San Gabriel Mountains National Monument: Los Angeles's Backyard Wilderness
Explore the majestic San Gabriel Mountains National Monument: A natural escape offering hiking, history, and breathtaking views just outside Los Angeles.
The San Gabriel Mountains National Monument, a vast protected area within 90 minutes of Los Angeles, offers a stunning escape into nature with diverse recreational activities, rich cultural history, and vital ecological resources. It provides open space, drinking water, and a haven for unique wildlife.
A brief summary to San Gabriel Mountains National Monument
- Mt Baldy, California, 91759, US
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Check weather conditions and fire restrictions before you go, especially during summer and fall.
- Parking can be limited, especially on weekends and holidays; arrive early or consider carpooling.
- Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and appropriate hiking gear, as conditions can vary.
- A Forest Adventure Pass may be required for parking in some developed areas; check requirements before your visit.
- Be aware of wildlife and take necessary precautions, such as storing food properly.
Getting There
-
Driving
From Los Angeles, take I-210 East towards Azusa. Exit onto CA-39 North and follow the winding road into the heart of the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument. Numerous trailheads and visitor centers are accessible from CA-39 and other connecting roads. Parking is available at trailheads, but can be limited, especially on weekends. Check specific trailhead information for parking fees and restrictions. An Adventure Pass ($5/day or $30/year) may be required for parking in some areas.
-
Public Transport
From Los Angeles, take the Metro A Line (formerly Gold Line) to the Memorial Park Station in Pasadena. From there, transfer to Metro bus line 660, which will take you closer to the San Gabriel Mountains. Check the Metro website for schedules and stops. From the bus stops, you may need to walk or take a taxi/rideshare to reach specific trailheads or destinations within the monument. A round-trip bus fare will cost around $4. Public transportation options directly into the park are limited, and may require significant walking or additional transportation to reach your final destination.
Discover more about San Gabriel Mountains National Monument
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Native Californians of Etiwanda Preserve Region Site
17.4 km
Explore the Native Californians of Etiwanda Preserve Region Site in Rancho Cucamonga, a historical landmark celebrating indigenous culture and breathtaking nature.
Madonna of the Trail
19.8 km
Explore the Madonna of the Trail, a historical landmark in Upland, CA, honoring the spirit and resilience of pioneer women in American history.
Cucamonga Winery Historical Landmark
20.2 km
Explore Cucamonga Winery Historical Landmark, California's oldest winery, and immerse yourself in the rich legacy of winemaking in Rancho Cucamonga.
China Town House
20.3 km
Explore the rich history and architectural beauty of the China Town House in Rancho Cucamonga, a historical landmark celebrating cultural heritage.
Cucamonga Service Station
20.5 km
Explore the rich history of transportation at Cucamonga Service Station, a fascinating historical museum and zoology attraction in Rancho Cucamonga, California.
Isle House
21.3 km
Explore Isle House - a historical landmark in Etiwanda, California, where history meets breathtaking mountain views and serene landscapes.
Ad America - Old Railroader
21.4 km
Explore the fascinating history of railroads at Ad America - Old Railroader, a must-visit historical landmark in Upland, California.
Chaffey-Garcia House
21.4 km
Discover the Chaffey-Garcia House, a historical gem in Rancho Cucamonga, showcasing the rich heritage and architectural beauty of California's past.
Historic Shack
21.8 km
Explore the Historic Shack in Fontana, California – a cherished landmark that embodies the rich historical heritage and architectural beauty of the region.
Claremont Packing House
22.3 km
Experience the rich history and vibrant shopping scene at Claremont Packing House, a historical landmark in California's charming Claremont.
Palomares Adobe
23.3 km
Explore the Palomares Adobe in Pomona: A preserved 1850s rancho home showcasing California's transition from Mexican to American ownership.
Sycamore Grove Monument
23.9 km
Explore the Sycamore Grove Monument, a captivating historical landmark set in the beautiful Glen Helen Regional Park, a must-visit for history and nature enthusiasts.
Casa Primera
25.3 km
Explore the rich history of Pomona at Casa Primera, a captivating historical museum showcasing the city's cultural heritage.
Twin Peaks
25.7 km
Discover the breathtaking Twin Peaks in California, where stunning views and serene hiking trails await nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Phillips Mansion
28.8 km
Explore Phillips Mansion, a historical gem in Pomona, CA, where captivating stories and stunning architecture come together to celebrate California's rich heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Red Hill Park
19.0 km
Explore the natural beauty and recreational charm of Red Hill Park, a serene destination in Rancho Cucamonga perfect for families and nature lovers.
John Rains House - A San Bernardino County Museum Historic Site
19.8 km
Explore the meticulously preserved 1860s John Rains House in Rancho Cucamonga, offering a glimpse into California's Rancho era and local history.
