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Chantry Flat Recreation Area
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
99 reviews for Chantry Flat Recreation Area
99 reviews in English
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Review from David G.
Whittier, CA
4/21/2012
I love this place. I hike and run these trails about once a week for the last two years. I go alone every once in awhile but yesterday I was hiking with my brother Andy. I will never ever go alone again! We had a very close call with a couple of bears yesterday. Don't let anyone tell you they are not up there. Don't let anyone tell you they are not agressive. I've seen deer, coyotes, rattle snakes and now bears. Ok back to my bear(s) encounter. We were coming down from Mt Zion . We passed Spruce Camp and you know where the trail splits and you have two options to get down to the bottom trail. Well we took the trail on the right with all the curves. We always take that path because its has less rocks and perfect terrain for trail running. My brother was hiking in front of me as we were going around a corner. I was tired and looking down. I noticed he stopped and was mumbling some words like he was incoherent. I looked up and saw one large bear in front of me standing straight up at us. We both concluded that the bear was about 15-20 feet away. We were seriously frozen for about 5 seconds. I then noticed a baby bear behind the larger bear curiously peaking at us behind the large bear. I'm not gonna lie, I didn't hear a growl. My brother said the bear growled at us. I know for sure that the big bear was standing on two legs in an aggressive stance. My first instinct was to run and my brother looked like he was going to run too. We both quickly ...I mean slowly gathered our composure and slowly backed away walking backwards but at the same time peaking forward so we don't fall off the trail. It was mass confusion as we were both trying to coach each other. The worst part was being on a corner. We didn't know if the bear was going to come running after us around the corner. It was about 60 seconds of pure terror. We thought about things we could have done better but I'm typing away on Yelp so I guess we did good. Even bear experts say there is no proven system that will keep you safe around an agressive bear. One expert says you should thow your hands up and yell at it in English or whatever your language is. It will give you something to do with the last seven seconds of your life. I know when there is cub involved you need to be even more cautious. We seriously thought we were going to die yesterday. Went home and drank some Sam Adams I was saving for the weekend. Best beer of my life I tell you.
I still give the trail 5 stars. Be safe! -
Review from Lauren P.
Brea, CA
3/28/2012
ONE OF MY FAVORITE TRAILS
1. Completely shaded
2. Many trail options:
Beginner
Intermediate
Challenging
3. Parking.... be sure to have a pass.. get there real early or real late.. you can just pay for parking..
we got there around 230pm so we just paid 5 bucks to park up by the main office
GREAT HIKE I CANT WAIT TO GO BACK!!!! -
Review from Chuck S.
Industry, CA
2/6/2012
This is a 5-star hike. I love this place, no matter what anyone says. Pay no heed to the bitching bitches who complain about how crowded it gets, and how poor the parking situation is. Chantry Flat has merely become a victim of its own popularity, through no fault of its own, other than that everyone loves to come here. At least on the weekends, with people arriving from early morning 7:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Then it tapers off. Otherwise, it's easier to come on a weekday.
Sure, it might be a pain to find a place to park, but things worth enjoying take effort. There are no shortcuts to places worth going, or things worth achieving in life.
Like any place in Angeles Forest, you need a $5 Forest Adventure Pass (unless you already got a yearly pass, big pimpin') for the car, purchasable anywhere like Big Five, or the liquor store off the 210 exit for Santa Anita Ave.
This is a dog-friendly hike. I've never seen so many dogs on a hiking trail, people bring 'em. Siberian huskies, golden retrievers. Even little chihuahuas and tea cup malteses, that would get eaten alive by the wilderness, are coddled and carried over the stony streams by their owners.
What's so alluring about the trails here are the charming cabins and houses you pass by. You almost expect little gnomes and Keebler elves to step outside with their little Hobbit feet. And people do stay in them. One house had a fireplace going, the scent of burning firewood eminent through the chimney.
Man-made and natural waterfalls adorn the gradated rising path. Trees give natural, cool shade, as it turns the harsh heat of the sun into ethereal rays to kiss your skin with gentle warmth.
And you could make it a short trip to Sturtevant Falls, at merely an hour of travel. Or you can extend it to 3-4 hours, if you want to take the loop or go up to the campgrounds. This is a refreshing adventure, and accessible to nearly all ages and stages of fitness.
This is 5-stars. No... 6-stars or 7-stars even. -
Review from Erica O.
Montebello, CA
5/5/2012
This place is beautiful. The scary park is the drive up the mountain many curves and I'm afraid of heights. Went for the first time with some friend and really enjoyed it. Unfortunately on our way back my husband broke his ankle on the trail. The mountain rescue and fire fighters were absolutely awesome. I'm so thankful for them. They got my husband outta there very quickly. I will be back soon, my husband won't be back for 6 months.
