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 Reporter |
Summary: This is a relatively easy hike into one of the loveliest sections of the San Gabriel mountains. The hike meanders back and across the stream running down the spectacular Arroyo Seco Canyon. The stream is lined with oaks and alder, with the water cascading over granite into mirror-like pools. The hike travels high above the 50 foot high Switzer falls, then drops back to the stream, where hikers can double back to stand at the base of the falls. After seeing the falls, travel down stream to the intersection with Bear Canyon, and travel up this spectacularly wild, steep walled canyon for another half mile or so to enjoy its wonders. More adventuresome hikes can continue up Bear Canyon for 2 miles to Bear Camp (not shown on my topo). Trailhead: From Interstate 210 in La Canada, take Highway 2 north and drive 10 miles to Switzer picnic area on the right. Descend to the parking area outside the campground. You will see a footbridge over the stream leading to the trail head. (Lat:34.2663 Lon:-118.1436) Trail Guides for Switzer Falls - Bear Canyon: Trails of the Angles - 100 Hikes in the San Gabriels by John W. Robinson (Wilderness Press) Day Hikers Guide to Southern California by John McKinney (Olympus Press) California Hiking by Tom Stienstra & Ann Marie Brown (Foghorn Press) Best Seasons: Year-Round User Groups: Hikers, Dogs, Bikes, Horses Ranger Contact: Angeles National Forest - (818) 790-1151 Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Jim Zuber, who has posted 104 other hikes on this site Trail Reviews Page 1 of 20 Submit your own review 
Reviewed by mlh on 10/1/2009 Called the Angeles National forest ranger today and was told this trail will not be accessible until at leat Mid November 
Reviewed by Ernie on 9/6/2009 from the first time i set foot on this small slice heaven 30 years ago, i was hooked. Just 30 minutes from East L.A. Pack your sandwiches, water and lace up your hiking boots spend the day. Majestic scenery.
Reviewed by jemil on 9/2/2009 Does anyone have any info on the trail after the fire? Im really sure it is gone from the looks of the fire maps...:( That really SAD! 
Reviewed by DPB on 8/24/2009 Hiked on 8/21/09. Left relatively early in the AM, and saw very few people initially. Tons of bugs at that time of day (noticed a lot fewer on my way back up), so be sure and have bug spray. Unfortunately, there wasn't a whole lot of water this time of year, so it was a little disappointing, although the scenery as a whole was beautiful. Saw a pretty mangy racoon at the trailhead upon my return. Also unfortunate, someone had given him a bag of Ruffles Potato Chips.
Reviewed by Josh on 8/15/2009 We tried this today. Weather was nice and the trail was fantastic. But there was too much traffic on the trail - may be because today is a saturday??
Reviewed by Daria on 8/11/2009 I went today with my kids and it was beautiful as always. I love the shade and cool stream. It was not crowded at all and we barely saw anyone else. LOTS of poison oak everywhere and a blackberry bush full of berries.
Reviewed by Tosh on 7/31/2009 One of the best hikes we've taken all season, lot's of shade in the canyons w/ cool breezes and cascading pools, beautiful views from upper trails. However, no one has noted that you should have a "National Forest Adventure Pass" to park in the lot (signs posted). I tried to get one at the kiosk about 1/4 mile west of entrance at intersection of Angeles Crest Hwy & Angeles Forest Hwy, but it was closed. You can get them online: http://www.fs.fed.us/r5/sanbernardino/ap/pass-options.shtml
Reviewed by C.K. on 7/19/2009 Great hike... one of the better ones in LA. However, we made one wrong turn (to the trail on the right side instead of the left), missed the pools and waterfall. I am definitely coming back to finish it up. This hike is perfect in summer with all the trees along the trail. Only ten miles away from the 210 HWY is another plus. Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site. Keys: California Hiking, California Trails, California Hikes, Los Angeles County Hiking, Los Angeles County Trails, Los Angeles County Hikes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||