Is swimming allowed at Sturtevant Falls?

No, swimming is not allowed at Sturtevant Falls.

Live Conditions · 153 ft³/s · About average

Sturtevant Falls

Q: Are dogs allowed at Sturtevant Falls?

Yes, dogs are allowed at Sturtevant Falls.

California • 50 ft

By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026

Photo Credits (5)

simonov CC BY-SA 2.0 · Flickr

Difficulty

Moderate

Trail Length

3.3 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

Elevation Gain

400 ft

About Sturtevant Falls

Sturtevant Falls is a scenic 50-foot cascade tucked into Santa Anita Canyon within the Angeles National Forest, just outside Sierra Madre, California. Managed by the U.S. Forest Service, the falls are a favorite day-hike destination for families and photographers: a shady, creekside approach leads to a broad cascade and a pleasant pool at the base where hikers often pause to relax and take photos. The route blends riparian vegetation with the canyon’s rock walls and a handful of historic cabins near the trail, offering a mix of natural beauty and local history in a relatively accessible setting. The hike to Sturtevant is an out-and-back of approximately 3.25 miles with about 400 feet of elevation gain and a moderate difficulty rating. The trail begins at the Chantry Flat parking area and is well used and well maintained, making it a reliable option for most fit day hikers looking for a classic Southern California canyon walk without technical scrambling.

The Setting

Sturtevant Falls sits at 2,113 feet in the hills of California. The falls drop 50 feet.

Height: 50 feet

Trail & Hike Details

The Approach

The moderate 3.25-mile out-and-back trail gains 400 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.

Trail Description

Trailhead: Chantry Flat parking area. Type: out-and-back, length ~3.25 miles total, elevation gain ~400 ft, difficulty: moderate. Surface and route: a well‑trodden dirt and compacted‑rock footpath that descends into Santa Anita Canyon and stays largely shaded alongside the creek. The route passes historic cabins and lush riparian vegetation and includes occasional short, steeper pitches near the canyon floor; no technical climbing is required. The trail terminates at the base of the 50-foot Sturtevant Falls, where a rocky pool and viewing area mark the turnaround point.

What to Expect

The falls drop 50 feet. Dogs are welcome.

Accessibility

The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.

Frequently Asked Questions

🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Sturtevant Falls?

✅ Dogs are allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🤑 Fee: $5.00

🏊 Is There Swimming at Sturtevant Falls?

❌ Swimming is not allowed

When to Visit

spring fall winter

The best time to visit is in the spring or after winter rains, when the waterfall is at its fullest. Early mornings or weekdays are ideal to avoid crowds.

Seasonal Access

The best time to visit is Spring, Fall, and Winter.

Safety Information

Be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall and along the creek. Watch for poison oak along the trail. Flash flooding may occur during heavy rains, so check weather conditions before visiting.

Current Water Conditions

Updated about 2 hours ago Moderate

153 ft³/s

Current discharge — how much water is flowing

About average for this time of year

Very Low Low Normal High Very High

Based on 76 years of record

12.15 ft

Water depth at gauge

7-Day Discharge Trend

What does this mean for your visit?

Flow is about average for this time of year.

About This Gauge

This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.

SAN GABRIEL R BL SANTA FE DAM NR BALDWIN PK CA

USGS 11085000

7.4 mi from waterfall

Drainage: 236 sq mi

Altitude: 402 ft

Know when to go.

Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Sierra Madre hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.

Weather Forecast

Location & Access

Getting There

Sturtevant Falls is accessed via the Chantry Flat Recreation Area. From Sierra Madre, take Santa Anita Avenue north until it ends at the Chantry Flat parking lot.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

Parking is available at the Chantry Flat Recreation Area, but it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. An Adventure Pass is required to park here.

Elevation

2113 feet above sea level

Coordinates

34.211657° N, -118.019512° W

Visitor Tips & Gear

Arrive early to secure parking, especially on weekends. Bring plenty of water, as the trail can get warm during the day. Wear sturdy shoes, as parts of the trail may be uneven or slippery.

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With 3.3 miles and 400 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Icy conditions are common in winter — traction cleats are a smart addition.

Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket

Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.

Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag

Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.

Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)

Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.

Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof

Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.

TrailBuddy Trekking Poles

Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.

Kahtoola MICROspikes

Cult-favorite traction cleats that grip ice and wet rock — essential for winter waterfall hikes.

Where to Stay

Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby

Glamping Hipcamp

Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses

RV Rentals Outdoorsy

Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip

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Nearby Campground

BANDIDO GROUP CAMPGROUND

9.3 miles away · 5 sites

Reservable

Overview Groups of all types will enjoy staying at the Bandido Group Campground, which boasts beautiful scenery in a relaxing, rustic atmosphere. The site accommodates groups of up to 150 campers, but is designed for equestrian campers and provides several horse corrals and hitch racks. Bandido is divided into five campsites, each with varying capacities for smaller groups. Site #1 has a capacity of 12 campers. Site #2 can accommodate 60 campers. Site #3 and #5 can each hold a maximum of 30 campe

Book on Recreation.gov