Chantry Flats Recreation Area & Trails
Santa Anita Canyon RdSierra Madre, CA 91025
This past weekend a few friends and I visited Chantry Flats. Nearly every weekend we do a hike and have been to many locations throughout Southern California, but the Chantry Flats recreation area is one of my favorites.
Beautiful scenery? Check. 50 foot waterfall? Check. Long, strenuous trails? Check. Short, easy trails. Check. This place really has it all.
The brilliance of this place really starts with the drive up along the canyon walls, over steep drops & deep valleys, it's not the greatest drive for anyone that easily gets car sick, but gives you a taste of the amazing scenery that's to come. Upon arriving at the lot, you'll likely notice if you've gotten there post-7am, there is no parking available. You can park along the canyon road, and many people do since the actual parking lot is extremely limited in spaces (it's actually a big lot, there are just a lot of people that come here, especially on the weekends...remember, you're still in LA county!). Parking does require an adventure pass, which can be purchased for $5 at the local REI or at the ranger station (if you don't buy a pass, you'll likely get a ticket, which is also $5...I'd by lying if I said this wasn't sometimes more convenient).
Upon arrival there are several trail options. I like this because you can take an easy stroll through the forest or get in a challenging 12 mile all-day hike, whatever strikes your mood. Chantry Flats is home to Sturtevant Falls, one of the most popular waterfalls in LA county, and also has a trail that connects to the 5500+ ft Mt. Wilson. This is one of the most beautiful hikes in the San Gabriel Mountain range. Many of the trails are frequently used by bikers & horseback riders.
Chantry flats recreation area is easy to navigate, the trails are well maintained, and adjoining the parking area are a ranger/information station, restrooms, and a snack bar.
And my favorite part? As with most places in Southern California, the sunsets don't get much better than this.
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