Nearly 175 years old, Angeles National Forest was the first national forest in California and the second in the nation. About 13 miles (21 km) northeast of downtown Los Angeles, the forest and the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument mostly within its boundaries make up 70 per cent of the open space in Los Angeles County. Almost all of it is steep and rugged, but it is rich with camping sites, wild life, archeological sites and recreational opportunities like fishing, hiking, biking, horseback riding, hunting, skiing and or a Sunday afternoon drive. It is also home to the historic Mt. Wilson Observatory. TV series like "Bonanza" and movies like "Star Trek: First Contact" have used it as a location.

fs.usda.gov