Chantry Flats, a Secluded Hiking Spot in Southern California's Angeles National Forest

Being an avid hiker, I consider myself somewhat of an authority on the pluses and minuses of the many hiking trails that I have been on in the Greater Los Angeles area. I have been on all types of trails, and I am blessed to have such a large number of hiking trails and wilderness areas to choose from in such close proximity to me. When I'm not in the mood to drive longer distances, or when the day is particularly hot and I don't feel like battling sun exposure, I have a special place to go hiking that offers everything that I look for in a quality hiking trail. This place is called Chantry Flats, and it is truly and oasis in the heart of the Angeles National Forest.

Located within easy driving distance of anywhere in the Greater Los Angeles area, Chantry Flats is less-than a thirty mile drive from downtown Los Angeles. Situated approximately six-miles north of the community of Arcadia, Chantry Flats is comprised of two large parking areas, a fully-staffed ranger station and snack hut, and an assortment of picnic tables and barbecue pits. From the main parking area, there are numerous trails that venture deep into the Angeles National Forest. Weekends at Chantry are usually packed; the families and hikers and nature-lovers tend to arrive very early, so those hoping to find a good parking spot or a choice picnic location are well-advised to arrive as early as possible. Loved by many for an assortment of activities, Chantry Flats, for me, will always stand out as a pristine hiking locale that is virtually in a class of its own amongst hiking trails.

The majority of trails leading from Chantry Flats are well-shaded and follow a bustling, crackling river. Even on the hottest summer day, the trails in and around Chantry Flats are cool and shady. The forest is so thick and lush that the sunlight never has easy access to the trailheads and canyon bottoms. And this is wonderful, especially for those people who hate to deal with sunscreen and the effects of it dripping into your eyes! One of the more heavily-used and popular trails of Chantry Flats, the Gabrielino Trail, is a fairly-level and easy trail that is approximately three miles in round trip length. This trail meanders its way through the lush Santa Anita Canyon and terminates at Sturtevant Falls, a cascading waterfall that falls perilously from the rocky cliffs above. The waterfall forms a small pool of water at the canyon bottom, and this area is one of the prime locations for picnickers and day users. Located in a lush, green, and canopied forest, it's amazing to think that this piece of sylvan wilderness is located right on the doorstep of one of the most populated urban centers in the country. It's common to see an occasional deer or raccoon wandering through the forest or taking a sip from the cool waters along the trail.

For those of you that value a quality hiking trail that does not involve a lot of driving to reach, Chantry Flats should be at the top of your list. With many trails that are varied in their length and difficulty levels, you will be assured to find a hiking trail to fit your needs and interests.