Angeles National Forest (San Gabriel Wilderness Area) Near Azusa, California

With the excellent weather we have here in Southern California, going to the mountains doesn't just have to be a wintertime excursion. The Angeles National Forest and San Gabriel Wilderness Area offer all sorts of outdoor fun all year round. With plenty of nature sightseeing and trailing to do, this place is a great place to go with the whole family, with a casual date, or even alone. With only a 30 mile drive from Los Angeles to the recreation entrance, and another beautiful scenic forty-five minute drive through the entire wilderness, this place is a must see and must to experience. Located off of the 210 Freeway and accessible from Azusa Avenue and Glendora Mountain Road, there is a major ranger station located at the entrance of the forest area where you can obtain more information on what the place has to offer. Entrance into the recreation area is free, however, if you plan to park and go hiking or do any other sort of hands-on outdoor activity other than sightseeing, then you must purchase and "Adventure Pass" for $5 which is good to use also at other National Forests areas nearby.

There are over 20 trails to hike, and over 100 developed picnic sites and campgrounds. There is a 14 day maximum stay, and larger groups need to make reservations for campgrounds. Each campsite has a maximum of 8 people and 2 vehicles. Some campground areas do require fees, and those specific areas have a checkout time of 2 PM. Target shooting ranges such as Burro Canyon Shooting Park, and hunting areas are also available in the areas during prime hunting season. Shoreline fishing at several creeks and lakes throughout the area is also permitted, the most popular spot being Crystal Lake which is known for its Rainbow Trout. Areas such as Morris Reservoir, Pacoima, and others designated reservoir areas are off limits for fishing. Morris Reservoir houses a large dam and the area was once used in torpedo testing. Off-highway vehicles (OHV) are permitted in the recreation area as long as they keep to the designated routes, trails, and open areas. The most popular area for OHV is the Rincon-Shortcut OHV Route bordering the San Gabriel Wilderness.

If you are feeling more adventurous, the San Gabriel Wilderness area neighbors the Sheep Mountain Wilderness, Cucamonga Wilderness, San Bernardino National Forest, and Mount Baldy areas. Mount Baldy is especially popular for its winter sports and downhill skiing activities, but during the off season, it also offers scenic ski lift rides and mountain hiking.