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It's been years since I've been to this hike. I was always hesitant to return to sturtevant falls because parking is super packed on the weekends unless you go there super early. I made it a mission to arrive there by 6 AM to guarantee myself a parking spot and it was still a little dark so I brought my flashlight. The view of the falls was so pretty! I was the only one there by 7 and a lot of people were hiking to the falls when I was returning to the parking lot. Glad I revisited this trail again.
This trail was absolutely gorgeous the views were amazing! My Apple Watch said it took 2 miles and about an hour to get to the waterfall, so it's definitely a bit of a walk, but totally worth it. The water was ice cold, but honestly it still felt really nice. Parking was HORRIBLE. I waited around 40 minutes just to find a single spot, so be prepared for that. Also, make sure you bring toilet paper if you plan on using the restroom because it was disgusting. I did notice some trash along the hike, which made me sad, but it wasn't completely overwhelming. Just be ready to hike back up once you start the trail haha. Overall, such a fun experience and I'd still do it again.
The perfect hike for families! The incline is just the right amount and challenging enough for pets as well. The waterfall at the end is a rejuvenating reward. Be prepared with water shoes and a swim suit!
Sturtevant Fall is a 50 foot waterfall drop in the San Gabriel National Monument park within Arcadia. Accessible by hiking the Chantry Flat trailhead from the parking lot. The trail is 3.3 miles long. This trail is extremely busy on the weekend. Best to visit this trail on weekdays early in the morning at 6:00am when the parking lot opens. On the weekends the parking lot is full by 6:10am so best to get there when gate opens. If you want a peaceful hike best on weekdays. The falls are worth a visit as beautiful. Plus a small pool forms beneath which is great to dunk in on hot days. Note the water is super cool but refreshing. Bring water shoes as rocky bottom. And don't forget you have a long climb back to the parking lot. If you seek a longer hike you can do 7.3 mile loop. During this loop you will cross several rivers, cabins and more. The hike is partially shaded. Even on the weekends, most of this hike is quiet and empty of people. As mentioned, there is a parking lot. There is a bathroom next to the lot. Plus a mini cafe where you can get your adventure pass, five dollars. Pass needed for the parking lot.
It was my first time hiking, so my cousin decided to take me to a place he's hiked before: Sturtevant Falls. The scenery was so beautiful! I've never seen so many hills and waterfalls before in my life. It might be a normal view for people who live in California, but for a person who lives in Louisiana and has never hiked before everything was so new to me. The incline wasn't too bad, but be aware of logs and rocks you have to step on as I had fallen a bit into the water due to small slips. Parking wasn't too bad, but it was pretty crowded on a Saturday morning so we had to wait for a minute to get parking. Overall, it was a new experience for me but a fun one. I'd go hiking again, but what a better way to start my first hiking experience than at Sturtevant Falls!
This is a nice hike! The drive up the mountain is very curvy so take it slow. The parking is rough! We arrived at 10a on a Friday and it took us 30 mins to find a spot. The hike itself is moderate and very similar to Eaton canyon. You'll cross various water streams and will a few water falls before the big one, plus, cute cabins. Overall, very enjoyabe with nice views
Late morning hike with @KonaWildBlue Picked up daily parking pass at Party House Liquor and made our way to the trailhead. AM cloud disappeared and the sun started beaming down, luckily this trail is shaded for the most part. Few stream crossing, several wood cabins, natural mini slide into rock pool , and made it in and out to the falls. Doggo had a blast of an adventure and spent a good 10 min attempting to get the log out of the waterbed
This is my favorite out and back trail. It's shaded with peaceful sounds of the stream. At the end, you see a beautiful waterfall. Amazing during all seasons! Parking lot is small but you can find parking along the road.
Absolutely loved this Hiking Trail. Parking pass is cheap and easy to access the trail. But I do warn you to make sure you wear waterproof hiking boots or water shoes. You travel across little rivers. Not only that but the first portion of the hike is all down hill, walking it up is a good work out (it kills your legs). Beautiful scenery and a lot of old cabins on the hike. Once you get to the end it totally worth it!
** THIS TRAIL HAS BEEN REOPENED ** If you're looking for a moderate hike with a flowing waterfall during any season, this it the hike for you! 1. Arrive the earlier the better due to limited parking. I'd say there is parking for about 30 cars or so. 2. You must get an "Adventure Pass" for day parking. You can either buy one before going up the mountain at "Party house Liquor (1002 N Santa Anita Ave)" which is open as early as 7am or you can buy one on site at the Chantry Flats but not sure what their hours of operation are if you plan on buying it the same day. Other reviewers also so you can buy one ahead of time at REI or Big 5. One Day Pass is $5 or Annual Pass for $35. 3. They do have an additional private parking lot that costs $20 to park or you can park further outside along the mountain pass for free, but definitely a much longer walk/hike. 4. The best parking for the trail is the first parking strip right next to the bathrooms. The trail starts right where the bathroom is. The upper level parking lots are for the picnic areas. 5. They do have a store there that sells snacks, drinks AND beer! 6. Most hikes normally start with an incline but this one actually starts with a decline instead. Keep in mind that there are multiple inclines and you will end the hike going back with an incline before reaching the parking lot. 7. You do have to cross the river a couple of times, but most of them have a built wooden plank or is easy enough for children and dogs to cross. 8. There are quite a number of private cabins a long this trail. There were a couple of families who were hanging out with loud music and bbqing. Not sure how to inquire on cabin rentals but did not see any paths for vehicles, so I'd assume you would have to hike in and out to access the cabins. 9. Even when its freezing cold and foggy in the city, it was sunny and blue skies up in the mountain and the hike was rewarding at the end. Pretty spacious area to hang out, and plenty of rocks to sit on. Overall, would recommend for waterfall seekers.
