Switzer Falls
Los Angeles County, California
Details
Distance
3.66 miles
Elevation Gain
728 ft
Route Type
Out-and-Back
Description
Added by The Outbound Collective
Switzer Falls is one of the most scenic waterfalls near Los Angeles. This 4-mile out-and-back hike on the Switzer Falls Trail is best done after a recent rain for more water in the falls.
Just off the Angeles Crest highway, you’ll find one of LA’s best waterfalls, Switzer Falls. There is a parking lot just next to the trailhead. If you go on the weekend and run into a crowd, there’s parking near the highway, adding a little distance to your trek.
Once you’ve walked through the Switzer picnic area, and made it to the trailhead, start heading out on the Bear Canyon Trail. The beginning of the trail is paved, making it easy to get started, but it converts to a rocky trail, where you may have to climb over a few boulders (make sure you bring a supportive pair of trail shoes or hiking boots). As you continue on Bear Canyon, you’ll come into close contact with Arroyo Seco, so be careful if there have been big flood warnings.
About a mile into the hike, the trail will fork. Stay to the right if you’re headed to the falls. On the left, you’ll see Switzer’s Resort. After about a mile and a half on the trail, you’ll see a junction, continue taking the trail toward Switzer Falls. Stick to the right and you’ll get rewarded with a view of the falls. There’s a narrow trail that will take you to the base of the falls, but you’ll also see signs to proceed at your own risk. With that said, be careful if you’re going to down. If you do make it down to the base, you may want to grab a quick swim in the pool below.
As you continue on the trail, you’ll climb out of the valley (grab the sunscreen). On the left-hand side, you’ll get views of the 50ft. falls, but the trail is pretty narrow here, so it’s hard to stop and get amazing photos. You’ll come across a new trail junction, where Bear Canyon heads downhill, stay to the left and take this trail. After about a half mile, the trail rejoins the creek. Once you hit the creek, head upstream (to the left) for about 0.2 miles until you reach a pool with a smaller, 15ft. waterfall. On a weekend, you won’t be the only one here, but enjoy a swim in the pool and hang out until you’re ready to retrace your steps back.
PARKING PASS:
Make sure you have your Adventure Pass for Parking.
AFTER YOUR HIKE:
If you didn't bring a lunch, head into La Canada, and reward yourself for the day's hard work at La Cabanita.
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Switzer Falls Reviews
The water levels have been pretty low. I usually go early in the morning, and catch the sun at noon on the way back down. The cool air feels great on hot summer days.
2.5
If you are steady on your feet and adventurous it's worth the hike up past the 15' falls to the larger 50' falls base!
4.5
Unfortunately right now there isn't nearly as much water as in this photo due to the drought, but still a great place to explore, especially after the next rain.
5.0
Leave No Trace
Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
Nearby
Bear Canyon via Switzer Falls Trailhead
Gabrieleno Trail: Switzer Falls to Hahamonga Watershed
Mt. Disappointment via Billy Riley Trail
Teepee Trail
Millard Falls
Idlehour Trail
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