Getting Oriented
The corridor sits between the Angeles Crest Highway (SR-2) and Big Tujunga Canyon Road on Angeles NF's San Gabriel District. The eastern end ties into the Angeles Crest Highway near Mt. Gleason at the Mill Creek Summit area; the western end exits onto Big Tujunga Canyon Road near Vogel Flat. The Pacific Crest Trail crosses the route at Mill Creek Summit.
Trail Overview
Eighteen miles point-to-point. The eastern half from Mill Creek Summit is graded forest road through pine and oak. The middle section descends rocky two-track through chaparral, the segment most affected by the 2009 Station Fire and the 2020 Bobcat Fire. The western descent into Big Tujunga is graded gravel. There are no technical obstacles, but several stretches require 4WD low for traction on loose volcanic rock.
Points of Interest
- Mill Creek Summit. USFS-developed picnic area at the eastern end with restrooms, water, and PCT trail crossing.
- Mt. Gleason. 6,520-foot peak with restored fire lookout near the eastern end.
- Big Tujunga Reservoir. Dam and reservoir at the western end.
- Vogel Flat. USFS-developed picnic area near the western terminus.
- Pacific Crest Trail. Crosses at Mill Creek Summit; the Mt. Gleason section is one of the more remote PCT segments in southern California.
- Angeles Crest Highway. Paved scenic drive that runs parallel to the south, connecting Big Pines to La Caada Flintridge.
Where to Camp
Monte Cristo Campground (Angeles NF, USFS-developed) and Buckhorn Campground (USFS-developed) sit on or near the eastern Angeles Crest Highway. Closest dispersed camping requires a Campfire Permit (free, online); the corridor has limited terrain for primitive sites. Many parts of Angeles NF remain closed to dispersed camping due to fire-recovery management.
Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Trip
- Check fire restrictions before going. Angeles NF closes the corridor frequently in summer.
- Adventure Pass required for parking. Daily and annual passes available locally and online.
- The 2009 Station Fire and 2020 Bobcat Fire reshaped the corridor. Trees and chaparral are still recovering.
- Cell service drops in the canyons. Carry an offline map.
- The San Gabriel District (626-335-1251) handles current conditions and seasonal closures.
- Combine with the Angeles Crest Highway for a paved-and-dirt loop.
