Switzer Falls Trail

Hiking area · Los Angeles County

Switzer Falls Trail

Hiking area · Los Angeles County

701 Angeles Crest Hwy, Tujunga, CA 91042

Highlights

Popular waterfall hike with forest, ruins, and stream crossings

701 Angeles Crest Hwy, Tujunga, CA 91042 Get directions

fs.usda.gov

@u.s.forestservice

@cntraveler

13 Best Hikes in Los Angeles | Condé Nast Traveler

"This is definitely one of the more popular waterfall hikes in L.A., so don't expect isolation. But what it lacks in solitude it makes up for in beautiful scenery—stream crossings of the Arroyo Seco, chaparral forest, and of course the lower falls. If you can, avoid the weekends and the thick crowds. On the trail, don’t miss the ruins of Switzer Trail Camp, started in 1884 by Commodore Perry Switzer, a Pasadena carpenter. It was a camping resort that was part of a network of mountain resorts throughout Angeles National Forest, and hikers would often through-hike from one to another. Think of it as California’s Camino de Santiago ." - Maxwell Williams, Krista Simmons

https://www.cntraveler.com/gallery/best-hikes-in-los-angeles

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@cntraveler

Switzer Falls – Hike Review | Condé Nast Traveler

"Let’s start big picture. This is definitely one of the more popular waterfall hikes in L.A., so don't expect isolation. But what it lacks in solitude it makes up for in beautiful scenery—stream crossings of the Arroyo Seco, chaparral forest, and of course the lower falls. If you can, avoid weekends when crowds thicken. Any standout features or must-sees? Don’t miss the ruins of Switzer Trail Camp, started in 1884 by Commodore Perry Switzer, a Pasadena carpenter. It was a camping resort that was part of a network of mountain resorts throughout Angeles National Forest and hikers would often through-hike from one to another. Think of it as California’s Camino de Santiago . What should we know as far as navigating the trail? You'll be going along the Gabrielino Trail for the majority of the hike, which is pretty simple to follow, though there are a few switchbacks across the creek. At around 1.5 miles from the start, stay left through a junction where the Gabrielino Trail ascends to the right and go along Bear Canyon, where you'll see views of the waterfall below. Anything else to keep in mind? This 4.5 mile hike through stunning wooded areas is shaded for a good portion of the way, but if you're sensitive to heat, especially during the summer months, you'll want to make sure you come in early in the day before temps hit their peak." - Krista Simmons

https://www.cntraveler.com/activities/tujunga/switzer-falls

View Postcard for Switzer Falls Trail

Maxximo Ibarra

Google

Great trail with some awesome views! Plenty of shade in the early parts. Not wheelchair accessible. The trail is not clearly marked, but the path is well-walked and decently visible. Expect to step over rocks, take a few hops over creek beds, and keep your eyes open. We saw a bear right as we parked, so be sure to prepare accordingly and read up on the posted safety guidelines. Happy hiking!

Paul Lipson

Google

A fantastic hike, early shady sections with a sunny section toward the falls end, so plan your time of day accordingly. Moderate difficulty if over 50, relatively easy for others - take breaks as you need, bring plenty of water, and watch your footing when crossing the many creek sections and rocky areas. Buddy system helps! Perfect for a romantic walk, time with family, or just chilling - dog friendly!

Daisy Marie

Google

I absolutely love this trail and it was one of the nice quiet places before Covid during Covid it exploded with people hiking with music that's one of my pet peeves. I go to the forest to get away from the city and then the city follows you onto the trail as of right now the trail to the Falls is closed. And if a Ranger catches you in the area, you will be Subjected to fines of $5000. The trail itself is absolutely beautiful because you have canopies for a large portion of it. Once you start hiking up To reach Switzer Falls or to other trails, then that's where you have the majority of the sun hitting you.

Chaoran Lu

Google

Great experience, even saw a California black bear (looks brown color but a black bear species) near the picnic area. The trail got a lot of shade, well if you go to the upper fall, there are some tough upward walking but most part very suitable for summer hiking. Bring a large bottle of water, you will need it ^_^

Josh Ryan

Google

What a great trail that is not that far from LA. The first mile or so is shaded, then there is a short uphill in the sun, and then a hike back up to the falls. They are pretty consistently flowing year round. Great for kids!

Marysol

Google

I hiked an out-and-back trail to both Switzer Falls and the Bear Canyon picnic area which was about 7.6 miles. If you do a hike just to Switzer Falls and back to the lot, it's less than 4 miles. I went on New Years Day beginning around 8am so there were a few parking spaces available at the time, but please note, if you arrive later, the lot does fill up and you will be waiting with many many other cars to grab a spot. Otherwise, you'll have to park in the upper lot or along the Angeles Crest Bywy. You can buy a day pass at the Shell gas station in La Cañada Flintridge for $5 so you don't have to risk getting ticketed at the trail site. The trail itself is absolutely beautiful and it is mostly shaded, but there is a portion heading down to the falls that is not shaded. On a clear day, you will be able to see DTLA, and there are gorgeous views of the mountains. There is a hiker swing on the way to the falls, the trail is clearly marked so be aware of the forks which lead you to the falls and the other which leads you to the Bear Canyon picnic area. There are several river crossings, but it was mostly dry when I went so the water wasn't too deep. There are also many gorgeous, clear, natural pools both at the Falls and more on the Bear Canyon trail. Would definitely return to hike a new trail.

Shawn Sheng

Google

Very pretty hike that is chill and ends at a nice waterfall. The majority is shaded and flat, only the latter half there is more elevation gain. There are several river crossings but enough rocks to avoid getting wet. The waterfall is small but flowing nicely. Took around 2 hours round trip. Overall a nice hike that is not too crowded and offers lots of beautiful views while being surrounded by nature.

rana khalil

Google

Great hike with lots of connecting trails you can get lost in. Path can be a little rocky and narrow if you have a furry friend, but definitely dog friendly. One of my favorite hikes. There are a couple water crossings so wear a good pair of waterproof hiking shoes in case you slip on a rock and take water. There are some non shaded parts that can get pretty hot on a sunny day. I went early in the morning and it was perfect, not super packed. By the time I left around 1230p (on New Yrs day), it was getting crowded. Don’t forget a day pass which you can get at the shell station (cash only).