Azusa is another city within the Los Angeles region boasting a population of over 40,000 people. Though it's not an overly affluent city, it is frequented by almost all residents because of its wealth in recreational facilities.

The most famous recreation site is Crystal Lake. It's actually located in the Los Angeles Forest 25 miles north of the city. The lake is some 4000 feet up the San Gabriel foothills.

Highway 39, the route that leads to Crystal Lake, is also a famous bike route that follows the San Gabriel River and passes many dams and locks. Bike enthusiasts should note that the drivers along this route are hazardous to your health!

26 miles up the highway is a great off-road vehicle area that is closed on Sundays. Further up the road is the first "California Adventure Pass Required" parking area. Not many people actually purchase the pass. Visitors are forewarned that the first few parking areas are often crowded and polluted with illegal aliens who use a lot of drugs and carry guns.

As you delve deeper up the route, you'll find less humans and less litter, along with the first stretch of drinkable river water. It's truly a natural paradise that's only a short drive from one of California's great hidden gems, Azusa.