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Review from Jeanette S.
La Puente, CA
A great recreation area that has a lot of options to chose from. There are quite a few different hikes (from novice to challenging), campgrounds, waterfalls and more! I have never been camping up here and am not quite ready for the crazier harder hikes yet but I still love it lol.
I have done the Hermit Falls, Sturtevant Falls, and Mt. Wilson hikes so far. I have quite a few more to go! especially the harder ones lol. It's great because most of the hikes are at the same starting point, so you can choose to challenge yourself one day or take it easy the next. Most of the them are very rewarding and include beautiful views, creeks, streams, and waterfalls. Most of the hikes have their own reviews, so I will further elaborate on each one there.
There are lots of maps which include the miles of all the hikes, so you can chose how long you want to be up there for. There are usually lots of friendly people in the area, and it is dog friendly. I always see so many cute dogs! The trails can be narrow though, so proceed with caution with your four legged pals.
Parking is not that great and pretty limited so best to get there early especially on weekends. Parking is particularly bad on the weekends, so be prepared if you can't come by during the less crowded weekdays. Adventure passes which are $5 bucks which is required in the park. I believe you can only buy them at the little shop which is kind of confusing if it's closed.
It's a great time to be in California right now with all this beautiful weather we've been having. So enjoy it while you can and go outside and enjoy some nature, and take a nice hike. :-) -
Review from David C.
1/4/2012 4 photos
I'm a native Arcadian, and this Chantry is always a cool place to come kick it. The view of the San Gabriel Valley is breathtaking and you don't even have to be at the top. The shortest hike is probably to Sturtevant Falls (1.25 miles). Its an easy hike and leads you to a nice waterfall. Its always nice to come up during a weeknight or late afternoon when there is no one around.
PROTIP: On weekends the trails can get crowded and there is no parking at the recreational area. -
Review from Miguel R.
11/26/2011
Horrible hike down to Sturtevant Falls (it's a nasty hike up on the way back).
There are cabins all along the way to the Falls (you never really feel you are really taking in nature).
There are tons of people even when the recreation area is just opening.
The only reason this place got three stars is because it is the way to get to the beautiful Surtevant Falls.Listed in: Overrated!, Best and Worst Local Hikes
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Review from Alex L.
Los Angeles, CA
7/10/2011
Like many said, parking sucks and the lady who is in the U.S. Forest Service's uniform working at the entrance is rude! I got there at 6:30am sharp and I asked her how am I going to pay for the parking if they are not open until 7:00a.m. She raised her voice, " You should get the pass the day before"! She started to following me around and telling me all the rules while I was trying to leave. What it was suppose to be a relax Sunday morning....
By the way, if you can deal with parking and the staff, the trails here are awesome!
My Suggestions/Commons:
1)Get there at 6:30 and chill at the parking lot until 7:00a.m to get your parking pass.
2) Do not make any eye contact with the lady in uniform I mention above. Or you can go around her. She will chase you around and tell you all the rules rather you want to listen or not. YEAH, SHE WILL FOLLOW YOU AROUND UNTIL YOU TELL HER TO TAKE A CHILL PILL.
3) Don't go there unless you couldn't find a better place to go on a Chill Sunday morning.
4) Bring your dog.
5) If you go, pretend you are blind and deaf
6) Bring a chill pill so you can give it to the lady if she follow you around
7) I hope you find this review funny and helpful -
Review from Bryant T.
Great place to hike and enjoy nature for a bit.
Dog-friendly, so bring your witto buddy along too!
Lots of different trails (I learned there were TWO ways to get to Hermit Falls) to waterfalls, etc. Hike isn't too intense at all, but you do have to cross a few streams here and there -- don't worry, there are rocks you can hippity hop across.
At Hermit Falls, there are some spots to jump in and one as high as 40 feet (that's 4 stories bro). A little too cray for me (yeah, I'm a wuss) though. There's a rope to climb back up now, which is great since climbing up from the bottom was a pain (and difficult).
Parking is $5 at the outpost. And go in the afternoon. After 1PM, it could be hot and you'll be really hating yourself... Especially at the last hill up. SRS -
Review from Nicole P.
Claremont, CA
8/13/2011
When climbing to the falls, bring your own rope to ensure that you can get back up. We brought our own, and a shit ton of river rats used it. Then we left and they were stranded, frowns peeking out below their Metal Mulisha hats.
Get a rope. -
Review from Johnson L.
