The reward at the end of the waterfall hike
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Monrovia Canyon Falls

4.6
·639 reviews·Monrovia, United States

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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The reward at the end of the waterfall hike

Monrovia Canyon Falls

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.6
(639 reviews)

"This park is such a gem, beautifully restored and a lovely place to picnic and hike!"

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 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!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Monrovia Canyon Falls

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.

Instagram+1
Monrovia Canyon Park Trails

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.

Instagram
Nature Center & Picnic Areas

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.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Weekend Reservations Essential

Monrovia Canyon Park requires weekend reservations, so book ahead online to secure your spot. Weekdays are generally open, but always check the city website for the latest updates before you go. This helps manage crowds and ensures a smoother visit. Reddit

Trail Preparedness is Key

The trails, especially to the falls, can be narrow with loose dirt and gravel. Proper hiking shoes with good tread are highly recommended, and poles can be helpful for stability on steeper sections. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Winter months
Why
Falls are flowing best
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekend afternoons
Why
After initial rush, still vibrant
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

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@itssummerssomewhere
88.3K likes • 1.5M views

👟 Wear proper hiking shoes

Trails can be narrow with loose dirt; good tread is essential. Poles are recommended for stability. Reddit

📅 Book weekend reservations

Essential for weekend visits to Monrovia Canyon Park. Check the city website! Reddit

Trying @Eat Fantastic 🍔🍟🥪🥤 in Monrovia #eatfantastic #cheeseburger #monrovia #placestoeat #bestburger
@hungry4munchies
12.2K likes • 120K views
Monrovia Falls Is Back the beloved Monrovia Falls Trail has finally reopened—and it’s flowing beautifully again! 💦 Just 25 miles from Los Angeles, this canyon trail is the perfect summer reset. 🥾 Trail options:
Take the easy 1.5-mile roundtrip hike or explore up to 3 miles with extended loops. It’s a peaceful mix of shady forest and sun-dappled stretches. What to expect:
– A surprising summer w...
hikingwithsun
1.5K likes • 34.5K views

💧 Bring plenty of water

Stay hydrated on your hike, especially during warmer months. Reddit

🐻 Be bear aware

Bears are frequently seen in the area; take precautions and be mindful. Instagram

🌿✨ Looking for an easy, peaceful, and tranquil hike this weekend with a friend or loved one? Check out this hidden gem in the SGV that just reopened – Canyon Falls in Monrovia Canyon Park! 🏞️ When I went, it was free to get in, and at the end of this mellow hike you’re rewarded with an epic 30-foot waterfall. 💦 Trail specs: 🥾 Miles: 1.7 round trip 📈 Elevation gain: 275 ft Shoutout to @cityofmonr...
thehikingchef22
252 likes • 13.8K views

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. Reddit

📅 Book weekend reservations

Essential for weekend visits to Monrovia Canyon Park. Check the city website! Reddit

💧 Bring plenty of water

Stay hydrated on your hike, especially during warmer months. Reddit

🐻 Be bear aware

Bears are frequently seen in the area; take precautions and be mindful. Instagram

🗺️ Grab a park map

Helpful for navigating the various trails within the park. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(639 reviews)

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. InstagramReddit

"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

Beautiful waterfall
Restored park trails
Picnic facilities

What People Dislike

Narrow, loose trails
Weekend reservation needed

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. Reddit

Yes, the park is well-signed and located in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains. It's about 25 miles from Los Angeles. Instagram

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. Reddit

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. TikTok

Yes, biking is a popular option, especially for those looking to explore trails like Sawpit. Check park regulations for specific biking access. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there are typically no entrance fees for Monrovia Canyon Park. However, weekend visits require reservations. InstagramReddit

Yes, reservations are required for weekend visits to Monrovia Canyon Park. It's best to book these in advance through the city's website. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

You can visit on weekdays without a reservation. However, weekend visits absolutely require a reservation booked in advance. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ 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. Reddit

The trail is considered moderate. While some sections are mellow, others have elevation gain and can be narrow with loose dirt, requiring good footwear. TikTokReddit

Yes, there are plenty of restrooms available throughout the park, including near the ranger station and picnic areas. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Instagram

📸 📸 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. Instagram

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. Reddit

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Monrovia Canyon Park is a fantastic spot for families. The main trail to the waterfall is manageable for most kids, offering a sense of adventure and a beautiful natural reward. TikTok The picnic areas with BBQ grills and benches are perfect for a family lunch or snack break. Reddit Ensure children wear appropriate footwear, as some trail sections can be slippery. Reddit

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. Instagram The park's restoration post-fire also offers a great opportunity to teach kids about nature's resilience. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Hikers

Monrovia Canyon Park offers a rewarding solo hiking experience. The 1.5-mile trail to the falls is well-marked and provides a good workout with beautiful scenery. InstagramReddit Being bear-aware is particularly important for solo hikers; make noise and carry bear spray if you feel it's necessary. Instagram Informing someone of your plans and expected return time is always a good safety practice. Reddit

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. Reddit

🌳 Nature Enthusiasts

For nature lovers, Monrovia Canyon Park is a true gem. The park's 80 acres are a testament to the successful restoration efforts after the Bobcat Fire, showcasing vibrant regrowth and diverse plant life. Reddit The hike to the waterfall offers a chance to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the San Gabriel foothills. Instagram

Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including various bird species and the occasional bear sighting. Instagram The park's trails provide opportunities to explore different microclimates within the canyon, from shady oak woodlands to sunnier, more open areas. Reddit The presence of the waterfall adds a dynamic element to the landscape, especially during wetter seasons. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Reopened Monrovia Canyon Falls Trail

After a significant closure of five years, the beloved Monrovia Canyon Falls Trail has been beautifully restored and reopened. This 80-acre park, nestled in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains, offers a refreshing escape just 25 miles from Los Angeles. Instagram The trail system has been meticulously worked on, showcasing remarkable regrowth following the Bobcat Fire. Reddit

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. Reddit 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. Reddit This makes sturdy hiking shoes with good tread essential, and trekking poles can be a helpful addition for stability. Reddit

The reward at the end of the hike is the picturesque Monrovia Canyon Falls, a two-tiered, 30-foot waterfall. Instagram+1 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. Reddit Remember that weekend visits require reservations, so plan accordingly to experience this gem. Reddit

Navigating Monrovia Canyon Park

Monrovia Canyon Park offers a variety of trails catering to different fitness levels. The main trail to the waterfall is approximately 1.5 miles one-way from the ranger station, with options to extend your hike up to 3 miles by exploring loops. Instagram The elevation gain can be around 450 feet from the middle trailhead, so be prepared for some inclines. Reddit

For those seeking a more relaxed experience, the areas around the nature center and upper trailhead provide ample picnic spots under large oak trees. Reddit 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. Reddit

When planning your visit, remember that weekend reservations are mandatory. Reddit 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. Reddit Always check the city's official website for the most up-to-date information on reservations, fees, and park access. Reddit

Wildlife and Safety in Monrovia Canyon

Monrovia Canyon Park is a natural habitat, and visitors should be aware of the local wildlife. Bears are frequently encountered in this area, so it's crucial to take necessary precautions. Instagram This includes making noise while hiking to avoid surprising them, storing food properly, and never approaching or feeding wildlife. Instagram

Beyond bears, the park is home to various bird species and other small animals, adding to the natural charm of the hike. TikTok The trails, while beautiful, can be narrow and have steep drop-offs in some sections, particularly the Bill Cull Trail. Reddit Proper footwear is highly recommended to prevent slips and falls, especially on loose gravel. Reddit

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. Reddit

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