Eaton Falls

Dogs Leashed

Features River/Creek · Swimming · Waterfall

This out-and-back run starts from the lovely Eaton Canyon Nature Center, which is a great place to get outside in and of itself. Heading north, the trail is wide and gradual until the final section that leaves the Nature Center and heads onto Angeles National Forest. This stretch is comparatively much more wild as the trail narrows into singletrack and heads up through a tight ravine to the falls.

Area above falls is closed to public use. There have been several deaths and many rescues from people attempting to climb above the falls. Expect large crowds on weekends.

The majority of this run is on a wide, dirt path with a final, singletrack section to the falls. A beautiful area to explore.

To access this featured run, head to the Eaton Canyon Nature Center off Altadena Dr on Veranda Ave. Park anywhere within the Nature Center parking area and head north to the end of the lot.

Here, you'll start onto the Eaton Canyon Trail, which is a wide, dirt path that gradually heads upwards through the park. Continue bearing north/northwest using the Trail Run Project mobile app when necessary, but the trail should be easy to follow.

After ~1.2 miles, you'll approach a white concrete bridge where the Mt. Wilson Toll Road #2N45 crosses Eaton Creek. Head under the bridge and onto the narrower section of trail that follows the creek up the ravine for a little over a half mile until it reaches the falls. This section is exciting to explore and makes for a great reward for younger travelers. That said, the terrain is a little more rugged and should be taken slowly.

After one tight left-hand hairpin turn, the trail comes out to the falls with the pool below. In the warmer months, many visitors can be seen enjoying the cool waters before their return trip. After enjoying this hidden oasis, turn back and return the way you came.

Spring months can be a great time to see blooming wildflowers along this route.