Rowland Heights, CA
7/30/2011
The drive up the mountains was very "squiggly" as my girlfriend called it and we went up to the mountains where we had to pay $5 for parking to park on the dirt lot
We finally started to go towards Sturtevant Falls which was approximately a 2 mile hike, but it took us almost an hour - however, the scenary and the river that went along the hike itself was absolutely beautiful. There are helpful signs along the way and the waterfall was pretty awesome-looking :). The hike there was cool because of the canopy above. The hike back from Sturtevant Falls was very tiring because it was all up-hill and the bathrooms were icky. -
Review from Grace N.
Orange County, CA
9/4/2011
The trails are so shady and beautiful-- it gave me a feeling that I was not in California at all but in some deserted forrest.. or in a jungle..
You can bring your dogs here, and there are a couple rivers to cross, and waterfalls, and bears, snakes, and.. I guess that's all.. I think a walking pole is good to have if you're clumsy climbing rocks/crossing rivers like me!! I did not have one this time unfortunately, but I managed. :)
I was with a lot of friends who frequent this place so I'm not sure how hard to read the maps or follow the trails here or finding out how long/hard each trail is, but, oh man the route we took literally took me out on the way back.. going back seemed like an endless climbing up the hill.
Parking is hard to find, and make sure you have pass to avoid getting a ticket. Restrooms stops: go to the one up at the parking lot, DO NOT go to the one near the beginning of the trails!!! Some friends did and ... I'll just leave it at that!..
There were a couple cabins on our trails so I guess they must rent out this place during certain seasons.. Definitely would come here again. -
Review from Lauren L.
6/22/2011
'Tis a real hike.
Be ready to burn some calories because you WILL. You know, a lot of people think their version of hiking is Runyon Canyon or the Hollywood Sign or a few trails in Malibu. To me, that's really just a "brisk walk." But here, it's actually filled with challenging trails. Most people hike Sturtevant Falls, which is a great hike for those wanting to go on a longer trail (mileage-wise). If you want tougher trails, there are certainly tougher trails if your heart desires! You can actually take a trail that goes above the waterfall and miles and miles into the canyon/mountains. When I say you can hike into the canyon, you can really go FAR. But not too many people do this, so make sure you don't get lost. Remember, never go off-trail because you never know what can happen.
A few words of advice: make sure you have a parking pass. Because they will give you a ticket. There's the main parking lot at Chantry, but there's also a small area above the lot where you can park for $5. You simply leave the money in the box (you will see it) -- that area is owned by a family.
Oh yeah, and the waterfall isn't that great. Some people expect something magical, but it's really not that fascinating when there's barely any water. Plus the water is dirty, so I wouldn't dare plunge in with full force. I've seen it, and the only thing I can think of is the algae and green-ish color infesting the water!Listed in: HIKING in LA-- The Good, The…
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Review from One, F.
Chunky, MS
1/28/2012
What I really like about this place is that it is what you make it. You can go for a leisure stroll or an intense hike. It's set for all ages and body types. A very nice hike and worth another visit.
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Review from Eugene B.
La Mirada, CA
6/5/2011 2 photos
Great place! I went there today with my parents to go hiking. The views were amazing. We came here around 7:30am on a Sunday and there was still some parking spots left. I think this is a great time to go because not that many ppl are here and its not that hot.
The trail starts with a decline so when you come back it'll be later in the day (so it'll be hotter) and you'll be a bit tired. To get to the falls you have to cross about 3 rivers? I have terrible balance so I fell about 6 times while my 50+ year old parents did not trip once. Its safe to say I'm out of shape while they aren't.
Its a great place to take pictures and enjoy the air and scenery. Pack some water, clothes, and fruit and you are good to go!
Also a great place to bring your dogs too! -
Review from Robert H.
Irvine, CA
9/4/2011
Great hiking location. It's really easy access. Not a lot of driving to get to.
I love hiking in areas with a lot of trees. Living in So Cal, you don't get a lot of trees unless you go up to Big Bear. This is one of few. It's always great to have a waterfall at some point in the hike and this place offers that. This hike was not very difficult. You start with a long downhill and the rest is flat. Just remember to save energy because you have to come back up that hill.
Parking can suck. -
Review from Monica P.
Arcadia, CA
12/27/2011
A very good area for novice hikers. The walk to Stuartevant Falls is lovely--tree covered most of the way with charming cabins and a boy scout camp midway through. If you want to swim you should get to the falls around noon so that the sun is right overhead and the shade won't get your boyfriend too cold to get in the water and be all lame.....Who's bitter?....Not me....
Listed in: Culture Vultures
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Review from Paul S.
