Little Jimmy, a.k.a - old Gooseberry

## Overview Little Jimmy Spring — also known as Old Gooseberry — is a beloved natural water source tucked into the San Gabriel Mountains within the Angeles National Forest in Los Angeles County, California. Situated at approximately 34.3447° N, 117.8686° W near the historic Little Jimmy Campground, this spring has long been cherished by hikers, backpackers, and water enthusiasts as one of the finest natural water sources in Southern California. The spring sits at high elevation along the Pacific Crest Trail corridor, surrounded by towering Jeffrey pines and white firs, offering a refreshing mountain experience just a short drive from the Los Angeles basin. Little Jimmy Campground itself is named after Jimmy Swinnerton, a pioneering cartoonist and illustrator from the early 1900s who was known to camp in this area of the San Gabriels. The spring has historically served as a reliable water source for PCT thru-hikers and weekend campers alike, and visitors have long reported that the water tastes exceptionally clean and crisp — widely considered some of the best-tasting natural spring water in the region. ## Directions There are two main approaches to reach Little Jimmy Spring, both starting from the Angeles Crest Highway (Highway 2): ### Option 1: Steep Hillside Approach 1. From Los Angeles, head east and take **Highway 2 (Angeles Crest Highway)** into the Angeles National Forest. 2. Continue driving for approximately **35 miles** until you reach **mile marker 65.28**. 3. Park at the pullout near the mile marker. 4. Hike up the steep hillside approximately **200 yards** to reach the spring source. 5. Roadside GPS coordinates for this approach: **34° 20' 41" N, 117° 52' 7" W**. ### Option 2: Little Jimmy Trail (Longer but Easier Grade) 1. Continue along Highway 2 to **mile marker 65.5**, where you'll find the **Islip Saddle Trailhead** leading toward Little Jimmy Campground. 2. Follow the trail approximately **1.5 miles** to reach the spring source beyond the campground. 3. Trailhead GPS coordinates: **34° 21' 10" N, 117° 50' 7" W**. **Note:** Option 1 is shorter but steeper and makes it easier to transport water back to your vehicle. Option 2 follows a more established trail but covers a longer distance, which can make carrying water back more challenging. An **Adventure Pass or America the Beautiful Pass** is typically required for parking within the Angeles National Forest. ## What to Expect Little Jimmy Spring flows in a mountainous, forested setting at high elevation in the San Gabriel Mountains. The surrounding landscape features mature conifers and granite terrain typical of the upper Angeles National Forest. The spring has been reported to produce reliably flowing water, though flow may vary seasonally — it tends to be strongest in spring and early summer following snowmelt, and may diminish in late summer and fall during dry years. Visitors have consistently praised the water quality, describing it as some of the best-tasting natural spring water available in Southern California. The spring has historically been used as a drinking water source by campers and hikers in the area. The hike to the spring is moderate, with the shorter approach involving a steep 200-yard climb and the longer trail option covering about 1.5 miles of more gradual terrain. Either way, if you plan to collect water, bring sturdy containers and be prepared for the return trip — especially on the longer trail. The area around Little Jimmy Campground is a popular weekend destination, so you may encounter fellow hikers and campers, particularly during warmer months. Winter access along Highway 2 can be limited due to snow and road closures, so check road conditions with the Angeles National Forest before heading out.