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Love this hike cause it's only .5 (from the big parking lot). The parking pass required (though I'm not sure how often they check because a lot of people park without passes) can be purchased from the Chevron near Arcadia REI (I went to REI and they said they haven't gotten Adventure Passes in 7 months so he told me Chevron has them or a ranger station). I have no idea where the ranger station is so I went to the Chevron and it's only $5!! There is parking available on the cliffside but you have to walk all the way down a long hill. I recommend just parking in the big lot. The hike is pretty much shaded most of the way. It is a lot of crossing rocks and water. In the beginning, there is one "rock wall" to climb up. There is a bathroom at the camp site. I would hold it if I could because that bathroom did not look clean. When it rains a lot, the waterfall gets bigger. I have found salamanders and toads here with my husband before. Today, I found a praying mantis and huge daddy long leg spider nests!! Absolutely terrifying, watch out for them on the rocks! They blend in well.
If you're looking for a relatively short and shady hike to a waterfall, then this is the spot for you! Things to know before you go: 1. You MUST purchase a "Daily Adventure Pass" before heading there. They DO NOT sell it at the park. You can buy it at the ranger station/main office, but if you're planning to go early, then they don't open until 10AM. After reading a few reviews, I saw that you can purchase it at the nearest Chevron station (907 E Altadena Dr. Altadena, CA 91001), and i was able to buy it early in the morning for $5. But don't expect to get gas there along the way because its ridiculously expensive. The pass is basically your parking pass, that you have to leave on your dash after parking. 2. The main parking lot is very SMALL, get there the earlier the better! 3. It's also a campground, so yes there are people camping there, and there are bathrooms! Only porta potties though, definitely not the cleanest. Bring hand sanitizer and wipes if you can! 4. I do not believe there are any water fountains, so bring water with you! 5. Dogs ARE allowed, but on leash only! 6. Yes, a lot of people bring their babies, toddlers, kids, and dogs here with them, BUT I will warn you now that I didn't know beforehand that the whole pathway is only partially paved. You DO have to CROSS the river stream multiple times, carefully stepping/climbing on wet rocks and fallen wood, and trying not to slip. So UNLESS you're okay with either having to hold your kids or dogs WHILE crossing, then I suggest you leave them at home. 7. Its only about 1 mile hike, but because you have to cross the river and climb rocks, it might take you a little longer, depending on your ability to balance on uneven surfaces. 8. Overall, majority of the hike is super shaded, and its super beautiful and breezy at the end! Don't need to go after the rain, the waterfall is flowing year round!
Right now the waterfall and streams are great! Need an adventure pass to park I believe it's $10-15. Nearest parking area gives you an extra 1-11/2 lower lot is quicker be prepared to get wet, wear shoes that you don't mind getting soaked. I'm a very large guy so some parts were difficult for me, there is a wall you have to hop up on but there are places for shoe holes and rocks that stuck out to go up and over. There is shaded areas most of the way.
Millard Canyon is home to trails, a campsite, and a waterfall. This would be a great hike on a hot summer day as it's shady and cool. I've visited twice for hiking; it's a lovely half-mile trek up the canyon to the waterfall. It is a rocky hike that crosses the creek back and forth, so wear the right shoes with good tread. To get to the trail to the waterfall, you will pass through the campground; trails are well-marked. Parking is available at the parking lot next to the campsite; an Adventure Pass is required (since you will be in the Angeles National Forest.) Campsites are first-come, first-served. More information here: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/angeles/recarea/?recid=41706 Check for updates as fire season is approaching. Parking can get busy on the weekends; the early bird gets the worm.
Super fun hike! Plan on about an hour turn around time. Lots of creek crossing along the way. Shoes should not get very wet if you are careful. We saw lots of kids and dogs. May be a little tricky for older adults who don't have great balance. * REI in Pasadena has Adventure Passes for purchase... Day passes are $4.99
So surprising. Even at 1 pm on a 90 degree August day, it was lovely. Shaded hike with switchbacks over a trickling creek...a tree swing along the way...two waterfalls...easy mellow uphill going to the falls that deadends the hike, easy hike back to parking lot. You'll need a $5 adventure pass to park there...or park up the hill from the parking lot. Lots of families with kids, two picnic tables at the trailhead. There's a toilet near the walk in campsite and there were a half dozen tents there. The toilets were gross so suggest taking care of business before you leave home. I also loved the drive to the short hike at the bottom of the mini mountain there's a trailhead and pull off coming up the mountain that let's you have a longer hike, but glad for the short hike as it was fun, with interesting features to explore. Bring lots of water, a snack. Plan on an hour there and back. I wore desert sandals, so found it served well...waterproof hiking boots if you got em.
We wanted to avoid Eaton Canyon for the crowds so we came her Millard Canyon to see the waterfall. It was a quick hike about 45 mins round trip. There wasn't a crowd and there was a small waterfall. I parked all the way down the hill where there is plenty of parking but if you are looking for the longer trail, it would be at the top of the hill. Parking was limited and alot of cars parked on the side of the mountain.
Millard Falls Hike. An easy but really enjoyable trail with lots of shade, small cascades and rock pools all leading up to a beautiful, 3-story Horsetail Waterfall at the end of the trail. We went on 1/14/22 and the water was really flowing. People of all ages, pets and children could easily make it the whole way as it's only a .5 mile slightly uphill trek from the trailhead @ the Camp Site. You could easily do it in 45-60 mins but we spent about 90 minutes as we weren't in a rush at all, rather the opposite. You have to cross the stream a few times back and forth but it's only an inch or two deep and each crossing has rocks and logs already laid so if you balance you won't get wet at all. Snacks aren't necessary and water would only be needed in the summer or warmer months, it's honestly a really easy hike. Easiest place to park is @ the parking lot at the bottom; but some opt to park on the hill to make it a longer trek. I would recommend and will be back.
Now a days it's rough to locate a easy access waterfall especially if you have a child. Since most of the other fall hikes are closed due to the fires from a couple years ago. Parking options one at top and one at bottom. If you park up top. It's a 3+ mile hike. At the bottom out and back is about 1.5+ mile hike. There are a few stream crossings. Depending on the rainfall it gets pretty deep and will get your feet wet. Extra sock and shoes for the ride home is probably necessary. If you hiked the Eaton Canyon falls before this is a much shorter hike. Not a tough hike at all and probably can be done in an hour. Only downside is the limited parking spots and definitely need an adventure pass to ensure you won't get a ticket.
Nice hike to the waterfall. Not too tough. The area is use for camping as well. There are a few camp sites right before getting to the trail of the waterfall. The paths can be narrow at some areas. Pros + short hike from the upper parking lot (10-15 mins) + lots of shade throughout the hike. It gets pretty cold, check the temperature before you go! + Beautiful waterfall! + Nice place to take photos too. Cons - parking is limited, come early. There's a parking in the lower part and some right before the bridge. I recommend to download the Alltrails app!
Saw a Snake And a Frog Highly recommended this place. Heard a guy singing Coldplay with his guitar right next to the stream which was a plus.
Gorgeous. We went just after some big rains hit Southern California so the creek was rushing and the waterfall was flowing. Getting to this hike can be confusing. Here's what we did. Directions from Pasadena, CA: Travel Interstate 210 north, exit Lake Avenue and go north to Loma Alta Drive. Turn west (left) on Loma Alta and drive to the Chaney Trail (flashing yellow light). Turn onto Chaney trail. The road is windy and a little narrow. Nothing too sketchy. Follow that up for a bit. Go past the first parking area. (Millard Parking Area). That parking area won't lead you to the hike to the falls. Keep going to where Chaney TRL meets Mt. Lowe Rd. There is a teeny tiny parking lot and thats the trailhead. If there isn't parking in that lot, turn around and park along the road. (You can do it!) K. So go back to the trail head and walk along a paved fire road for a short time. You'll take the first trailhead on your left. Leaving the fire road and descending into a canyon for .8 miles. At the bottom of that trail, you'll arrive at Millard campground and the creek. Turn right and head upstream. (There are bathrooms and picnic benches here). After a short walk you'll see the trail for Millard Falls on your right. After a fun .5 miles of criss crossing the creek (your feet might get wet if you slip! Part of the fun!) you'll arrive at the falls. Head back the way you came, and back up the canyon to your car. Splendid gorgeous hike. Enjoy!
Growing up in Pasadena next to the San Gabriel Mountains, I have spent decades exploring, hiking, camping, fishing, and otherwise enjoying The different zones and areas within this incredible range. And while its juxtaposition with a huge urban area definitely shows the signs of impact, there are still a few places that at the very least, feign nature and remoteness. Millard Canyon is one of those places. Thanks to a paved road for access, visitors can enjoy easy hikes in a classic San Gabriels riparian environment: a babbling Creek meandering through decomposed granite, in the shadow of California laurel trees and scrub oaks. Despite the heavy traffic, there is still a natural feeling to this place, and the balance and battle between those who bring spray paint and those who pick up other people' trash wages on. Our most recent visit here was simply to get a hill walk in, so we parked down on Loma Alta, and walked the length of the paved road all the way to the Millard Canyon parking lot. Good thing too, because the lot was full, and folks were parked along the side of the road all the way to the intersection with a few other trails, Fully a half mile away from Millard Canyon proper. There are a few campsites here, along with a pit toilet, a couple of trash cans, and a "camp host" Who from the looks of it, is a permanent resident. If you are looking for the closest campsite to civilization and her urban impacts, this may be it. As we walked by towards the waterfall, there was a rather loud and large group burning a lot of wet wood, creating plenty of smoke to go with their amplified rap music. 10 kinds of awesome, right there. But like most trails in the San Gabriel Mountains, The longer you walk on them, the farther you get away from that sort of thing. Fact is, I like getting out into nature to spend a few moments away from crowds of people. Millard Canyon does not offer that, so short of a quick exercise jog, or maybe a picnic with an hour to kill... And a forest adventure pass hanging from my river... I tend to skip this one. No one else does though.
7 months ago
It's the @light_skin_dragon blasting off to the wilderness where I belong. I am going through something personally where I won't speak of. My co-worker/friend hit me up saying let's go hiking. I was like bet. That would take my mind away from what I'm thinking about. So I discovered this on my app that I pay for. And I told him about it so we meet up and we came. I had my eyes on this place for a while because I haven't seen a water fall since I went hiking in Alaska. So he thought we were gonna do a Griffith hike but no this one was more intense. We have to walk into the water to get to the other side and btw the trail itself is like a mile so it literally is like a hour so together if you go there and back. We met a nice man there as well he went with his wife and 8 kids and I mean the kids were you g with 2 older children. So that inspired me to come and bring my daughter. Btw parking you need a parking pass which cost 5 bucks but we didn't get one and it was okay but just letting you know there are two different parking spots as well we parked higher up where we had to walk down to the trail. read more
I have been here many times. Is a short hike with a beautiful waterfall.. Don't forget to bring your adventures pass or you will get ticketed... Is an easy hike family friendly you might get your feet wet, you will pass about 4 creeks . Enjoy the trails and please leave no trace. read more
Came camping here for a week. Quiet and peaceful only a few other campers came in an out but honestly not really anyone. Aside from the toilets & their flies it was very lovely, around 4-6am I really want to say the flies are asleep because I'd go to the restroom they weren't there. I would buy a fly spray to spray them dead and coat the toliet ( I used the mosquito spray I had and it helped) I also brought toliet seat covers which I ripped the center out so the air from the toliet didn't pull it down. There's the occasional owner's car the rolls through but not often. Not loud at all. A good amount of hikers throughout the week and more towards the weekend is higher activity. During the week a very friendly family set up next to my husband and I and they kept giving us food and even a huge bottle of wine and fruit. This place is free and the limit is 14 days. All you need is a campfire permit and an adventure pass. Collecting twigs, dried leaves and sticks was fun in the creek right behind the campsite, Cute little frogs inhabit that area so watch your step. . The camp is 5 sites up along the creek at the begining of a the waterfall hike right around the bend from the lowest parking lot. The trails surrounding are dog friendly and so is the campsite (: there are fire pit and Bearboxes for each campsite. We found spot 4 right in front of the bathrooms behind that Firepit to be the best spot. Right in the middle, back of the tent facing the house that's there and kinda in view of all the other sites. Overall really enjoyed The campsite is also read more