Los Angeles, CA
5/1/2011
Chantry Flats is CROWDED! We got there a little before 9am on a Saturday, and saw a "Lot Full" sign. Every turnout was full of cars, 2+ miles down the road from the parking lot. We got really lucky though - right as we were driving out of the parking lot, somebody was leaving and we were able to snag their parking spot.
The reason this place is crowded is obvious. It's gorgeous. It's got something for everybody. A short paved trail to a waterfall (watch out for tourists and LOTS of screaming kids). A 5-6 mile loop through the canyon (Hoegee's Loop). A 10+ mile loop (Big Santa Anita Canyon Loop). And a 10-12 mile loop/out-and-back to Mt. Wilson. Just beautiful, and once you get off the main trail to the waterfall, the crowds thin out substantially.
We did Hoegee's Loop and loved every minute of it. You hike up the lush, rocky canyon, criscrossing the stream probably a dozen times. You eventually reach Hoegee's camp which is a nice place to stop for lunch. Then a ways past the camp, you top out and have a nice gradual downhill 2-3 mile hike back to Chantry Flats. A really nice hike - and dog friendly.
If you're bored with socal chaparral, check out Chantry Flats. You will feel like you're suddenly in Colorado. Will definitely be back! -
Review from Andy O.
2/7/2011
Talk about way over-crowded. This place is some kind of hiking-novice heaven. I'm not trying to act like some form of an elitist hiking snob, because I'm certainly not. But this place was filled to the brim with all kinds of people who clearly had no business hiking at all. Yes, I like to judge. For me, at least, one of the reasons I hike/trail-run is to get away from it all. This was the opposite of that. It was like some kind of shitty amusement park in a forest. With no rides, and lots of dirt, and tons of tourists, and way too many buildings to make me feel like I was in "nature".
We explored the "main" trail, as well as a couple of offshoots (we tacked on the top-of-the-waterfall portion, which we ran as fast as we could. Admittedly, this portion was at least a little more difficult/secluded/interesting.) We managed a total of 6-7 miles in a period of 2 hours. And my friends and I are by no means veteran hikers/runners. Weak.
The parking situation, as well, is horrid. We got here at 9am on a Saturday, and that's generally "early enough" to get a decent parking spot at most other nearby hiking spots. Chantry Flats was a different story. Car after car illegally parked along the road leading up to the actual parking lot. We just joined in and wedged in where we could, a full mile down from where the trailhead even begins. There's something about hiking to GET to the hike that annoys me beyond belief.
Final thoughts.... I'm Asian so I can say what I'm about to say... The more Asians you see on a hiking trail, the less "real" that trail is. Scientifically proven. And you can guess how many Asians we saw here. I was being obnoxious and saying,"Beep beep, excuse me, other Asians coming through, excuse me." Bleh, bunch of tourists... -
Review from Myles A.
6/19/2011
This is a pretty chill area. There's quite a few trailheads that wind around the hills here, so you have lots of options. There's some really easy ones for the beginners, too. If you're walking to the first falls, its pretty easy and from there, you can venture to more adventurous areas.
The Zion trail is probably one of the better ones.
Note: There's two ways back up the to the parking lot. The one where you don't head up the steep hill after a 8+ mile hike is preferrable, trust me.Listed in: Out & about
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Review from Erin V.
9/30/2010 3 Check-ins Here
I would have to say this is one of my favorite hikes that I've participated in with the Pasadena Hiking Pacers.
The Beatles song "Long and Winding Road" comes to mind at the end of the hike. It's a good thing, trust me.
The scenery alone was breathtaking. From the small streams at the beginning to the campground area and along the small windy path that dances within the shadows and the sun light, its no wonder people actually love to hike. It's one of the greatest feelings being one with Mother Nature and setting aside life's stressful ways.
Then you actually have the adventurous mountain bikers blazing through the path. I'm going to live through them vicariously because I really can't imagine riding that narrow hillside. One false move and you're toast! And we're not talking breakfast either.
If I were to spin this and go deep for a second this is how this how this hike can make a person feel so alive.
****It starts out with the journey of one person going through the woods feeling life is so out of control but they travel through the path. A cathartic release from stressful work week takes the form of the twists and turns. It's not about being lost and finding yourself. It's about enjoying the moment and just really taking in as much as you possibly can and enjoying the journey and the renewed sense of enthusiasm for facing the next challenge. And somewhere along the way you realize your support has been waiting for you at the end of the path along with the answers you were seeking. (Most importantly- where are we going to eat?)****
There's moderate parking, but I suggest getting there early because the lot fills up. Also have your action pass ready so you don't end up with that lovely donation(aka parking ticket ) requirement. As for bathrooms...yeah that's a different story.Listed in: Up Up Here We Go
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Review from John W.
