Arroyos & Foothills Conservancy

Altadena Crest Trail

Thirteen miles in all, the Altadena Crest Trail (ACT) runs along the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains, curling from western Pasadena across Altadena and finally back into eastern Pasadena, where it ends at Eaton Canyon. It would comprise the second of three sections in the envisioned Emerald Horseshoe trail system, connecting trails along the Arroyo Seco to those along the Eaton Wash.

[+] A bridge envisioned at Skylane Gap, one of four breaks along the Altadena Crest Trail. Illustration by Mark.Thompson.Thomsen Planning Group.

The ACT passes almost entirely through wilderness areas. At times the trail ducks into forested areas, while at other times it provides its users with views of the city below. Several branch trails provide access to the Angeles National Forest, just north of the Altadena Crest Trail.

While portions of the ACT are currently in use, it has four gaps: at Millard Canyon, the La Vina development, Skylane, and Rubio Canyon (see map below). The Arroyos & Foothills Conservancy is currently working to close the gap across Rubio Canyon.

[+] The Altadena Crest Trail, with gaps in the trail noted. Courtesy, Los Angeles County.