Sturtevant Falls Trail
A picturesque 50-foot waterfall with a swimming hole, offering a refreshing escape and moderate hike in the San Gabriel Mountains.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and enjoy peace
Sturtevant Falls Trail
Best Time
Beat the crowds and enjoy peace
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque 50-foot waterfall with a swimming hole, offering a refreshing escape and moderate hike in the San Gabriel Mountains.
"Amazing hike overall, with a refreshing swimming hole and beautiful scenery!"
🚗 Parking is Key!
Arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure parking. An Adventure Pass is required. :car:
🧦 Bring Extra Socks
You might get your feet wet crossing streams. Extra socks are a lifesaver! :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sturtevant Falls
End of the main trail
A picturesque 50-foot waterfall with a refreshing swimming hole. Perfect for a cool dip after your hike!
Creek Crossings
Along the trail
Navigate charming streams and enjoy the lush greenery. Be prepared to get your feet a little wet!
Historic Cabins
Along the trail
Discover charming, century-old cabins nestled in the woods, adding a touch of history to your hike.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Parking & Arrival
Trail Conditions & What to Bring
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking is Key!
Arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure parking. An Adventure Pass is required. :car:
🧦 Bring Extra Socks
You might get your feet wet crossing streams. Extra socks are a lifesaver! :athletic_shoe:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water, especially on warmer days. It's a moderate hike! :droplet:
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Leashed dogs are welcome on the trail, making it a great outing for furry friends! :dog:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking is Key!
Arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure parking. An Adventure Pass is required. :car:
🧦 Bring Extra Socks
You might get your feet wet crossing streams. Extra socks are a lifesaver! :athletic_shoe:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water, especially on warmer days. It's a moderate hike! :droplet:
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Leashed dogs are welcome on the trail, making it a great outing for furry friends! :dog:
🌿 Respect the Trail
Stay on designated paths to protect vegetation and watch out for wildlife like deer. :deer:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the beautiful waterfall and refreshing swimming hole, calling it an amazing hike with abundant plant and wildlife. The moderate trail and dog-friendly nature are big pluses, though parking at Chantry Flats is notoriously difficult and fills up very early on weekends. Some mention a bar/restaurant at the trailhead for post-hike refreshments.
"Amazing hike overall alot of waterfalls along the way alot of plant life and wildlife and to top it off they have a bar/restaurant at the beginning of the hike which was amazing after the hike cause i had some good food and a cold beer 🍺"
Pierre Zeynalian
"Soo refreshing !! Especially after a rainfall like the last couple of days. The Stutevant Falls is about 3.4 miles round trip. You might get your feet wet. I recommend taking a Xtra pair of socks . But is dog friendly in leach. Plenty of shade and the parking is $5 . Get there early, otherwise you'll have to walk up the road a bit."
Nancy Felix
"Went to see a cabin just purchased by a friend & it's a great lil place with the feel of being out in the woods in the early 1900's with small streams a literal stones throw from his front door but the great lil hiking trails that also run parallel to it get pretty crowded starting really early every weekend & if your not there early you won't find parking!"
Troy Withrow
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common access point is Chantry Flats Recreation Area. Take Angeles Forest Highway, which is often the quickest route. Be aware that parking here fills up very early, especially on weekends. +1
Yes, the trail is well-marked once you're at the Chantry Flats trailhead. Follow the signs for Sturtevant Falls.
Public transportation options are limited for reaching the trailhead directly. It's generally recommended to have a car or arrange a ride.
Many visitors use Angeles Forest Highway. Some TikToks mention it as the quickest way.
While some trails in Santa Anita Canyon may still be closed due to past fires, the Sturtevant Falls trail itself is generally open and safe, though it may show some damage.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, an Adventure Pass is required for parking at the Chantry Flats trailhead. These can often be purchased at local outdoor stores or sometimes at the trailhead itself.
The hike itself is free, but you'll need to pay for parking. The parking fee is typically $5 per vehicle. +1
The Chantry Flats Recreation Area generally opens at dawn and closes at dusk. It's best to check official forest service websites for the most current hours.
No, parking is on a first-come, first-served basis. This is why arriving early is crucial, especially on weekends.
There is no specific entrance fee for the trail itself, but the parking area requires an Adventure Pass.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Sturtevant Falls trail is approximately 3.3 to 3.6 miles round-trip, depending on your exact route. +2
It's generally considered a moderate hike. There's a noticeable incline on the return trip, which can be challenging for some. +1
Yes, there's a pool at the base of the waterfall where you can swim, especially after rainfall. It's very refreshing!
Absolutely! Leashed dogs are welcome on the Sturtevant Falls trail, making it a great spot for pet owners. +1
You'll encounter lush greenery, creek crossings, and beautiful forest views. Some sections are shaded, offering a pleasant hiking experience. +2
Restroom facilities are typically available at the Chantry Flats trailhead. It's always a good idea to check current conditions.
Keep an eye out for local wildlife such as deer and various bird species. Rattlesnakes are also present, so be aware of your surroundings.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Some reviews mention a bar/restaurant at the beginning of the hike at Chantry Flats, perfect for a post-hike meal and drink.
Yes, picnicking is a popular activity. There are many scenic spots along the trail or at the trailhead to enjoy your meal.
Based on reviews, there appears to be a bar/restaurant at the Chantry Flats trailhead offering food and drinks.
📸 📸 Photography
The waterfall itself is a prime photo opportunity. Also, capture the charming historic cabins and the scenic creek crossings. +1
Yes, the waterfall, lush environment, and historic elements make it a very photogenic location. +1
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light, but the waterfall is beautiful throughout the day. Consider the sun's position for your desired shots.
Drone usage is often restricted in national forests and parks. It's best to check the specific regulations for the Angeles National Forest before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🐶 Dog Owners
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Sturtevant Falls Hike Experience
As you make your way to the falls, you'll encounter several creek crossings, which can sometimes mean getting your feet wet. This has led many visitors to recommend bringing an extra pair of socks or wearing waterproof footwear.
Wildlife sightings are common, with deer and various birds often spotted. However, it's important to be aware of your surroundings, as rattlesnakes are also native to the area.
Planning Your Visit: Parking and Passes
To park within the Chantry Flats area, you will need an Adventure Pass. These passes are required for day-use parking in many national forests. While they can sometimes be purchased at the trailhead, it's more reliable to buy one in advance from local outdoor gear stores or ranger stations. The cost for parking is typically around $5 per vehicle.
It's also worth noting that while the Sturtevant Falls trail is generally open, some other trails within the Santa Anita Canyon may still be subject to closures due to past fire damage. Always check the official Angeles National Forest website for the most up-to-date information on trail status and any potential access restrictions before your visit.
The Reward: Sturtevant Falls and Swimming
The swimming hole at the base of the falls is a major draw, offering a refreshing and invigorating way to cool off after the hike. Many visitors find it to be a perfect reward for their efforts, especially on warmer days.
Beyond the main waterfall, the surrounding area offers opportunities for longer adventures. The trail connects to the Gabrielino Trail and the Santa Anita Canyon Loop, which can lead to more challenging treks deeper into the mountains for those seeking extended exploration.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit