Switzer Falls encompasses three sections. Upper Arroyo Seco: Switzer Falls in the Angeles National Forest. There are parts of the trail where is gets rocky and narrow. The trail eventually descends back down to the lower Switzer Falls (or, known as just Switzer Falls), which are, I suppose, the main attraction here. The hike itself is a moderate route, with only a few technical sections, that leads hikers into the wonderful Arroyo Seco Canyon, with all its inviting cascades, streams, and punchbowl pools. Switzer Falls at Angeles National Forest . It was a really pretty trail. UPDATE: Nov. 17, 2010 ROAD IS STILL CLOSED. River crossing but there big enough rocks to make it through just fine! Users have reported that when the trailhead parking is closed, there is an additional 1 mile and 300 feet in elevation added to the hike. However, as I was leaving around noon, all the parking spots were filled and people were circle around to find a parking spot. Fairly easy on the way in, then about halfway through it really ramps up. A majority of the trail is along a creek and even some areas where you have to cross it but there are plenty of rocks / tree limbs / etc to cross. The fall was nice and it’s wasn’t very crowded. The waterfall at switzer falls is a tad underwhelming because in CA we are always dry. Also, you do cross through creeks, so water resistant hiking shoes are recommended. This is one of the most popular hikes in front range of the San Gabriel Mountains, with a picnic area at the trailhead that gets crowded too. You'll spend about 70% of your time next to the beautiful Arroyo Seco in a riparian canyon, which will at several points force you to cross it. The hike travels high above the 50 foot high Switzer falls, then drops back to the stream, where hikers can double back to stand at the base of the falls. A disappointing amount of trash and beer bottles on the trail however, I packed out what I could. The waterfall was beautiful and the trail was mostly shady and cool breeze made our hike more enjoyable. Take Beverly Blvd. Overview A 10.2-mile round-trip hike from Switzer Picnic Area to Oakwilde Trail Camp. The falls themselves were running a little low - par for the course in a drought year, and because February is a little soon to see the lower falls in full flux. Also, I do have to add that about 25% of the people I saw did not wear a mask even when they were at crowded areas or narrow parts of the hike. The trail was interesting and easy to moderate level. Best Time to Visit. - See 60 traveler reviews, 123 candid photos, and great deals for Arcadia, CA, at Tripadvisor. Overview A 10.2-mile round-trip hike from Switzer Picnic Area to Oakwilde Trail Camp. Coolest most beautiful hike ever! It was a beautiful trail. Nestled into the Angeles National Forest and among the rugged San Gabriel Mountains, this easily accessible trail wanders from the trailhead down into a wooded canyon. Bring water and snacks. The stream is lined with oaks and alder, with the water cascading over granite into mirror-like pools. We might have been the 7th or 8th car there, or so. Sturtevant Falls. The Angeles National Forest currently has Oakwilde Campground status listed as CLOSED. Red Tape. When I went, it was a bit gusty. Coolest most beautiful hike ever! Lloyd B. Austin, Switzer-land owner and former educational director of the Los Angeles Y.M.C.A., spearheaded the bold development of this house of worship in the Arroyo Seco Canyon. It is heavily trafficked trail. Switzer Falls via Gabrielino Trail is a 5.8 kilometer heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Pasadena, California that features a waterfall and is rated as moderate. The author does not take any responsibility for injuries sustained during hikes or walks on the routes described here. https://rootsrated.com/los-angeles-ca/hiking/switzer-falls-hiking2 And not everyone wears masks - there are several parts of the trail where it’s also impossible to social distance. Switzer Falls at Angeles National Forest in La Canada Flintridge.. 35 minutes from Hancock Park. I got there around 7am on a Saturday I was able to park on their parking lots, when I left lots of people had parked on the side of the road tho :) smooth walk it’s only the way back that there’s inclination. After seeing the falls, travel downstream to the intersection with Bear Canyon, and travel up this spectacularly wild, steep-walled canyon for another half mile or so to enjoy its wonders. This is a dog friendly trail in the Angeles National Forest. UPDATE: March 2011, still closed :( Expected to re-open in the Summer of 2011. This 50-foot waterfall is reached via a 4.5 mile out-and-back trek on Gabrielino Trail that follows a shaded babbling creek down into a wooded canyon. Added hikes #1 through #11 on my 52 Hike Challenge 2018 page. :) Yea! Got to the closest lot to the trailhead at around 7AM and easily found parking. This is NOT a beginner hike, as it involves stream crossings, rock hopping and steep, narrow single track trails. Angeles Forest 12 Peak Challenge. Great hike. The parking lot closest to the trailhead can fit about 40 cars, the one closer to the 2 can fit another 10, and then the one literally just off the 2 can fit yet another 10 There's also some off-pavement parking along the 2 nearby the trail. Just hiked the Switzer Falls trail yesterday. Angeles National Forest: Switzer Falls - See 60 traveler reviews, 123 candid photos, and great deals for Arcadia, CA, at Tripadvisor. If you see the sign “Switzer Picnic Area”, there is a pathway that takes you down to the trail entrance. You will need an Adventure Pass to park your vehicle anywhere within the Angeles National Forest, including this trailhead. Beautiful scenery, especially if you’re up for scrambling up above the lower falls. Two major sections of the Gabrielino Trail begin at either side of the grounds, one taking visitors to Switzer Falls and down into the lower Arroyo Seco, and the other to Red Box, a major trailhead in its own right. It’s totally worth keep going after the first waterfall segment! The lower falls are nothing to write home about, and this would be true even in a wet year. The biggest downside was how many people there were. Your email address will not be published. Even if you’re not big hikers, Will Rogers State Park with its big, grassy fields, … For more information, please visit https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/angeles/alerts-notices. Amazing trail! Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. Box 1499 , Sacramento, CA, 95812-1499, Phone: 800-862-2543. From this historical site, hikes ranging from casual day hikes of a few miles to overnight wilderness excursions have their trailhead. I did go earlier and there were less people at 7:30/ 8 am. We really liked the trail but it was not 3.6 miles hike. For the best results of thick snow in The Angeles National Forest … Great trail. Lots of fun stops! The Switzer Falls hike starts at the Switzer Picnic area, which can be a little tricky. Worth noting that this is also prime time for rattlesnakes, and this trail is primo rattlesnake real estate. Switzer Picnic Area to Switzer Falls and the mouth of Bear Canyon, 5.0 miles, 1100' of gain and loss. Widely recognized as the most well-known waterfall hike in the greater Los Angeles area, this 14-foot cascade is accessed from the Switzer Falls Picnic and Day Use Area just off of the Angeles Crest Highway. Lots of creek crossing so be prepared that your feet might get a little wet. We went on 2/11/21 and it was beautiful. Parking is $5 per day or get an adventure pass at the local sporting goods store for $35/year. With over 200 trails, there are Angeles National Forest hikes for everyone. It’s a pretty trail, flowing falls or not. The trail itself was surprisingly pleasant. I hope to add more information for this trip report soon. The author does not take any responsibility for injuries sustained during hikes or walks on the routes described here. Angeles National Forest: Switzer Falls - See 60 traveler reviews, 123 candid photos, and great deals for Arcadia, CA, at Tripadvisor. Switzer Falls. (Be advised that we will not be hiking to the upper Switzer Falls.) When we got done with our hike at 10AM, all lots were full and there were AT LEAST 30 cars parked along the 2. 220 reviews of Switzer Falls - USDA Forest Service "UPDATE: May 16, 2011 -- OPEN! Trail is 5 miles long. Dedicated in June 1924, the resort chapel was erected on a cliff 200-feet above Switzer Falls. These passes are currently sold at the Clear Creek Information Station, which you passed on … We did not get any Parking nearby, so we ended up with almost 5 miles hiking. Switzer Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in San Gabriel Mountains near Los Angeles. Widely recognized as the most well-known waterfall hike in the greater Los Angeles area, this 14-foot cascade is accessed from the Switzer Falls Picnic and Day Use Area just off of the Angeles Crest Highway. Angeles National Forest: Switzer Falls: Cool, cool water! There are two parts to the waterfall! Like other reviews, some families avoided wearing masks and did not social distance or know proper trail etiquette. http://www.fs.usda.gov/detailfull/r5/passes-permits/recreation/, The Spirit of Adventure: Angeles National Forest | The Cult Collective, Hiking Jurassic World LA (Switzer Falls) - Lost Angeles Underground. For information or inquiries about the area as well as current conditions, visit their website or Facebook page. all … Switzer Falls - USDA Forest Service ... [4500 - 4506] Angeles Crest Hwy La Canada Flintridge CA 91011. Parking is $5 per day or get an adventure pass at the local sporting goods store for $35/year. https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/switzer-falls-via-gabrielino-trail Switzer Falls at Angeles National Forest in La Canada Flintridge.. 35 minutes from Hancock Park. Angeles National Forest: Switzer Falls: Cool, cool water! This is a 6.8 mile out-and-back hike with 700 cumulative feet of elevation gain that takes about 4-6 hours to complete. Lowe Truck Trail (2N50.1) at the water tank and ends at Gabrielino NRT below Switzer Falls. The hike travels high above the 50 foot high Switzer falls, then drops back to the stream, where hikers can double back to stand at the base of the falls. This is among the most popular hikes in the San Gabriel Mountains, and with good reason. Chantry Flat Rd, Arcadia, CA 91006. One of the busiest trails I’ve done near LA yet. The hike to 50-foot Switzer Falls is a roughly 4.5-mile out and back route located in the beautiful San Gabriel Mountains of the Angeles National Forest. Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information. Added 6 hikes to My 12-Peak Challenge 2018 Page. It was a camping resort that was part of a network of mountain resorts all through Angeles National Forest and hikers would often through-hike from one to another. Sturtevant Falls is one of the Los Angeles waterfall hikes. Otherwise, the hike to the falls is easy, moderate likely due to the length of travel and cobbled paths. Lots of people, many didn’t bother to mask up when approaching other hikers. Fun trail! The trail is open for the following uses: Hiking. Though it was a moderate level hike but with kids it was quite difficult for us. It made me a little dizzy just thinking about how one trip could make me a mere splatter on the canyon floor. On Sunday the 14th, the all parking lots were open. Location: Angeles National Forest near Mt. A quick drive the Angeles Crest Highway will find lots of snow, even at the lower elevations! You will need an Adventure Pass to park your vehicle anywhere within the Angeles National Forest, including this trailhead. The hike uphill to the parking lot was much harder than the trail itself. This hike takes you through the San Gabriel Mountains in the Angeles National Forest. Switzer Falls is a great hike in the San Gabriels Mountain Range that is around 4.5 miles and goes to two different waterfalls. [21] Enjoy! However, if you plan to come later, the gates will open later and you can drive down and park closer to the trail entrance.The facilities and picnic area are well kept. Elevation change: 650 feet. Recommend driving downhill for parking, they also have tables and benches available, and I saw families bbq-ing. We did this trail as a group of three! Never did it seem treacherous. After seeing the falls, travel downstream to the intersection with Bear Canyon, and travel up this spectacularly wild, steep-walled canyon for another half mile or so to enjoy its wonders. This upside down hike descends 650 feet from Switzer Picnic Area to the … The middle section is the most … You can get to the top of the waterfalll but requires some scrambling, https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/angeles/alerts-notices. Switzer Falls trail is a beautiful fun moderate hike with waterfalls, stream hopping, and a nice mixture of shade and sun. :) Yea! to Silverlake toTemple to Alvarado to 2E to 210S to Angeles Crest Highway. Take Beverly Blvd. Then simply hike down the paved road to the main trailhead area. 3.2 miles. Note: I only included different hikes in Angeles National Forest that go to one of the 12 peaks in my 12-Peak Challenge, so I didn’t do what I set out to do. Switzer Falls resides in the Angeles National Forest near Pasadena in Los Angeles County, California. Trail type: Well-traveled, well-maintained trail with multiple stream crossings and some boulder-hopping. It is administered by the USDA Forest Service. It’s unfortunate because parts of the trail is a narrow ledge by the mountain which leaves you no choice but to be less than a feet away from these people. The trail is great, you have to park off of Angeles highway so the only part that’s a little challenging is down and up to the trailhead. Switzer Falls might be the best know waterfall hike in Los Angeles County. Then simply hike down the paved road to the main trailhead area. California Travel and Tourism Commision, P.O. QUICK FACTS. However, the views and hike itself is worth the work. More adventuresome hikers can continue up Bear Canyon for 2 miles to Bear Camp. Descend to the parking area outside the campground. Hikes: Switzer Picnic Area to Switzer Falls: 3.8 miles, 990' of gain and loss. The Switzer Falls hike is 4 miles round trip. Parking can be a challenge but worth it. In a drought year, this is easily doable but I can foresee you needing to get your feet wet if you went in a wet year or at peak snowmelt runoff time (typically April). That is to say, this trail is very busy. Hiking: Access to the Gabrielino National Recreation Trail, View of Switzer's Falls. The hike meanders back and across the stream running down the spectacular Arroyo Seco Canyon. I believe prime time for this trail would be in the early spring when the snowmelt is feeding the waterfalls at peak. Roy Viloria/All Trails The Angeles National Forest currently has Oakwilde Campground status listed as CLOSED. There's some precarious points of this trail where you'll look over the side (with no guard rails or natural barriers) and see a drop with a near vertical grade to the canyon bottom. If you all wanted a bit more