3 years ago
Love this hike cause it's only .5 (from the big parking lot). The parking pass required (though I'm not sure how often they check because a lot of people park without passes) can be purchased from the Chevron near Arcadia REI (I went to REI and they said they haven't gotten Adventure Passes in 7 months so he told me Chevron has them or a ranger station). I have no idea where the ranger station is so I went to the Chevron and it's only $5!! There is parking available on the cliffside but you have to walk all the way down a long hill. I recommend just parking in the big lot. The hike is pretty much shaded most of the way. It is a lot of crossing rocks and water. In the beginning, there is one "rock wall" to climb up. There is a bathroom at the camp site. I would hold it if I could because that bathroom did not look clean. When it rains a lot, the waterfall gets bigger. I have found salamanders and toads here with my husband before. Today, I found a praying mantis and huge daddy long leg spider nests!! Absolutely terrifying, watch out for them on the rocks! They blend in well. read more
If you're looking for a relatively short and shady hike to a waterfall, then this is the spot for you! Things to know before you go: 1. You MUST purchase a "Daily Adventure Pass" before heading there. They DO NOT sell it at the park. You can buy it at the ranger station/main office, but if you're planning to go early, then they don't open until 10AM. After reading a few reviews, I saw that you can purchase it at the nearest Chevron station (907 E Altadena Dr. Altadena, CA 91001), and i was able to buy it early in the morning for $5. But don't expect to get gas there along the way because its ridiculously expensive. The pass is basically your parking pass, that you have to leave on your dash after parking. 2. The main parking lot is very SMALL, get there the earlier the better! 3. It's also a campground, so yes there are people camping there, and there are bathrooms! Only porta potties though, definitely not the cleanest. Bring hand sanitizer and wipes if you can! 4. I do not believe there are any water fountains, so bring water with you! 5. Dogs ARE allowed, but on leash only! 6. Yes, a lot of people bring their babies, toddlers, kids, and dogs here with them, BUT I will warn you now that I didn't know beforehand that the whole pathway is only partially paved. You DO have to CROSS the river stream multiple times, carefully stepping/climbing on wet rocks and fallen wood, and trying not to slip. So UNLESS you're okay with either having to hold your kids or dogs WHILE crossing, then I suggest you leave them at home. 7. Its only about 1 mile hike, but because you have to cross the river and climb rocks, it might take you a little longer, depending on your ability to balance on uneven surfaces. 8. Overall, majority of the hike is super shaded, and its super beautiful and breezy at the end! Don't need to go after the rain, the waterfall is flowing year round! read more
Right now the waterfall and streams are great! Need an adventure pass to park I believe it's $10-15. Nearest parking area gives you an extra 1-11/2 lower lot is quicker be prepared to get wet, wear shoes that you don't mind getting soaked. I'm a very large guy so some parts were difficult for me, there is a wall you have to hop up on but there are places for shoe holes and rocks that stuck out to go up and over. There is shaded areas most of the way. read more
Millard Canyon is home to trails, a campsite, and a waterfall. This would be a great hike on a hot summer day as it's shady and cool. I've visited twice for hiking; it's a lovely half-mile trek up the canyon to the waterfall. It is a rocky hike that crosses the creek back and forth, so wear the right shoes with good tread. To get to the trail to the waterfall, you will pass through the campground; trails are well-marked. Parking is available at the parking lot next to the campsite; an Adventure Pass is required (since you will be in the Angeles National Forest.) Campsites are first-come, first-served. More information here: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/angeles/recarea/?recid=41706 Check for updates as fire season is approaching. Parking can get busy on the weekends; the early bird gets the worm. read more
8 months ago
Super fun hike! Plan on about an hour turn around time. Lots of creek crossing along the way. Shoes should not get very wet if you are careful. We saw lots of kids and dogs. May be a little tricky for older adults who don't have great balance. * REI in Pasadena has Adventure Passes for purchase... Day passes are $4.99 read more
2 years ago