Long Beach, CA
9/24/2010 2 photos
This is a much more interesting hike than I first thought when I read about it. I figured it would be lots of grass and woodland areas surrounded by open fields but it wasn't all all.
First, to get here requires a careful drive up a 6 mile narrow road to a VERY small parking lot. So small, people park on the road at times when it gets crowded.
The hike itself starts toward the top of the hill. So the beginning goes downhill for about .5 miles and then hits a flat area deep in the woods next to a small stream. The hike down is on a paved road which makes the trek down nice and easy, however, beware the return trip lol.
Once you are down it's a beautiful little setting along a smooth dirt trail deep in the woods near the base of a mountain that takes you next to a stream. It's an easy and peaceful walk. A bunch of cabins along the way give you some interesting things to look at as you walk.
about another 1.5 miles in is a 50ft waterfall. It's pretty cool and a great rest or return spot for your trip. Everyone stops here and enjoys the water or a quick snack. I recommend you jump in the water and enjoy that fresh cold mountain water for a few. ;)
It's only about 45 minutes to the waterfall or so depending how quick you go. It's an easy hike. There are many other trails in the area that require more strenuous hiking....check those out for sure!
NOTE: BUY A PARKING PERMIT before you get up here. Or risk the fines.... you been warned. -
Review from Matt P.
A great starting point that leads to at least a dozen different hikes, campgrounds, waterfalls and more. Parking is very limited, so it's best to get there early in the morning before the masses arrive. Adventure passes are required upon entering the park, which if I am not mistaken, includes the parking down the hill if you are not able to grab a spot.
The one thing that I took notice on my most recent venture here is the picnic area that is perched above the upper parking lot. The space is pretty large and I would say is one the least known picnic areas in LA. Makes for a nice spot at a higher elevation. -
Review from Rachael S.
VALLEY VILLAGE, CA
10/22/2011 1 photo
Im not a hiker and I had no business here! But, if i can make it, then a kid could do it, and your cute lil pug would prob make it too :) becaause I am extremely lazy and a non - hiker! Its really quaint and very secluded. hint to tuck pants into socks to stop bites :) just in case...
well, i managed the hike in sneakers and pjs...so, if you are up for a 3 hour trail (one hour each way plus one hour to play in the water at the waterfall!) then go for it. We showed up at 1pm on a wednesday and there was no one there. 7am parking problems? Nope, we waited till the afternoon, like I said, no one there!! Take $5 for the parking. Excelllent! the hike is for the most part downhill there, flat and then flat and uphill on the way back, its a good workout!! i was slow and steady, like the turtle :) That waterfall is amazing, the view, the water is so cold, crisp and clean. Take a towel so you can dip your toe in ! take a camera - its beautiful, really.
Have fun peeps! -
Review from Victor V.
Newport Beach, CA
1/4/2011 6 photos
Arrived @ 8:15pm and the parking lot is not full at all!
Wilderness Pass Necessary! $5 day $35 year or get the $80 national park pass which works at all the National Parks etc: Joshua Tree, Yosemite, Zion etc....
Trails are quite beat up from the storm in late December.
Many rock slides & mini-avalanches .... including a TImber..... along trail.. also watch for falling rocks.
River crossings are medium-high than normal.. rock hoping necessary! Bring something hot to drink and enjoy the views =)
Please don't litter. Make sure you pack out.
who wants to hike or trail run? Message me! -
Review from scott l.
Irvine, CA
5/15/2011
So people come here of the waterfall, trails, streams etc. Parking is bad so you will end up parking on the street on the weekend. Make sure you buy your Day Parking Passes ahead of time for $5, else they will charge $10. If you don't pay for parking you will get a nice ticket on your windshield.
Most of the trails here are very novice ... people bring their kids, and dogs so its very friendly. That's all you need to know to get to the waterfall.
Mt Wilson, Spruce Grove, etc ... might require more effort, basically these are the trails where the crowds die out. So that means its harder more steeper, more narrow trails.
Just remember when you come back to your car get ready for a 15 minute uphill battle. -
Review from David R.
Valley Glen, CA
12/30/2010
With all the closures due to the Station fire, Chantry Flat which was already busy has become out of control. Weekends were always busy but now you'll need to park a mile to a mile and half down the road on weekends. To really enjoy the area you need to hike the upper trail toward's Hoegee's or go past the waterfall. Take the lower trail above the fall and continue further up canyon or loop back on the higher trail. The Zion loop is another nice mellow nine mile hike that allows you to explore the majority of the canyon. The in-shape hikers can relish the challenge of climbing Mt. Wilson either via Big Santa Anita or via Winter Creek or make a loop of it with these two trails, which I do often.
