01
Best overall pick
Eaton Canyon Falls Trail
Eaton Canyon Natural Area, North Pasadena • Popular Waterfall Canyon Hike • Classic First Stop Near San Marino
A short but rewarding canyon hike to one of the area's most beloved waterfalls, just a quick drive from San Marino.
The trail starts at the Eaton Canyon Nature Center off Altadena Drive and follows a broad wash into a narrowing, rocky canyon. The final stretch involves some rock-hopping in the streambed before you reach the falls, so expect wet shoes if the water is running. Go early or on a weekday if you want to avoid the heaviest crowds and midday heat.
02
Best for big views
Echo Mountain via Sam Merrill Trail
Cobb Estate Trailhead In Altadena • Steady Climb On A Historic Railway Route • Top Choice For Sunrise Or Sunset
A tougher climb into the front range with classic San Gabriel views and atmospheric ruins at the top.
From the Cobb Estate gate, the Sam Merrill Trail climbs in long, view-filled switchbacks toward the ruins of Echo Mountain's old resort. You gain elevation quickly, trading lower-elevation shade for sweeping views over Pasadena, downtown Los Angeles, and, on clear days, the ocean. Pack extra water and sun protection; there is little cover once you leave the lower trees.
03
Lush canyon escape
Sturtevant Falls via Chantry Flat
Chantry Flat, Above Arcadia • Shaded Forest And Creek-Side Trail • Best For Cool, Green Weekends
A shaded forest walk to a dramatic waterfall, ideal when you want a mountain feel without a long drive.
Chantry Flat drops you straight into a storybook canyon, with rustic cabins, bridges, and the sound of water almost the entire way. The path rolls gently along the creek before a short climb to the base of Sturtevant Falls, where mist and shade make even summer days feel cooler. Parking fills early on weekends and a forest pass is often required, so plan your timing and permits ahead.
04
Short-and-sweet adventure
Millard Canyon Falls
Millard Campground, Altadena • Quiet Creek Canyon With A Petite Falls • Great Quick Outing With Friends
An easygoing creek-side walk ending at a photogenic little falls in a quiet side canyon.
Millard is a small, intimate canyon where you can feel tucked away from the city within minutes of leaving the car. The trail follows the creek on mostly flat, sometimes rocky ground to a tucked-away waterfall and pool. It is a great option when you want a shorter outing or to introduce less experienced hikers to the San Gabriels.
05
Best conditioning climb
Henninger Flats via Eaton Canyon
Above Eaton Canyon, North Of Pasadena • Fire Road Climb With Wide City Vistas • Go-To Local Training Hike
A no-frills uphill workout that trades shade for ever-wider views over the entire San Gabriel Valley.
Starting from Eaton Canyon, a wide fire road climbs steadily to the Henninger Flats campground and tree nursery, gaining views with every turn. The route is straightforward but relentless, making it popular with locals training for bigger peaks. On clear days, the lookout area offers a panoramic sweep from the San Gabriel Valley to downtown and beyond.