California Botanic Garden
20.4 km
Discover the beauty of California's native plants at the serene California Botanic Garden, a must-visit attraction in Claremont, CA.
Rubel Castle
24.1 km
Discover the enchanting Rubel Castle in Glendora, California, a historical landmark filled with unique architecture and lush gardens.
Angeles Crest Scenic Bywy
24.7 km
Experience California's breathtaking landscapes on the Angeles Crest Scenic Byway, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Ontario Museum of History & Art
24.8 km
Discover the vibrant past of Ontario at the Ontario Museum of History & Art, where culture, history, and creativity intertwine beautifully.
Ontario Improv
25.2 km
Experience the best of stand-up comedy and delicious dining at Ontario Improv, California's premier comedy club for unforgettable nights of laughter.
iFLY Indoor Skydiving - Ontario
25.8 km
Discover the ultimate thrill at iFLY Indoor Skydiving in Ontario, California - a daring adventure perfect for all ages.
Raging Waters Los Angeles
25.9 km
Experience the ultimate water adventure at Raging Waters Los Angeles, where thrilling slides and family-friendly attractions await you.
Elephant Hill
29.4 km
Explore the stunning Elephant Hill in Pomona, California, where breathtaking views and serene hiking trails await nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike.
San Gabriel Wilderness
31.2 km
Explore the stunning beauty of San Gabriel Wilderness, a natural haven for hiking, camping, and wildlife observation in California's majestic mountains.
Robert and Frances Fullerton Museum of Art (RAFFMA)
31.9 km
Explore a vibrant art collection at the Robert and Frances Fullerton Museum of Art in San Bernardino, showcasing diverse artistic expressions and rich cultural heritage.
Chilao Visitor Center
33.0 km
Explore the beauty of Angeles National Forest at Chilao Visitor Center, your gateway to adventure, education, and stunning natural landscapes.
Rim of the World Scenic Drive
33.6 km
Experience the stunning beauty of the Rim of the World Scenic Drive in San Bernardino, California, where nature's splendor unfolds at every turn.
BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Chino Hills
34.6 km
Experience the serene beauty and spiritual richness of BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Chino Hills, a cultural hub for all visitors.
Essential places to dine
Wistaria Restaurant and Bar
39.5 km
Discover Wistaria Restaurant and Bar in Sierra Madre – where delicious Californian breakfasts meet warm hospitality in a cozy setting.
foothill restaurant
43.3 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at Foothill Restaurant in Pasadena—where every dish is crafted with passion and local ingredients.
AltaEats
44.1 km
Savor innovative American cuisine at AltaEats in Pasadena - where local flavors meet creative culinary artistry.
Plate 38 Kitchen And Bar
44.3 km
Experience innovative New American cuisine at Plate 38 Kitchen And Bar in Pasadena - where every dish tells a story.
Top Restaurant
45.3 km
Experience authentic Hawaiian and Indonesian cuisine at this top-rated Pasadena restaurant offering delicious dishes in a warm setting.
Bacchus' Kitchen
45.3 km
Experience culinary excellence paired with enchanting live jazz at Bacchus' Kitchen in Pasadena – where every meal is a celebration.
Madeline Garden Bistro & Venue
46.8 km
Discover Madeline Garden Bistro & Venue: A Culinary Haven in Pasadena Offering Modern European Delights Amidst Serene Gardens.
Malbec Argentinean Cuisine
46.8 km
Experience the authentic taste of Argentina with exquisite dishes and fine wines at Malbec Argentinean Cuisine in Pasadena.
Bistro 45
46.9 km
Discover the finest Californian cuisine at Bistro 45 in Pasadena - where elegance meets exceptional flavors.
Green Street Restaurant
47.0 km
Discover delightful American cuisine in Pasadena at Green Street Restaurant - where every bite tells a story!
Smitty's Grill
47.1 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at Smitty's Grill in Pasadena - where flavor meets warmth in every dish.
UOVO | Pasadena
47.1 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at UOVO in Pasadena – where fresh ingredients meet traditional recipes in a cozy atmosphere.
Lemonade Restaurant
47.1 km
Discover Lemonade Restaurant in Pasadena – where fresh ingredients meet vibrant flavors in a health-conscious dining experience.
Celestino Ristorante & Bar
47.1 km
Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Celestino Ristorante & Bar in Pasadena - where every dish tells a story and every sip delights the palate.
GRANVILLE
47.2 km
Experience the best of New American cuisine at Granville in Pasadena - where fresh ingredients meet innovative culinary artistry.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Puff Monkey Pop Culture Shop
39.5 km
Explore Puff Monkey Pop Culture Shop in Sierra Madre for unique toys and trendy handbags that spark nostalgia and creativity.