If you stay near the waterfall it is very crowded with groups and noise. Many of the people are not appreciative of the serenity of nature and are screaming or even bringing down boom boxes and coolers like its the beach. I rarely spend time near the waterfall due to this and head for the upper reaches as quick as I can. For the beginner hiker however it is a true "find" and taste for what the San Gabriels can offer. -
Review from Rubina K.
Long Beach, CA
9/14/2010
What a beautiful hike! This place offers a trail with running cascades all the way to the waterfall!! The waterfall apparently wasn't as flowing as it normally runs throughout the summer, but it was a sight to see none the less. The drive up there is also beautiful! I bet driving up here when the sun start to sets would be breathtaking. You get a view of practically 4-5 cities and the sight is absolutely beautiful.
Oh. The hike trail offers a bunch of empty cabins along the way. :) They looked all dusty and worn out. Though, some of them even looked occupied with fresh laundry hung out to dry.
Also, the people hiking along the trail were all friendly and gave smiles as we passed them by. It was comical to see the faces all worn out on the way back to the parking lot.
Note: The hike begins heading down the mountain so be prepared for a hike back up the hill. Easier than you think. =] -
Review from Christine L.
Westminster, CA
7/15/2010 3 photos
I love Chantry Flats because you get to pick your hike and choose whichever trail you want. I've hiked Sturtevant Falls twice this year--once on January 28 with my friend, and once on Valentine's Day with my boyfriend. Both times were AMAZING.
Prep: Buy the $5 Adventure Pass from REI ahead of time for parking. Pack lightly--a camera, water, sunblock, and food are all you really need. Make sure you wear proper shoes for hiking (i.e. shoes that you don't mind getting dirty or wet). Wear comfortable clothes--clothes that are breathable and clothes that you don't mind sweating in or getting dirty.
When you go: I highly recommend going super early in the morning, around 6 or 7 AM, because the parking lot is limited and it fills up quickly. Also, there are less people hiking this trail around that time, so you get more of a peaceful hike. Sturtevant Falls is around a 4 mile hike round-trip. Once you get to the waterfall, you can settle down and eat lunch while enjoying everything around you. Overall, the hike is easy, the scenery is beautiful, and the 50 ft. waterfall is simply breathtaking. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!
After: Drive home, take a nice long shower, and enjoy the best nap you've ever had in your life. -
Review from Kevin C.
Pasadena, CA
Better update this Recreation Area Review. Weekend parking is ridiculous so if you come here after 7am don't expect to find any parking at all close to the trail heads. I came on a weekday morning and had a parking lot to myself at 9 a.m.
What makes this place great is that there are so many different hikes that can be done from this starting point. If you just want a quick stroll to the bottom of the paved driveway you can chill by a creek. Quick and relatively easy walk (hike?) to Sturtavent Falls is well worth the trip. If you are up for longer hikes, Zion, Wilson, possibly others can be reached thru here too. Many people day hike or backpack from this location.
I recently went on the Sturtavent Camp to Zion loop which I guess is called Santa Anita Cyn Loop and it was very rewarding. A nice hike mostly in shade, about 10 miles in length with plenty of changes in plant habitat although just slight elevation gain. It has the view of the top of Sturtavent Falls for you thrill seekers who want to look over the edge and it has all the various cabins and camp grounds along the way too.
It was so fun I am making this my next UYE hike/food event. Hope to see you all there.Listed in: Hikes Hikes and More Hikes...
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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2/14/2009
Ok so this hike is Disneyland in my opinion, it has all the elements, Grandma's, babies, strollers,… Read more »
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Review from Suzanne L.
Covina, CA
I realize there are lots of different parts to Angeles Forest, but as far as getting here through Sierra Madre is concerned, Chantry Flats visitors center is the main entrance. You can buy the Adventure Parking passes here. $5 for the day, and $30 for one year. ATM cards accepted with minimum $10 purchase only!
Even if you're not particularly active (like me), and not much of a hiker, Chantry Flats is still a great place to picnic, have a bbq, or even walk your dog. It's nice and cool, shaded, and very very clean! I'd rather picnic here than at any of my local parks.
The info center is pretty cute. It doubles as a little farm. I saw a goat, 2 fat chickens, 2 horses, and my favorite: the donkeys! I love this place. -
Review from Dave L.