challenge, there is another trail to bear canyon right by the falls. Location: Switzer Picnic Area Google Map Parking: Parking may require a National Forest Adventure Pass. We hiked all the way to the falls and back in about two hours. My conclusion is that the trail is more a "journey is the destination" hike more than anything, as there are definitely more impressive waterfalls in the Angeles NF, including Sturtevant Falls, Trail Canyon Falls and San Antonio Falls. This trail really does have all the beautiful aspects of hiking in Angeles National Forest… desert-like rocky areas, lush green ravines where water flows, shade and tall trees, sunny open mountains, panoramic 360 views, blooming flowers (seemingly year round). Switzer Falls. Switzer Falls can be accessed via the Gabrielino Trail, which is a 3.6-mile easy hike, out and back. UPDATE: Nov. 17, 2010 ROAD IS STILL CLOSED. Many creek crossings so keep an eye out for harmful algae and wipe your pups down before getting em back in the car! 2020 Update: There’s a rain forecasted for Monday 12/28/2020 that should bring snow to the mountains. Website. Not too many people on the trail. The mountainous part of the Arroyo Seco is located within the Angeles National Forest . It is administered by the USDA Forest Service. good hike moderately strenuous but definitely doable for different age groups and skill levels, try and go during the week you won't come across as many people. Best to stick to less accessible trails if covid safety and trail etiquette are important to you. FIRE CLOSURE: As of February 2021 there are closures in this park or area due to wildfire. UPDATE: March 2011, still closed :( Expected to re-open in the Summer of 2011. - See 60 traveler reviews, 123 candid photos, and great deals for Arcadia, CA, at Tripadvisor. Wilson. Location: Angeles National Forest near Mt. The journey begins at the Switzer Picnic Area just off the Angeles Crest Highway, 10 miles northeast of La Cañada Flintridge. We parked at the top if the entrance and regretted it afterward. Hiking info for Switzer Falls to Bear Canyon Campground, located in Angeles National Forest, California. Sturtevant Falls is one of the finest waterfalls in Angeles National Forest. Will Rogers State Park. The trail is primarily used for hiking and is accessible year-round. Red Tape. Gorgeous trail poor signage, so i went way past the falls but that was where i was truly blown away with views of the forest. https://www.alltrails.com/parks/us/california/angeles-national-forest/waterfall You can take a dangerous, unsanctioned/unofficial cutoff trail to the upper falls, which are supposedly more attractive, but my guess is that the work and danger involved is not worth the payoff. We went on a Sunday. Switzer Falls can be accessed via the Gabrielino Trail, which is a 3.6-mile easy hike, out and back. The many great places to visit in or near the Arroyo Seco have made it one of the most popular hiking spots in Southern California. Fees: Day use - Adventure Pass/America the Beautiful Pass Required. It begins at Mt. The Switzer Falls hike is 4 miles round trip. This is a relatively easy hike into one of the loveliest sections of the San Gabriel mountains. The trail is beautiful. Menu & Reservations ... Jenny N. COVID REVIEW! Switzer Falls at Angeles National Forest . The upper part is mostly hidden and quite small with a drop of about 10 ft (3 m). Returning was more strenuous than going to the falls.. Nestled into the Angeles National Forest and among the rugged San Gabriel Mountains, this easily accessible trail wanders from the trailhead down into a wooded canyon. Overall, it was a beautiful hike with some great views and there was a lot of water. The other 30% is spent in the dusty chaparral zone, where you'll climb a good 200 feet above the canyon bottom. 52 Hike Challenge 2018 Page. to Silverlake toTemple to Alvarado to 2E to 210S to Angeles Crest Highway. These passes are currently sold at the Clear Creek Information Station, which you passed on … Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information. This intermediate hike is 4.5 miles round trip with 650 feet of elevation gain/loss. At a Glance. This hike takes you through the San Gabriel Mountains in the Angeles National Forest. I arrived around 7:30 am and the gates were closed to the trail entrance parking area, and I had to park at the parking spots by the road and walked down to the tail entrance. Wilson. 219 Reviews. You will see a footbridge over the stream leading to the trail head. Switzer Picnic Area to Bear Canyon Campground and Switzer… 215 reviews of Switzer Falls - USDA Forest Service "UPDATE: May 16, 2011 -- OPEN! The gates were closed for closer parking though, so we did have to walk an extra 0.5 mile there and back which was fine on the way down, but difficult on the way back up. The way down isn’t too bad. From Interstate 210 in La Canada, take Highway 2 north and drive 10 miles to Switzer picnic area on the right. The 3.3-mile hike from Chantry Flats to Sturtevant Falls follows a pristine creek past resort era cabins.