01
Best close-to-home hike
Monrovia Canyon Falls Trail
Monrovia Canyon Park, Just East Of Bradbury • Shaded Canyon Waterfall Trail With Maintained Paths • Best For Families And Casual Walkers
Gentle grades, lots of trees, and a year‑round creek make Monrovia Canyon Falls the easiest quick escape from Bradbury.
Start from the Monrovia Canyon Park nature center and follow the well‑signed trail along the creek to a picturesque 30‑foot waterfall. The route is short but feels surprisingly wild thanks to the dense oaks, sycamores, and cool canyon air. Go early on weekends for easier parking and a quieter walk.
02
Classic canyon favorite
Sturtevant Falls via Chantry Flat
Chantry Flat Above Arcadia • Historic Forest Trail Through Cabins And Creek Crossings • Local Favorite For Weekend Waterfall Hikes
A shaded drop into Big Santa Anita Canyon leads to one of the most photogenic waterfalls in the front range.
From the Chantry Flat parking area, the trail descends into the canyon past old cabins and a lively creek, giving the hike a storybook feel. The final approach to Sturtevant Falls opens onto a tall curtain of water pouring into a rocky pool. Expect crowds on fair‑weather weekends and pack a little patience for the drive up the winding access road.
03
Best first-timer pick
Eaton Canyon Falls Trail
Pasadena – Eaton Canyon Natural Area • Busy Urban-Edge Canyon With A Rocky Creek Bed • Best For First‑Time San Gabriel Hikers
Easy access, clear signage, and a rewarding waterfall finish make Eaton Canyon a go‑to introduction to local hiking.
The trail begins at a large nature center parking lot and heads up a broad wash before tightening into a rockier canyon. You will hop across the creek several times on the way to a compact but dramatic waterfall amphitheater. Go on weekday mornings if you prefer a quieter experience and cooler temperatures on the exposed lower section.
04
Most adventurous outing
Bridge to Nowhere (East Fork Trail)
Angeles National Forest Above Azusa • Rugged River Hike With Multiple Crossings And Boulder Sections • Best For Adventurous Full‑Day Explorers
A long, rough river canyon hike ends at an isolated concrete arch bridge stranded high above the East Fork of the San Gabriel River.
Starting from the East Fork trailhead, this route follows the river upstream, weaving between use paths, sandy banks, and frequent water crossings. The payoff is the surreal sight of a full‑size highway bridge with no road attached, surrounded by steep canyon walls. Plan for wet shoes, changing conditions, and a full day on the trail, and skip this one after heavy storms.
05
Big-view summit climb
Mount Wilson Trail from Sierra Madre
Sierra Madre Foothills • Steep Historic Mountain Trail To A High Summit • Challenging All‑Day Climb With Big Views
This relentless climb from neighborhood streets to a 5,700‑foot summit rewards strong hikers with sweeping basin views and observatory grounds at the top.
Pick up the Mount Wilson Trail from the edge of Sierra Madre and prepare for a steady grind through chaparral, oak pockets, and pine forest as you gain serious elevation. Along the way you’ll pass old camp sites and classic viewpoints into steep side canyons. It’s a committing outing, so bring plenty of water, sun protection, and layers for the cooler air near the summit.