Eaton Canyon Falls, Altadena

Don’t let the fact that the Eaton Canyon Natural Area is also home to the dubiously named Moist Canyon keep you from visiting this popular spot. The abundance of slow-moving families? It’s a legitimate deterrent, unless, of course, you are in possession of a few children yourself, in which case this is the perfect hike for you and your over-five-year-olds. They counted nine stream crossings throughout the short, under-three-mile hike, but it varies depending on the season. Make sure everyone is wearing shoes that can withstand getting a little wet.

Take the main Park Road Trail about 1.5 miles through a forested, rocky region that gradually slopes, starting at the Nature Center parking lot. Enjoy wading in the shallows once you get at the 50-foot waterfall that plunges into a stunning granite punchbowl, but stay away from ascending the razorback route above the falls—a lot of people have perished trying precisely that.

If you want a challenge, continue on until the route reaches the Mt. Wilson Toll Road, where you may begin an eight-mile trek to the Mt. Wilson Observatory. If not, simply go back the way you came. The Pasadena Police Department's firing range is adjacent to Moist Canyon, so if you decide to make the detour, be sure to keep an ear out for gunshots.

Address: 1750 N Altadena Dr

Trailhead: Park at the Nature Center and cross the wash to the clearly marked trailhead.

Pets? Dogs allowed on leashes

Length: ~3 miles

Time: 1 hr 30 min