Q: Where is the Altadena Crest Trail and how do I get there?
A: The Altadena Crest Trail runs from the Arroyo Seco to Eaton Canyon, from the very west side to the very east side of the town of Altadena, which is just north of Pasadena and Los Angeles, and up in the foothills of the San Gabriel mountains and bordering the Angeles National Forest. The A.C.T. is actually a system of trails which combine some centuries old routes, historically traveled by foot, horse and mule train, with some new sections replacing apparents gaps that arose over time. Gaps appear for many reasons ranging from a simple failure to keep up regular maintenance, severe erosion from poorly shaped paths, to flash floods, mudslides, brush fires, and in most recent decades accidental loss of access during development, on or near trail easements. The community/County cooperative Altadena Crest Trail Restoration Working Group is restoring the routes from west to east, and has been instrumental in reviving many neglected trailheads along the way. This website has many resources for helping hikers, mountain bike riders and equestrians find and enjoy the diverse options for discovering the A.C.T.

Q: How long is the A.C.T. from west to east?
A: A hike from Arroyo Seco to Eaton Canyon will be accomplished in about 12 miles, after all the gaps have been restored. For now, there are a variety of day hikes, including in and back or loops of any length you want.