Dam Cool!

Hike to the Historic Brown Mountain Dam in the Angeles National Forest

Historic Brown Mountain Dam in Angeles National Forest Southern California

{JANUARY 2023 NOTE: Stay safe. Wait until storms have passed before hiking any trails, and before heading out be sure to check official websites for updates on trail status, closures, hazards, etc. Expect wet, muddy, and slippery trails, and exercise caution and good judgement, including with water crossings. Do not cross swift flowing waters. Proper hiking shoes and an extra pair of socks to change into recommended. We recommend waiting a week or two post-rains to let conditions calm down, and keeping up to date on trail conditions.}

Head to an accessible southwest section of the Angeles National Forest, where you’ll find a challenging shortcut to the historic Brown Mountain Dam. In just 2.25 miles (round-trip), you’ll descend and ascend over 600 feet, all while enjoying endless epic canyon views. Few hikers, one refreshing reward. That’s dam good!

Man standing at the edge of the water at the historic Brown Mountain Dam in Southern California

Two men wading into the water basin of historic Brown Mountain Dam in Southern California

Find the small parking lot off the CA-2 across from the Angeles Crest Fire Station at Mount Lukens Truck Trail. There likely won’t be many cars here as most hikers head deeper into the San Gabriels. Look for the trailhead at the north end of the lot—a narrow singletrack that gently climbs the ridge before a surprisingly steep and technical drop into the canyon. Good treads are needed. The views don’t disappoint and provide a much different beginning than the far more popular (and less strenuous) 8-mile Brown Mountain Dam trek from Hahamonga Watershed Park. This hike is not for the faint of knees. It’s a busting workout as the dirt path switchbacks over 600 feet toward the canyon floor, but the constant views provide encouragement.

Hikers descending into a canyon in the Angeles National Forest Southern California

In fact, Brown Mountain Dam comes into view to your left at about the halfway point of the descent—just follow the riparian tree line west to find the falls. You’ll also see some ruins along the way, surrounded by a variety of chaparral favorites, like sage, chamise, and laurel sumac. Near the canyon floor, you are rewarded with a towering oak and your first real shade of the journey. Be careful of poison oak (stay on the trail) and observe the striking orange upside-down blooms of tiger lilies.

Woman taking a photo of friends ahead on a hiking trail in a canyon in Angeles National Forest

Two hikers walking through a small creek on a hiking trail in Angeles National Forest

Group of friends gathered in front of the historic Brown Mountain Dam, getting a photo

As you connect with the main Brown Mountain Dam trail, turn left and follow the wide, flat dirt path as it reaches the peaceful Arroyo Seco Creek. Cross the serene stream and pass by the Paul Little Picnic Area to eventually reach the dam. Built in 1943, the Brown Mountain Dam was the first project in the US Forest Service Los Angeles River Watershed program. Now, it’s the perfect spot to cool down in the pool formed below the dramatic 81-foot falls. If you’re staying dry, there are plenty of boulders to claim, where you can marvel at the construction before the inevitable tough climb back to your car.

Group of friends enjoying beers and taking a selfie photo at Relentless Spirits in Eagle Rock Southern California

BONUS BEER: Another liquid refreshment? Relentless Spirits in nearby Eagle Rock is known for sours. We love the POG Sour and milkshake IPAs.

To get to the Brown Mountain Dam shortcut trailhead, from the I-210, take the CA-2 for just 3.3 miles. The small parking lot will be on your right, just across from the Angeles Crest Fire Station at the Mount Lukens Truck Trail. Dog-friendly!

Story and photos by Matt Pawlik.

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories
  1. All right, Almaden!

    Take a trip through time on this 5-mile loop in Almaden Quicksilver County Park. Explore the ruins of an old cinnabar mine and enjoy the first hints of wildflower season.

    View
  2. Waterfalls and Wine Pours

    Cooler temps, green hills, and the return of our magnificent waterfalls! This family-friendly 2-mile hike at Uvas Canyon County Park in Morgan Hill is a great way to get the most out of a short hike post-rain.

    View
  3. Woman hiker is climbing up the ladder in the Steep Ravine section of the Dipsea Loop Trail on Mount Tam

    Misty on Mount Tam

    Mount Tam’s 3.9-mile round-trip Steep Ravine and Dipsea Trail Loop weathers the wets and wilds with some confidence, sheltered in parts by redwoods, and wowing with a waterfall.

    View
  4. Mile-Long Cataract Club

    In winter after heavy rains, the north flank of Mount Tam glows with flows. The nearly mile-long series of waterfalls—Cataract Falls—transforms into a supercharged spectacle. Starting at Alpine Dam, a 1.6 mile (one-way) narrow trails threads through redwoods and ferns along Cataract Creek.

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. Peace Labyrinth

    Hidden in LA’s historic West Adams district, the Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens is a welcome respite from the norms of urban noise.

    View
  2. Weekend Sherpa Podcast: Take It Outside

    Adventure for your earbuds. What's new in the world of the outdoors? Listen to Weekend Sherpa co-founders discuss local hikes, beaches, bike rides, camping spots and all kinds of travel and adventure in California and beyond!

    View
  3. Hikers sitting on a large rock slab next to Three Sisters Falls in Cleveland National Forest Southern California near Julian

    Three Sisters

    Good things come in threes at this hike to a lovely trio-tiered waterfall in Cleveland National Forest. The 4.25-mile out-and-back hike rambles among rolling hills, with rocky mountain views as switchbacks take you down to a lush canyon and the falls.

    View
  4. People gathered around a tree at an LA Park as part of the Tree Tour led by Stephanie Carrie

    LA's Tree Tour

    Los Angeles is famous for its iconic palm trees but did you know that LA is home to one of the most diverse urban forests in the world? With over 1,000 different tree species lining its streets, LA offers a unique urban canopy waiting to be explored. One of the best ways to discover it is by joining a Tree Tour

    View