San Francisco, CA
5/14/2007 3 photos
Sturtevant Falls
I love this hike. It starts out downhill, and after crossing a bridge and negotiating your way through streams, you'll end up at the base of a 50ft waterfall. Beautiful... unless it's all dried up in the summer time. Total distance is 3.7 miles. Be warned though, the last uphill stretch on the way back is no joke. There will be "wtf" moments and your kids will bitch at you. Hey, I'm just keeping it real here. But really, relative to other hikes this one isn't so bad.
Tips: Get a parking permit aka Adventure Pass ($5/day or $30/yr) at the park station or your local sports store. Try not to park along the road -- rocks can fall off the mountain and hit your car.Listed in: Running, Recreation, Races
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Review from Squirrel C.
West Los Angeles, CA
6/2/2008
By far the best hike I've been on in SoCal. And, no I'm not counting Runyon Canyon in that mix.
Went here on Saturday with a small group. The temp was just right, everything was green and the Sturdevant Falls was flowing nicely. Once you get past that paved portion and into the tree cover, it's hard to think that you're still in LA. The trail wasn't overrun with hikers and we went on the trail past the falls and much further back. where there's even less people.
This place is easy to find at the end of the road. The trail is easy and not too far of a distance. I would definitely take a date here (do girls like to hike?) cause it's a cool spot to visit.
If you go...
-Need to display one of those day passes in your car window. We bought ours at REI.
-Bring some water with you.
-No bugs
-Don't wear your damn slippers or sandals or flip flops out here. I was wearing running shoes, which was fine.
-Take a camera cause there's a few photo ops.
Oh and they have a picnic area in the middle of the parking lots that's nice.Listed in: Go Outside!
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Review from Pauline L.
Rosemead, CA
6/2/2011 1 photo
It hurts me to write this review because I had a great time here (will make it up in the Sturtevant Falls review). I had never been to this place before and my first impression of this place was "parking sucks" and "people here are mean!" Both were not very good first impressions.
It was really crowded the weekend we went. We drove around looking for parking for awhile and when I saw someone pulling out of a spot, I signaled for it like any normal person who was looking for a spot would. All of a sudden, three people walked up to my car and told me that I couldn't take that spot because they had been waiting for it. While this was happening, two other people stood in the parking spot so I couldn't take it. I was confused...there were no other cars signaling for the spot. All these people were parked in the "No Parking" zones and said they had been waiting for a spot for two hours. WHAT?!! You decided to waste two hours in the parking lot instead of going hiking??? Aren't you supposed to be driving around IN your car looking for a spot and not be parked somewhere while you're walking around??!!! I was angry cuz they told me to "move on" and we had been looking for a spot for a long time! Who are they to say who's spot that was?!! I almost wanted to just park in front of the spot and let no one take it to spite them, but I didn't want to waste anymore time. I drove off and told them they made no sense while cursing them on our way down the mountain.
I was determined to find a parking spot at this point. We were NOT leaving because of this! We ended up parking down the hill like a bunch of other cars had done, and we were nice enough to make room for the car behind us to park in the same area. The walk back up took about 15 minutes...not bad at all! I bet you those lame people in the parking lot were still in the parking lot! I was just disheartened because the hiking community is normally very nice and courteous, but those people, not so much! I wish they had someone who worked for the recreation area manning the parking lot to avoid situations like these... -
Review from Lisa V.
3/19/2010
This is the kind of hike that makes me want to drink Wheatgrass, if you know what I mean. If you don't, don't worry about it.
I, along with my fellow San Gabriel Valley peeps, am blessed with many an accessible hiking trail. We did the 6 mile loop last weekend and it was fantastic! Although the temps were cool, I can see why this trail would be popular during the dead of summer-- it is shaded a good portion, with the cold creek/stream running alongside 90% of the way. There is even a campsite around the halfway mark, if you are looking to get all natured-out without a big drive!
As is the case with most hikes, you can make it any kind of workout you want depending on the time you have and how speedy your trek is. My Westie, who came along, slept for 10 hours straight after we returned home. And you know what the Dog Whisperer says: "a tired pup is a GOOD pup!"Listed in: Let's Get PHYSICAL
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Review from Mr. G.
Monrovia, CA
3/14/2009
Hiking ranges from easy to challenging.
How do you know where the trail your entering ranges? Ask.
