The 2,624-foot summit of Cerro Alto is one of the highest points in San Luis Obispo County and delivers a panoramic view. It seems like you can see the entire county from the top of the commanding peak, including each of the volcanic peaks stretching between Morro Bay and Edna Valley, the Nine Sisters. There are a couple ways to the summit, each tackling 1,600 feet of elevation between the trailhead at Cerro Alto Campground and the cerro’s summit. The shortest route is a steep 1.95-mile ascent. A more gradual trail can be taken to a junction part way up the mountain for a 2.75-mile route that is recommended for the hike up. Additionally, there is a spur trail out to a ridge south of the summit that adds 0.65 scenic miles to the hike. These trails can all be combined for a 5.35-mile trek with high views over Los Padres National Forest, and the route following is not as complicated as it might sound.

Cerro Alto Campground is tucked away in an oak forest off Route 41 between Morro Bay and Atascadero. There are two trails to the summit of Cerro Alto starting from a parking area at the end of the mile-long road through the campground. The gradual route begins near campsite 18 next to a large sign that reads, “Cerro Alto Trail 12E01.” The steeper route can be found a hundred yards back down the road on the left. Simply labeled “trail,” the single track drops across the East Fork of Morro Creek and begins a strenuous climb up the mountain. Unless you want to punish yourself, save this trail for the way down. For the hike up, pick the gradual trail starting next to that big national forest sign. The first half mile is surprisingly level, heading east alongside the creek. Ferns line the early part of this trail, shaded by a canopy of oaks. Eventually, the trail leaves the canyon and angles south up the mountain.

At a junction, 0.95 miles from the start, turn right following a wooden sign for the summit. Above the junction, you will quickly pass two paths breaking off to the left that form a brief detour that avoids a short steep section of the trail. Just over half a mile from the junction, the trail wraps around the north side of the mountain for a fine perspective over the canyon containing Cerro Alto Campground. Frog Pond Peak rises to the northeast, flanked by green ridges and canyon. There is a bench here to assist in admiring the view.

Looking northeast from the trail

The trail turns west leveling out just long enough for you to catch your breath before the real ascent. At a four-way junction, 1.7 miles and 650 vertical feet from the start, turn left following the wooden sign for the summit. The more direct route up from the campground is to the right, directly across from the summit trail. Straight ahead, an AT&T Cable Road continues over the range toward West Cuesta Ridge Road.

The Summit Trail can no longer afford to be gradual. Climb straight up the chaparral-covered mountainside, picking up 400 feet in the next half mile up to an unmarked junction. The split comes shortly after the trail presents its first western view over Morro Bay. Both trails leaving the junction reunite at a saddle beneath the summit, but it is advisable to take the shorter route to the left. The alternative route, which continues straight ahead is 0.2 miles longer, but no less steep, adding a few extra views over Morro Bay. To hike this way, go straight past a bench and turn left up Lookout Trail, which switchbacks around the southwest side of a rise west the summit to reach the saddle. The trail departing to the left from the junction, is the shorter route, heading up a draw between Cerro Alto and the rise to the west. You get a good view of the summit heading this way, as well as a view north over the range toward Rusty Peak. This is the steepest stretch of the hike, gaining about 375 feet in a third of a mile.

When you reach the saddle, turn left and follow the trail around the north face of Cerro Alto, curling all the way to the east side before reaching the rocky summit. With the exception of the radio-towered summit of Tassajara Peak to the southeast, there is nothing as tall as Cerro Alto in sight, making the views immensely panoramic. The entire string of Morros running across San Luis Obispo County is visible to the south, starting with Morro Rock in Morro Bay and ending with Islay Hill in Edna Valley. If you have hiked Cerro Cabrillo, Bishop Peak, or Cerro San Luis, you should have no trouble recognizing these volcanic peaks. From the ocean in the west to the Santa Lucia Mountains in the east, the view is as expansive as you could imagine. Turn around and look in the other direction to see even more – verdant mountains and valley rolling out to the north, bordered by a rugged coastline extending through Cambria and San Simeon. This is a lofty reward earned by a strenuous effort.

Hiking around the summit of Cerro Alto

Before you hike all the way back down, there is another view to enjoy. Return to the T-junction at the saddle and walk straight a few steps to a path breaking off to the left (this makes the T-junction more like a t-junction). Follow this rugged Ridge Trail, which quickly mounts the rocky ridge south of Cerro Alto. Why bother hiking out on this ridge, which is less than 100 feet shorter than Cerro Alto? Because the ridge is out of the view. Unlike on the summit, there is no prominent formation to the south to shrink the view. The south face of the ridge drops straight down to Chorro Valley to provide a grander perspective of the Nine Sisters, Irish Hills, Morro Bay, and other icons of San Luis Obispo County.

Looking south from the ridge trail

Follow the path southeast across the spine of the ridge covered in jagged boulders. The terrain is so different from the surrounding tamer mountains that you might think you were transplanted to Pinnacles National Monument. After a third of a mile, you will reach the high point of the ridge, which is a great spot to turn around after taking in the unimpeded view. The ridge presents a different experience from the rest of the hike and is a worthwhile addition.

Hiking the rocky ridge south of Cerro Alto

Back at the saddle, return down the mountain to the four-way junction. Cross the AT&T Cable Road and follow the sign for the short trail to the campground. Dropping 650 feet in less than a mile, the trail quickly descends the mountainside of chaparral to enter an oak woodland. Cross a wooden bridge over Morro Creek to reach the paved road a hundred yards from the original trailhead.

Hiking down the trail to the campground

A national forest adventure pass is required to park at the trailhead. You may self-register for a day use pass at the trailhead for a cost of $8. One of the fine sites at Cerro Alto Campground may be reserved for $18 per night. Dogs are permitted on leash. Mountain bikes are also allowed. No permit is required for the rewarding hike to Cerro Alto, so get out and enjoy!

To get to the trailhead: From Morro Bay, 13 miles northwest of San Luis Obispo on Highway One, take Route 41 northeast for 7.2 miles to the turnoff for Cerro Alto Campground on the right. From Atascadero, 16 miles north of San Luis Obispo on the 101 Freeway, take Route 41 southwest for 9 miles to the turnoff for the campground on the left. Proceed one mile through the elongated campground to the trailhead parking area at the end of the road.

Use the map below to create your own directions:

Photos

 

                                                           

These photos were taken in December of 2011. Click to enlarge.

 

Elevation Profile

 

 

Nearby Trails

 

	Cerro Cabrillo This 2.5-mile out and back hike summits the highest mountain in Morro Bay State Park, a 911-foot member of the Nine Sisters.
	Portola Point This 2-mile loop explores a short hill just east of Morro Estuary in Morro Bay State Park.
	Eagle Rock Nature Trail This 2.4-mile hike in El Chorro Regional Park climbs 450 feet to Eagle Rock Viewpoint for an overview of the valley between San Luis Obispo and Morro Bay.
	Reservoir Canyon This 5.35-mile hike ascends 1,350 feet past a waterfall and a collection of junk sculptures to a treeless summit overlooking San Luis Obispo.
	More hikes in San Luis Obispo Explore other trails around San Luis Obispo including Morro Bay State Park and Montana de Oro State Park.

 

Nearby Camping

 

Cerro Alto Campground This cozy 22-site campground is the starting point for hikes to Cerro Alto and a perfect place to tent camp in the Los Padres National Forest between Morro Bay and Atascadero.

 

More Info

 

A handout for Cerro Alto Trail on slolifemagazine.com

Cerro Alto Trail on Bob Burd’s Trip Reports

Cerro Alto on localhikes.com

Cerro Alto on everytrail.com

Cerro Alto on sierraclub.org

Cerro Alto Campground on reserveamerica.com

 

Diminished by drought and tarnished by wildfire, Crystal Lake is not the glistening destination it once was. Crystal Lake is the only naturally occurring lake in the San Gabriel Mountains, cradled by granite summits north of the San Gabriel River Valley above the city of Azusa at 5,500 feet. It is a 1 1/3-mile round trip paved hike to Crystal Lake with 150 feet of elevation gain. The 2002 Curve Fire filled the lake with ash and debris, closing the area to visitors for several years. The long-closed road to Crystal Lake Recreation Area is open, but until the small mountain lake regains clarity, it will be more of a draw to fisherman than hikers.

You may be able to drive up to within a tenth of a mile of Crystal Lake, but the paved one-way road that circles past Crystal Lake and Crystal Lake Campground is often gated closed, requiring hikers to trek up the road to the lake.

Crystal Lake

March up the pavement through a pine forest heading northwest toward the lake. After 0.45 miles, when you see a sign for the lake, turn left and walk down toward a parking area with bathrooms. Take the dirt path to the left of the lot which becomes a stone staircase that drops 50 feet to the lake.

The finely constructed stairway leads to an algae-covered pool that no longer lives up to its name. The approximately 3-acre lake is nestled in a pine forest with rocky summits above. It is easy to image Crystal Lake’s past and future glory. Unfortunately, the lake is in a lackluster state, thanks mostly to the long-burning wildfire that scorched 20,000 acres around the lake. After the 2002 fire and subsequent road damage, Highway 39 reopened to Crystal Lake in the Spring of 2011. While the forest in this area has made a healthy comeback, the lake will still benefit from a few more years of recovery.

A sign posted at Crystal Lake

Fisherman flock to Crystal Lake to catch rainbow trout. There is no swimming allowed. Crystal Lake will look it’s clearest after the spring runoff (and a few more years of recovery). An adventure pass is required to park at the trailhead but no permit is required to visit Crystal Lake in the Angeles National Forest.

To camp or snack after your visit to Crystal Lake, drive a third of a mile up the road past the trailhead to the Crystal Lake Campground and Cafe. The sprawling 257-site campground is on the left, while the Crystal Lake Cafe and cabins are on the right. The “cafe” is set in a rustic log cabin. Inside, you can order burgers and hot dogs at the counter, or sip on a delicious hot chocolate (perfect for cold days at this high elevation retreat).

Crystal Lake Cafe

Sites at Crystal Lake Campground are $12 per night from May to October. The campground is open to day-use only during the winter (Coldbrook Campground is seven miles away and open year-round). Picnic tables, fire rings, and flush toilets are provided, along with a great city escape in a rustic pine forest. Sites can be reserved by calling 877-444-6777 or by visiting recreation.gov (for group sites only).

To get to the trailhead: From the 210 freeway in Azusa, take exit 40 and drive 24 miles north on Route 39. When the road splits, turn right on Crystal Lake Road and drive 1.2 miles to the trailhead/turn for Crystal Lake. Park on the right across from the paved road up to Crystal Lake.

Use the map below to create your own directions:

Photos

 

                   

These photos were taken in December of 2011. Click to enlarge.

 

Nearby Trails

 

	Smith Mountain This 7-mile hike ascends 1,800 feet to a 5,111 foot summit with panoramic views over the San Gabriel Mountains.
	Bridge to Nowhere This adventurous 10-mile round trip hike reaches an abandoned and out-of-place bridge with a unique history.
	Fish Canyon Falls This 4-mile hike starts at a rock quarry with restricted access and ends up at a multi-tiered 80-foot waterfall.
	More trails in the Los Angeles Explore other destinations in the Santa Monica Mountains, San Gabriel Mountains, and elsewhere.

 

More Info

 

Crystal Lake on wikipedia.org

Crystal Lake on gofishn.com

The official webpage for Crystal Lake Campground

Reservations for group sites at Crystal Lake Campground on recreation.gov

The official website of the Angeles National Forest

 

If someone wrote a book about hiking Smith Mountain, it would be called A Tale of Two Trails. “It was the gradualist of times, it was the steepest of climbs…” This classic hike in the San Gabriel Mountains begins with three miles of single track that easily gain a thousand feet to Smith Saddle. What follows is an 800-foot scramble to the summit in less than half a mile. The two segments of the hike could not be more different, but they do have one thing in common, extraordinary views. The sweeping 360 degree panorama from the 5,111-foot summit of Smith Mountain definitely justifies the effort.

The start of Upper Bear Creek Trail to Smith Mountain

Upper Bear Creek Trail begins from a turnout on Route 39 north of Azusa near Coldbrook Campground. The trail angles south from the trailhead, climbing into a draw in the gaping canyon above the North Fork of the San Gabriel River. The trail gains a couple hundred feet in its early goings, climbing a few switches around a saddle overlooking Lost Canyon. The great views continue throughout the hike. Smith Mountain towers to the west and would be about a mile away if not for the grand bowl-shaped canyon in between.

Lost Canyon

Follow the trail around the edge of Lost Canyon past several creases where seasonal creeks spawn riparian vegetation. Outside of these oasis, the slopes of the canyon are covered in sage, yucca, and brush like young manzanitas. Scared trunks and branches linger along the trail, evidence of oak forests that preceded the 2002 Curve Fire. The fire blazed through the canyon, removing forests and closing the trail for several years. New vegetation is returning with vigor, while providing open views at almost every step of the trail.

Smith Mountain above Upper Bear Creek Trail

The last two miles of Upper Bear Creek Trail make a grand curve around the fingers of Lost Canyon. The trail becomes incredibly gradual, almost level at times, luring you into a false comfort zone as you approach Smith Saddle. Do not be fooled – a climb is coming!

When you reach Smith Saddle at 4,290 feet, stop to admire the new view to the east. The trail actually continues down the east side of the saddle into Bear Creek Canyon in the San Gabriel Wilderness. To reach the top of Smith Mountain, you will leave the trail and turn left up a fire break toward the summit.

A dirt track zigzags up the line of burnt branches, coming to the top of the fire break after 0.15 miles. Here things become quite steep as you tackle 325 feet over the next 0.15 miles up a rocky slope spotted with oaks and pines. Climb a worn path over and around granite boulders leading up to a false summit. Things taper out as you turn east and ascend the final 150 feet over 0.15 miles. Follow cairns stacked on boulders to reach the small round summit. It is a rapid climb from the saddle, but if you take a couple breaks along the way, you can reach the top without your heart pounding out of your chest.

Looking northeast down the path to the summit of Smith Mountain

The views from Smith Mountain are breathtaking. To the south, the San Gabriel Mountains taper off toward the San Gabriel Valley. To the west Bear Creek Canyon is cradled by Twin Peaks and Mount Waterman. Mount Islip rises to the north beyond a neighboring summit on the ridge north of Smith Saddle. Mount Hawkins looms to the northeast, and to the east is the most recognizable high peak, Mount Baldy.

Looking east toward Mount Baldy

There is a small clearing at the summit, circling a summit marker and register. The USGS summit marker reads Headlee, the name the peak went by in the 1930s.

Do take in the entire view before returning the way you came. It is downhill all the way! Be sure to watch your step descending to the saddle. The steep slope of dirt and rocks is trickier going down than it is coming up. From the saddle, it is a relatively quick three miles back to the trailhead, completing a 7-mile roundtrip hike with 1,800 feet of elevation gain. No permit is required to hike Upper Bear Creek Trail to Smith Mountain, but an adventure pass is required to park at the trailhead. This day-use pass may be purchased from the East Fork Ranger Station located on Route 39 at the base of the San Gabriels (and at several other distributors).

To get to the trailhead: From the 210 freeway in Azusa, take exit 40 and drive 18 miles north Route 39 to the trailhead. You will pass the East Fork Ranger Station at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains. Continue past San Gabriel Reservoir and go straight through an intersection with East Fork Road (the turnoff you would take to reach the Bridge to Nowhere hike). From the intersection, it is another 6.3 miles to the paved turnout on the left for the trailhead. (If you reach Coldbrook Campground, you drove 1/3 of a mile too far.) Upper Bear Creek Trail begins next to the bathroom at the north end of the lot.

Use the map below to create your own directions:

Photos

 

                                                 

These photos were taken in November of 2011. Click to enlarge.

 

Video

 

Smith Mountain and Smith Saddle filmed on the GoPro Helmet Hero by Seth Smigelski.

 

Nearby Trails

 

	Bridge to Nowhere This adventurous 10-mile round trip hike reaches an abandoned and out-of-place bridge with a unique history.
	Crystal Lake This 1 1/3-mile round trip hike visits the only naturally occurring lake in the San Gabriel Mountains.
	Fish Canyon Falls This 4-mile hike starts at a rock quarry with restricted access and ends up at a multi-tiered 80-foot waterfall.
	Mount Waterman This 5.5-mile hike gradually ascends 1300 feet, passing through a pine forest to reach the round summit of Mt. Waterman.
	More trails in the Los Angeles Explore other destinations in the Santa Monica Mountains, San Gabriel Mountains, and elsewhere.

 

Camping

 

Coldbrook Campground This 20-site campground in the Angeles National Forest in the San Gabriel Mountains offers first-come first-serve camping year-round.

 

More Info

 

Smith Mountain on Dan’s hiking pages

Smith Mountain on nobodyhikesinla.com

An adventurous route up Smith Mountain on Bub Burd’s trip reports

The official website of the Angeles National Forest

 

If you’ve hiked Santa Anita Canyon Loop, you probably wondered, “were can I find more great trails like this?” The answer is Upper Winter Creek Trail, a 2.75-mile track on the east wall of Santa Anita Canyon with 600 feet of elevation gain. This trail can be used to replace Lower Winter Creek Trail on Santa Anita Canyon Loop to create a slightly larger ten-mile loop that trades in creek crossings for canyon views. You can also combine Upper and Lower Winter Creek Trails for a shorter hike from Chantry Flats, a 4.85-mile loop with 1,000 feet of elevation change. Both loops are excellent ways to employ Upper Winter Creek Trail.

To hike the Winter Creek Trails loop, first make your way down the paved road from Chantry Flats to Roberts Camp, dropping 350 feet over 0.6 miles. Cross over the bridge at the low-point of the hike at approximately 1,800 feet, and turn left up Lower Winter Creek Trail. The creek-side track weaves up a sylvan canyon that receives less foot traffic than Gabrielino Trail to Sturtevant Falls on the other side of Santa Anita Canyon. Above Hoegees Trail Camp and the junction with Lower Zion Trail (2.1 miles from the start), Upper Winter Creek Trail climbs out of the canyon and back to Chantry Flats.

Lower Winter Creek Trail

Upper Winter Creek Trail follows the creek to one more crossing and begins up the side of the canyon. After 0.15 miles on Upper Winter Creek Trail, you will reach another junction, this one with a trail climbing 4.5 miles to Mount Wilson, the San Gabriel Mountain’s famous observatory-covered summit. Turn left at the junction to return to Chantry Flats and climb higher up the side of the canyon.

Upper Winter Creek Trail

The forest trail is fairly well shaded, but there will be gaps in the trees that offer expansive views over the canyon as you climb to an elevation of 2,800 feet. When you spot the terraced parking lot of Chantry Flats, there is another mile to go. The trail turns downhill and wraps around the wall of the canyon, passing a seasonal spring. When you hit pavement on Forest Route 2N41, turn left and drop the final 1/3 of a mile to Chantry Flats, passing a picnic area en route to the trailhead at 2,150 feet.

To get to the trailhead: Take the 210 east through Pasadena to Arcadia. Exit Santa Anita and head north. Go up the mountain for 5 miles until the road ends at Chantry Flats. Display your National Forest adventure pass and park your car in the lot.

Use the map below to create your own directions. Upper Winter Creek Trail is in red.

Photos

 

Upper Winter Creek Trail to Hoegees Camp
                             

Lower Winter Creek Trail to Hoegees Camp
                         

These photos were taken in April of 2009 and August of 2011. Click to enlarge.

 

Nearby Trails

 

	Hoegees Camp This 4.25-mile hike follows Lower Winter Creek Trail through a beautiful wooded canyon to a backcountry campground with fourteen first-come first-serve sites.
	Sturtevant Falls This 3.25-mile hike visits a 60-foot waterfall and a lush cottage-lined canyon.
	Hermit Falls This 2.5-mile heads down canyon away from Sturtevant Falls toward a 30-foot waterfall. The lush canyon and the babbling creek are quite calming.
	Santa Anita Canyon Loop This 9.5-mile loop visits a two peaceful creeks, a 60 foot waterfall and plenty of beautiful wilderness.
	More trails in the San Gabriel Mountains Explore other destinations in the range.

 

More Info

 

Hoegees Camp on Dan’s Hiking Page

Winter Creek Loop on localhikes.com

Hoegees Camp on 100hikes.com

Winter Creek Loop on nobodyhikesinla.com

A trail map and brochure of Santa Anita Canyon courtesy of the Angeles National Forest

The Angeles National Forest campground webpage

 

Outside of Southern California, the phrase “bridge to nowhere” brings to mind a contested national embarrassment. For outdoor-loving Angelinos, Bridge to Nowhere is the affectionate name of a local treasure. You’ll find excessive fun, not government spending, on this 10-mile hike with 900 feet of elevation gain. There are several river fords on the trail to the abandoned bridge, along with opportunities to stop and swim. Dedicate at least six hours to completing this hike. An easy-to-acquire wilderness permit is required to hike to the Bridge to Nowhere, as well as a national forest day use pass (details below).

It was actually a lack of financial investment, and not the opposite, that created LA’s Bridge to Nowhere. Constructed in 1936 over a gap carved by the East Fork of the San Gabriel River, the bridge would serve as a link in a roadway between the San Gabriel Valley to the south and Wrightwood to the north. That is until the spring of 1938, when a massive flood changed the landscape of the canyon and washed out the road leading to the bridge. The road was never restored and construction was abandoned. The bridge remains, isolated deep in the San Gabriel Mountains. The Bridge to Nowhere has become an excellent destination for hikers and bungee-jumpers who plunge from the side of the dramatic arch-shaped bridge.

The trail to Bridge to Nowhere is mostly gradual with some rugged terrain and rock scrambling. Wading through thigh to waist high water is unavoidable (at least in wet months) so pack appropriate footwear. Hiking boots, water shoes, and a towel is the best combination. There are a minimum of four river crossings on the hike up the canyon. Trekking in wet shoes is not idea, and while it is tedious to change your footwear throughout the hike, your feet may thank you.

Don’t be surprised if the trailhead is crowded. This is a popular hike, and people also park here to picnic and swim in the nearby river. Arrive early, and prepare to leave your vehicle along the road leading to the trailhead if the lot is full.

Looking up the East Fork of the San Gabriel River toward Heaton Flats Trail Camp

Begin by hiking half a mile down a wide dirt road to Heaton Flats Trail Camp. This first stretch of the trail is sun-exposed and downhill, but that changes when you reach the campground, and start to hike uphill. There is limited shade on this trail, but the last two miles are almost entirely in the sun. There is a bathroom at the campground, in case you forgot to go at the trailhead, as well as a junction with the less traveled Heaton Flats Trail, the only trail junction en route to Bridge to Nowhere.

Proceed another quarter mile, passing a creek and concrete remnants of the old roadway, to your first taste of the river, a quasi-crossing. Though the trail maintains its course on the east side of the river, it passes between a rock and a wet place. You must either walk through potentially ankle-deep water, or carefully traverse a short rocky ledge just above the shallow water. This river encounter is optional. The next one is not. A quarter-mile ahead, barrel straight through the thigh to waist-high water. Be careful on the slippery rocks as you cross the cold rushing river. A walking stick is a helpful tool.

The trail above the East Fork of the San Gabriel River

It is 0.3 miles up the west side of the river to the next crossing. Find the log bridge and you can to stay dry crossing the channel. As you continue north, the trail begins to break up. Any path up the canyon will work, but as a general rule, the preferable route can be found on the east back of the river (except for the stretch between the first and second crossings). You can stay on the east side of the canyon for the next 1.65 miles. However, there is an optional crossing half a mile past the second crossing that tempts many hikers. When the trail appears to head straight into the river, stay dry by proceeding up the rock to the right, which leads to a fun scramble through boulders and trees. The trail becomes difficult to follow as it traverses a rocky riparian woodland. As long as you stick to the east side of the canyon, you will find your way.

Looking back down the trail to Bridge to Nowhere

A mile and a quarter from the second creek crossing, and just over 2.5 miles from the start, you will cross a short wooden footbridge and enter Sheep Mountain Wilderness. The trail continues over dirt, sand, and gnarly rocks. Just before reaching the next mandatory river crossing, 2.95 miles from the start, keep an eye on the rock wall on the west side of the canyon. You will find an animalistic white-on-black pattern nicknamed The Swan. Ford the river and then immediately wade back to the east shore. A stream flowing into the river here is surrounded by concrete retaining walls, evidence the old road up the canyon.

There is a bit of pavement resembling an old road to walk on until you reach a large area washed out by the flood at around mile 3.5. The trail drops into a gravel bed on the outside of a bend in the river. Straight ahead, a single wooden frame from an old suspension line can be seen atop a small ridge protruding from the east side of the canyon. The trail splits, leaving hikers to choose between two obstacles. Stick to the river and set yourself up for two water crossings, or ascend the steep slope to the old road to the right side of the canyon below the wooden pole. This road will suddenly disappear, forcing you to make a rope-assisted descent down a steep rock wall to return to the riverbed. Pick your poison and continue toward the Bridge to Nowhere.

Follow the river to a distinct line of trees, just over 3.75 miles from the start. Turn right and make your way up to the old road bed above the east side of the river. Follow the old road for the final 1.1 miles. The sun-exposed trail rises above the river as it passes through a narrowing canyon and is lined with low brush like chamise and sage that offer broad views.

The trail along the old roadway leading to the bridge

After passing two private property signs (hiker access is permitted), the bridge will appear. It is supported by a grand concrete arch straddling the canyon, shaped like the top of an egg. It is an elegant structure that provides excellent views. As you cross the bridge, you will notice that it is lower on the right side, adding a touch of vertigo to this out-of-place bridge. The thrill of a good hike is not enough for many, who make the trek in order to bungee-jump from the side of the bridge. Bungee America is the only approved vendor for jumping off the bridge.

Beyond the bridge there is a pleasure of another kind, a refreshing swimming hole. A steep single-track drops 1/8 of a mile into the canyon above the bridge. Here you will find relaxing pools, as well as fun rapids – the perfect break before a long hike back.

Relaxing in a swimming hole below the Bridge to Nowhere

A wilderness permit is required to access Sheep Mountain Wilderness. You may self-register for a permit at the kiosk at the south end of the trailhead, or obtain one at the East Fork Ranger Station located on the road to the trailhead (or at other ranger stations in the Angeles National Forest). This trail begins within the national forest so an annual adventure pass or day use pass is also required, and can also be purchased at the ranger station. Dogs are permitted, but this is a long hike with areas of rough terrain that may not be suitable for your canine companion. Bridge to Nowhere is an unforgettable hike, and an understandable Los Angeles favorite.

To get to the trailhead: From the 210 freeway in Azusa, take exit 40 north on Route 39. Drive 11.6 miles north, passing the East Fork Ranger Station at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains. Pass San Gabriel Reservoir and turn right on East Fork Road. After 5.2 miles, when the road makes a sharp bend to the right, continue straight ahead on Camp Bonita Prairie Forks Road, sticking with the river for an additional 3/4 of a mile to the trailhead parking area.

Use the map below to create your own directions:

Photos

 

                                                           

These photos were taken in July of 2011. Click to enlarge.

 

Nearby Trails

 

	Smith Mountain This 7-mile hike ascends 1,800 feet to a 5,111 foot summit with panoramic views over the San Gabriel Mountains.
	Crystal Lake This 1 1/3-mile round trip hike visits the only naturally occurring lake in the San Gabriel Mountains.
	Fish Canyon Falls This 4-mile hike starts at a rock quarry with restricted access and ends up at a multi-tiered 80-foot waterfall.
	Icehouse Canyon Trail to Icehouse Saddle This 7.2-mile hike climbs 2,600 feet through a picturesque canyon to a saddle with panoramic views and extended hiking opportunities.
	Mount Baldy Loop This 11.3-mile hike incorporates the Devil’s Backbone and the Baldy Bowl – Ski Hit Trail into one see-all loop.
	San Antonio Falls This 1.2-mile hike visits a multi-tier waterfall along the trail to Mt. Baldy.
	Mount Waterman This 5.5-mile hike gradually ascends 1300 feet, passing through a pine forest to reach the round summit of Mt. Waterman.
	More trails in the Los Angeles Explore other destinations in the Santa Monica Mountains, San Gabriel Mountains, and elsewhere.

 

Camping

 

Coldbrook Campground This 20-site campground in the Angeles National Forest in the San Gabriel Mountains offers first-come first-serve camping year-round.

 

More Info

 

Bridge to Nowhere on wikipedia.org

Bridge to Nowhere on greeneadventures.com

Bridge to Nowhere on modernhiker.com

Bridge to Nowhere on blogging.la

Bridge to Nowhere on trimbleoutdoors.com

Bridge to Nowhere on localhikes.com

Bridge to Nowhere on Dan’s Hiking Pages

The official website of the Angeles National Forest

 

For the last year and a half, an immense area of the San Gabriel Mountains has been off limits. Now it’s back! Incredible news from the US Forest Service who announced:

Effective May 16, the Angeles National Forest will reopen about half of the areas that have been closed due to the Station Fire.

Hikers have battled stunning crowds in pockets of the forest that remained open, like Santa Anita Canyon. Now foot traffic can dissipate and spread to the over 100 miles of trail that are back on the table. Switzer Falls, San Gabriel Peak, Mount Waterman, and Cooper Canyon Falls can all be visited again. The open areas are sure to look different, but national forest employees and volunteers have gone to great lengths to jump-start the recovery of the San Gabriel Mountains.

The Forest service released this map depicting the area that is still closed, which includes the trails to Millard Canyon Falls and Trail Canyon Falls. While parts of Angeles National Forest are still off limits, the reopening of so many trails is exciting news for outdoor enthusiasts around Los Angeles.

Trail	Description	Distance	Latitude, Longitude
	Trail Canyon Falls CLOSED. This out and back hike visits a 40-foot beauty on the east side of the San Gabriel Mountains.	4 miles 700 feet	34.312575, -118.253946
	Switzer Falls This out and back hike starts out above and finishes below a 50-foot tall waterfall.	4.5 miles	34.259387, -118.155069
	San Gabriel Peak from Mt. Disappointment Road This peak offers great views of the San Gabriels. Summit Mt. Disappointment for an extra half mile.	4 - 4.5 miles 1,400 feet	34.246506, -118.104828
	San Gabriel Peak from Mt. Lowe Fire Road This peak offers great views of the San Gabriels. Summit Mt. Disappointment for an extra half mile.	3.2 - 3.7 miles 1,000 feet	34.246506, -118.104828
	Millard Falls CLOSED. This out and back hike visits a 50-foot waterfall up one of the most scenic canyons in the range.	1 mile	34.219936, -118.140135
	Dawn Mine CLOSED. This out and back hike leads past Millard Falls to an old gold mine.	6 miles	34.228736, -118.130178
	Echo Mountain via Sam Merrill Trail This out and back hike visits a historic railway and ruins from a century old resort overlooking Pasadena.	5.8 miles 1,400 feet	34.203811, -118.130507
	Rubio Canyon Trail This out and back hike ventures into a rustic canyon to a double waterfall.	1.3 miles 350 feet	34.203038, -118.122354
	Eaton Falls This out and back hike visits a 40-footer.	3 miles	34.198642, -118.103571
	Hoegees Camp This out and back hike follows Lower Winter Creek Trail through a beautiful wooded canyon to a backcountry campground with fourteen first-come first-serve sites.	4.25 miles 700 feet	34.209857, -118.03113
	Upper Winter Creek Trail This 2.75-mile long trail can be used to extend Santa Anita Canyon Loop or create a loop with Lower Winter Creek Trail.	4.85 miles 1,000 feet	34.196194, -118.02265
	Sturtevant Falls This out and back hike visits a 60-foot waterfall and a lush cottage-lined canyon.	3.25 miles	34.209857, -118.03113
	Spruce Grove Camp This out and back hike follows the canyon above Sturtevant Falls to a backcountry campground with seven first-come first-serve sites.	8 miles	34.209857, -118.03113
	Santa Anita Canyon Loop This loop visits a two peaceful creeks, a 60 foot waterfall and plenty of beautiful wilderness	9.5 miles	34.209857, -118.03113
	Hermit Falls This out and back hike heads down canyon away from Sturtevant Falls toward a 30-foot waterfall. The lush canyon and the babbling creek are quite calming.	2.6 miles 600 feet	34.209857, -118.03113
	Fish Canyon Falls This out and back hike starts at a rock quarry with restricted access and ends up at a multi-tiered 80-foot waterfall.	4 miles	34.182951, -117.911224
	Mount Waterman This out and back hike takes a gradual ascent through a pine forest to reach the round summit.	5.5 miles 1,300 feet	34.337848, -117.938712
	Cooper Canyon Falls This out and back hike leaves from Buckhorn Campground and visits a short waterfall in an enchanting glen of tall pines.	3 miles 700 feet	34.337848, -117.938712
	Crystal Lake This short paved hike visits the only naturally occurring lake in the San Gabriel Mountains.	1.33 miles 150 feet	34.32087, -117.842642
	Smith Mountain This out and back hike follows a gradual trail to a steep scramble to a 5,111 foot summit with panoramic views over the San Gabriel Mountains.	7 miles 1,800 feet	34.287381, -117.842672
	Bridge to Nowhere This adventurous out and back hike requires several river crossings to reach an out-of-place bridge with a unique history.	10 miles 900 feet	34.23696, -117.765119
	San Antonio Falls This out and back hike on a paved road visits a multi-tier waterfall along the trail to Mt. Baldy.	1.2 miles	34.27717, -117.633805
	Baldy Bowl – Ski Hut This out and back hike offers a steep but scenic ascent up the south side of Mt. Baldy.	9 miles 3,900 feet	34.27717, -117.633805
	Devil’s Backbone This ridge-top trail between Baldy Notch and the summit of Mt. Baldy offers incredible views of the San Gabriel Mountains.	6.4 - 13.6 miles	34.27717, -117.633805
	Mount Baldy Loop This hike incorporates Devil’s Backbone and Baldy Bowl – Ski Hit Trail into one see-all loop.	11.3 miles 3,900 feet	34.27717 -117.633805
	Icehouse Canyon to Icehouse Saddle This out and back hike travels through a picturesque canyon to a saddle with panoramic views and extended hiking opportunities.	7.2 miles 2,600 feet	34.237819, -117.596312

Icehouse Canyon is located in a beautiful stretch of the Angeles National Forest near Mount Baldy Village, just southeast of the mighty Mount Baldy. A trail through the canyon leads up to Icehouse Saddle. At 7,500 feet, this low point in the ridgeline offers sweeping views of the western San Gabriel Mountains. From the saddle, hikers and backpackers may continue on in several directions to explore nearby peaks and venture deeper into the Cucamonga Wilderness. The single-track to Icehouse Saddle climbs 2,600 feet over 3.6 miles and is an exceptional hike.

Departing from the parking lot along Icehouse Canyon Road, the trail takes course along the northern bank of a creek that flows down the canyon. Crystal clear water tumbles past oaks and sycamores, and this is a fine venue for a directionless romp through nature for those disinterested in following the trail. A half-dozen cabins are spread out along the bottom of the canyon, along with another half-dozen stone foundations (ruins left over from the early days of the Angeles). The trail passes these current and past dwellings, ascending gradually into a wilderness with less and less human impact.

Hiking up Icehouse Canyon

One mile from the start, comes a junction with the Chapman Trail, which turns north, passing through Cedar Grove Trail Camp on a more roundabout course to Icehouse Saddle. The Icehouse Canyon Trail continues straight ahead, eventually crossing over to the south side of the creek. Incense Cedars and firs become the dominant arbors, and 0.8 miles past the junction, the trail crosses a sign marking the boundary of the Cucamonga Wilderness. This is the halfway point by mileage, but in some ways, the hike is just beginning.

Winter trail conditions on February 28, 2010:
Months of snowfall have covered the entire landscape with a thick blanket of snow. The majority of the well-packed snow path is firm and easy to cross, but a step in the wrong place can put you in up to your thigh. For this reason, many hikers wear snowshoes and crampons, but the trail is still manageable in boots.

Normally, the trail crosses to the north side of the canyon and climbs a series of switchbacks to get to Icehouse Saddle. However, when that white thing that is usually foreign to Southern California covers the ground, the consensus becomes to take a direct track right up the center of the canyon.

Hikers make their way up to Icehouse Saddle

Not long after crossing into the Cucamonga Wilderness, the trail begins to climb more seriously. Your heart starts to pound and your thighs start to burn, and then you hit the real steep section, an arduous march up a slippery slope called “the waterfall.” Have a look around for inspiration. The views of Mount Baldy are as good as they come.

Above the snow-covered waterfall, the trail becomes more generous again and there is only one more steep passage over the last third-mile. Hikers may turn around at the saddle or continue on in four different directions. These tracks are barely visible under the deep snow, and only one trail sign is visible.

To the north a trail follows the ridge to Timber Mountain (0.9 miles), Telegraph Peak (2.9 miles), and Thunder Mountain (3.9 miles), before descending to Baldy Notch (5.4 miles). To the southeast is a trail to Cucamonga Peak (2.4 miles). To the southwest is Ontario Peak (2.8 miles). And to the east, the Middle Fork Trail descends 5.4 miles to Middle Fork Trailhead.

Looking down Icehouse Canyon

If Icehouse Saddle is your final destination, it is worth the extra effort to hike up the ridge to the north a few hundred feet to get above the trees for a magnificent view of the range to the east and west. The combination of blue skies, white snow, and impressive peaks make for an exception outing.

On the descent, an emergency poncho that has been living in my backpack for an occasion not such as this, served as a great makeshift toboggan. Poncho sledding, as we named it, added even more enjoyment to this winter hike.

Why not?

Before you go: In addition to an adventure pass, a free wilderness permit is required to enter the Cucamonga Wilderness. The permit may be picked up at the ranger station in Mount Baldy Village the day of the hike, or call ahead if you’re a sunrise hiker and they will leave it out for you.

In addition to the trail camps, backpackers may setup camp anywhere they wish in the wilderness as long as the spot is 200 feet from creeks and lakes.

To get to the trailhead: Take the 210 east and exit on Baseline Road (exit 52). Turn left at the light at the end of the ramp on to Baseline Road. Make the next right on to Padua Avenue. Drive 1.7 miles and turn right onto Mount Baldy Road. Pass through Mount Baldy Village and pick up a permit at the ranger station. One and a half miles later, turn right on Icehouse Canyon Road and pull into the trailhead parking lot on the left side of the road.

Use the map below to create your own directions:

Photos

 

                                                                   

These photos were taken in February of 2010. Click to Enlarge.

 

Elevation Profile

 

 

Nearby Trails

 

	San Antonio Falls This 1.2-mile hike visits a multi-tier waterfall along the trail to Mount Baldy.
	Devil’s Backbone This 3.2-mile ridge-top trail between Baldy Notch and the summit of Mount Baldy offers incredible views of the San Gabriel Mountains.
	Baldy Bowl – Ski Hut Baldy Bowl – Ski Hut Trail offers a steep but scenic ascent up the south side of Mount Baldy, crossing 4.5 miles and 3900 feet to the summit.
	Bridge to Nowhere This adventurous 10-mile round trip hike reaches an abandoned and out-of-place bridge with a unique history.
	More trails in the San Gabriel Mountains Explore other destinations in the range.

 

Camping

 

Manker Flats Twenty-one sites service campers at the base of Mount Baldy. The grounds are nothing exciting, but if want a staging area for your ascent, this is it.

