Need a place to go in the heat? Switzer Falls picnic area and trail are perfect. The picnic area that you drive down to is quite deep in a canyon, and the beautiful hills on either side provide shade in the canyon much of the day. When the sun is directly up, the huge oak and alder trees provide the needed shade still, making this a relatively cool, and wonderfully quiet spot to hang out in. If there is water flowing, the tiny river makes it even more fun for families, with lots of shallow areas and small pools.
For the hikers what follows is an extract from http://www.localhikes.com/Hikes/Switzer_4472.asp
This is a relatively easy hike into one of the loveliest sections of the San Gabriel mountains. The hike meanders back and across the stream running down the spectacular Arroyo Seco Canyon. The stream is lined with oaks and alder, with the water cascading over granite into mirror-like pools. The hike travels high above the 50 foot high Switzer falls, then drops back to the stream, where hikers can double back to stand at the base of the falls. After seeing the falls, travel down stream to the intersection with Bear Canyon, and travel up this spectacularly wild, steep walled canyon for another half mile or so to enjoy its wonders. More adventuresome hikes can continue up Bear Canyon for 2 miles to Bear Camp
TO PARK - you will need a day pass, which you can buy for about $5 (Annual passes are about $30)
You can get one from:
Sports Chalet
1 Sport Chalet Dr
La Canada Fltrdg, CA 91011
(818) 949-5300
Warnings: The road may be closed in winter. Check with Caltrans
for the condition of the Angeles Crest Highway (just enter the number 2)
The gate at the top of the road down to the picnic area carries a sign saying closed at 4:30pm (I've never seen it closed, but you never know!)
Have fun!
T
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