
Monrovia Canyon Falls
A restored 80-acre park featuring a scenic waterfall trail, picnic areas, and abundant nature in the San Gabriel foothills.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Monrovia Canyon Falls
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A restored 80-acre park featuring a scenic waterfall trail, picnic areas, and abundant nature in the San Gabriel foothills.
"This park is such a gem, beautifully restored and a lovely place to picnic and hike!"

👟 Wear proper hiking shoes
Trails can be narrow with loose dirt; good tread is essential. Poles are recommended for stability.
📅 Book weekend reservations
Essential for weekend visits to Monrovia Canyon Park. Check the city website!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Monrovia Canyon Falls
End of the main trail
A beautiful two-tiered, 30-foot waterfall cascading down the San Gabriel foothills. A rewarding sight after a scenic hike.

Monrovia Canyon Park Trails
Throughout the park
Explore various trails ranging from easy 1.5-mile loops to more extensive 3-mile routes, offering a mix of shady forest and sun-dappled paths.

Nature Center & Picnic Areas
Upper trailhead
Enjoy picnic tables, BBQ grills, and benches amidst giant oaks, perfect for a family outing or a relaxing lunch.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Weekend Reservations Essential
Trail Preparedness is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear proper hiking shoes
Trails can be narrow with loose dirt; good tread is essential. Poles are recommended for stability.
📅 Book weekend reservations
Essential for weekend visits to Monrovia Canyon Park. Check the city website!
💧 Bring plenty of water
Stay hydrated on your hike, especially during warmer months.
🐻 Be bear aware
Bears are frequently seen in the area; take precautions and be mindful.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear proper hiking shoes
Trails can be narrow with loose dirt; good tread is essential. Poles are recommended for stability.
📅 Book weekend reservations
Essential for weekend visits to Monrovia Canyon Park. Check the city website!
💧 Bring plenty of water
Stay hydrated on your hike, especially during warmer months.
🐻 Be bear aware
Bears are frequently seen in the area; take precautions and be mindful.
🗺️ Grab a park map
Helpful for navigating the various trails within the park.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Monrovia Canyon Park is celebrated as a beautifully restored gem, especially for its reopened waterfall trail. Visitors praise the park's natural beauty, well-maintained facilities, and the rewarding hike to the falls. Some caution is advised regarding trail conditions and wildlife, but overall, it's highly recommended for a peaceful outdoor escape.
"This was my first time in California. Such a beautiful state. Work brought me out here, more specifically Monrovia. I visited Monrovia Canyon Park on my first day here and so glad I did. Such an incredibly beautiful place! Trails are not too difficult to hike, but can be strenuous for those who are not physically active."
JoJo Kunnath
"Monrovia Canyon is open again! First time to the park so I can’t compare, but this park is such a gem. Reservations required for weekend visits, open during the week. No entrance fees. Plenty of bathrooms, signage, and accessibility information. Would highly recommend if you’re in the area. A lovely place to picnic."
Blair Lord
"First, I walked the Bill Cull Trail up from the Ranger Station. Not my cup of tea! Too narrow and steep drop-offs on one side! But beautiful views! At the end of that trail was a nice stream and view of the canyon. I enjoyed it. I will return for more hikes on other trails."
Rev. Nathan Davis
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Monrovia Canyon Falls is located within Monrovia Canyon Park. The park is accessible by car, and there are paved parking lots available. Street parking is also an option, but be mindful of permit-only zones and street sweeping signs.
Yes, the park is well-signed and located in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains. It's about 25 miles from Los Angeles.
There are paved parking lots within the park. Street parking is available outside the entrance, but pay close attention to signage regarding permits and street sweeping.
While specific public transport routes directly to the park might be limited, you can typically reach Monrovia via bus or train and then use a rideshare service for the final leg to the park entrance.
Yes, biking is a popular option, especially for those looking to explore trails like Sawpit. Check park regulations for specific biking access.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are typically no entrance fees for Monrovia Canyon Park. However, weekend visits require reservations.
Yes, reservations are required for weekend visits to Monrovia Canyon Park. It's best to book these in advance through the city's website.
The park is generally open during the week. Weekend hours are tied to reservation slots. Always check the official city website for the most current operating hours and reservation details.
Typically, there are no entrance fees for the park itself. Parking may have a small fee on weekdays and weekends, though it was free for a period after the grand reopening.
