San Gabriel Mountains National Monument

San Gabriel Mountains National Monument is a nature reserve spanning over 346,000 acres in Southern California, featuring mountain peaks, deep canyons, and Mediterranean-type ecosystems. The landscape varies from dense vegetation in lower elevations to exposed rock formations at higher elevations, with streams and waterfalls carving through the terrain.

The area received national monument status in 2014 when President Barack Obama signed the designation, marking the culmination of protection efforts that began in 1891 with the San Gabriel Timberland Reserve. This long journey of conservation reflects how the region's importance became increasingly recognized over time.

The mountains hold deep meaning for local Native American tribes who have inhabited this region for thousands of years, with their heritage visible through numerous archaeological sites scattered throughout. Walking through the area, visitors encounter places that reflect this long-standing connection to the land.

The reserve has numerous trails suitable for hiking and mountain biking at various difficulty levels, with well-known peaks like Mount San Antonio and Mount Baden-Powell accessible to visitors. Come prepared with plenty of water and wear layers, as weather can change quickly at higher elevations.

The reserve supplies a significant portion of water to the greater Los Angeles area and shelters hundreds of plant species found nowhere else on Earth. Most visitors overlook this hidden role as a vital water source that sustains the sprawling region below.

Location: San Bernardino County

Operator: United States Forest Service

GPS coordinates: 34.32124,-117.87363

Latest update: December 7, 2025 20:50