Switzer-Land!

Hike to Switzer Lower Falls in Los Angeles County

01.18.2023

{NOTE: We recommend waiting a week or so post-rains to do this hike. Let conditions calm down as water crossings are high right now. Check official websites for updates on trail status, closures, hazards, etc. Expect wet, muddy, and slippery trails, and exercise caution and good judgment, including with water crossings. Do not cross swift flowing waters. Proper hiking shoes are essential, and an extra pair of socks to change into is recommended. If you go immediately after heavy rains, expect to get quite wet.}

Recent rains make the next several weeks a good time to visit Switzer land! Switzer Falls, that is. This 50-foot two-tiered tumbler is a beauty, and roars after rains. There are a few ways to reach the two-tiered waterfall, some more reliable than others.

We recommend the 3.6-mile (round-trip) trail through a fragrant, shaded canyon paralleling a year-round stream to Switzer’s lower falls. Starting on the popular Gabrielino Trail, follow signs to the falls while hiking alongside the swiftly flowing Arroyo Seco. Alders and oaks offer a cool canopy. Criss-cross the stream nearly a dozen times as a series of switchbacks lead to a dryer environment where yellow evening primrose flowers and yuccas flourish in soil.

{NOTE: Be very cautious with these crossings and do not cross if the flow is too swift, especially if rain has been recent. Expect wet conditions all-around after plentiful rains}

The trail hugs the cliff before descending again to the canyon floor. Stay left, and it’s one last hop, skip, and jump over the water to lower Switzer Falls, a 15-foot tumbler pouring into a large green pool (the upper falls is taller, but there’s no official trail to reach it and the scramble is dangerous). Watery reflections and filters of sunlight play on the surrounding boulders, creating a calm oasis.

Switzer Falls is off the Angeles Crest Highway (SR-2). Starting in La Cañada Flintridge, take SR-2 approximately 10 miles north, then look for the sign-marked turnoff on your right. Follow the steep driveway down to the main parking area. A National Forest Adventure Pass is required for parking. Dog friendly!

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories

  1. Hello, Sur!

    Big Sur is home to numerous fantastic beaches and coves, so which one do you choose? Go for the beach that's quintessential Big Sur (and dog-friendly!). Pfeiffer Beach in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. Its signature lilac-colored sand is waiting for your feet!

    View

  2. Waterfall Hunter

    If you ask a local in Reno about one of the best hiking trails in town, odds are high they’ll point you to Hunter Creek Falls. It’s a year-round favorite, but it absolutely shines in spring, when desert peach wildflowers make a splash—and so does the marquee waterfall.

    View

  3. Cheers to Chimney

    If you’re looking for all that Point Reyes has to offer in spring, Chimney Rock is the place to be. The 1.75-mile (round-trip) hike to Chimney may be short, but it packs a visual punch, quadrupling the viewing thrills during spring.

    View

  4. Eat, Explore, Repeat: Point Reyes Station

    It’s small and laid-back, but Point Reyes Station is a standout gateway to Point Reyes National Seashore. Fresh food, cool culture, and an unfussy vibe are part of the draw.

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. Bike the Coastal Trail to Pillar Point Harbor in Half Moon Bay

    Ride and Seek

    Oceanside breezes, beautiful beaches, a car-free pathway for biking, and beer at the end: You’re on a roll! The San Mateo Coast was made for beach hopping and beer tasting … and it all goes down smooth as part of an 8-mile out-and-back bike ride.

    View

  2. Garland in Bloom

    Carmel Valley is known for its quaint wineries and scenic hiking trails. Enjoy both on this 3.75-mile loop through Garland Ranch Regional Park.

    View

  3. Bright Point of View

    Here's a way to brighten your day: Head to Point Reyes Lighthouse. Originally constructed in 1870 to help warn mariners of the navigational hazard that we now call Point Reyes, the lighthouse was handed over to the National Park Service after serving for 105 years.

    View
  4. A woman stands amid an array of yellow and purple flowers at Descanso Gardens in Los Angeles

    Petal Paradise

    Tulips, lilacs, and daffodils—flower power is in full bloom at Descanso Gardens in La Cañada Flintridge. Sprawling across 150 acres surrounded by mountains, the gardens are putting on their best show right now.

    View