HAG WILD
A slow trickle in the dry months is visible from the base of Trail Canyon Falls (Photo – Kitty Cahalan)
Trail Canyon Falls is a 4.7 miles out-and-back in the western San Gabriels, ending at a dramatic 30-foot falls… when there’s water.
By Kitty Cahalan
Even with just a trickle, the terminus of the hike offers a cool, green, shady spot to rest and recuperate from the 875 ft vertical ascent. Beginning at Big Tujunga Canyon Road in Sunland with a steep ascent on North Trail Canyon Road, the trail flattens as it passes several cabins, north of which it narrows to a single track that meanders along the floor of Trail Canyon. Stream crossings are easy during dry parts of the year, more daunting in a wet season.
At 1.5 miles, the trail leaves the streambed, skirting one of many oaks recovering from the 2009 Station Fire, and ascends the west wall of the canyon, with stunning views of peaks to the north and south. Past mile 2, the path takes a hairpin turn to the west just before the falls. Continue straight to check out the view from the rocks at the top of the falls, or take the path to the right to the base. The latter path is treacherous enough that ropes have been placed to navigate one portion. Test the ropes for security and know that on busy days, traffic at the roped section may cause long waits to descend or ascend, since only one can safely be on the rope at a time.
Trail Canyon looking south from the canyon’s west wall (Photo – Kitty Cahalan)
The majority of this hike is exposed, so early mornings when the canyon is still in shadow makes for a more pleasant trip during hot months. Water and sunscreen, as always, and shoes with grip that can manage slippery stone or log stream crossings and the steep descent to the base of the falls. Trekking poles can help bring stability at a few narrow portions of the trail along the steep canyon wall. Fellow hikers include families and dog-walkers. During dry months when the stream is reduced to stagnant pools, make sure to pack water for the pups.
Parking
Parking is free and does not require an Adventure Pass. The intersection of Trail Canyon Road and Big Tujunga Canyon Road has parking space for a few cars, but once that area is full, cars must park on Big Tujunga Canyon Road. There are no bathroom facilities.
Photo captions:
Hiked 6/6/21 and 1/17/20
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