Charlton Flat

Charlton Flat is an open area near Vetter Mountain, Angeles NF, part of the Los Angeles River Basin at an elevation of ~5,300'. Charlton Flat is 13.8 miles east of the junction of the Angeles Crest and Forest Highways, or 32.4 miles west of the Big Pines Highway at mile marker 47.5. Driving time is approximately 36 minutes from the 210 Freeway.

Charlton Flat is named for R.H. Charlton, who was supervisor of the Angeles NF for more than 20 years, 1905-1925. The alternate (or earlier) name was Pine Flats.

Charlton Flats Picnic Area is a day use picnic area with 185 tables and stoves and piped water. The name of the picnic area always seems to be plural, Flats, while all other usage is singular.

The Forest Service closes varying portions of Charlton Flat for ten years "to improve erosion", according to Angeles National Forest biologist Patti Krueger (PSN 11/29/00).

Access

Map: Charlton Flat Trail Map
See also: USGS 7.5' x 7.5' Map: Chilao Flat (34° 17' 40" N, 118° 00' 45" W)

By Car: From Interstate 210, go northeast on Angeles Crest Highway, State Route 2, 23.4 miles. Turn left at Mile Marker 47.5. Forest Adventure Pass needed.

By Trail: The Silver Moccasin Trail comes in from the south from Shortcut Saddle and goes north toward Chilao; the Wolf Creek Nature Trail; the Vetter Mountain Trail; the access road to Mt. Mooney, Stony Ridge Observatory and Devil Peak.

Season: All year.

Hikes

No. RT miles Elev. gain Season Name
54.2 2 400 all Charlton Flat to Vetter Mountain Lookout via Fire Road
54.3 3.3 700 all Charlton Flat to Vetter Mountain Lookout Loop Hike
54.4 1 250 all Charlton Flat to Mt. Mooney
54.5 1.5 300 all Charlton Flat to Devil Peak

Source: T. Chester & J. Strong

Hiking Trails

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