Amazing hike all around less than four miles, the first part all down hill along a stream of water hiking to a waterfall. The path is wide and fun for dogs to jump in and out of water constantly to cool down. We got an annual parking pass for 30 dollars at Big 5 but the two lots fill up by 8 am every single weekend so you have to arrive at the crack of dawn. The hike back to the car is uphill for the last fifteen minutes but when you're done it feels fantastic. It's so shady for most of the walk as well. Sadly it's getting more and more packed with people as the other trails seem closed now all the time.
Got our Adventure Pass at Big 5 and went there around 7:30 am on a Thursday so the parking lot was pretty empty, just be careful of the windy road driving up. The hike itself is pretty easy, fun to cross the little wooden planks across streams and be surrounded by trees as opposed to the dusty and bare trails in the valley. Good amount of shade and the falls were so nice to sit next to, water was cold and refreshing, and the hike back up was a little tiring but not the worst. A very good workout and then grab food in 626, I would come back again.
Love love love this hike. It's usually cooler here, especially compared to other drier hikes. Just remember to purchase a parking pass! $5 from REI close by, if you forget you can park in dirt lot and put $5 into their box during weekdays. But it's $10 on weekends and can fill up fast. I just bought the yearly pass for $35 I think, so worth it. Now to start our hiking journey.. There are so many trails! Wish I was more adventurous, but have only tried a couple others and love this particular trail too much. It starts with a paved road at a steep decline for about half a mile.. Always a good start to the workout :) just remember you have to return up this hill! Then you pass a bridge and the fun begins! I love the scenery, there's a few places where you have to cross creeks and my dog can't get enough of it! The last mile to the fall is completely shaded. There just be some annoying bugs depending on the weather. I always have fun on this hike and enjoy/hate the workout at the end with the incline back to the parking lot. People are very friendly, especially the Rangers! There are so many other hikes around but I keep coming back! read more
11 years ago
Love this hike with a my babies! It's about 6 miles round trip. My 2 year old was able to hike to the fall with of course multiple breaks to see the streams, dogs, and take in the beauty around us. This trail is located in the Angeles Forest. I would input Chantry Flats into your GPS as other helpers have suggested. Parking is 5$ via adventure pass, you can purchase a pass at their store in Chantry Flats if you didn't pre purchase. If the store is closed you put $5 in an envelope with your license plate number in the drop box on the board near the store. The first mile is flat and downhill. Pretty easy but coming up can be a killer with the incline. Also the only part that actually gets hot. After the first mile the road can get narrow with trees fallen over blocking the path as you get into the woods. You are shaded by the trees and beauty of nature. Definitely a Beautiful surroundings with lots of cabins that looks vacant. Small streams and friendly hikers. Just continue walking all the way down and follow the signs and you will reach the lovely waterfall. Not to much water of course but still beautiful and refreshing. This is the perfect place for an in the woods photo op. You have the birds singing leaves flickering to the breeze,stream flowing. So peaceful and also great for a picnic . (^_^) Definitely recommend this hike (^_^) read more
11 years ago
Runyon is closed so I had no excuse -- it was time to venture away from my neighborhood and hit some trails that have been bookmarked for forever! Very relaxing hike. My Nike+ App only recorded 4 miles round trip, but others say it is 6? Slightly downhill on the way to the waterfall with little incline here and there. The most difficult part is the tail end of the trail back to your car because it has the most incline, but it's overall very easy and relaxing. Lush, very green -- it was a nice change from the usual dirt at Runyon. TIPS: + Get an "adventure pass" ahead of time for $5 or drive all the way up to the store and pay $10 for parking at the beginning of the hike. + Most of the trail is shaded so bring a light jacket if you plan to start early. + Start early! We arrived at 8am and there were a few groups... but when we were leaving at 10am it was SO packed. + Bring a light snack/lunch to enjoy at the waterfall. It's nice to sit and chill. read more
10 years ago
Last time I was here it was probably about 3 yrs ago or so. I don't remember it having so much water throughout. And I don't remember so many cabins. Now there's like a lil community in there. I like. I'll tell u what I do remember.... I remember huffing and puffing and saying I didn't want to do this hike ever again as I was finishing or trying to finish Tht uphill battle. Man!!! Tht was a butt kicker. And Unfortunately Tht hill hasn't changed. It still kicks my butt. Smh...lol Well.... I found myself here again because we wanted a change from Eaton Canyon. And even tho I wasn't looking forward to the finish. I LUV IT!!! Its so PEACEFUL and BEAUTIFUL!!! It's a beautiful straight trail with lots of shade. Once of course u finish ur downhill start. Theres A lot of water throughout the hike. Lots of places to chill and intake the scenery to be at peace with urself. Helpful Signs along the trail to make sure ur going to ur desired destination. 2 bathrooms along the way on this trail. Unless u make ur own. Hehe. Parking pass is needed. Best time to come is after a storm/ in the spring/ and of course when it's not so hot. I recommend this Adventure to ppl who haven't been here. I will definitely come again to explore other trails and to admire Gods artistry, along with his creations. read more
WOOOHOOO! Finally a hike where my lazy butt enjoyed!! haha... sorry thats the super lazy side of me talking.. this is such an easy hike that kids could even do this hike without a problem. After 3/4 of the hike in the beginning the rest of the way is literally a straight shot to the waterfall. So much shade and such a peaceful walk. We went on a Sunday around 8:00 and there wasn't that many people on the trail.. However parking was no fun.. There was so many cars we ended up having to park along the mountain. Word of advice.. go early to try to get close parking.. because parking along the mountain sucks.. the walk to your car to the trail is almost as long as the trail depending how far down the mountain you park. But all in all I would recommend this trail to any new beginner hikers like me.. Even I thought this hike was too easy.. I felt like we just went for a nice walk and not even a hike. We didn't even go through one water bottle on this hike.. That's how easy it was. I do have to warn you though.. that 3/4 of a hike back uphill is killer.. OMG reminded me of potato chip rock.. then was the only time I actually broke a sweat haha.. Tip: - Buy a parking pass - There is closer parking up the hill if you are willing to pay $10 (there will be a sign so just follow that sign) - Be careful of dog poo.. (People pick after your four legged friends!!) - 3 miles roundtrip - a couple little streams to cross so socks could get wet read more
11 years ago
Eh... this waterfall attracts just about everyone and their dogs. This short hike (1.8mi one way from Chantry Flats) is a very manageable hike for beginners. I personally think it's a big waste of time and effort to find parking here and do that initial hike down the paved road for such a short hike and come back to the car. There's so much more to this area than this simple hike to the falls. I mean sure, it's a beautiful trail, but it's kinda ruined by all the people and their dogs (some even bring 2 dogs) crawling all over the trails! So if you're a bit serious about hiking, just take the Lower Trail up above the falls on the way back and do the 10-mile Big Santa Anita Canyon loop: http://www.yelp.com/biz/santa-anita-canyon-arcadia and if that's too daunting for you, then maybe pair up this hike with the Hermit Falls hike and you can say you hiked to two waterfalls in one day! read more
It all started back in 1864 when Benjamin Davis Wilson inadvertently created the first hiking trail, located within San Gabriel Mountains, after he improved an old American Indian footpath in his efforts to harvest timber. From there recreational hiking took off and peaked, from 1895-1938, during the period known as the "Great Hiking Era." The construction of the Angeles Crest Highway in the 1930s also helped to make the San Gabriel Mountains more accessible, opening up what has been called the Los Angeles County's backyard playground. Wilbur M. Sturtevant was another hiking pioneer who carved out a hiking trail back in the 1890s and built Sturtevant Camp, a trail resort located two miles up the canyon from the falls. There were a number of other trail resorts located nearby. Fires and flash floods eventually did away with most of the rustic cabins and lodges, although many of the cabins and some resort ruins still remain. Sturtevant Falls is a short, 2.8 mile, round trip hike. It's distance makes it ideal for families with young children. The path has minimal elevation gain and is well shaded. The trail takes you past lush foliage and travels along a stream that's interrupted by the occasional flood control dam. You can view a number of the old cabins still that are still in use. They are connected by an old fashioned crank phone wire that you will see strewn throughout the trees. When you're all done you can visit the Adams' Pack Station where you can enjoy some food and drinks. They also sell Adventure Passes which you are required to purchase if you plan to park in the area. As everyone else has already mentioned, come early to find a parking space or else you'll be parking your car 1 mile down the street. The road to Chantry Flats is open from 6:00 am to 8:00 pm. read more
This is one of the best hikes in SGV, and unfortunately, one of the busiest. It's considered one of those hikes that requires a parking pass, which you can get at REI (day pass is $5, annual is $35 I think). I came on a Friday morning around 7:50am and the lot was still fairly open, but it got full when we returned. What makes this hike so great is that it's not super strenuous so you can easily incorporate it into a routine, and it's dog-friendly so you can bring you [leashed] furry buddy too! You start off going down a decently steep decline and it's pretty straight forward from then on with plenty of shade throughout the hike, and if you're lucky, a nice little waterfall at the end. It was dry when we went two days ago though :(. Along the path, you can either stray into Hermit Falls, Sturtevant Falls, Chantry Flats, etc...whatever distance your heart desires. Oh, and remember that steep decline I mentioned earlier? Guess what you have to go back up now?? It's a good burn though, even if your dog hates you for it. Speaking of dogs, there's a ton of squirrels along this trail - make sure your dog doesn't get to them! We saw an injured one that couldn't move due to it's ribs being broken from an earlier dog encounter. It was pretty sad... Bottom line: great short hike, decent work out, dog-friendly, parking pass required, shaded most of the time read more
