3 Fun Hiking Trails in Southern California
Switzer Falls via Gabrielino Trail
(Tujunga, California)
Switzer Falls is a well known mountain in the San Gabriel Valley Mountains with an amazing view of the San Gabriel Valley. This 4.3 mile trail is also pet friendly and rewards you with a beautiful waterfall at the end of the trail.
Address: 701 Angeles Crest Hwy, Tujunga, CA 91042
Details
Distance: 4.3 miles
Difficulty: Intermediate
Elevation: 725 ft
Route Type: Out & Back
Pros:
Beautiful view of the San Gabriel Valley
Pet friendly
Accessible year round
Cons:
Overcrowded on weekends
Parking can be difficult
Peters Canyon Lake View Trail
(Orange, California)
Peters Canyon Lake View Trail is a 2.2 mile loop trail located near Orange, California that offers a beautiful view of the lake. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.
Address: Lake View Trail, Orange, CA 92705
Details
Distance: 2.2 miles
Difficulty: Beginner & Intermediate
Elevation: 187 ft
Route Type: Loop
Pros:
View of the lake
Pet friendly (on leash)
Accessible year round
$3 parking (all-day)
Cons:
Overcrowded on weekends
High sun exposure
Etiwanda Falls Trail
(Rancho Cucamonga, California)
Etiwanda Falls Trail is a 3.4 mile trail located near Rancho Cucamonga, California that features a beautiful waterfall. The trail offers a number of activities such as bird watching and picnics. The trail is accessible year-round.
Address: Etiwanda Falls Trail, California 91739
Details
Distance: 3.4 miles
Difficulty: Intermediate
Elevation: 803 ft
Route Type: Out & Back
Pros:
Beautiful waterfall
View of the Inland Empire
Pet friendly
Accessible year round
Plenty of parking
Cons:
Overcrowded on weekends
High sun exposure
Things to Bring on a Hike
Hiking backpack/bag
Comfortable clothing
Hiking boots or running shoes
Plenty of water
Plenty of food
Navigation tools such as a a map and compass
First-aid kit
Knife or multi-tool