Switzer Falls

Cappie’s Scoop: The early bird gets to swim in the falls with very few people there! Mom made me wake up very early so we could start hiking to the waterfall. I’m glad she drove so I could sleep in the car. But she was right, it was a lot of fun to hike through all the water crossings and then swim in the falls! I can’t wait to go back and do this hike again. It was so much fun! Don’t hesitate to add YOUR scoop in the comments below!

Tips: There were 13 water crossings at the time of writing this post. So much fun! The falls are great for swimming too. Go early because this place gets crowded so we started our hike at 7am and only saw a few people at the falls. There is a lot of poison oak on this trail so hike in the middle when possible. You may also want to bring some bug repellent depending on the time of the year you do this hike. There are two trails that take you to the falls, Gabrielino and Bear Canyon. Both trails continue away from the falls so have a map handy so you make the correct turns at the junctions.

Directions: From 5 north, drive through LA and take exit 139A to merge onto CA-2 N/Glendale Fwy toward Glendale. Continue on CA-2 N and follow signs to merge onto CA-2 E/I-210 E. Then take exit 20 for CA-2/Angeles Crest Hwy toward La Cañada Flintridge. It’s a windy road into the mountains so take your time while driving the 9.8 miles. Then turn right onto Switzer Truck Trail. You will also see a sign for Switzer Picnic area. You can park in the lower or upper parking lots but you will need an adventure pass. If no spots are available, you can park along CA-2 in the dirt turnouts.