The best waterfall hikes and walks in San Gabriel Mountains National Monument

Embark on a diverse journey along the Gabrielino Trail from Switzer Falls to Hahamongna Watershed, a moderate 10.2-mile (16.5 km) hike that offers a mix of wooded canyons, riverside paths, and historical remnants. You'll begin with the impressive 15-meter Switzer Falls, then follow the Arroyo Seco, navigating multiple river crossings and enjoying views of the San Gabriel Mountains. The trail transitions from rugged sections to a paved road near Hahamongna, making for a varied experience that typically takes around 4 hours and 38 minutes to complete.

For a smoother experience, plan to hike this route predominantly downhill by starting at Switzer Falls. Parking at the Switzer Falls trailhead can get busy, so an early start is highly recommended, especially on weekends. Spring and fall are the best seasons to visit, offering milder temperatures and the chance to see wildflowers. This trail is also dog-friendly, provided your canine companion remains on a leash.

This section of the Gabrielino Trail is rich in both natural beauty and history, passing by the ruins of Switzer's Trail Camp, a popular resort that burned down in 1959. The trail closely follows the Arroyo Seco, a vital water source, and offers glimpses of high biodiversity with various plants and potential wildlife sightings like coyotes and bobcats. It's a great way to experience a significant part of the Gabrielino National Trail, established in 1970 as the nation's first National Recreation Trail.

The Cooper Canyon Falls trail, accessed via the Pacific Crest Trail, offers a journey into a shaded canyon known for its unique scenery. You'll find yourself among old-growth pines, alders, and oaks, with the surprising presence of redwood trees, creating a Sierra-like atmosphere in the San Gabriel Mountains. The path is a narrow dirt track, leading to the picturesque Cooper Canyon Falls, a 25 to 50-foot cascade that flows into a cool pool, providing a refreshing reward at the end of your descent.

This 3.1-mile (5.0 km) hiking route is rated difficult, despite a minimal 23 feet (7 metres) of elevation gain, and typically takes about 1 hour and 28 minutes. The challenge comes from the terrain, which can include burn scars, loose rocks, and stream crossings. The final approach to the falls involves a steep, slippery scramble, often with ropes to assist, making it suitable for hikers ready for a bit of adventure. Plan your visit for spring, especially April and May, when snowmelt makes the falls particularly impressive.

What makes this trail truly stand out is its blend of accessibility and wildness; it's a segment of the iconic Pacific Crest Trail that feels far removed from urban sprawl. The presence of redwood trees in Southern California is a notable natural feature, and the year-round flow of Cooper Canyon Falls makes it a reliable destination for waterfall enthusiasts. It's a great option for those seeking a relatively short but technically engaging hike with a significant natural landmark.

The Cooper Canyon Falls via Burkhart Trail offers a refreshing escape into the Angeles National Forest, leading to a beautiful 25-foot waterfall that flows consistently throughout the year. This difficult 2.7-mile (4.4 km) hike, despite its minimal 2 feet (1 metres) of elevation gain, presents varied terrain including shaded forest paths, creek-side sections, and a steep scramble to the falls, which often requires ropes. You'll traverse through towering Douglas fir and Jeffrey pines, with the constant sound of the creek accompanying you, making it a truly immersive experience.

Planning your visit to this trail is straightforward, though its location deeper within the Angeles National Forest means it's often less crowded than other popular spots. While the waterfall is a year-round attraction, the best time to hike for the most impressive flow is during April and May, when snowmelt feeds the falls. The shaded environment provides a cooler hiking experience, making it enjoyable even on warmer days. There's no specific mention of permits or complex access, but always check local conditions before heading out.

What makes this route particularly notable is its status as one of Southern California's few year-round waterfalls, offering a consistent reward regardless of the season. The trail also provides a distinct

The Pallett via Burkhart Trail and Pleasant View Ridge offers a rugged and scenic hiking experience, transitioning from the shaded canyon of Little Rock Creek to the exposed, panoramic vistas of the ridge. You'll navigate well-trodden paths to Cooper Canyon Falls before tackling steeper, less maintained sections towards Burkhart Saddle and the challenging use-trails of Pleasant View Ridge. The reward for this difficult 7.6-mile (12.3 km) route, which involves 2729 feet (832 metres) of elevation gain and takes about 4 hours and 17 minutes, is sweeping views of the Antelope Valley and distant San Gabriel peaks.

Planning your visit requires careful consideration due to the trail's strenuous nature and potential for snow in certain seasons. The trailhead is generally accessible, but always check for current conditions and potential warnings like the presence of "Poodle Dog Bush." This is a demanding route, so come prepared with plenty of water and appropriate gear, especially if you plan to explore the unmaintained sections of Pleasant View Ridge.

This trail is a prime example of the challenging beauty found within the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument, offering access to significant summits like Pallett Mountain and Will Thrall Peak for peak baggers. The Burkhart Trail also intersects with the Pacific Crest Trail, providing opportunities for extended adventures. Keep an eye out for burn scars from past fires, which add to the dramatic landscape, and remember that Cooper Canyon Falls is a notable year-round waterfall for Southern California.

PCT: California Section D offers a truly demanding hiking experience, traversing the varied terrain of the San Gabriel Mountains. You'll journey from desert-like conditions with long waterless stretches to high mountain environments, encountering unique geological features and expansive views. This difficult route, covering 136.1 miles (219.1 km) with 21866 feet (6665 metres) of elevation gain, is a significant undertaking that typically requires around 66 hours and 20 minutes.

Planning your visit requires careful attention to water, as some sections can be up to 30 miles without reliable sources. The best time to hike this section is during the shoulder seasons, like late fall and spring, to avoid extreme heat and before heavy snow. Be prepared for exposed terrain and potential snowfields at higher altitudes, even outside of winter.

This section of the PCT is considered one of its most challenging, with its proximity to the San Andreas Fault offering interesting geological insights. You'll pass through or near small towns like Agua Dulce and Wrightwood, providing opportunities for resupply and amenities, which are crucial given the trail's remote nature.