Scroll through our photos for the easiest way to hike to the waterfall.
Los Angeles is a beautiful place, and it's not afraid to flaunt it. Case in point: Eaton Canyon. The Pasadena area park is one of the most accessible and easygoing trails where you'll truly feel like you've slipped into the wilderness. This waterfall hike isn't without its faults: crushing weekend crowds, defaced rocks, occasional litter. That said, it's one of the few spots in LA where you can follow the sound of running water through a forest. Plus, on weekdays only, you can cut out the most boring part of the hike and park just barely over a mile from the waterfall. Avoid the crowds and set out on this weekday version of a serene hike to a waterfall and back—all within an hour.
Good for: A barely-break-a-sweat hike, frolicking under a waterfall
If you're going to: Dim sum in the SGV, spending the afternoon in Pasadena
For that moment when: You want to escape the city without straying too far from the 210.
In case you're hungry: Lavender & Honey Espresso Bar, a bagged lunch
Getting there: Driving's your best bet; the entrance gate is closest to 2273 Pinecrest Dr. Parking is only available on weekdays, and make sure to look out for the red curbs. Alternatively, you can take the 264 bus to Altadena and Allen any day and take a half-mile, slightly hilly walk east on Pinecrest—though you might be better off just taking the longer hike from the nature center (1750 N Altadena Dr) at that point.
