Brown Mountain Dam Trail
An 8.5-mile shaded hike to a beautiful artificial waterfall, featuring stream crossings and potential wildlife encounters.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Brown Mountain Dam Trail
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An 8.5-mile shaded hike to a beautiful artificial waterfall, featuring stream crossings and potential wildlife encounters.
"The highlight of the hike was reaching the waterfall. The location was shady and although it was a toasty afternoon, we were able to cool down."
👟 Wear Waterproof Shoes
You'll cross streams, so expect wet feet! Waterproof hiking boots are ideal.
🐻 Respect Wildlife
Be aware of bears and other animals. Keep your distance and never feed them.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Brown Mountain Dam Waterfall
End of the trail
An artificial but beautiful cascade, offering a refreshing reward after your hike. Perfect for photos!
Shaded Forest Path
Along the Gabrielino Trail
Enjoy a comfortable hike through lush, shaded woodlands, even on warmer days.
Stream Crossings
Throughout the trail
An integral part of the adventure, these crossings add a fun, wet element to your trek.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Wild: Wildlife Encounters
Waterproof Your Adventure
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Waterproof Shoes
You'll cross streams, so expect wet feet! Waterproof hiking boots are ideal.
🐻 Respect Wildlife
Be aware of bears and other animals. Keep your distance and never feed them.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
It's an 8-9 mile hike, so stay hydrated! Snacks are also recommended.
🚴 Watch for Bikers
Mountain bikers share the trail; be aware of your surroundings.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Waterproof Shoes
You'll cross streams, so expect wet feet! Waterproof hiking boots are ideal.
🐻 Respect Wildlife
Be aware of bears and other animals. Keep your distance and never feed them.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
It's an 8-9 mile hike, so stay hydrated! Snacks are also recommended.
🚴 Watch for Bikers
Mountain bikers share the trail; be aware of your surroundings.
🌿 Watch for Poison Oak
While trails are maintained, be mindful of poison oak.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
This trail is praised for its beautiful, shaded path leading to a rewarding artificial waterfall. Hikers enjoy the moderate length and the refreshing stream crossings, though they advise wearing waterproof shoes and being mindful of wildlife. It's a popular choice for a scenic hike with a clear destination.
"The hike to the waterfall is relatively easy and offers plenty of shaded areas along the way. Despite the temperature being 84 degrees during our hike, we found it comfortable and didn't feel overheated. Be prepared to cross a few small streams, which means your shoes may get wet. Overall, it's a beautiful trail, and it’s likely to be even more picturesque in the fall!"
Rachel. X
"This waterfall is one of the nicer ones in the Angeles Forest even though it’s artificial, and is easy to access, only requiring a 8 mile easy hike from the Gabrielino Trail, which is shaded and passes by many rest areas."
Lily Morgan
"This isn't a difficult hike but definitely worth it . It's about 8 - 9 miles round trip. Definitely needs to be done in the morning before the heat. We started at about 1:30 pm, but we did get a fairly good amount of shade. There's one location at the campsite with a bathroom. There's poison oak all around, however it has been well maintained and kept away from the paths. But still be careful. Trekking poles are not necessary but snacks and water are recommended. You might want to wear waterproof shoes there's plenty of streams to cross that will take you to the waterfall. The highlight of the hike was reaching the waterfall. The location was shady and although it was a toasty afternoon, we were able to cool down.
Although we saw many hikers, the waterfall area wasn't crowded at all so we were able to take pictures and rest for a while. If you like waterfalls, add this hike to your list. Enjoy your hike."
Emma
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The trail is accessible via the Gabrielino Trail, with trailheads in La Cañada Flintridge. Some suggest starting from the Prieto trailhead.
Parking availability can vary. It's recommended to arrive early, especially on weekends. Some sources mention needing an Adventure Pass.
Yes, you can use 'Prieto trailhead' or 'Brown Mountain Dam' in your GPS.
