Slightly Fishy

Hiking and Fishing Around Jackson Lake in the San Gabriel Mountains

Lakes are few and far between in the San Gabriel Mountains, especially natural ones like Jackson Lake, which makes this spot in the Angeles National Forest all the more special. Sitting at 6,100 feet, this mountain lake may be tiny, but it’s lovely and tranquil—a great spot for a quiet getaway and maybe a little bit of fishing.

Jackson Lake supports a bluegill population year-round and is stocked with rainbow trout during the spring and summer months. You can fish from either shore, or paddle out to the center of the lake in a kayak.

A trail runs along the south shore—it’s less than a half mile from one end to the other. The trail leads to a lakeside picnic area with tables and barbecue grills, which are shaded by the surrounding Jeffrey pines. You’ll have avian company as you picnic—look for American robins and Steller’s jays perched in the branches. From the picnic area, you have access to multiple trails through the woods that eventually link up to the Pacific Crest Trail, leading to Mount Baden-Powell and beyond. So, whether you’re looking for relaxation, casual fishing, or some improvised hiking, Jackson Lake has you covered.

From I-15 in the Cajon Pass, take the exit for CA-138 west and turn left. Make another left on CA-2 (Angeles Crest Hwy.) and pass through Wrightwood. Turn right onto Big Pines Hwy. for 3 miles, then make a left into the Jackson Lake picnic area. A USFS Adventure Pass is required for parking in the paved lot, and a California fishing license is required for fishing. Dog-friendly!

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories
  1. Gentle Giants

    Some people visit national parks to marvel at the iconic sights, while others come seeking solitude in nature. With visitation on the rise, it can be hard to find both. But in Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks, this pair of trails offers both....

    View
  2. Screaming Good Garden

    Combine a classic scary movie backdrop and life-size elephant garden sculptures in beautiful downtown Sonoma.

    View
  3. A Hike to the Past

    This 5.2-mile redwoods hike through El Corte de Madera Creek Open Space combines a relaxing stroll with unique geologic formations and historical artifacts.

    View
  4. Golden Mile

    Dubbed the Golden Mile, this car-free stretch of road in Golden Gate Park features rotating art installations of murals, sculptures, and abundant bright yellow Adirondack chairs for kicking back to relax. See Naga, the recent new addition here, an impressive sea serpent art installation at Golden Gate Park's Rainbow

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. Sponsored

    Chase Fall Colors & Family Fun in Reno Tahoe

    Ready to Reno? We’re so with you! Reno Tahoe is the ultimate urban basecamp for gathering family and friends for all kinds of fall fun and festivities.

    View
  2. Welcome to the Ice Age

    Only in LA can you stumble upon a lake of bubbling black goo right in the middle of the city—complete with a life-size family of mammoths frozen in time. Take a whiff and you’ll catch the unmistakable scent of asphalt: Yep, you’ve made it to the La Brea Tar Pits & Museum.

    View
  3. Griffith's Golden

    With over 4,200 acres and hundreds of trails, Griffith Park is the gold standard. Opt for the lesser-hiked northwestern end of the park and visit the 2.25-mile Skyline and Oak Canyon loop from Travel Town.

    View
  4. Mulholland's Most Majestic

    Take a leisurely drive along Mulholland Drive to discover beautiful urban scenery and unexpected wild beauty, right in the middle of the city. 

    View