Sierra Madre, California
First hike ever since I got back from Reno.. Needed something to get my lazy self back into gear and this was always my go-to hike. It is the perfect distance with just the right amount of elevation gain to give your body a good jump start. Weather was amazing today and I just couldn't pass it up either. Spruce Grove Campground makes for an excellent upgrade to Hoegees Campground if you're looking for less traffic and a harder challenge with a longer hike in. The campsite has seven first come, first serve campgrounds with fire pits and running water from a nearby stream (which should be treated before use). Last time I camped here, we ran into a small baby bear late at night so pack your food responsibly. The trail begins at the Gabrielino National Recreational Trail and passes through a pedestrian bridge. Hike until you reach a sign pointing to the Upper Gabrielino Trail and Lower Gabrielino Trail (about 0.5 miles before Sturtevant Falls). Both trails will lead you to the Falling Sign Junction before it continues to Spruce Grove Campground. The Upper Gabrielino Trail, in my opinion, is the most scenic route to take if you like exposed hikes. The Lower Gabrielino Trail begins with a funky, weird hike (that will probably put you on your hands and feet) that overlooks Sturtevant Falls and its adjacent pools. Both paths are equally strenuous.
Distance: 8 miles (Out-and-Back)
Elevation Gain: 1,778 ft.
Final Elevation: ~3,100 ft.
Directions to Chantry Flat Rd: Use the following coordinates in Google Maps to route your directions to Chantry Flat Rd.
34.171601,-118.032156
From Santa Anita Ave, drive north onto Chantry Flat Rd. until you reach a parking lot. You will need an Adventure Pass to park here.
Didn't have an adventure pass so I parked at Adam's Pack Station where you can park for $5 on the weekdays. If no one is around, you can put your money into a deposit box.
Gabrielino National Recreational Trail. Love this weather!
This is where the trails split. You can take either of the trails. I took the Upper Gabrielino Trail up and the Lower Gabrielino Trail back down.
Continuing on.
Falling Sign Junction where both upper and lower trails meet up.
Loving the gloomy, mysterious feeling.
Continuing on!
Cascade Picnic Area. Perfecting resting spot by the running river. Had a small snack here on the bench before the final push to the campground.
Favorite picture of the day.
Almost there!
Made it!
Restrooms with fire buckets for sand/water and shovels.
Typical campsite.
#19.
Picture of the pools right before Sturtevant Falls while coming down the Lower Gabrielino Trail.
Chris's Difficulty Scale - 3/10
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