The Van Tassel Trail is a perfect trek for hikers training for more challenging hikes, as well as trail runners, cyclists, and folks who just want a strenuous hike for some good cardio. The trail follows the Van Tassel Motorway, a fire and maintenance road that climbs over 1700 feet in the first 2.7 miles of the trail.
Starting from Vincent Gap off California Highway 2, up forty unforgiving switchbacks, Sami and I made it to the peak of Mt. Baden-Powell in the Angeles National Forest-with the help of a Subway sandwich and Cheetos bribe.
While the stay-at-home orders haven't exactly ended, the trails in Los Angeles County are finally starting to open up after over a month-long closure. So with the mountains calling, we must go... along with the rest of Southern California.
There are many trails in the Angeles National Forest. Popular hikes in the Chantry Flats area take hikers to various pools and waterfalls. Bears are a common sight along the trail, so remember to be bear aware and recreate responsibly.
The Angeles National Forest has a number of trails and camps that can make for a fun backpacking adventure. The Gabrielino Trail and other trails in Big Santa Anita Canyon made for a fun introductory backpacking weekend close to Los Angeles.
The Cranky Camper 