a fun day on the trails as you hike to the Gould Mesa campground. Remember to display your adventure pass before starting your hike!
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