Lake Elizabeth, Natural lake in Angeles National Forest, California
Lake Elizabeth is a natural lake in the Angeles National Forest situated within the Sierra Pelona Mountains. The body of water sits at an elevation of roughly 3,200 feet and is surrounded by extensive hiking trails and parking facilities.
Spanish explorer Junípero Serra named the lake La Laguna de Diablo in 1780, reflecting local stories about mysterious creatures in the waters. This early European designation shows how the place was initially understood by newcomers.
The lake served as a meeting point between different Native American groups who inhabited the surrounding mountains. Today, visitors can explore the natural landscape that shaped these early communities.
The area is best explored on foot with marked trails and parking available for visitors. The best time to visit is during wetter months when the lake reliably holds water.
The lake can dry up completely during severe drought periods when rainfall is scarce. Yet winter rains in 2022 and 2023 demonstrated that the lake can refill entirely with adequate moisture.
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