Angeles Crest is in southwest California, northeast of Los Angeles. The byway’s western access is in La Canada off I-210. It travels east to the junction of CA 138, northeast of Wrightwood. The 70-mile route follows CA 2, a two-lane paved road suitable for all vehicles. Angeles Crest is open year-round except a small segment that is closed from late December to early April.
Angeles Crest crosses the San Gabriel Mountains within Angeles National Forest. The byway offers city dwellers an escape from the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles. Panoramic views of Los Angeles, San Fernando Valley, San Gabriel Valley, and Catalina Island, on clear days, reward the byway traveler.
Several campgrounds are along or near the byway. Chilao has over 100 campsites and is open year-round. RVs up to 40 feet can be accommodated. Buckhorn is a smaller campground and has 38 sites. It is open May to November and has an RV length limit of 20 feet. Table Mountain Campground is near the eastern end of the byway. It is operated by a concessionaire and is open May to November. There are 115 campsites; RVs up to 32 feet can be accommodated. Side roads lead to other national forest campgrounds and picnic areas.
San Gabriel and Sheep Mountain wilderness areas surround the byway, providing excellent opportunities for back country hiking. The Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail is also accessed from the byway.
A side trip on Mount Wilson Forest Road leads to the famous, 100-inch telescope at Mount Wilson Observatory. The observatory is open to the public on weekends.