Switzer Falls Trail

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).

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.

This was a very scenic and beautiful trail. It really showed California’s fall in the mountains. It was cold at certain parts of the trail than others so if you plan to go during this time of year definitely layer clothes to easily remove them or wear more. There are a lot of water crossings that can be difficult to cross. Very small rocks at some of the water crossings to avoid getting wet for foot holds. If you have water proof hiking boots you could probably walk right through the little stream crossings. I took my 6 year old and he did very well most of the way. The trail is very narrow and increases elevation rapidly. There are pretty dangerous parts of the trail for small children that are not fenced off. This is definitely better for kids 6 and up. The waterfall water was very clear and peaceful. It was a very small one but still beautiful. The hardest part is going back up the steepness of the trail. My son had a hard time on the way back because of this. But overall we had a great experience. There are only bathrooms at the beginning of the trail.

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.

It's a busy trail. I went in a Sunday around 1pm. Plenty of parking. There are vault restrooms at the picnic area. Beautiful trail, lots of rocks to jump, stream crossings then hike up the mountain is moderate, you up then down. Trail gets narrow. Great views from the mountain... I didn't make to the waterfall maybe next time. This was my first time here. I will be back!