12 years ago
The road leading to the park is fraught with a few hairpin turns and switchbacks that require the driver's full attention... O_o A designated parking lot for day / year pass holders. Passes can be purchase on-site. The park volunteers are super helpful and nice. Modest outhouses available. NO cell service! The beautiful trail to Sturtevant Fall is approximately 3 miles of down-hill / up-hill dirt & rocky path... fairly easy to maneuver for most with appropriate footwear. Canopied trees and vegetations offer sun protection... Trickling water along the nearby creek offers relaxation therapy... Sighting of threadbare cabins offers the occasional architectural appreciation... Fellow hikers offer a feeling of camaraderie... Good times for sure!!! (The swarming mosquitoes & flies were bothersome at times. This could be a seasonal occurrence?) read more
12 years ago
Auwwwww... Hiking! I love you hiking, like a germaphobe loves hand sanitizer. Sturtevant Falls is a great trail, located in the San Gabriel Mountains which you can get to from the 210 FWY using the Santa Anita Ave exit. This trail is part of several different trails, Zion, Mt. Wilson, Hoaggies, Hermit Falls... One way or another they tie into each other. If you just do Sturtevant Falls it is about a little over eight (8) miles, but you can definitely always add to it :) I like taking the Hermit Falls trail down to meet up with the Sturtevant Falls trail, and while finishing up Sturtevant falls you can head to up to the look out point on the Zion Trail (This loop is a lil over 10 miles). Oh so many possibilities, it is just so much fun and you can constantly mix it up. Midway point is near the Sturtevant Camp, which is a private camp that you can make reservations at. If no one is there it is cool to check out and have a nice break on the tree swing (This makes me so happy). I am an early morning person and prefer hiking the cool weather (Also, less people), depending on the season this place heats up right about 9:00 am. If you are not an experienced hiker you could be in for a long day, your overall ascent is almost 2,000 feet depending on where you start. I would say I am a pretty descent hiker, and this loop (The 10 mile one) takes me about four (4) hours, including thirty (30) minutes for resting/hydrating/fueling. Overall the trail is beautiful, lots of beautiful foliage, squirelly squirrels, streams (Sometimes), waterfalls, ponds, and it takes you away to beautiful place right in your back yard. So when hiking... Always be prepared! Good shoes or boots, extra pair of socks , water, snacks, come in a layered outfit. Take back with you what you bring in, don't be a dick and leave your trash on the ground. Happy Hiking! read more
16 years ago
Came here last summer in anticipation for some hiking fun. I would say this is hike is "challenging" for novice hikers, but for the athletic? I'm sure it's a cinch. We were looking forward to see the Sturtevant Fall at the end of the hike, which, of course, was well worth it. The easiest part: -Parking. There was an actual lot and there was plenty of free spaces. I read in some reviews that parking is a bitch, but we did not come upon that problem. -Most of the trail to the falls is shaded. Please bring insect repellent because you're walking amongst a swamp/stream. Guess who lives there? -The trail is well-maintained by staff so the direction to your destination of the falls is clear. The hardest part: -The lines of rocks may be slippery. Be cautious! If you slip and dunk your shoes with water, happy sloshy feet to you. -The dirt hill before and after the actual hike is sort of difficult to withstand with scorching heat. -The drive up and down is a really windy road. Finally after approaching the falls, it's very serene and fun to see actual mini waterfall(s) in the hills of the San Gabriel area. My friends and I packed some mini sushi rolls for lunch and it was surely a pleasant experience! We even saw people swimming, but I don't know if I trust that water.. read more
7 years ago
Hiking trail is amazing here. There are many trails to choose from, and my family and I really enjoy going here during the weekends. Just make sure you arrive early enough to get a parking spot and prepared to bring your hiking sticks. read more
This is one of those hikes where before I left I said to myself: "Self, should I bring a camera? ... Naw, I bring a camera everywhere, I don't need an extra thing to carry." and as I am on the hike: "Self, what kind of idiot are you? Why oh why didn't you bring your camera???" This is one of the easiest hikes to drive to and definitely one of the prettiest I have been on since I have started traversing the great outdoors of CA. You start by walking down a steep paved road into a canyon (which you know you are going to have to come back up at the end - whew!) and before you know it you are in a shaded paradise on a worn dirt path following a creek (I am sure it's a bustling river in the spring) up and down through the canyon. Along the way you will meet fellow hikers who all say "hi", you will see small cabins that have been there since the 1900s (apparently you can buy them for pretty cheap) and, I kid you not, pack mules. All of this surreal landscape lends itself to an otherworldly feel that you can't get over a metropolis is about a 30- minute drive away. And then the piece-de-resistance, an actual waterfall that spills