From camping and hiking to bungee jumping and wildlife viewing, there are several ways to explore in this sprawling forest. Here are seven things you can't forget to do.
Hiking
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Photo by Mandie Pouwels
With more than 50 trails at Angeles National Forest, there's plenty of hikes here for newbies and experts alike. Try the Mount Baldy summit trail, the famous Bridge to Nowhere trail or one of the several waterfall hikes like the Santa Anita Canyon Loop. Don't forget to look for wildflowers if you hike around Sawmill Mountain, Elizabeth Lake and Morris Dam. No matter where you go, pets are welcome; so don't leave Fido at home.
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campsiteCamping
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Photo by Mandie Pouwels
Enjoy Southern California's amazing year-around weather and stay at one of the several campgrounds within the park, like Coulter Group Campground. If you love fishing, leave your tent at Crystal Lake campground. If you like having trails closeby, head to Spruce Grove Camp or Hoegees Campground. Most sites are open year-around, and only some are available for reservation, while the rest are first come, first served. Keep these details in mind while planning your trip.
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campsiteBackpacking
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Photo by Mandie Pouwels
You don't even need a reservation when you're exploring Angeles National Forest with just your backpack and your own two feet. I've backpacked in Angeles National Forest without knowing where I was spending the night, but it didn't matter because everywhere is beautiful. Try hiking along the Pacific Crest Trail and see where your feet will take you.
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campsiteStargazing
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With the city lights of Los Angeles far, far away, the night sky opens up to reveal millions of stars. Before the sun falls, stop by the Griffith Observatory to get inspired and pick up a few tips.
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campsiteAnimal Watching
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Photo by Mandie Pouwels
I once spotted a bald eagle perched up on a tree overlooking the canyon within the first 15 minutes of driving into the forest. And there are many other animals you might see on your trip. The Nelson bighorn sheep has been known to frequent the area—just listen for the falling rocks and look up high on the rock wall. They'll either be people watching in the shade or eating a meal. Go far enough into the forest and you may spot a bobcat, mountain lion or bear.
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campsiteBungee Jumping
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Photo by Mandie Pouwels
If you can make the 10-mile round-trip trek, dare yourself to hike to and bungee jump off the Bridge to Nowhere. This popular destination is open every Saturday and Sunday all year long. Make reservations ahead of time because it fills up fast.
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campsiteGold Prospecting
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Photo by Mandie Pouwels
Gold prospecting in the San Gabriel Mountains is a highly controversial subject: some say it's prohibited while many agree it's legal. Either way, you'll find the East Fork River, in Angeles National Forest, spread with gold panners who have the fever—grab your gold pans before everyone finds out there's gold in them thar hills.
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