So surprising. Even at 1 pm on a 90 degree August day, it was lovely. Shaded hike with switchbacks over a trickling creek...a tree swing along the way...two waterfalls...easy mellow uphill going to the falls that deadends the hike, easy hike back to parking lot. You'll need a $5 adventure pass to park there...or park up the hill from the parking lot. Lots of families with kids, two picnic tables at the trailhead. There's a toilet near the walk in campsite and there were a half dozen tents there. The toilets were gross so suggest taking care of business before you leave home. I also loved the drive to the short hike at the bottom of the mini mountain there's a trailhead and pull off coming up the mountain that let's you have a longer hike, but glad for the short hike as it was fun, with interesting features to explore. Bring lots of water, a snack. Plan on an hour there and back. I wore desert sandals, so found it served well...waterproof hiking boots if you got em. read more
We wanted to avoid Eaton Canyon for the crowds so we came her Millard Canyon to see the waterfall. It was a quick hike about 45 mins round trip. There wasn't a crowd and there was a small waterfall. I parked all the way down the hill where there is plenty of parking but if you are looking for the longer trail, it would be at the top of the hill. Parking was limited and alot of cars parked on the side of the mountain. read more
Millard Falls Hike. An easy but really enjoyable trail with lots of shade, small cascades and rock pools all leading up to a beautiful, 3-story Horsetail Waterfall at the end of the trail. We went on 1/14/22 and the water was really flowing. People of all ages, pets and children could easily make it the whole way as it's only a .5 mile slightly uphill trek from the trailhead @ the Camp Site. You could easily do it in 45-60 mins but we spent about 90 minutes as we weren't in a rush at all, rather the opposite. You have to cross the stream a few times back and forth but it's only an inch or two deep and each crossing has rocks and logs already laid so if you balance you won't get wet at all. Snacks aren't necessary and water would only be needed in the summer or warmer months, it's honestly a really easy hike. Easiest place to park is @ the parking lot at the bottom; but some opt to park on the hill to make it a longer trek. I would recommend and will be back. read more
1 year ago
5 years ago
Now a days it's rough to locate a easy access waterfall especially if you have a child. Since most of the other fall hikes are closed due to the fires from a couple years ago. Parking options one at top and one at bottom. If you park up top. It's a 3+ mile hike. At the bottom out and back is about 1.5+ mile hike. There are a few stream crossings. Depending on the rainfall it gets pretty deep and will get your feet wet. Extra sock and shoes for the ride home is probably necessary. If you hiked the Eaton Canyon falls before this is a much shorter hike. Not a tough hike at all and probably can be done in an hour. Only downside is the limited parking spots and definitely need an adventure pass to ensure you won't get a ticket. read more
Nice hike to the waterfall. Not too tough. The area is use for camping as well. There are a few camp sites right before getting to the trail of the waterfall. The paths can be narrow at some areas. Pros + short hike from the upper parking lot (10-15 mins) + lots of shade throughout the hike. It gets pretty cold, check the temperature before you go! + Beautiful waterfall! + Nice place to take photos too. Cons - parking is limited, come early. There's a parking in the lower part and some right before the bridge. I recommend to download the Alltrails app! read more
3 years ago
Saw a Snake And a Frog Highly recommended this place. Heard a guy singing Coldplay with his guitar right next to the stream which was a plus. read more
4 years ago
Gorgeous. We went just after some big rains hit Southern California so the creek was rushing and the waterfall was flowing. Getting to this hike can be confusing. Here's what we did. Directions from Pasadena, CA: Travel Interstate 210 north, exit Lake Avenue and go north to Loma Alta Drive. Turn west (left) on Loma Alta and drive to the Chaney Trail (flashing yellow light). Turn onto Chaney trail. The road is windy and a little narrow. Nothing too sketchy. Follow that up for a bit. Go past the first parking area. (Millard Parking Area). That parking area won't lead you to the hike to the falls. Keep going to where Chaney TRL meets Mt. Lowe Rd. There is a teeny tiny parking lot and thats the trailhead. If there isn't parking in that lot, turn around and park along the road. (You can do it!) K. So go back to the trail head and walk along a paved fire road for a short time. You'll take the first trailhead on your left. Leaving the fire road and descending into a canyon for .8 miles. At the bottom of that trail, you'll arrive at Millard campground and the creek. Turn right and head upstream. (There are bathrooms and picnic benches here). After a short walk you'll see the trail for Millard Falls on your right. After a fun .5 miles of criss crossing the creek (your feet might get wet if you slip! Part of the fun!) you'll arrive at the falls. Head back the way you came, and back up the canyon to your car. Splendid gorgeous hike. Enjoy! read more
Growing up in Pasadena next to the San Gabriel Mountains, I have spent decades exploring, hiking, camping, fishing, and otherwise enjoying The different zones and areas within this incredible range. And while its juxtaposition with a huge urban area definitely shows the signs of impact, there are still a few places that at the very least, feign nature and remoteness. Millard Canyon is one of those places. Thanks to a paved road for access, visitors can enjoy easy hikes in a classic San Gabriels riparian environment: a babbling Creek meandering through decomposed granite, in the shadow of California laurel trees and scrub oaks. Despite the heavy traffic, there is still a natural feeling to this place, and the balance and battle between those who bring spray paint and those who pick up other people' trash wages on. Our most recent visit here was simply to get a hill walk in, so we parked down on Loma Alta, and walked the length of the paved road all the way to the Millard Canyon parking lot. Good thing too, because the lot was full, and folks were parked along the side of the road all the way to the intersection with a few other trails, Fully a half mile away from Millard Canyon proper. There are a few campsites here, along with a pit toilet, a couple of trash cans, and a "camp host" Who from the looks of it, is a permanent resident. If you are looking for the closest campsite to civilization and her urban impacts, this may be it. As we walked by towards the waterfall, there was a rather loud and large group burning a lot of wet wood, creating plenty of smoke to go with their amplified rap music. 10 kinds of awesome, right there. But like most trails in the San Gabriel Mountains, The longer you walk on them, the farther you get away from that sort of thing. Fact is, I like getting out into nature to spend a few moments away from crowds of people. Millard Canyon does not offer that, so short of a quick exercise jog, or maybe a picnic with an hour to kill... And a forest adventure pass hanging from my river... I tend to skip this one. No one else does though. read more
I have a shrink her name is Nature. She's naturally organic that is good for my body and soul. Millard Canyon is fairly narrow and smooth walking sections between rock-hopping regions. Canyon has a 1,900 foot elevation that pokes into the San Gabriel mountain and features a 50-foot waterfalls which is 1/2 mile form Millard campground, a developed public camp just two hundred yards from the MC trailhead. There are two main entry points into the canyon: (a) M.C. trailhead and (b) Sunset Ridge trailhead. The trails have plenty of shades and cool breeze due to surrounding creeks. Moreover, the canyon trail is popular among families, kids and bikers due to its flat trails. Parking was relatively easy and abundant. Overall, I enjoyed my hike and cardio workout. read more
This is a neat little hike to a small waterfall. Located in the hills behind Altadena, this is a relatively quick and easy hike. The total amount of walking to the waterfall and back is just a mile. There were many people doing this hike with young children and dogs, so it is not very difficult. The terrain can be a bit slippery in certain areas and you have to cross over a small stream about four or five times so I would definitely recommend wearing hiking boots or shoes. There is a parking lot nearby that accommodates approximately twenty cars. There is also a small campground here with picnic tables, cooking fire pits, and bathrooms. There were a few tents set up in that area along with a huge RV. Overall, this is a nice and uncomplicated trail with not too much foot traffic. It's pretty quiet and easy to get to. Check it out if you're in the mood to be in nature and walk a little bit as you listen to the water flow through the stream and enjoy an hour or two away from the bustle of everyday life. read more
3 years ago
Millard Canyon Falls is the shortest hike I've ever done that leads to a waterfalls. It's located deep in the canyon and you drive the winding road to get there. Parking is for a few $ so make sure you have the prepaid parking ticket in advance. You can go for a hike if you park up the street so it's still doable without it. read more
