The best walks and hikes around Pasadena

Yes, Pasadena has several options for beginners. The Fort McHenry Seawall Trail loop — Baltimore is a very short and flat walk, perfect for a quick outing. For a slightly longer but still easy walk, the Thames Street Park Gazebo loop from Canton offers a pleasant route through urban park areas.

Pasadena is well-known for its waterfall hikes, especially in the San Gabriel Mountains. Eaton Canyon Natural Area is a very popular destination with a trail leading to a 40-foot waterfall. Another highly-regarded option is the Switzer Falls Trail, which takes you through a shaded canyon to a two-tiered waterfall.

Many trails in the Pasadena area are dog-friendly, but rules can vary. Trails in the Angeles National Forest, such as those in Eaton Canyon and the Arroyo Seco, generally welcome dogs on a leash. However, some specific areas or nature preserves may have restrictions. Always check the specific regulations for the trail you plan to hike and be prepared to keep your dog leashed and clean up after them.

The Eaton Canyon Natural Area is a top choice for families, featuring a relatively flat main trail to a waterfall and an educational Nature Center. Another great spot is Hahamongna Watershed Park in the upper Arroyo Seco, which offers wide, gentle trails perfect for walking with children.

For a moderate loop, consider the North Overlook loop from Lake Shore, which is about 5.4 miles and includes some minor elevation changes. If you're looking for something easier, the Cattail Pond loop from Stewarts Landing is a great 3-mile option.

For most day hiking in the Angeles National Forest, you do not need a permit. However, a National Forest Adventure Pass is required for parking your vehicle in many designated sites, trailheads, and recreation areas. It's always a good idea to check the official U.S. Forest Service website for the most current requirements before you go.

Parking at popular trailheads can be challenging, especially on weekends. Eaton Canyon has a designated parking lot, but it fills up very quickly. Visitors often have to find street parking in the surrounding residential areas, so be sure to pay close attention to any posted parking restrictions. Arriving early is highly recommended.

Yes, many of the canyon trails offer good shade. The Switzer Falls trail via the Gabrielino Trail is a popular choice as it follows a creek through a shaded canyon. The lower sections of the Arroyo Seco also feature trails with significant tree cover, providing a cooler hiking experience during warmer months.

The trails around Pasadena are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Hikers often praise the incredible variety, from challenging mountain climbs in the San Gabriels to peaceful walks along the Arroyo Seco. The accessibility of stunning natural scenery so close to the city is a frequently mentioned highlight.

The Arroyo Seco is a large, diverse area stretching 22 miles. It includes distinct zones like the natural Lower Arroyo, the recreational Central Arroyo with the Rose Bowl, and Hahamongna Watershed Park. For a detailed overview of its different sections and access points, you can explore more at the Visit Pasadena website.

With nearly 300 days of sunshine a year, hiking is possible year-round. However, the best times are typically spring and fall when temperatures are mild. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and fuller waterfalls after winter rains. Summer can be very hot, especially on exposed trails, so early morning starts are essential. Winter is also pleasant but be sure to check weather conditions, as higher elevation trails can sometimes get snow.