over the limestone and ends in a cold pool of see-through river water perfect for jumping into after the about 2 miles you have hiked. I thought for a few hours I had my own little version of a woodland fairy tale and between the cardio you get heading back up the short but grueling switchbacks to Chantry Flats and the mental peace that can be had at the falls I found myself wanting to pitch a tent and stay for a few days. ..and then all that good done to my body was undone by a freshly grilled hotdog and french fries from Adams Pack Store where you can rest, pick up supplies and just generally hang out with the great people, the cats, the dogs, the goats and the mules if you so wish. If you need to get away for an afternoon or a few days on the cheap and close to town consider pitching a tent, or even buying a cabin if you're flush like that -- just promise you'll invite me when you head there on the weekends. Distance: 3.5 mi, partially looped near start/finish Elevation change: 700 ft. Duration: 1.25 - 2.5 hrs Hours: 6AM-6PM, dogs permitted on a leash *Adventure Pass required or you can buy a day pass at Adams Pack Station for $5.00* Directions: Take the 210 Freeway E from LA to Aracadia, exit N at Santa Anita Ave, take it up the winding mountain road to Chantry Flat where there are parking lots, picnic tables and ranger's station. read more
13 years ago
Sturtevant Falls is definitely a beginner's trail. The trail is about 3.5 miles round trip. You can get it done in about an hour depending how long you spend enjoying nature and taking pictures in front of the waterfalls. The last half mile back is all incline and you get a pretty good workout/burn. There are plenty of shade and a couple of restrooms along the trail. Beware-- restrooms are filthy. In order to hike this trail you must purchase an adventure pass. It is $5 and you can get it REI or Big 5. This trail is probably the most beautiful trail at Chantry Flats. Enjoy! And remember to pick up after yourself & your little friends! Littering is NOT cool! read more
Sturtevant is definitely one of the top favorites of my completed LA hikes so far because of the scenery and unique setting. I find myself to be a destination hiker, and only seek out places with a "payoff" at the end of the trail, be it a waterfall, a large creek, a rock to climb, etc. Sturtevant features curious cabins, random dams, and a large waterfall at the end of the trail. I also went during mid-July which apparently is butterfly season. Hundreds of beautiful butterflies were flying around and even landing on my fingers! Enough payoff, is it not? Though the trail is fairly easy and provides shade throughout most of the walk, the trek back is terrible if you are hiking during midday. This is an up-side down trail that gives you the cake before the chicken. The walk to the falls is really easy, but the ascent to the trail head from the wooded areas is a killer especially if you have a bad habit of hiking during the afternoon like I do. Before you head out, BUY AN ADVENTURE PASS. Cost is $5 per day, or annual pass is $30, and a second vehicle pass is only $5 more. If you visit national parks often, this is a great investment. I'm not sure if they have a general store at the trail head that sells these passes, but you can purchase them easily at any sports store like Sports Chalet, Sports Authority, etc. Take the 210, exit Santa Anita Ave and travel north until Santa Anita turns into Chantry Flats. SLOW DOWN. No one should be in a rush along these mountain roads with sharp turns and blind curves. I can't tell you how many times I had a mini heart attack each time I saw some jackhole tearing down the other side in some sports coupe. This isn't like the wide wooded winding paths you see in the Santa Cruz mountains in car commercials so there's no use showing off high speeds here. Parking will be limited especially if you don't arrive at the butt-crack of dawn. There are small alcove-ish areas at the head of Chantry Flats where you can parallel park. Park at your own risk though, because rocks and other debris may fall from the adjacent mountain. Trail head is to your right and leads you on a downward slope. Via the Gabrielino Trail, you get to an area called Roberts Camp and just follow the signs to Sturtevant. If all else fails, follow people because this trail is very popular. Take swimsuit with you, if you are so inclined, because the water is deep enough to take a quick dip and the water is kept moving by a powerful waterfall even in the summer time. It's good to take a quick dip because the walk back will seem longer and hotter than when you were headed in. Don't forget bottles of WATER, plenty of SUNSCREEN, and a small SNACK to munch on when you get to the end of the trail. read more
Great hike to go on if you're looking for a shorter hike, it's about 3-4 miles roundtrip from the main parking area to the falls, and took us about 2 hours round trip with a steady pace and spending some time to hang out at the falls. Started around 9AM on a Sunday, sure there were lots of cars around, but there were also lots of cars going in and out, so I'd say try your chances, you might get lucky like we did! It's $5 for the parking, there's an exclusive lot that is $10 for some reason, wouldn't really bother with that one. Onto the hike! it goes downhill at first, but it's very brisk so definitely bring a light jacket to wear, there's plenty of shade around so it keeps pretty cool. Then after crossing a bridge, is when you start to go uphill a bit. You don't really get tired on the hike until the way back...by then it's hotter in the day and well..it's uphill. I would say it's a super easy hike except for that last part of the hike back up the hill, so i'd say this was just an easy hike, as there is some slight elevation. No need to pack your crazy hiking gear, just regular sneakers would work but be forewarned you will be crossing areas where it's water and you're just jumping from rock to rock, not an issue at all though. read more