Nice moderate hike to the falls. Gorgeous shady hike. Good shoes recommended- will be crossing creek and stepping on rocks and possibly balancing on fallen logs to get across creek- shoes possibly will get wet. All worth the effort. Parking lot is small and fills up quickly- we went early- before 7am and there was plenty available parking but by 8-8:30 am it was full. A parking pass is needed and must be purchased ahead of time- there isn't a place to purchase pass at the lot. We bought our pass at Big 5 for $5- annual passes also available. Must first walk through and past the campsite then trail begins. Restroom near campsite. read more
3 years ago
5 years ago
This is my favorite place to hike. My birds love it too. The waterfall is beautiful especially in the winter because of all the rain. Also the trail is easy and shaded. It takes 1 hour for round trip. My favorite place to be in the forest. In the mountains and spend time in nature. read more
Definitely a hidden gem I had to google to find. This easy hike to a high horsetail type of waterfall makes for the perfect family outing. The trail can be a bit ragged at times (scaling some rocks and downed trees and crossing the little babbling creek) but overall a very easy hike. We brought out three dogs and enjoyed every step of the trail and the treat of the waterfall at the end. The way back is much easier and you ride the waterfall high the whole way. Highly recommend to anyone wanting a soul brightening walk in the woods. Pro-tip-get your adventure pass before going (we got the year one) and hope for available parking. read more
5 years ago
3 years ago
It was an amazing experience hiking this trail! Me and my siblings went around 9 am and the weather was perfect. It was a short hike but it really was beautiful. Totally worth the trip! read more
2 years ago
This hike is great. Short but beautiful. The rain did its justice. The waterfall and creek are full. Yes, it's a busy hike but I've seen worse and busier hikes (I went on a Sunday). The parking was the only downfall, but I saw it as more steps in lol. And Millards Creek trail is all the way at the bottom, where it says additional parking. We didn't know and parked kinda far. OK, I saw a bunch of people with sticks, and yes if you are like me (not graceful) crossing on logs or rocks, then sticks are your best friend. LOTS of creek crossing! Wear boots and you'll be fine! It was lovely to sit and enjoy nature. Lots of dogs, but I love dogs so I enjoyed seeing them happy. Not a hard hike. I went early around 11am and parking was full, but I left around 1:30pm and it seemed a lot busier. And don't park where it says no parking they were giving out tickets. Have fun! Hope you go! read more
7 years ago
Love this hike. The creek that you hike along makes it fun to jump over and the sound is so relaxing. It's a fairly good hike not too difficult but be prepared to get over the creek and climb some rocks. It gets busy so try to get there early. We went at about 8:30 and there were quite a few hikers already. Parking GM can be limiting if you go later. The waterfall is beautiful! They do have a bathroom at the campsite and you can bring your dogs. I'll be back for sure! read more
4 years ago
Went on a hot and sunny day (96 degrees) and it was comfortable due to the shade. The whole trail has coverage which makes this a great hike for a hot day. You can park at the top and hike down the ridge trail (about 3 miles) or you can park at the campsite parking lot and hike from there (1 mile). Great hike for kids. I will probably bring my dog when it's a little cooler. read more
What a lovely surprise right in our backyard! We woke up on a Saturday morning wanting to hike, so I took to the ol' Yelp to see what was nearby and new to us. Millard Canyon seemed super doable and not too long (important since we were getting a late start in the heart of summer), so we slathered on some sunscreen and left to check it out. The address listed on the Yelp page will take you to a residential street rather than a trailhead--I'm guessing this is because parking near the trail is pretty limited. We actually parked right where the Yelp map marker landed and then walked on the road (probably about a mile or maybe a little less) until we reached the trail. So, this is where it might get a little confusing. We hopped onto the trail that was very uphill and very hot for about a mile or so. We ended up at a lookout and then had a few options. We stayed on the Millard Canyon trail and eventually found ourselves walking past campgrounds and stumbling upon Millard Falls, a lovely and shaded section with little waterfalls. We actually stopped at one just to hang out and take it all in--it definitely made the challenging start to the hike worth it. We headed back the same way and I will say that walking sticks (or just hiking boots with a good grip) would be helpful. It can be pretty steep and during the hot summer months, the trail can be pretty dry, dusty, and easy to slip down. Bring water, wear sunscreen, and if you need a place to refuel with a sandwich after your hike, check out Perry's Joint in Altadena! read more
