Sturtevant Falls Trail
Discover Sturtevant Falls, a hidden gem in the San Gabriel Mountains, offering a scenic hike to a stunning 50-foot waterfall.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and secure parking.
Sturtevant Falls Trail
Best Time
Beat the crowds and secure parking.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Sturtevant Falls, a hidden gem in the San Gabriel Mountains, offering a scenic hike to a stunning 50-foot waterfall.
"This waterfall hike was worth every second, delivering a beautiful payoff after a scenic journey. "
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Chantry Flats parking lot fills up fast! Aim to arrive before 8 AM, especially on weekends.
🚗 Adventure Pass Needed
You'll need an Adventure Pass to park legally at Chantry Flats. Grab one beforehand!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sturtevant Falls
End of the main trail
A stunning 50-foot waterfall cascading into a serene pool, offering a rewarding payoff after your hike.
Historic Cabins
Along the trail
Discover charming, century-old cabins that whisper tales of the area's past as a mountain resort.
Shaded Canyon Trail
Big Santa Anita Canyon
Hike through a lush, shaded canyon with a babbling creek, offering a cool escape and beautiful scenery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything at Chantry Flats
Trail Conditions & What to Bring
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Chantry Flats parking lot fills up fast! Aim to arrive before 8 AM, especially on weekends.
🚗 Adventure Pass Needed
You'll need an Adventure Pass to park legally at Chantry Flats. Grab one beforehand!
👟 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
The trail involves creek crossings and some rock scrambling. Good hiking shoes are a must.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially on warmer days. The hike can be strenuous on the return trip.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Chantry Flats parking lot fills up fast! Aim to arrive before 8 AM, especially on weekends.
🚗 Adventure Pass Needed
You'll need an Adventure Pass to park legally at Chantry Flats. Grab one beforehand!
👟 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
The trail involves creek crossings and some rock scrambling. Good hiking shoes are a must.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially on warmer days. The hike can be strenuous on the return trip.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Trail
Leashed dogs are welcome on the Sturtevant Falls trail, making it a great option for furry friends! +1
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Sturtevant Falls is highly praised as one of the best waterfall hikes in the LA area, offering a scenic, shaded trail with historical charm and a rewarding 50-foot waterfall. While parking is a significant challenge and requires an early arrival, the manageable trail difficulty and beautiful payoff make it a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike.
"Sturtevant Falls is one of the absolute best waterfall hikes in the Los Angeles area and deserves every bit of hype it gets. The trail is scenic, peaceful, and ends at a legit, beautiful waterfall that actually has water flowing most of the year, something you don’t always get in Southern California.
The hike is about 3.5 miles round trip and starts at Chantry Flat, which has a decent parking lot but fills up fast, get there early, especially on weekends. The trail takes you through a shaded canyon with a stream that runs alongside you most of the way. It’s not too difficult, though there is a bit of an incline on the way back, but nothing too intense for anyone with moderate fitness or older kids.
Along the way, you pass some cool old cabins and footbridges that make the trail feel like you’ve stepped back in time. The scenery is great the entire time, lush trees, mossy rocks, and flowing water. And then at the end, boom: the waterfall. It’s tall, clean, and surrounded by enough space to relax, have a snack, or dip your feet in the water. It’s the kind of spot that feels like a reward for the hike.
I give this a full 5 stars because it delivers on everything, beautiful nature, manageable trail, historical charm, and a real waterfall payoff. Just remember to bring plenty of water, wear decent shoes, and don’t forget your parking pass (you’ll need an Adventure Pass to park legally). This is one of those hikes you’ll want to do again and again, especially after a good rain season."
Bryan Erickson
"Beautiful hike! I have been doing it for years. Should take about 3 hours roundtrip on the trail. It is not an intense hike, but there is some rock scrambling and water crossings. Be sure to arrive early as parking goes quick, and don't forget the parking pass. Several trails are open as of April 2025, but I hear road access is closed during the week while repairs are underway."
James Potter
"Scenic but Tricky to Access
The Sturtevant Falls Trail is a beautiful hike with a unique V-shaped path—you descend first, walk along the water with soothing sounds, and then climb back up. The scenery is stunning, making the effort worthwhile. However, finding parking can be tricky, and after Eaton Canyon, the trail appears to be closed. Plan accordingly for a great experience!
Went on this trail in first week of Jan."
Dhanyakumar M H
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Sturtevant Falls is located in the San Gabriel Mountains, accessible via Chantry Flats. From Los Angeles, take the 210 Freeway east to the Santa Anita Avenue exit in Sierra Madre. Turn north onto Santa Anita Avenue, which becomes Chantry Flats Road. Follow this winding road up to the Chantry Flats Recreation Area. Be aware that road access can sometimes be restricted for repairs, so check current conditions before you go.
Yes, there is a parking lot at Chantry Flats, but it is notoriously small and fills up extremely quickly, often by 8 AM on weekends. Arriving very early is crucial. An Adventure Pass is required for parking.
An Adventure Pass is a recreation permit required for parking at many trailheads in the Angeles National Forest. You can purchase them online, at outdoor recreation stores, or at some local ranger stations. It's best to get one in advance to avoid disappointment.
