Difficulty: Moderate
There is free parking for the Eaton Canyon Falls hike, where you can visit the adjacent nature center that offers fun guided hikes with friendly docents. Located in the 190-acre Eaton Canyon Natural Area, this mostly flat hike shaded by buckwheat, prickly pear cactus, and sycamore trees in the San Gabriel Mountains is great for both families and dog owners. Cool off at the base of the 40-foot waterfall or spread out on one of the surrounding rocks for lunch.
Photo by misszin / Shutterstock
Waimea Falls
Distance: 1.5 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy
Located within the lush, botanical abundance of Waimea Valley, home to over 5,000 types of plants, the 1.5-mile loop to Waimea Falls is well worth the short trek. You will see rare birds, including peacocks, while on this paved path. The cascades fall 45 feet; for cooling off, it’s possible to take a dip in the swimming hole at the base of the cascade.