Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I am interested in hiking in the San Gabriel River District of the Angeles NF this September. Maybe do a little fishing and see what herps are about. I would love to photograph a Two-Stripped Garter. I would like to hike Cattle Canyon or perhaps the North or East Forks. Can anyone fill me in on what conditions are like along these steams since the fires a few years back? Is the trout fishery recovering in any of the San Gabriel River waters? Any closures besides Crystal Lake? Any suggestions/ recommendations for hiking the area? I am in Las Vegas but I grew up in Covina and spent many years in the San Gabriels. I would like to revisit.

Thanks
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Randy Hallman
Firehouse Herps

Randy Hallman:

Cattle Canyon and the East Fork San Gabriel River are awesome places to hike. I haven’t been up there in a year or so, but I do recall the devastating fire you mentioned. Yes, the North Fork is still closes. But as for the East fork it is open and to my knowledge not effected by the fire. Two-striped Garters are not as common as they once were, simply because their frog prey is vanishing. When searching for that snake find a healthy population or pool with CA tadpoles and you will find the Garter. Also, keep your eyes open for a Mtn. King, I’ve seen them there creepng about the trail.

Thank you for the reply. Nostalgia has a lot to do with my desire to visit the Angeles. I am hoping to make multiple annual trips to the Angeles, San Bernardino, and San Jacinto Mountains. The San Gabriel River District and San Antonio Canyon/Mt Baldy areas are of prime interest however.
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Randy Hallman
Firehouse Herps

What is Nostalgia?

It refers to a longing for the past. My interest in the Angeles relates to my many memories of hiking, fishing, camping, herping, and working there. It is where I grew up. I really loved the place.
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Randy Hallman
Firehouse Herps