Angeles National Forest

The Angeles National Forest was established by executive order in December, 1892. It covers over 260,000 ha (650,000 acres) and is located in the San Gabriel Mountains, just north of the metropolitan area of Los Angeles, California. The Angeles National Forest manages the watersheds within its boundaries to provide valuable water to southern California and to protect surrounding communities from catastrophic floods.

The land within the Forest is diverse, both in appearance and terrain. Elevations range from 365-3,067 m (1,200-10,064 feet). Much of the Forest is covered with dense chaparral which changes to pine and fir-covered slopes as you reach the majestic peaks of the higher elevations. Peaks within the Forest include: Pine Mountain 2,940 m (9,648 feet), Dawson Peak 2,918 m (9,575 feet), Mount Wilson (5,710 feet) (also housing the Mount Wilson Observatory), and Mount San Antonio (also known as Mt. Baldy) 3,067 m (10,064 feet).

Species for which the Forest is important include Bigcone Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga macrocarpa), Coulter Pine (Pinus coulteri) and California Walnut (Juglans californica).

A National Forest Adventure Pass is required for parking in the Angeles National Forest and other National Forests in Southern California, and may be opbtained from visitor centers and local merchants. The Adventure Pass is controversial and many forest visitors refuse to buy them.