You can visit on weekdays without a reservation. However, weekend visits absolutely require a reservation booked in advance.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike to the falls varies depending on the trailhead. From the new ranger station, it's about 1.5 miles one way. From the middle trailhead, it's about a mile, and from the upper trailhead near the nature center, it's approximately 3/4 mile one way.
The trail is considered moderate. While some sections are mellow, others have elevation gain and can be narrow with loose dirt, requiring good footwear.
Yes, there are plenty of restrooms available throughout the park, including near the ranger station and picnic areas.
Absolutely! The park offers numerous picnic tables, BBQ grills, and benches, especially near the upper trailhead and nature center, making it a great spot for a picnic.
Bears are frequently spotted in the area, so it's important to be bear-aware. You might also see various birds and other small wildlife.
📸 📸 Photography
The waterfall itself is the primary subject. Capture its two tiers from different angles. The surrounding lush greenery and restored landscape also offer beautiful photo opportunities.
The trails can be narrow and uneven, so be mindful of your footing while taking photos. The views along the trail and at the falls are worth the effort.
Morning light can be soft and beautiful, especially filtering through the trees. Sunset hikes offer a different, warm glow, but ensure you have enough light to safely descend.
Drone usage is typically restricted in national forests and parks to protect wildlife and visitor experience. It's best to check with park authorities for specific drone regulations.
The restored landscape post-Bobcat Fire offers a unique perspective on nature's resilience. The picnic areas under the large oak trees also make for picturesque settings.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid crowds and allow children more freedom to explore. While bears are present, maintaining noise and keeping a close eye on children significantly minimizes risks. The park's restoration post-fire also offers a great opportunity to teach kids about nature's resilience.
🚶♀️ Solo Hikers
The park's restoration offers a unique perspective on nature's recovery, making it an inspiring solo journey. The various trail options allow for flexibility in planning your hike duration and intensity.
🌳 Nature Enthusiasts
Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including various bird species and the occasional bear sighting. The park's trails provide opportunities to explore different microclimates within the canyon, from shady oak woodlands to sunnier, more open areas. The presence of the waterfall adds a dynamic element to the landscape, especially during wetter seasons.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Reopened Monrovia Canyon Falls Trail
Visitors can choose from various trail lengths. The most direct route to the falls is about 1.5 miles roundtrip from the ranger station, or shorter distances from other trailheads. The path itself is a mix of shady forest and sun-dappled sections, providing a pleasant hiking experience. However, be prepared for narrow passages with loose dirt and fine gravel, especially on steeper parts. This makes sturdy hiking shoes with good tread essential, and trekking poles can be a helpful addition for stability.
The reward at the end of the hike is the picturesque Monrovia Canyon Falls, a two-tiered, 30-foot waterfall. The park also features well-maintained picnic areas with tables and BBQ grills, making it an ideal destination for a day trip or a family outing. Remember that weekend visits require reservations, so plan accordingly to experience this gem.
Navigating Monrovia Canyon Park
For those seeking a more relaxed experience, the areas around the nature center and upper trailhead provide ample picnic spots under large oak trees. These spots are equipped with benches and BBQ grills, perfect for a leisurely afternoon. The park's restoration efforts are evident throughout, with significant regrowth visible, creating a beautiful natural setting.
When planning your visit, remember that weekend reservations are mandatory. Weekdays offer a more spontaneous experience. Parking is available in designated lots, and while there's usually a small fee, it was free for a period post-reopening. Always check the city's official website for the most up-to-date information on reservations, fees, and park access.
Wildlife and Safety in Monrovia Canyon
Beyond bears, the park is home to various bird species and other small animals, adding to the natural charm of the hike. The trails, while beautiful, can be narrow and have steep drop-offs in some sections, particularly the Bill Cull Trail. Proper footwear is highly recommended to prevent slips and falls, especially on loose gravel.
Always carry essentials like water, snacks, and a first-aid kit. Inform someone of your hiking plans and expected return time. By being prepared and respectful of the environment, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience in Monrovia Canyon Park.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit