FRIDAY HIKING REVIEW...Switzer Falls, Altadena

Switzer Falls, Altadena

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)

Friday Hiking Review…Malibu Creek, Malibu


Malibu Creek-Malibu, CA
3 Stars
Highlights: Volcanic Walls, (small) pretty lake,
Distance: 3.5 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy Trail
Trail Condition: Well maintained trail

This hike was very pretty and well maintained. The trails are a little confusing though, I found the lake by accident by wandering off the main trail. It is pretty small, a little disappointing, I kept hiking expecting a bigger lake to come along..The nature life was great, I saw a snake and a deer :). I didn't see the rock climbers, maybe because I went during the week? At the old M.A.S.H. filming site they have 2 old, rusted trucks you can sit in, which was fun.

How to Get There: From Highway 101/Ventura Freeway, take Las Virgines Road in Agora towards the beach. Just after crossing Mulholland Road, you will see the Malibu Creek State Park entrance on your right. Park in the second parking lot. (Park on the street to avoid paying the park fee)