 

More Info

 

Icehouse Canyon on Dan’s Hiking Pages

Icehouse Canyon on 100hikes.com

Icehouse Canyon on modernhiker.com

Icehouse Canyon on localhikes.com

Icehouse Canyon on summitpost.org

Icehosue Canyon on nobodyhikesinla.com

The Angeles National Forest webpage for Icehouse Canyon

 

Located just north of Ojai, Sespe Wilderness is the largest wilderness area within Los Padres National Forest, occupying 342 square miles. Sespe Creek cuts through this land and the adjacent trail offers great views of a wide valley and scenic creek.

The trail starts from Piedra Blanca trailhead near Rose Valley Falls and leaves the dense green of the Bays, Oaks, and Chaparral for grassland plains that feel surprisingly southwestern. Scattered groves along the creek provide shade for camping and picnicking, and there are several warm-water swimming holes to enjoy.

As if that isn’t enough to justify the trek, there are also hot springs feeding into the creek. Willett Hot Springs is 9.5 miles from the trailhead and Sespe Hot Springs is 15.5 miles away. Willett Hot Springs can be visited as a long 19-mile day hike, or as a more reasonable overnight backpacking adventure.

Sespe Creek weaves through the wilderness

If those distances intimidate you, do not rule out a visit to Sespe Creek. While shallow, the water in the creek is so pleasant for swimming that you could have an enjoyable time without going all the way to the hot springs. That is, you could hike one mile, two miles, four miles, and so on, and find a nice place to enjoy a picnic, a swim, and maybe a night of camping before returning to your vehicle. The 19-mile commitment necessary to visit the hot springs is not required to enjoy Sespe Creek.

The water in Sespe Creek can warm by twenty degrees over the course of the day, making the temperature perfect for an afternoon swim. For this reason, April through June is the best time to visit Sespe Creek. While springs feed the creek year-round, water levels in the fall may be too low for good swimming.

Exploring Sespe Creek

Hiking:
The trail is fairly straightforward, with a few exceptions that warrant explanation. From the Piedra Blanca parking lot, take the trailhead that starts to the left of the bathrooms. Start hiking east and you will soon come to two creek crossings. In the spring when the water is high, rock hopping is required. Continue along the north bank of the creek, heading downstream toward the hot springs. The trail is straight and level as it charges into the grasslands of Sespe Wilderness. You will pass over a few rises before arriving at Bear Creek Campground. This is the halfway point to Willett Campground and common turn around point for day hikers.

From Bear Creek Campground, the trail crosses over to the south side of the creek. The crossing is easy to miss. If you realize you are walking on a path that is too faint to be the trail, double back and look for the point where the trail crosses the creek near the east-most fire ring. A mile downstream, the trail crosses back over to the north side.

From here, the trail is less level. While there is little elevation change between the trailhead and the destination, the trail winds up and down numerous hillsides crossing several dry seasonal streams that flow into Sespe Creek. There was a wildfire here in 2006 and the remnants of burned chaparral are everywhere amongst the regrowth. Press on past Oak Flat Camp and Ten Sycamore Flat Camp to Willett Campground. There are no signs for any of these campgrounds, so use your judgment and the map below.

Hiking above Sespe Creek

After descending into the grove of trees along the creek near Willett Campground, there will be a trail marker directing you to cross over to the south side. This will seem counter-intuitive, as the hot springs are up the mountain to the north. Cross over the creek and follow the trail. It will soon cross back over to the north side of the creek. From here follow the spur doubling back upstream. You will pass an abandoned building and a stone chimney that stands alone in the grass field. Follow the narrow trail as it climbs up the mountain to the springs. It is 0.6 miles from Willett Campground to Willett Hot Springs, and much of this trail is fairly steep. The trail ends at the hot springs, where a large rubber tub filled with teal water awaits, eager to soak your weary muscles.

Willett Hot Springs

Camping:
Backcountry camping in Sespe Wilderness is free and easy, and there is plenty of it along Sespe Creek between the Piedra Blanca trailhead and Willett Hot Springs (and beyond). Traditional carry-in carry-out rules apply, but backpackers may pitch a tent wherever they like. There are four wilderness campgrounds along the creek, each with a few clear places to put up a tent and build a fire. Beyond the mapped sites, there are many more places where people have clearly camped in the past. This makes it easy for you to camp in several private locations along the creek.

A campsite a couple miles from the trailhead

A permit is needed for campfires and stoves. The fire permit is free and requires only that you agree to a few safety terms:

1. Clear flammable material away from the fire a minimum of five feet in all directions
2. Have a shovel available for preparing and extinguishing campfires
3. Have a responsible person observing the fire at all times
4. Extinguish campfire with water, using the drown, stir, and feel method

Print this permit, fill it out, and bring it with you on your hike.

Wood is fairly abundant and gathering it is permitted. There are numerous fire rings already built along the creek, allowing backpackers to minimize their impact and avoid wasting time destroying the grasslands to create a safe area for a fire. When picking a spot to start a fire, look for a place where someone has already had one. There seems to be a fire ring in just about every desirable place.

Camping along Sespe Creek near Willett Hot Springs

There is a single campsite and a fire ring fifty feet from Willett Hot Springs, but the 0.6 mile trail up to the springs from Sespe Creek is steep, and can feel even steeper after nine miles of backpacking. Fortunately, there are several pleasant sites beneath the 0.6 miles spur. This is the area know as Willett Campground. You may setup a tent here and enjoy the comforts of shade and proximity to a viable water supply (which needs to be filtered). From the creek it is easy to walk up to the hot springs and back in a bathing suit, so spare yourself the hike up to the springs will all your gear, and claim one of the nicer spots down along the creek.

This map, posted at the trailhead, provides a good references for distances along the trail:

An adventure pass is required to park your vehicle at the trailhead. No backcountry permit is needed to camp in the Sespe Wilderness but a free fire permit should be obtained if you wish to have a campfire or stove.

To get to the trailhead: Take the 101 North to Ventura. Then take the 33 North for 11.5 miles to the city of Ojai. You will turn off the 33, but only in order to get back on it. Turn left on Baldwin Road (Rt. 150) and after a short two blocks make the right onto La Luna Ave. After two miles, make a left to return to the 33. If you miss the turn for Baldwin Road, you can make a later turn to stay on the 33. Continue on Route 33 for 13 miles as the road enters Los Padres National Forest and climbs up the mountain. Turn right at the turnoff for Rose Valley on Forest Route 5N24. Drive past Rose Valley Falls and Middle Lion Campground, taking the road 5.6 miles to the end at Piedra Blanca Trailhead.

Use the map below to create your own directions:

Photos

 

                                                                   

These photos were taken in May of 2009. Click to Enlarge.