11 years ago
This is an easy hike of about 3 miles up and back from Chantry Flats. This is a leisurely hike, so it's good for those who want a relaxing trek, and it's good for children of most ages. The trail itself is mostly smooth dirt without loose rocks. It is shaded and offers a nice wooded walk amongst pretty trees and cute cabins. The waterfall is one of the more picturesque I've seen on a hike in the LA area. parking - small lot at Chantry Flats that requires an adventure pass read more
16 years ago
Best hike in 626! The waterfall used to be big, but damn this drought. The trail is easy going down but when you get to the tree area its a bit rocky. Be careful when you cross the rivers. can be slippery. Ton of greenery. Great hike for puppies but they will get dirty and muddy. There is a bathroom in the cabin area. Warning, the walk up is rough! All uphill! read more
11 years ago
Came here yesterday on a whim and had a great time! We decided to do Strurtevant Falls first and then ended up doing Upper and Lower Winter Creek Trails as well.. total of ~8 miles. 1. Strutevant Falls [Approx 3mi total] Parked at the parking lot (Chantry Flats), had no problems since it was a wednesday. Headed down the trail to Robert's Camp where the trails branch off. We followed the signs for Gabrielino Trail to Sturtevant Falls. Approx 1.5 miles later we were at the falls. Even though it hasn't been raining, the falls was still trickling down and I still thoroughly enjoyed it. Note: Going to the falls is mostly downhill, coming back has the incline. 2. Upper and Lower Winter Creek Trails (makes a loop!) [Approx 5mi total] As we made our way back to Robert's camp you make a LEFT here up to Lower Winter Creek Trail. Keep following it and eventually you will get to a sign that will allow you to continue onto Upper Winter Creek Trail. This trail dumps you on to a paved road where you turn LEFT and head down where it drops you off at Chantry Flats! Note:This trail leads you into beautiful walls of lush green and eventually you get a lookout view of SGV as well as the Chantry Flats parking lot. It's pretty cool to see how high you've gone up. Tips: - Bring BUGSPRAY. As you are walking, you will soon be fitted with a cloud of flies of some sort and they are so annoying. - Shoes with good traction. There were a lot of dead leaves covering the paths and they make it a bit slippery. - To me, not really a hike where hiking poles are needed, but a friend used them to work out his arms and lighten his lower extremity load. - Bring water. The Upper and lower winter creek trails have some inclines that will require some parched lips to be quenched. I brought 2L and still had some left after the hike. read more
10 years ago
Didn't I mention on my profile you might find me either in a coffee shop or a nature spot? ;) My husband and I fell in love with this place. I am so enchanted by how pretty it is, and couldn't find enough words to rave about it. Being there made it difficult to believe that we were still close to the "city" or residential areas, for that matter. Tip for first time visitors (and even seasoned hikers): Get there early, because parking is challenging. The lot is small, and is usually full. Do not park along the road, unless you are desperate...because you will have to WALK FAR. I recommend parking at their lot, because at least it's close to the trail. $5 for parking isn't so bad. And there are restrooms by the lot as well. And speaking of trail, do anticipate that it is initially a down slope, which means you'll have to climb back up on your way back to the car. It's a loooonng slope; my quads will testify lol The trails are so beautiful! I am in awe of how pretty it is. I don't remember which one we took, but it's the one that veered to the left... I think it's the one leading to the campsite, not sure. I highly RECOMMEND this place to others! read more
10 years ago
PARKING: $5.00 non-refundable NO MATTER WHERE YOU PARK. It sucks! You may need to park along the main road and walk up to the begging of the trail. Keep to side and watch out for cars (especially if you you are on their blind spot) PETS: there were big dogs and very tiny dogs doing the hike (all seemed to be having a great time) all dogs must be leashed. Bring them fresh clean water (try not to let them drink off the spring) I didn't see any poison ivy but i did see plenty of bugs, lizards, ants and a snakes... so keep an eye out and make sure your dog doesn't get bitten. BRING POP BAGS AND PICK UP AFTER YOUR DOG ATTIRE: long sleeve or have a bug repellent. Although the trees provide plenty of shade, put some sun block (our faces got sun burned) Wear hiking boots or some solid tennis shoes (your shoes will get wet) TRAIL: it's such a beautiful trail! I loved all the homes that were alongside of the trail. So much green and so many trees in this trail I won't spoil it but it was so worth it. THE WHITE FENCE MARKS THE BEGINNING OF THE TRAIL. THE GREE BRIDGE (TO THE LEFT) IS TO CONTINUE ON THE TRAIL. THE WATERFALL MARKS THE END OF THE TRAIL. read more
10 years ago
