Trail Canyon Falls, Los Angeles CA
• 4-star hike
• 4.2 mile out-and-back
• Medium difficulty | Gain 990 feet
• Sunland, CA | Los Angeles Region
• Driving Directions: Trailhead
Rappel the ropes to reach the foot of Trail Canyon Falls.
Just five minutes off the Interstate at Sunland and you're already surrounded by nothing but peaceful green hills. Continue driving into the Angeles National Forest and ten minutes later you'll arrive at the trailhead already.
This hike promises a picturesque walk into a sun-drenched canyon with a charming waterfall splashing down 30-40 feet into a shady creek pool.
You'll negotiate several easy creek crossings on a wide trail as you gradually gain elevation, and the activity of the creek will hint at the impressiveness of the falls to come. Around half the way into the hike, the path narrows and snakes around the deepening canyon with a few fun (and safe) precipitous drop-offs until Trail Canyon Falls comes into view.
Trail Canyon Falls Trail Canyon Falls 4★4.2 mi, Out & Back, Medium, Gain 990 ft
Trailspotting Map at AllTrails
Some may want to remain by the trail to admire the waterfall views, but most should try making the descent to the foot of the falls by way of an increasingly steep path. So steep in fact that ropes are anchored into the ground to assist with the most sheer part of the trail. Don't worry though - folks with an average level of fitness will likely find the rope rappel to be pretty easy both ways.
We were lucky to have the falls to ourselves when we visited, as this trail is often very busy. I admit that I struggled to take a good photo of the falls, which was partly in shade and partly in full sun. The pink blossoming tree next to the falls did add a special touch though.
Most of this trail is in full sun throughout the day, so dress appropriately and bring sunblock. There are quite a number of trailhead and roadside parking opportunities on Big Tujunga Canyon Road. Be warned that although there were no signs present to tell you this, parking in the Angeles National Forest requires the display of an Adventure Pass that can be picked up at local stores.
Heading out into the Canyon for the falls.
The ropes are easier than they might look.
Sunny canyon at all times of day. Bring sunblock and a hat.
Blossoms by the waterfall.
Tangents:
• Trail Links: Official, Public Map at AllTrails
• Facebook Group: Comment on this article
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