Collective Co-op
39.6 km
Explore Collective Co-op, Sierra Madre's charming gift shop filled with unique artisanal crafts and treasures that capture the spirit of California.
Hastings Village
42.3 km
Discover the charm of Hastings Village, a shopping mall in Pasadena, California, offering diverse stores and delightful dining experiences.
Pasadena Pop Up Shop
43.0 km
Discover unique finds and fresh local produce at the Pasadena Pop Up Shop, a vibrant shopping experience in the heart of California.
The Grove Store
43.7 km
Explore a world of vintage charm at The Grove Store in Pasadena, a must-visit antique store featuring unique treasures and collectibles.
Uncharted Antiques
44.1 km
Explore a treasure trove of unique vintage items at Uncharted Antiques in Pasadena, where every corner holds a story.
MEOWMEOWZ! Retro 80s Thrift Shop
44.2 km
Discover unique 80s vintage treasures at MEOWMEOWZ! Retro Thrift Shop in Pasadena, where nostalgia meets lively music and shopping fun.
Boutique La Vie
44.7 km
Discover unique gifts and artisan treasures at Boutique La Vie, Pasadena's charming boutique and gift shop, perfect for all your shopping needs.
Over The Bridge Vintage Shop
45.0 km
Explore Over The Bridge Vintage Shop in Pasadena for unique vintage clothing and accessories, a perfect destination for fashion lovers and treasure seekers.
Adira's Vintage Boutique
45.1 km
Discover unique vintage treasures at Adira's Vintage Boutique in Pasadena, where every piece tells a story and enhances your individual style.
Bougie Bazaar
45.2 km
Explore Bougie Bazaar in Pasadena: A unique antique store blending art, thrift, and vintage treasures for every treasure hunter.
Revival Boutique & Thrift
45.4 km
Discover unique finds and support a good cause at Revival Boutique & Thrift in Pasadena, where style meets sustainability.
Rose City Antique
45.5 km
Explore the charm of vintage treasures at Rose City Antique, Pasadena's premier destination for antiques and unique vintage clothing.
Sidecca
45.6 km
Explore Sidecca in Altadena for unique gifts, clothing, and shoes, capturing the essence of California's creative spirit.
F Suie One Co
46.2 km
Explore F Suie One Co in Pasadena, CA: A treasure trove of antiques and unique collectibles that tell stories of the past.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Shuffle Bar
41.7 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and diverse drink offerings at Shuffle Bar in Pasadena, a perfect spot to unwind after your city adventures.
R Place
41.8 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of R Place in Pasadena, a must-visit bar for cocktails, games, and lively entertainment.
Colorado Bar
43.9 km
Discover the lively ambiance and delicious cocktails at Colorado Bar in Pasadena, the perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploration.
1881
44.4 km
Discover the lively ambiance and exceptional cocktails at 1881 Cocktail Bar in Pasadena, a vibrant hotspot for nightlife enthusiasts.
Lucky Baldwin's Pub
45.4 km
Experience authentic British cuisine and a vibrant pub atmosphere at Lucky Baldwin's Pub in Pasadena, perfect for a casual meal or a night out.
T. Boyle's Tavern
46.8 km
Experience the thrill of sports and the taste of classic American cuisine at T. Boyle's Tavern in Pasadena, CA.
Magnolia House
47.3 km
Experience the perfect blend of tapas and cocktails in the lively atmosphere of Magnolia House, Pasadena's premier dining destination.
The 1894
47.3 km
Experience the charm of The 1894, Pasadena's premier wine bar offering a curated selection of fine wines and a delightful atmosphere for all.
The Mixx
47.8 km
Discover the vibrant blend of New American cuisine, craft cocktails, and live music at The Mixx in Pasadena, California.
The Tap Room
48.1 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of The Tap Room in Pasadena, where exquisite drinks meet a stylish lounge ambiance perfect for relaxation.
The Blind Donkey
48.4 km
Discover the charm of The Blind Donkey, Pasadena's favorite whiskey pub with craft beers, delicious bites, and a vibrant social scene.
The Speakeasy
48.4 km
Discover The Speakeasy in Pasadena, where vintage charm meets modern mixology in an unforgettable bar experience.
Old Towne Pub
48.5 km
Experience live music, craft beers, and a vibrant atmosphere at Old Towne Pub, the heart of Pasadena's nightlife.
Lucky Baldwins Pub
48.5 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and authentic British cuisine at Lucky Baldwins Pub, a must-visit spot in Pasadena's Old Town.
The Dungeon
48.5 km
Experience the vibrant ambiance and exquisite cocktails at The Dungeon Lounge in Old Pasadena, a must-visit for nightlife enthusiasts.
