San Gabriel Mountains, Mountain range in Los Angeles County, United States.
The San Gabriel Mountains are a mountain range in Los Angeles County and San Bernardino County, California, extending roughly 60 miles (96 kilometers). The range sits directly north of the greater Los Angeles area, forming a high barrier between the coast and the desert.
The range received its name from Spanish missionaries in the late 18th century, who named the area after the archangel Gabriel. In 2014, a large portion of the region became a national monument to protect the natural environment.
Local hikers often call Mount San Antonio by its simpler name, Mount Baldy, referring to the treeless upper slopes. On weekends, families from the city come to walk the lower trails or stop at small communities near the base.
The Angeles Crest Highway leads to many trailheads, though several paths close in winter due to snow. Visitors should bring water and sun protection, as the sun can be intense at higher elevations and shade is limited.
The Mount Wilson Observatory sits on one of the peaks and has conducted astronomical research for over a century. The clear nights and elevation have made it an important site for observing the sky.
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