Do not go on the weekend any later than 7:30AM if you wish to park in their lot - it gets busy fast.
hrs. 6am-8pm (gates are locked after 8pm)
if you don't see yourself hiking more than 6 times this year - buy a day pass ($5) at Chantry.
otherwise - buy a $30 adventure pass REI on Santa Anita (just south of 210) or another outlet that has 'em.
trails are beautiful and the presence of water helps speed the transition from busy city to nature
people types range here as much as the trail difficulties do...
from - smile and greet - to simple wave - to avoid eye contact and pretend your not passing them on a 4 foot wide trail etched in the mountainside (Kind of like in the city)
bikers and pets abound
there does exist (with a few type-A's) underlying tensions with regards to sharing this experience with so many nature lovers - according to some online transmissions - I have never encountered any psych-jobs - perhaps because I am a 'smile and greet' type
nevertheless...
words of advice:
--don't leave anything behind but your tracks (dog poop doesn't bother me - because I choose to not step in it);
--have self-awareness with your volume levels (nothing worse than a group of hung over newbies blabbing away about doing shots 'til 4 am) kids get more leeway here- although maybe the parents can teach them self-awareness;
-- you don't need much on the short hikes (have water in your car though - half frozen is nice), I brought my backpack for the Upper Winter Loop and really didn't need it - extra weight does give you a workout though
--try to stop and enjoy the hike at the campgrounds or waterfalls
--Upper Winter Creek Loop took me 2 hours-ish
See You on the Trails -
Review from Brian G.
6/10/2010
Forget the 5 hour drive to Yosemite. For a quick dose of Central and Northern Californian alpine forest hiking, Chantry Flats is tough to beat. From most places in the LA/OC Southland it should be less than an hour drive. There are a few other spots in the Angeles and San Bernandino National Forests might compare, but very few that are so easily accessed from a freeway that offers a variety of great trails for all hiking abilities.
Waterfalls and stream crossings? In SoCal? Pshaw! That's what I thought until my Golden Retriever dragged me across five stream crossings and a waterfall. The waterfalls trail is no doubt popular, especially in warmer months due to access to streams and well shaded trails. Expect to encounter heavy foot traffic on the weekends.
I seriously doubted everyone's warnings about the ridiculous parking situation. It's all true people. We got there by around 8:45am and the parking lot was packed. Cars were parked strung along the mountain at least a mile down from the trailhead. Fortunate for us, someone walked us to his parking spot where he backed out. No joke friends. Get here at the crack of dawn or wait until later in the day if you want to find a decent spot. -
Review from K D.
Orange County, CA
8/23/2010 1 photo
Drive it all the way up and you'll eventually see a sign. Bought the $5 parking pass from the little Chantry Pack station. They only sell small bottles of water there so you are better off stopping at that Arco/AMPM off the 210 and Santa Anita. I'd just buy a pass before you get there since the lady at the pack station was a muthaeffing beeyotch.
We hiked the trail and stayed at the waterfall for 20 minutes. Total hike time was roughly 2.5 hours on the Gabrielino/Sturtevant Falls path.
You step some small water crossings/creeks about 3 times on this path. You have to step over some rocks and I had to hold my friends hand (ew) but overall a good place to take a date *wink*. It is roughly a 75% shaded trail which really helped beat the heat that day.
Overall a beautiful serene trail. No real hard work other than the walk back where the trail originally began. It's nice to start a trail going down hill but to end a trail going back up that hill..oh boyeeee -
Review from Foster K.
Pasadena, CA
3/14/2007
Even though I have plenty of options when it comes to Angeles Forest hikes, I keep coming back to Chantry Flat. It's just such a safe, clean, central location that it's hard to say no.
There is plenty of parking (but it fills up fast on weekends!), and a trading post where you can buy a National Forest adventure pass for your car - and stock up on food and supplies. Don't forget to check out the donkeys here, the trading post still uses them to stock the cabins that are found throughout the area. For more on this neat local history, see here: http://www.bigsantaani...
There are plenty of trails to choose from. Here are some options:
-feel like a short hike to a waterfall? Take the Gabrelino Trail by heading down a paved path from the lower parking lot. You'll get to a lovely waterfall in about 45 minutes. But be prepared for a climb back to your car!
-how about a ridge hike with great views? Take the Winter Creek trial up from the upper parking lot. You can either turn back at the sign for Mt. Wilson, or complete the loop back via the Gabrelino trail.
These are just two options. For more, visit: http://www.bigsantaani...Listed in: The Out of Towners Tour…
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Review from Helen Y.
Pacific Heights, San Francisco, CA
12/17/2007
I love hikes and I was so excited to try this one to see the Sturtevant Falls. It's a 2 mile hike to the falls (so 4 miles round trip) but it's an easy one! Unfortunately the hike is downhill from the parking lot so not only are you moving away from the sun and into the shade, you are also going to get the workout on the way back. But again, this hike is relatively easy so even the steepest climb on the way back is not too bad.
It's a scenic trail with summer cabins along the canyon and sections of small streams (be careful as you make your way through the rocks as they can be slippery).
