01
Classic waterfall outing
Cooper Canyon Falls via Burkhart Trail
Buckhorn Campground Trailhead • Waterfall And Creek Canyon Hike • Most Popular Pick
A shaded descent from Buckhorn into a rocky creek gorge capped by one of the prettiest small waterfalls in the San Gabriels.
Leaving from the Buckhorn Campground area, the Burkhart Trail drops steadily into Cooper Canyon, trading highway noise for the sound of running water. The final stretch follows the creek to a tucked-away falls and inviting pools that feel surprisingly remote for being so close to camp. Expect a stout climb back to the trailhead, especially at midday, but the cool canyon air makes it manageable for most active hikers.
02
Shady summit loop
Mount Waterman Loop
Along Angeles Crest Highway East Of Buckhorn • Forest Summit Loop • Best Half-Day Outing
A relaxed, woodsy climb through old-growth pines to broad granite slabs and views from the top of Mount Waterman.
The Mount Waterman loop trades switchback punishment for a gentler, wandering grade that suits hikers who like to take their time. Once you reach the open summit area, scattered boulders and weathered pines frame big views toward the high desert and deeper into the San Gabriels. It is an ideal choice when you want real elevation and scenery without a brutal pace or tricky route-finding.
03
Big-view ridge hike
Pleasant View Ridge and Will Thrall Peak
Burkhart Trail North Of Buckhorn • High Alpine Ridge And Peak Hike • Best Big-View Challenge
A long, committing climb from Buckhorn up to a wind-swept ridge with far-reaching views and classic San Gabriel peak-bagging feel.
Stronger hikers use the Burkhart Trail not just for the falls, but as a gateway to Pleasant View Ridge and Will Thrall Peak. The route gains serious elevation and feels progressively wilder as pine forest gives way to open slopes and a narrow ridge with panoramic views over the desert and back toward the Los Angeles Basin. It is a rewarding objective for experienced hikers looking for a full-day outing straight from the Buckhorn area.
04
Short but rugged exploration
Buckhorn Falls and Buckhorn Peak
Above Buckhorn Campground • Short, Steep Scramble • Quick Adventure From Camp
A compact route that mixes faint paths, use-trails, and light scrambling to a hidden falls and rocky summit above Buckhorn.
For hikers comfortable with reading terrain and following cairns, the Buckhorn Falls and Buckhorn Peak area offers a lot of payoff in a small package. The route leaves the more obvious paths and works up through steep, brushy slopes to a small cascade and a rocky high point with satisfying views back over the campground and canyon. It feels more like a local secret than a formal trail, so it suits confident navigators rather than first-time visitors.
05
Easygoing ridge stroll
Pacific Crest Trail: Buckhorn to Cloudburst Summit
Cloudburst Summit West Of Buckhorn • Rolling Ridge Walk On The Pct • Best Mellow Mileage
A forgiving stretch of the Pacific Crest Trail that traces the forested ridge between Buckhorn and Cloudburst with steady views and soft tread.
This section of the PCT lets you sample thru-hiker territory without committing to anything extreme. The grade is mostly gentle as it contours along the ridge, with occasional openings that frame views down into deep canyons and out toward the desert. It is a great choice for newer hikers, families with patient kids, or anyone looking to stretch their legs at altitude without a big climb.