Chantry Flat Recreation Area - Image 1
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Chantry Flat Sturtevant Falls

4.6
·239 reviews·Arcadia, United States

A refreshing 50-foot waterfall nestled in the Angeles National Forest, accessible via a scenic hike from Chantry Flat.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early Morning

Secure parking & beat the heat

CrowdLow
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Chantry Flat Recreation Area - Image 1

Chantry Flat Sturtevant Falls

Best Time

Early Morning

Secure parking & beat the heat

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A refreshing 50-foot waterfall nestled in the Angeles National Forest, accessible via a scenic hike from Chantry Flat.

4.6
(239 reviews)

"A beautiful, relaxing hike with a little less privacy and peace as I had hoped."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Secure Parking Early

Arrive before 6 AM on weekends for a parking spot. Paid permit required!

💧 Bring Plenty of Water

The uphill return can be tough, especially in heat. Stay hydrated!

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Rating

4.6 · 239 reviews

Type

Hiking Area

👶 Good for kids🅿️ Accessible parking

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sturtevant Falls

Sturtevant Falls

End of Sturtevant Trail

A beautiful 50-foot waterfall offering a refreshing reward after your hike. Perfect for a cool dip!

Mysterious Ruins

Mysterious Ruins

Along the Sturtevant Trail

Discover remnants of old cabins and structures, adding a touch of history to your scenic walk.

Santa Anita Creek

Santa Anita Creek

Alongside Sturtevant Trail

Enjoy the soothing sounds of the creek as you wind through the canyon, past mini waterfalls.

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Planning Your Visit

Arrive Early for Parking

Parking at Chantry Flat is notoriously limited. Arrive before 6 AM, especially on weekends, to secure a spot. A paid park permit is required and must be visible in your car window. Consider weekdays if possible.

Trail Conditions & Safety

The hike to Sturtevant Falls is generally moderate, but the return trip uphill can be challenging, especially in heat. Be aware of potential rattlesnakes and poison oak/ivy. Bring plenty of water and wear appropriate footwear.

Best Times

When
Early Morning
Why
Secure parking & beat the heat
Crowd
Low
When
Late Afternoon
Why
Cooler temps, golden hour
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Less crowded parking
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

📍Sturtevant Falls In your GPS type in CHANTRY FLATS or Santa Anita Canyon Sierra Madre, CA 91024 CHECK THE HOURS OF @adamspackstation if you plan to buy a pass there ◡̈ otherwise @rei
@taannr
64.1K likes • 556.3K views

🚗 Secure Parking Early

Arrive before 6 AM on weekends for a parking spot. Paid permit required! InstagramReddit

💧 Bring Plenty of Water

The uphill return can be tough, especially in heat. Stay hydrated! InstagramReddit

📍Sturtevant Falls In your GPS type in CHANTRY FLATS or Santa Anita Canyon Sierra Madre, CA 91024 CHECK THE HOURS OF @adamspackstation if you plan to buy a pass there ◡̈ otherwise @rei
taannr
43K likes • 787.7K views
📍 Sturtevant Falls is one of LA’s best escapes—an easy 3.5-mile out-and-back trail that ends at this beautiful 50-foot waterfall. Go early, bring water, and enjoy the shade. Chantry Flat Trailhead Santa Anita Ave, Arcadia, CA 91006
taannr
3.7K likes • 68K views

👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes

The trail can be rocky and the return is uphill. Good grip is essential. Instagram

🐍 Be Trail Aware

Watch for rattlesnakes and avoid poison oak/ivy. TikTokReddit

Chantry Flat above Sierra Madre, CA reopened 10/2 after the Bobcat fire. It was time to visit the trailhead and go up the Sturtevant Trail with a stop at the Sturtevant Falls. It was my first time going up there and I enjoyed a very nice 5 mile climb. I wanted to make it a loop coming back through the Mt Zion Trail but it is still closed for maintenance. Brent who volunteered at the Sturtevant Cam...
losangelestrailrunning
113 likes • 1.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Secure Parking Early

Arrive before 6 AM on weekends for a parking spot. Paid permit required! InstagramReddit

💧 Bring Plenty of Water

The uphill return can be tough, especially in heat. Stay hydrated! InstagramReddit

👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes

The trail can be rocky and the return is uphill. Good grip is essential. Instagram

🐍 Be Trail Aware

Watch for rattlesnakes and avoid poison oak/ivy. TikTokReddit

☀️ Sun Protection

Bring sunscreen and a hat, as parts of the trail can be exposed. Instagram

🏊 Cool Off at the Falls

Bring a change of clothes to enjoy a refreshing dip in the waterfall. Reddit

🍔 Pack Snacks or Picnic

There's a cafe, but bringing your own food is a great option. InstagramReddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(239 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Sturtevant Falls is a beloved natural escape near LA, praised for its beautiful waterfall and scenic trail. However, parking is a significant challenge, and the uphill return hike can be strenuous. Visitors also note occasional crowds and the presence of influencers.

"Arrive early to get a parking spot and make sure that you have a paid park permit visible in your car window other than that, the hike is.
Fun, there are many directions to Go ,one will take you to a waterfalll. Another trail will take you to a pool where people can jump in,
Can be sketchy though. Another with take you to Mount Wilson, and the other will loop back above the parking lot.
There's a little cafe that serves food and drinks soda, water. A nice place to spend the day. Bring your own food and have a picnic. There is camping too."

J P

"In desperate need of parking expansion, and the hike to Sturtevant felt a little like we were in someone’s backyard. Unfortunately, being so close to LA also means that there was a handful of influencers running amok and taking pictures in the middle of the trail.

A beautiful, relaxing hike with a little less privacy and peace as I had hoped."

Katherine Zhang

"Definitely worth it!

The hike took me about an hour each way since I stay active and exercise regularly, but I’d say plan for around 2 hours in and 2 hours out if you like to take breaks and enjoy the scenery. Bring enough water, a light sandwich or snack, and a small backpack. You’ll love the sound of the water, the birds, and the peaceful nature around you.
I even saw a small snake on the trail—so stay aware but don’t worry, it was harmless.
Totally recommend this hike!

And of course, bring a change of clothes or wear something light—you’ll definitely want to cool off in the waterfall at the end. It’s the best kind of reward!"

Sahar K

What People Like

Beautiful waterfall
Scenic canyon hike
Historical ruins

What People Dislike

Limited parking
Strenuous uphill return
Crowded trails

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Chantry Flat Recreation Area is located north of Los Angeles in Arcadia, accessible via Santa Anita Avenue from the 210 Freeway. For GPS, use 'Chantry Flats' or 'Santa Anita Canyon, Sierra Madre, CA 91024'. TikTokInstagram

Parking is extremely limited. Arrive before 6 AM, especially on weekends, to guarantee a spot. Weekdays offer a better chance. InstagramReddit

Yes, a paid park permit is required and must be visible in your car window. You can purchase passes at places like Adam's Pack Station or REI. TikTokInstagram

Public transportation options are limited for reaching Chantry Flat directly. Driving is the most common method, so plan accordingly for parking. TikTok

Chantry Flat has reopened after the Bobcat fire, with trails undergoing restoration. Always check current conditions before your visit. Instagram+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

While a park permit is required for your vehicle to park at Chantry Flat, there isn't a separate permit needed for the hike itself. Reddit

Chantry Flat Recreation Area has specific operating hours, and it's advisable to check these in advance, especially if you plan to arrive very early or stay late. TikTok

There is no direct entrance fee for the park itself, but a paid parking permit is mandatory for vehicles parked at the Chantry Flat trailhead. Reddit

You may be able to purchase passes at nearby locations like Adam's Pack Station, but it's best to check their hours or purchase in advance from places like REI. TikTokInstagram

Due to extreme parking limitations, arriving very early is recommended. Gates may close once parking is full. Reddit

🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience

The hike is generally considered moderate. The trail descends to the falls, making the return trip uphill and more challenging, especially in warmer weather. InstagramReddit

The round trip hike is approximately 3.4 to 4 miles, taking about 1-2 hours each way depending on your pace and how often you stop. InstagramReddit+1

Wear comfortable hiking shoes with good grip. Layers are recommended as temperatures can vary. Bring a hat and sunscreen for exposed sections. InstagramReddit

Restroom facilities are typically available at the Chantry Flat Recreation Area. TikTok

The trail is manageable for children, but the uphill return can be tiring. Keep a close eye on them, especially near water and potential hazards. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there's a cafe at Chantry Flat, Adam's Pack Station, which serves food and drinks. TikTokInstagram

Absolutely! Bringing your own food for a picnic is a great idea, and there are picnic areas available. InstagramReddit

Adam's Pack Station offers food and drinks, including sodas and water. Some visitors have enjoyed their burgers. Instagram

Many visitors recommend bringing your own snacks or a light sandwich, as it's a good way to refuel during or after your hike. Reddit

While there is camping available, it's best to bring your own food supplies as options at the campsite itself may be limited. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The waterfall itself is the main attraction. The surrounding canyon, creek, and old cabin ruins also offer picturesque opportunities. Instagram

Yes, smartphones are perfectly capable of capturing beautiful shots. Focus on good lighting and composition. TikTokInstagram

Early morning or late afternoon often provide softer light, reducing harsh shadows. Golden hour can be particularly stunning. Instagram

Be mindful of other hikers, especially 'influencers' who may occupy prime spots for extended periods. Reddit

Yes, the historical cabins and ruins along the trail are interesting subjects for photography, adding a unique element to your shots. Instagram

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