Did this hike on 7/11/2020 with a forecast of high 90s by noon. We purchased an Adventure pass at a local gas station but did not need it as the two parking lot were full so we parked along the road. We made the mistake of walking down the road towards the Millard's campground parking lot which added an extra few tiring steps. The trail starts at the yellow gate at the first parking lot I believe it was Sunset Ridge trail. The trail was shaded for the majority of the hike minus a few sections. Great trail for family and kids but I would definitely recommend coming out here around 7am on a weekend. read more
8 years ago
If you are looking for a challenging hike, then look elsewhere. If you are looking for a casual stroll, then Millard Canyon is for you. I came here with my parents and you don't need to have any hiking experiences to complete this trail. Parking wasn't difficult as there were plenty of parking spaces. The trail is clearly laid out and it will take about half an hour to reach the waterfall. Although the trail was easy, there were quite a few obstacles along the way. There was a number of small streams you have to cross. So for people with poor balance, be prepared to get your shoes wet if you fall! Additionally, I encountered quite a few poison ivies along the way. Most of the poison ivies are far off to the sides, so most likely you won't hit them by accident. Nonetheless, the prospect of possibly touching one still worried me quite a bit throughout the hike. Millard Canyon is the perfect spot for a nice family hike. It is not difficult and still provides the perfect get away for the nature lovers. read more
6 years ago
One of the most relaxed and easiest trails in the area! It's super short and sweet. The trail itself has barely, if not any, incline whatsoever but there are five or six stream crossings that you cross via rocks and branches. Nothing impossible, but can be challenging if you don't have good balance. Very kid and dog friendly! It takes about 30 minutes to reach the waterfall from the parking lot. ADVENTURE PASS needed! If the parking lot gets full, you'd have to park at the top of the mountain and walk your way down which probably adds another 20ish minutes. Really nice place to take a stroll in the wilderness away from the city and take in the water noises. Also very clean within the trail. No trashcans within the trail but there are some in the parking lot so bring out what you bring in! read more
I finally did this one for the first time a couple of weeks ago...now that I have I can't say that I will ever be back again. Perhaps, I might bring someone who is new to hiking and want to start them off easy with a short hike to a waterfall. We came to the first parking lot on Chaney and Mt. Lowe Rd. and didn't see any signs to know for sure if it was the trailhead to Millard Falls so we continued on the road a bit longer and passed one more small lot until we reached a larger lot that is near the campground. From there it was only 1.2 miles RT. It was pretty and mostly shaded and I am sure it was even more impressive back in Feb/March after all the rain we received. To find the trail head, walk toward the small campground and the trail starts at the end of the campground on the right hand side. *an Adventure Pass parking permit is required read more
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More info about Millard Canyon
W Loma Alta Dr & Chaney Trl
Altadena, CA 91001
Directions
Hours
Indoor Amenities
Outdoor Amenities
Ask the Community - Millard Canyon
What time open the gate in the morning on the weekend?
They normally open at 8am!
Is this going to be open on Fourth of July day & weekend? Please say Yes!🇺🇸
Trail is open but you can't drive up there. You'd have to walk about 2 miles up the mountain on the road to get to the trailhead. Not much shade so calculate about an hour extra of hiking and bring enough water.
Is this area busy? Is it open now (June 2020).. not sure if closed bc of covid..
Just went yesterday 6/21/2020 it was open but pretty crowded might have been because of father's day or because it was the weekend.
Is this trail open right now?
As of 7/3/20, trail is open but you can't drive up there. You'd have to walk about 2 miles up the mountain on the road to get to the trailhead. Not much shade so calculate about an hour extra of hiking and bring enough water.
Are there water spigots at the campgrounds?
Not to my knowledge, however there is a stream and you can just treat the water before use.
Where do you get the adventure pass to go to Millard Canyon?
Any sporting goods store, Big Five, REI, etc will carry it. It's $5 for a day or $30 for the year.
How many miles until one reaches the waterfall?
.8 from sign and about 1 mile(ish) from parking
Review Highlights - Millard Canyon
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Millard Canyon - parks - Updated August 2026
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