Top Hiking Trails Near Pasadena, CA

Top Hiking Trails Near Pasadena, CA

  • Amy Engler
  • 04/26/24

Nestled at the foothills of the majestic San Gabriel Mountains, Pasadena, California, offers a plethora of scenic hiking trails for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. From leisurely strolls to challenging ascents, Pasadena's diverse terrain caters to hikers of all skill levels. In this guide, Amy Engler presents the best of hiking near Pasadena, CA. Whether you seek panoramic vistas, serene woodlands, or cascading waterfalls, these top hiking trails near Pasadena promise unforgettable adventures amidst Southern California's natural splendor.

1. Eaton Canyon Falls Trail

Located in the San Gabriel Mountains, the Eaton Canyon Falls Trail is a beloved gem among Pasadena's hiking community. This moderately challenging trail spans approximately 3.5 miles round trip, leading adventurers through a picturesque canyon adorned with lush vegetation and trickling streams. The highlight of the hike is the breathtaking 40-foot waterfall cascading into a serene pool, offering a refreshing oasis for weary hikers. While the trail can be crowded on weekends, its scenic beauty and accessibility make it a must-visit destination for hiking enthusiasts living in Pasadena.

2. Echo Mountain via Sam Merrill Trail

For a historic and invigorating hiking experience, look no further than the Echo Mountain via Sam Merrill Trail. This strenuous 5.6-mile round trip trek ascends over 1,400 feet, rewarding hikers with panoramic views of Pasadena, Los Angeles, and the Pacific Ocean. Along the way, hikers encounter remnants of the historic Mount Lowe Railway, including the Echo Mountain House ruins and the iconic Echo Phone. As the sun sets over the horizon, Echo Mountain provides a mesmerizing backdrop for hikers seeking a memorable outdoor adventure.

3. Millard Canyon Falls Trail

Escape the hustle and bustle of city life with a tranquil hike along the Millard Canyon Falls Trail. Tucked away in the Angeles National Forest, this 2.1-mile round trip trail offers a serene retreat into nature's embrace. Surrounded by towering oak trees and babbling brooks, hikers meander along a shaded path leading to the enchanting 50-foot waterfall nestled within Millard Canyon. With its serene ambiance and gentle terrain, the Millard Canyon Falls Trail is the perfect escape for hikers seeking solace and rejuvenation near Pasadena.

4. Lower Arroyo Seco Trail

Embrace Pasadena's rich natural heritage with a leisurely stroll along the Lower Arroyo Seco Trail. This family-friendly trail spans approximately 2.3 miles round trip, tracing the banks of the Arroyo Seco Stream amid verdant landscapes and native flora. Along the way, hikers can admire historic landmarks such as the Colorado Street Bridge and the Gamble House, adding a cultural dimension to their outdoor excursion. With its gentle terrain and scenic vistas, the Lower Arroyo Seco Trail offers a delightful escape into Pasadena's bucolic charm.

5. Henninger Flats Trail

Experience the beauty of Pasadena's wilderness with a challenging trek along the Henninger Flats Trail. This rigorous 6.8-mile round trip hike ascends over 1,500 feet, rewarding intrepid adventurers with sweeping views of the San Gabriel Valley and beyond. Along the way, hikers traverse shaded forests of oak and pine before reaching the rustic Henninger Flats Campground, where panoramic vistas and primitive campsites await. With its rugged terrain and stunning scenery, the Henninger Flats Trail offers a thrilling outdoor adventure for seasoned hikers from Pasadena.

6. Sturtevant Falls Trail

Immerse yourself in the natural splendor of the San Gabriel Mountains with a hike along the Sturtevant Falls Trail. This moderate 3.3-mile round trip trek leads hikers through a lush canyon adorned with vibrant wildflowers and towering sycamore trees. The highlight of the hike is the majestic 60-foot waterfall, where cascading waters plunge into a tranquil pool below. With its scenic beauty and soothing ambiance, the Sturtevant Falls Trail is a popular destination for hikers seeking serenity and solitude near Pasadena.

7. Rubio Canyon Trail

Embark on a captivating journey through Pasadena's rugged terrain with a hike along the Rubio Canyon Trail. This challenging 4.4-mile round trip trek ventures deep into the heart of the San Gabriel Mountains, ascending over 1,300 feet to reveal panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Along the way, hikers navigate rocky terrain and narrow canyons, passing by historic remnants of the Mount Lowe Railway, including the iconic Rubio Pavilion. With its rugged terrain and dramatic vistas, the Rubio Canyon Trail offers a thrilling adventure for seasoned hikers near Pasadena.

Unlock Your Dream Home in Pasadena with Amy Engler

Pasadena, California, boasts a diverse array of hiking trails, each offering its own unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. Whether you're seeking a leisurely stroll amidst scenic landscapes or a challenging ascent to panoramic vistas, Pasadena's hiking trails promise unforgettable experiences for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. So lace up your hiking boots, embrace the call of the wild, and embark on an epic journey through Pasadena's pristine wilderness.

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