The San Gabriel mountain range that hems in the northern edge of Pasadena, and all of urban LA, is part of the Angeles Crest. Its creeks, canyons and campgrounds provide quick city getaways year-round. It’s particularly pretty during the spring wildflower season and gets lovely fall color.
Note that visiting the Angeles National Forest requires a National Forest Adventure Pass which you can buy online. Visit the USFS website for more details.