Eaton Canyon - Altadena, CA
Discover Eaton Canyon Dog-Friendly Trails in Altadena, California
Eaton Canyon is a popular pet-friendly destination in Altadena, California, perfect for dog owners looking for scenic hiking, outdoor adventure, and beautiful natural surroundings. This dog-friendly park features an out-and-back trail that leads to a picturesque waterfall—a highlight for visitors. The trail is generally considered easy to moderately challenging, with river crossings, rocky terrain, and shaded paths under tree canopies, making it suitable for both casual hikers and those seeking a bit more excitement.
Dogs are welcome on the trails, provided they are leashed and owners pick up after them. The area is well-loved for its shady spots, water access for a cooling dip, family-friendly atmosphere, and plenty of parking options—including an overflow lot and nearby street parking. Whether you’re looking to recharge in nature, enjoy a pet-friendly trail, or take your dog on a hiking adventure, Eaton Canyon is a top choice in the San Gabriel Valley region.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are dogs allowed off-leash at this park? Dogs must be leashed while visiting the trails at Eaton Canyon.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, Eaton Canyon features hiking and walking trails, including a scenic route to a waterfall.
- Is there a swimming area or pond for dogs? Dogs can wade or swim in sections of the creek along the trail, especially near the waterfall.
- Is there shade or shelter available? Yes, much of the trail is shaded by trees, especially closer to the river and waterfall.
- Where is the best place to park? There are parking lots available, including an overflow lot. If gates are closed, street parking is available nearby.
- Are picnics allowed? Yes, visitors often enjoy picnics along the trail or by the creek. Please be sure to carry out your trash.
Reviews
My second time in this incredible place! The best part of it is the waterfall. The start from the parking is a little bit difficult nit from the time you getting close to the water it becomes easy. Almost all the time we were walking throw the water. Even during summer there is enough water to swim a little bit. The difficulty is 4 of 10.
PS Please don’t leave your trash on the way. It is so beautiful place to destroy it. Photo attached
Loved this local place. It took me and my mom to get to the fall about one hour in a half, we took our time to enjoy the scenery and will take a few dips in the water before getting to the fall. The water was cold, just perfect. Recommend good hiking shoes, non-slip shoes (since some rocks are slippery) or water shoes, definitely you will soak your shoes, light clothing if you are going in the summer, lots of water and maybe a light snack, and enjoy the sun. (If you take a snack or lunch, please take your trash with you, and let’s keep the place clean. Took me 40 yrs to discover this nice local place to recharge.
Great hike. I went to the camp grounds above the mountain top and to the valley where the water fall was located. Great medium -high difficulty climbing to the top
Easy-medium difficult hike towards the valley ~ waterway
Great hike, mostly easy but also some moderate difficulty including rocky steep terrain and river crossings making it a worthwhile adventure! Took us about 1.5 hours in and out, but you could take your time to enjoy the river or possibly even have a picnic along the way. Plenty of parking since there is an overflow lot.
Perfect trail for casual hiking. At first it’s a walk under the beaming sun. But then as you walk towards the river/water fall, you go in between a valley and it’s beautiful and breezy in the shade of the trees along the river water. There is a bit of rock hopping to cross the river, but it’s really manageable. I saw all ages rock hopping.
You can bring your dog. (Please pick up after them) I have seen families come in all ages, from babies to grannies. Family friendly trail.
Parking: there is parking but when I went the gates were closed, so I just parked on the street and walked in. So don’t get discouraged if you see closed gates.
(These pictures were taken on 1/6/2025, the day before the Eaton Canyon fire 🔥. I wanted to share the beautiful photos 🥺 I hope it can be restored once again.)