This is a lovely hike through and through. You can see both of the falls (hermit and Sturtevant) easily in one day if you're looking to adventure. It took my dog and I 5 hours to see both, but we moved slowly. This is an easy out and back hike. Dogs are welcomed on leash and it's easy enough for the whole family. Just know that if you want to see hermit falls, you have to cross the stream at 3 places, so you'll probably get wet. Also, be educated about the hike you want to do and how much time it takes to do it. The gates below close at 8 p.m., so you could get stuck or towed if you miscalculate. Some of the trail is in the shade and some of it isn't. Some of it is wet and some of it isn't. You're able to swim at both of the falls, but the water is freezing, so be prepared for that. read more
14 years ago
What a beautiful place!!! My friends asked the Wifey and I if we'd like to go hiking this weekend and of course we said yes! (IDK why, it's not like I'm ACTIVE! I am one of those who Melt into my couch) So the "plan" is made and here we go... Our "Plan" included being parked and ready to hike at 8 am (we were told how crazy packed this place gets if we go any later) so with our kicking and screaming, we agree to be there by 8 am (my original thought was 9 am) ha ha ha...we are parking precisely at 9 am (idk why no one listens to me) so lucky us we actually scored a spot right at the entrance to the trails (in the lot) get our pass and meet up with our friends...Here goes nothing! The initial hike/walk down to the area where the trails are listed was okay, smooth gravel wide road, didn't think anything on my way down... We get down to there area where the trails are listed with arrows and distance were listed, we pick the shortest closest and go! It was a beautiful hike, the weather was perfect, crispy with just a little bit of sunlight shining through the brush, the trickling water sounded so relaxing and the birds singing was music to my soul. I'm thinking to myself, how come I never knew this place existed? (and I answer myself...because you're always high on the couch, duh!) ha ha...okay snap back to here and now! It took us about an hour maybe to get to the waterfall, it was so lovely! There were quite a few people there enjoying their lunch, family, and pets. Everyone taking pictures in front of the waterfall. And again I'm talking to myself...(Mannnnn, how come no one told me to bring a lunch? I want a Sammie too!) Lol...I guess it's just time to make a mental note for "next time" There are quite a few trails to chose from here, we did the one and when we were on our way out, my Aggressive Ambitious friends decide to try another trail (WHY?) so here we go...I feel like such an old lady trying to make it up these trails and of course we see bikers coming down with busted tires and knees dripping blood... and again, I'm talking to myself...(HOW the hell are they riding bikes up these damn hills! Man, I need to get out more!) All and all it was a lovely day with my girls! I pushed myself, they pushed me and I was happy in the end. I think I will be back and try again ;) read more
12 years ago
if you wanna hike in the sgv, you better come early. we got here at around 11pm and it was packed. i had to circle around the parking lot for about 30 mins. and only then was i lucky to find a parking spot. i had to fight throngs of cars for it. make sure you buy the parking pass!!!!! Anyways, onto the actual hike. the hike was not bad at all. its about 1.5 miles to the water fall and getting there was like taking candy from a baby. however, the hike back was a little bit more difficult. since the last portion is uphill. something i found interesting is that there are a lot of houses/cabin along the way. i don't know if they rent them out, but i have no idea why you would spend money on a place where a lot of people trek at. lol, unless you don't value your own privacy. make sure you bring water with you on the hike, and maybe a snack to give you enery on the way. i also heard that this place is a lot better in the winter time, since during the summer the waterfall is almost nonexistent. bottom-line: its a simple and relaxing hike. read more
This is one of the most beautiful hikes I've been on in the LA area! I would say it's a moderate hike... not hard but not super easy. There's so much greenery and most of the hike is shaded which was nice. We stopped so many times along the way to take pictures. Seriously anywhere you take pictures at on this trail comes out so nice. I would highly recommend going here super early. We came shortly after 10 AM and we were dying from the heat. Also make sure to purchase a parking permit. You can purchase one near the trail. read more
Good place to get a good workout in and some fresh air. Sturtevant Falls makes for a really great hike for beginner hikers. It's easy going and only 3.6 miles round trip--easy going inclines and declines (for people with knee/hip/leg problems like me). Bring a camera with you because as the name of the hike suggests, there's a waterfall at the end of the hike. There are a lot of outhouses along the way if needed, but I advise against using them cuz they REEK. Remember to pick up a pass for the day (or year) at REI, Sport Chalet, etc for parking. $5 for the day, $30 for the year. read more
One of my FAVORITE hikes for many reasons!! First of all, it is definitely dog-friendly! I love taking my dog there (he is the least active dog ever) but I always tell myself, if he can do this hike so can I! It is a super easy hike, except that killer incline back to the top! The trail itself isn't that long! It's a short, quick hike! But definitely still puts me in a sweat! I love coming when the weather is not too hot, but even if it is, there is plenty of shade once you go down the trail! The waterfall at the end of trail isn't super big or magnificent! But I can't complain, especially with this drought going on! We're lucky to even have a waterfall right now! & for parking, I usually go on week day mornings-afternoons, so I never have trouble parking! But I heard on weekends, it can get pretty packed! read more
8 years ago
Now is the time to go, water is flowing, everything is starting to look green. The waterfall was pretty. I loved out hike. The only thing I didn't like were the nasty as restrooms! Take your own toilet paper and get ready to see shit all over the place. I would of thought the 5$ permit fee would be used to keep the place clean. read more
It's worth a drive! The trail is about 30 min drive from LA. - it won't lead you to the right hike if you put the address on GPS. It took us to the neighborhood. - found the direction on yelp by Doris W. We put Chantry Flats. Then from the exit of 210 we went on Santa Anita Canyon Rd for another 3 miles of winding road to the trail. - we drove up to Adam's pack station. This is where you can buy the pass for $5 to hang on your windshield if you park on the street. $10 for parking at Adam's pack station (including the pass). - this is our first time here. So we hike to the Sturtevant fall about 4 miles round trip. - there is plenty of shade. On the way down, it is mostly down hill, passing many cabins along the way, a bridge and then crossing the rocks over 2 streams... then we got to the fall. - it is not roaring but we are happy to see some water flowing. - on the way back, it is uphill at the last mile... Our legs were sore the next day! - bring plenty of water. - if you hike later of the day, you might want to bring insect repellant. - you can rent out these cabins at Adam's pack station. - check out ice cream at Adam's pack station once you conquer this hike. read more
10 years ago
Absolutely looooooove everything about this place! Love the greenery and the creepy cabins, the waterfalls, the peacefulness, etc... i could go on forever about what i love here. The parking is only $5 or you can park somewhere on the way up for free. Make sure you come prepared - water, snacks, flashlight (if you come late), a gym size towel would be good to bring as well. Cell reception is pretty bad up there. There's several trials to take, some long and some short. I'd like to try them all! It was raining the first time we came here and kind of late. We started the trail and by the time we got to the first cabin, we realized by the time we got to the waterfall it'd be pitch black and neither of us had a flashlight. i started to hear things and everyone we passed was going the opposite way... so we decided to play smart and turn around lol. We still got a pretty good workout in because the hills going back are no joke and we ran most of them to get back quicker and make the trip somewhat worth it lol. I went again this past weekend and got to finish the trail! We went early enough this time and got to enjoy the nature and get a good workout in as well! Even got to see some salamanders and chipmunks! i definitely recommend this place to everyone, even those who don't like to workout or hike. It's just such a beautiful experience. read more
What a fun awesome day! This was my first time hiking and I wanted to go here with my friends. We got here at 9:30 in the morning and finding parking was ridiculous. We parked a mile out and had to walk up hill to the trail area. Throughout the walk is a lot of shade and trees. Man made lakes everywhere. Lots of families taking nice strolls and hopping over rocks. When you do the Sturtevant Falls trail it's 2 miles in. When you get to the end of it you see a water fall. A lot of people hopping in to get a photo, sit down relax, and enjoy the view. A great way to get away from the city, computer, and all that crazy technology. Come out here enjoy nature and get in a good workout. Recommendation: Come early to find parking. read more
More info about Sturtevant Falls
Arcadia, CA 91006
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Ask the Community - Sturtevant Falls
Is it open yet?
I believe so. We recently visited the area & I didn't see any closures on any sections of the mountains.
Hi is this place open now?
Came all the way from OC.. still closed. Bummer wish they'd update on here.
Anyone know when this will open again? My favorite hike in all of Southern California.
Closed
Went this morning, 11/23/2021 and the road is still closed, 5k fine for trespassing. I saw a truck go around tho?
Is trail to water fall still closed?
Yes it is still closed as of 1/3/2021 and for those of you who went without masks thanks for screwing that up for the rest of us! It's closed due to too many crowds and idiots not social distancing and/or not wearing masks as directed. The Ranger…
Has the hike trail reopened?
Yes, I went 8/1, but they do close throughout the day when it gets full and te-open with in the same day once they have availability, I went in a Saturday at 2:40 pm, had to come back about 1 - 1/2 later to be able to get in.
How safe is the drive to the park? I am planning to visit next week with my special needs son. Is the drive to the park is easy on the road or we have to drive through cliffs go up the mountains. I am driving from Orange county. Thank you
The drive isn't so bad until the the last quarter mile to the parking lot, it definitely gets crowded and can get difficult to find a parking spot. May require parallel parking and gets narrow because it the road is a one way and cars are surrounded…
Review Highlights - Sturtevant Falls
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