Trail Map of Big Santa Anita Canyon Loop with Upper Trail

Moderate: 10.0 miles, Half day

Other Information: Family Friendly
Dog Friendly

Overview: Big Santa Anita Canyon offers something for everybody. If you are traveling with young children, the short hike from Chantry Flat to Sturtevant Falls is rewarding and great for an easy morning or afternoon hike. However, if you're interested in something more substantial, you can follow the Big Santa Anita Loop trail.

The scenery along the trails in this area is really beautiful, especially along the river. There are many waterfalls, albeit most of them manmade, but are sure to soothe your soul. Plentiful greenery in the form of trees, shrubs and various indigenous plant life make this trail special in its own right. Add to that incredible vistas of both the canyon and the mountains surrounding Mt. Wilson. Many times you'll have to remind yourself you are in Los Angeles County!

The loop climbs steadily from the area of the 55-foot tall Sturtevant falls. The highest point of the main loop is about 3400 feet. Many hikers choose to bring trekking poles for this trail.

A remote campground about 3.5 miles into the loop offers up some picnic tables, pit toilets, and of course, a place to make camp if you choose to stay overnight. There are roughly 6-7 spots and if you plan on having a fire, be sure to bring along your fire permit.

Another unique aspect of the Big Santa Anita Canyon loop trail is the variety of terrains you'll cover. Sometimes you'll be deep in the forest and at other times you'll feel like you're in somewhat of a desert.

If you are a local, this is a great hike to do over and over again. However, beware that during the summer months, it can get quite hot and the bugs can be very annoying, especially while standing or sitting still.

The Adams Pack Station in Chantry Flat offers some supplies and essentials as well as treats such as ice cream, soda, and water. Parking can be very crowded on the weekends in Chantry Flat and you'll likely need to park along the mountain to get a spot in the mornings. Make sure to have an Adventure Pass to park along the road.

Tips: - Pack lots of water for this longer trail
- The trail is well-maintained and marked but its a good idea to have a map. You can pick up a free one at the Adams Pack Station.
- During the summer months, this trail is hot in some areas. Many hikers wear convertible pants that can unzip to convert to shorts.
- Plenty of poison oak is scattered along this trail—make sure you know what it looks like before you go.
- While hiking the warmer, dryer parts of the trail, keep an eye out for rattlesnakes

Directions:
Take the Foothill Freeway (I-210) into Arcadia and get off at Santa Anita Avenue. Drive about six miles north until it ends at Chantry Flat and the parking lot where the trailhead begins.