5 Stars
Highlights: small waterfalls/stream along whole hike, gorgeous views
Distance: 4.5 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate, narrow/steep trail at some points
Trail Condition: Well maintained trail/jumping across streams on rocks at some points
I loved this hike, def. one of my top 3 in LA. Before going, make sure you purchase a hiking pass for this park. The drive into the park has beautiful sweeping views over the mountains. The temperature does drop quite a bit so you may want to bring a long-sleeved shirt. The hike consists of mostly walking through the forest along a stream with miniature waterfalls. It reminded me of a fairy tale and the air is very crisp and fresh like a fall day on the East Coast. Some parts of the trail do get a bit rocky and steep and you do find yourself hopping rock to rock to cross streams as well. However, it is a pretty well maintained trail. The waterfall consists of one waterfall cascading into a pool into another which is very pretty. Supposedly, if you climb along a very narrow/steep path next to the waterfall there is a larger waterfall but I got nervous and didn't attempt that..
How to Get There: From Interstate 210 in La Canada, take Highway 2 north and drive 10 miles to Switzer picnic area on the right. Descend to the parking area outside the campground. You will see a footbridge over the stream leading to the trail head. (Remember to buy a park pass beforehand otherwise you will have to drive approx. 10 miles out of the park again to buy one)
is the pass the "adventure pass ?" or is it a specific pass for this park/hike ?
ReplyDeletedavidbeach@sprynet.com
Hi! I'm not sure exactly what it is called, I was bad and didn't buy one. I wasn't aware you needed one until I got all the way to the top and the Rangers Station was closed..But I know you can buy the pass at all the sporting stores in La Canada. I know another hike I was going to go on in the area had one req. too (I'm pretty sure if you buy one they're good for all the parks up there).
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