Ride-sharing services are generally not recommended for reaching Chantry Flats due to its remote location and limited cell service. It's best to drive your own vehicle or arrange a carpool.
Public transportation to Chantry Flats is very limited. While there might be bus routes to Sierra Madre, the final stretch to the trailhead would likely require a significant walk or a separate taxi/rideshare, which can be unreliable in this area. Driving is the most practical option.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission ticket required for the Sturtevant Falls trail itself. However, you will need an Adventure Pass to park your vehicle at the Chantry Flats trailhead.
The Chantry Flats Recreation Area and the Sturtevant Falls trail are generally open from sunrise to sunset. However, specific access can be subject to closures due to weather, fire danger, or maintenance. It's always a good idea to check the Angeles National Forest website for any alerts.
The trail is free to access, but as mentioned, a parking permit (Adventure Pass) is required for your vehicle at the Chantry Flats trailhead.
No, parking at Chantry Flats is on a first-come, first-served basis. There are no reservations available, which is why arriving early is so critical.
The trail has been subject to closures in the past due to wildfires, such as the Bobcat Fire. It has since reopened, but it's wise to check recent trail status updates from the Angeles National Forest before your visit.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Sturtevant Falls trail is generally considered moderate. It's about 3.5 miles roundtrip. You descend into the canyon first, which means the return trip involves an uphill climb. There's also some rock scrambling and creek crossings.
Most visitors take about 2 to 3 hours to complete the roundtrip hike, including time to enjoy the waterfall. This can vary depending on your pace and how long you spend at the falls.
Yes, a significant portion of the trail, especially as you descend into the canyon and follow the creek, is well-shaded by trees. The initial part of the hike might have less shade. +1
While you can dip your feet in the water at the base of the falls, swimming is generally not recommended due to the cold water and potentially slippery rocks. It's more of a place to relax and enjoy the scenery.
Restroom facilities are typically available at the Chantry Flats trailhead, but their condition and availability can vary. It's always a good idea to use facilities before you leave home if possible.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The best time for photography is often in the morning when the sun can create beautiful light filtering through the trees and potentially a rainbow effect on the waterfall. Midday sun can be harsh, but the shade helps.
A smartphone is perfectly adequate for capturing the beauty of Sturtevant Falls. If you're serious about photography, a wide-angle lens can be useful for the canyon and falls, and a polarizing filter can help manage reflections on the water.
Absolutely! The historic cabins, charming footbridges, and the creek itself offer numerous picturesque moments along the trail. Don't forget to capture the journey as well as the destination.
Yes, the area at the base of the falls provides ample space to frame the entire 50-foot cascade. You might need to experiment with different angles to get the best composition.
Look for shots that incorporate the lush greenery, moss-covered rocks, and the flowing water. The old cabins also provide a unique historical element to your photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack extra snacks and water, and ensure everyone wears appropriate footwear. The shaded canyon provides a comfortable environment, and the waterfall at the end is a great motivator. It's a wonderful way to introduce children to the beauty of the San Gabriel Mountains and create lasting memories.
🐶 Dog Owners
Make sure your dog is comfortable with creek crossings and some uneven terrain. Keep them on a leash at all times to respect other hikers and wildlife. As always, bring plenty of water for your furry friend and be prepared to clean up after them. It's a great way to get some exercise together in nature.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Focus on capturing the scale of the falls, the textures of the mossy rocks, and the play of light and shadow. The historic cabins provide a unique element of human history within the natural landscape. Don't forget to experiment with different angles and compositions to make your shots stand out.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Sturtevant Falls
After Sturtevant's era, the cabins continued to be used and passed down through families, creating a unique community feel. The trail and the resort facilities were eventually managed by the U.S. Forest Service. However, the area has faced challenges, including closures due to wildfires like the Bobcat Fire, which significantly impacted the canyon. The reopening of Sturtevant Falls is a testament to the resilience of this historic natural and recreational area.
Navigating the Trail and Its Challenges
Along the trail, you'll encounter several creek crossings. While usually shallow, especially in drier months, they can require careful footing. Some sections involve minor rock scrambling, adding a bit of adventure. Reviewers note that while Google Maps might show trails to the top of the falls, these are often not clearly marked or maintained anymore, so sticking to the main, well-trodden path is advised.
It's important to be prepared. Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good grip, as the rocks can be slippery. Bring plenty of water, as there are no water sources along the trail. The shaded canyon offers some respite from the sun, but it can still get warm, especially during the ascent.
The Waterfall Experience
Visitors often describe the falls as a true reward after the hike. The sound of the water is soothing, and the cool mist can be refreshing. While swimming is not generally advised, many enjoy relaxing by the water, having a snack, or simply taking in the natural beauty. The area around the falls is spacious enough to accommodate hikers, though it can get busy on peak days.
For photographers, the falls offer a fantastic subject. The way the light filters through the trees can create dramatic effects, and on sunny days, you might even catch a rainbow in the mist. Capturing the scale of the waterfall against the surrounding canyon is a popular photographic goal.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit