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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 19 Submit your own review 
Reviewed by RLB on 6/17/2009 Beautiful hike. Took 3 boys (ages 10-12-14) all the way to Bear Canyon Trail Camp and beyond for an overnight on 6/15, they loved it. Just enough exposed trail to enjoy a spectacular mountain view, otherwise well shaded. Trail is much less traveled beyond the camp but still very passable. Didn't make it to the base of the falls because we spent so much time in the gorgeous swimming holes downstream. There are 5 or 6, including one 15-20 feet deep with a 10 foot tall flume slide and 15 foot jumping rock. Swimming holes don't get any better than this.
Reviewed by tom w on 6/4/2009 Error: Reserved Word Found: ; 
Reviewed by K.Family on 5/31/2009 Was a great hike for the family. Actually saw a 4 ft. rattlesnake cross the trail right in front of us. It climb up the hill as we watched along with several other hikers. The trail is rocky much of the way. but very managable.We look forward to returning and tring a different fork in the road(trail).
Reviewed by Viewer on 5/14/2009 third time hiking switzer falls. it's not easy, but it's a nice hike. the bottom falls are not as impressive as ive seen on some high rain fall years, but its still a good family hike. when coming to the fork pointing to the falls, stay low to get to the top of the falls. continue up and it will seem like you are too high and over-shooting, but in the end it drops you back down into the valley to the bottom of the falls.
Reviewed by ASO on 5/11/2009 This is my favorite hike, to bear canyon. Hiked about 2 weeks ago. Lots of water, pools and strong flow. Hands down the best scenery i've seen in the san gabriel mtns. One part goes above the stream for a bit, this is the hottest and hardest prt, but it only takes about 30 min and your back next to the stream under shade. Lots of stream crossings, bring good shoes. Best part for me were the size of the fresh water pools after the hard part. i jumped in one that was at least 15 ft deep. Good for hot days since there is SO much shade. Obviously a good hike for winter, fall, and spring seasons too. Saw fish too but you must look.
Reviewed by Cora on 3/19/2009 Super fun. Headed out from downtown LA today. Took me about 30-40 min to get there. Great hike for dogs. My dog loved running through the water...saw some cute old men fishing...although I didn't see any fish. Ha ha...Super fun. Next time I want to spend the night out at one of the campgrounds. Super Awesome!
Reviewed by Gallo on 3/9/2009 If you love photographing nature this place is awesome! http://www.christophermgallo.com/Hiking.htm
Reviewed by Tim on 3/8/2009 Beautiful!!! A nice shaded hike with some elevation changes. If you head toward the campgrounds about 3 miles in there are gorgeous hidden pools and waterfalls. One of the nicest hikes I've seen so far. Wear good shoes you'll be going back and forth over the stream many times. 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 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||