 

Nearby Trails

 

	Rose Valley Falls This 1-mile round trip trail leads to the lower tier of this two-tier 300 foot waterfall. From there one can scramble off trail to the much taller upper tier.
	Wheeler Gorge This 1-mile loop explores the forest around this 70-site Campground.
	More Central Coast Hikes Explore other destinations along the California coast between Ventura and Monterey, including trails in Los Padres National Forest.

 

More Info

 

Sespe Creek on modernhiker.com

Sespe Creek on localhikes.com

An LA Times travel article on Sespe Hot Springs

The Los Padres National Forest fire permit page

The official website for the Los Padres National Forest

 

Wheeler Gorge offers a campground and a nature trail. If you are planning an overnight visit to the Los Padres near Ojai, keep Wheeler Gorge campground as an option. When the free campgrounds fill up with weekend fishermen, Wheeler Gorge is an attractive if costly alternative. Sites go for $20 a night (and $5 for additional vehicles). On busy weekends, there may be a two night minimum.

Wheeler Gorge Campground

The campground rests along the banks of a flowing creek, making the grounds lush and relatively private. Pick your spot among the 70 nicely-spaced sites. Watch out for the poison oak when deciding where to place your tent.

There is a trailhead for a short hike right next to the campground. This brief loop is barely a mile long, but offers respectable views of the surrounding mountains. The trail frolics along Matilija Creek before rising up on to a hill for a good look around.

The campground is located right along Route 33, so even if you are only driving past, the short nature trail may be worth stopping for.

Matilija Creek near the start of the nature trail

To get to Wheeler Gorge: Take the 101 north through Ventura and exit onto Highway 33. Take the 33 through Ojai and into the Los Padres National Forest. The address for Wheeler Gorge Campground is 17017 Maricopa Highway, Ojai, CA 93023.

Use the map below to create your own directions:

Photos

 

     
     
     
These photos were taken in April of 2008. Click to enlarge.

 

Nearby Trails

 

	Sespe Creek to Willett Hot Springs This 19-miles round trip follows Sespe Creek to a relaxing hot springs.
	Rose Valley Falls This 1-mile round trip trail leads to the lower tier of this two-tier 300 foot waterfall. From there one can scramble off trail to the much taller upper tier.
	More Central Coast Hikes Explore other destinations along the California coast between Ventura and Monterey, including trails in Los Padres National Forest.

 

More Info

 

Wheeler Gorge Campground on reserveamerica.com

An LA Times review of Wheeler Gorge

The official website for the Los Padres National Forest

 

Rose Valley Falls is a magnificent two-tier 300 foot waterfall. Located on the southern end of the Los Padres Mountains, it is the tallest waterfall in the range.

A half-mile gradual trail leads to the base of the lower falls. Bays and Oaks provide enjoyable shade along a straightforward track. The lower falls is short and pleasant, but the upper falls is long and impressive. However, much like Escondido Falls in Malibu, the trail from the lower falls to the upper is difficult and unmaintained. There are numerous footpaths that bold hikes have created to get above the lower falls. This is because there isn’t really a good route up. Exercise caution when attempting to reach the upper falls as it requires a good deal of scrambling. If it is above your skill or comfort level, stay behind and relax by the lower falls.

Lower Rose Valley Falls

The most obvious route was to the left of the lower falls. Cross the dirt bank along a thin footpath. From there follow the ridgeline up through the brush. Catch your breath when you reach the top of the rise. The stunning upper falls is in sight. Carefully descend the hill of gravel scree down to the creek. Then boulder up to the foot of the falls.

In the summer, the water trickled down the long elegant black rock. The falls were enjoyable then, but early spring is the time to see this great falls at its boldest.

Upper Rose Valley Falls

To get to the trailhead: Take the 101 north through Ventura. Exit on highway 33. Take the 33 through Ojai and into the Los Padres National Forest. Fifteen miles past Ojai, take the Sespe Road turnoff. There will be a sign for Rose Canyon Falls. Drive 3 more miles and turn right on Chief Peak Road which ends at the trailhead and campsite after half a mile. Display your adventure pass and start up the trail.

Use the map below to create your own directions:

Photos

 

     
     
These photos were taken in April of 2008. Click to enlarge.

 

Nearby Trails

 

	Wheeler Gorge This 1-mile loop explores the forest around this 70-site Campground.
	Sespe Creek to Willett Hot Springs This 19-miles round trip follows Sespe Creek to a relaxing hot springs.
	Tangerine Falls This 2.5-mile hike visits a beautiful waterfall on the edge of Los Padres National Forest near Santa Barbara.
	More Central Coast Hikes Explore other destinations along the California coast between Ventura and Monterey, including trails in Los Padres National Forest.

 

Similar Trails

 

	Nojoqui Falls This short 0.65-mile hike visits an 80-foot tall fern-lined waterfall.
	McWay Falls This 0.6-mile hike looks out on a stunning Big Sur waterfall that pours 80 feet right on to the beach.
	Salmon Creek Falls This 0.6-mile hike visits a fine 120-foot waterfall near the start of Salmon Creek Trail.
	Escondido Falls in the Santa Monica Mountains This 4-mile out and back visits a 200 foot waterfall that is split into two tiers. The upper tier is 150 feet tall and stunning after a rainstorm.
	Millard Falls in the San Gabriel Mountains This one mile hike visits a 50-foot waterfall up one of the most scenic canyons in the San Gabriels.
	Fish Canyon Falls in the San Gabriel Mountains This 4-mile hike starts at a rock quarry with restricted access and ends up at a multi-tiered 80-foot waterfall.
	San Antonio Falls in the San Gabriel Mountains This 1.2-mile hike visits a multi-tier waterfall along the trail to Mt. Baldy.
	Tokopah Falls in Sequoia National Park This gradual 3.4-mile hike visits the base of the tallest waterfall in Sequoia National Park.
	Lower Yosemite Fall in Yosemite National Park This electrifying 1.2-mile hike delivers visitors to the base of the tallest waterfall in North America.

 

Camping

 

There is a free first-come first-serve campground right at the trailhead where nine sites for car campers are circled close together in a field. Rose Valley Campground sports views of the falls but lacks privacy. Not far away there is another small free site, Middle Lion Campground, that offers more shade and privacy. A bit further to the east is the Sespe Wilderness where backcountry camping is free and easy. If you intend to explore either of these options, arrive early or off weekend. Late comes looking to camp will end up down the mountain at Wheeler Gorge Campground where the going rate is $20 a night (and $5 for addition vehicles). Consult the Forest Service website for more camping options.

 

More Info

 

Info and photos of canyoneering down the falls on dankat.com

Rose Valley Falls on localhikes.com

The official brochure for Rose Valley Campground

The official website for the Los Padres National Forest