Public transport options to trailheads may be limited. Driving is generally the most convenient way to access the trail.
The most common route is via the Gabrielino Trail, which leads to the Brown Mountain Dam and its waterfall.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
An Adventure Pass may be required for parking in certain areas. It's best to check current regulations before your visit.
There are typically no direct entrance fees for the trail itself, but parking areas may require a pass.
The trail is generally open from dawn to dusk. However, it's advisable to check local park service information for any specific restrictions.
Yes, dogs are allowed on the trail, but they must be kept on a leash.
The hike is considered moderate, around 8-9 miles round trip. While not overly difficult, it requires a good level of stamina.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The round trip hike is approximately 8 to 8.5 miles. +2
The elevation gain is around 672 feet.
Yes, a significant portion of the trail, especially along the Gabrielino Trail, is well-shaded, making it comfortable even on warmer days.
You might encounter bears, coyotes, skunks, and various other wild animals. Always maintain a safe distance and be aware of your surroundings. +1
Yes, there is a bathroom located at a campsite along the trail.
📸 📸 Photography
The waterfall at the dam is a prime photo opportunity. The shaded forest and stream crossings also offer picturesque scenes.
Absolutely! The combination of forest, water features, and the dam itself provides diverse opportunities for landscape shots.
Early morning light can be beautiful, offering softer shadows and fewer crowds. Golden hour in the late afternoon can also be stunning.
Drone usage is often restricted in natural areas and national forests. It's crucial to check local regulations before flying a drone.
The artificial waterfall, the numerous stream crossings, and the potential for wildlife sightings offer unique photographic subjects.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep a close eye on children during stream crossings and be mindful of poison oak. Wildlife sightings, like coyotes or skunks, can be exciting for kids, but always emphasize maintaining a safe distance and respecting the animals.
🐶 Dog Owners
Bring extra water for your dog, as they will need to stay hydrated on the 8-mile trek. Be aware of wildlife, as dogs can sometimes attract or provoke animals. Keep your dog close and under control, especially if you encounter bears or other potentially dangerous wildlife.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Consider visiting in the early morning for softer light and fewer people, or during the late afternoon for golden hour hues. The shaded forest provides a consistent, diffused light that can be flattering for many types of photography. Keep an eye out for wildlife as well, which can add an exciting element to your portfolio.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Trail: Distance and Terrain
Be prepared for multiple stream crossings throughout the hike. These crossings are a defining characteristic of the trail and mean your feet will likely get wet. Wearing waterproof hiking shoes is highly recommended to ensure comfort and prevent blisters. The water can be cold but is often described as refreshing, especially after a strenuous section.
While the trail is generally well-maintained, hikers should be aware of poison oak in the surrounding areas. Although it's usually kept away from the paths, caution is advised. Trekking poles can be helpful for stability during stream crossings and on uneven terrain, though they are not strictly necessary for everyone.
Wildlife Encounters and Safety
To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, it's recommended to hike in groups and make noise to alert animals of your presence. Carrying bear spray and knowing how to use it can provide an extra layer of security. If you do see wildlife, remain calm, do not approach, and slowly back away.
Beyond larger mammals, the trail is also home to various birds and smaller creatures. The natural environment is rich and vibrant, offering opportunities to observe local flora and fauna. Respecting the wildlife and their space is paramount to preserving the natural beauty of the area for everyone.
The Allure of the Waterfall
Even on warm afternoons, the area around the waterfall is often shaded, providing a pleasant respite. Many hikers find the waterfall to be the most memorable part of the journey, making the effort of the hike entirely worthwhile. The sound of the water and the visual spectacle make it a popular spot for visitors.
Photographers will find ample opportunities to capture stunning shots of the waterfall, especially with the surrounding natural beauty. The flow of water can vary depending on the season and recent rainfall, so checking conditions beforehand might be beneficial for those seeking a more dramatic cascade.
Social
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