The best waterfall hikes and walks in San Gabriel Wilderness

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.

The Burkhart Trail is a fantastic option for a relatively short and rewarding hike, offering a journey through diverse Southern California landscapes. You'll find yourself traversing areas that hint at both desert and higher-elevation pine forests, often accompanied by the soothing sounds of flowing water in Cooper Canyon. The trail's main draw is Cooper Canyon Falls, a beautiful year-round waterfall that provides a refreshing destination for your efforts.

This easy 3.0-mile (4.8 km) hiking route involves a manageable 645 feet (197 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 1 hour and 31 minutes to complete. While this specific segment is accessible, be aware that other parts of the larger Burkhart Trail can be significantly more challenging, so always stick to the planned route. Spring is an ideal time to visit, as snowmelt makes the waterfall particularly impressive, but always check for current trail conditions before you go.

The Burkhart Trail is notable for its ability to showcase multiple Southern California climates within a single journey, transitioning from high desert characteristics to more alpine environments. It also briefly merges with the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), offering a small taste of this iconic long-distance path. Beyond the falls, the trail provides opportunities for solitude and wildlife spotting, making it a great escape within the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument.