Cherry on Top

Hike to the Ultimate Destination in Cherry Creek Canyon Park LA County

07.08.2020
Hike Cherry Canyon Park

The Ultimate Destination in LA County? It’s easier to reach than you may think. Nestled in the San Rafael Hills in La Cañada Flintridge, Cherry Canyon Park has a 2.5-mile out-and-back hike up to an old fire tower with an incredible panorama. There’s also a vista point called, well, the Ultimate Destination! Sounds pretty great. Ready?

Hiker at Cherry Creek Canyon Park in Los Angeles

When you start the hike, ignore the descending singletrack and head up the wide fire road to the Cherry Canyon Motorway. The climb brings beautiful views of the San Gabriels (behind you to the north) as well as into the canyon below to the east, where deer are especially active during sunset.

Hiker on the trail at Cherry Creek Canyon Park in LA.

Hiker heading up the hill at Cherry Creek Canyon Park in Los Angeles

Hiker with outstretched arms to welcome the mountain scenery at Cherry Creek Canyon Park in LA

After nearly half a mile of consistent ascent, you’ll reach the Five Points junction. Different motorways are available to explore here, including one that heads north to Descanso Gardens. Opt for the Ridge Motorway fire road on your left and get views to the east of Glendale and the Verdugo Mountains. Ignore spur trails for now and head straight toward the inactive Cerro Negro fire tower (now with antennas) and to the summit for even more expansive views.

Hiker at Cherry Creek Canyon Park in LA

Hiker at a bench overlooking the mountain scenery at Cherry Creek Canyon Park in Los Angeles

Head back and don’t miss an opportunity for an incredible photo at a perfectly placed lone bench overlooking the San Gabriel Valley. Pro Tip: Just below the bench, find a trail (and sign) for the “Ultimate Destination.” Wend under the oaks and along the yellow blooms of resident mustard plants, and keep an eye on the trail for scurrying quail and basking western alligator lizards.

At the Ultimate Destination find a picnic table and savor the scenery of the San Gabriel Valley: La Cañada, Pasadena, and points beyond sprawl in front of you with the peaks of the San Gabriels looming, including Mount Wilson, the easiest to identify. Reconnect with the fire road to return the way you came.

Cherry Canyon Trail in La Canada (approximate address: 4168 Hampstead Rd., La Canada). Park in the small lot or on Hampstead Rd. to begin your adventure into Cherry Canyon Park. Dog-friendly!

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories
  1. A man takes a break at a temple spot on a hike at Dragon Mountain in Milptas

    Dragon Quest

    The newly reopened, 4-mile out-and-back hike at Dragon Mountain in Milpitas mixes the physical with the spiritual for a serene hiking experience.

    View

  2. H is for Hawk Hill

    After a nearly year-long closure, Hawk Hill in the legendary Marin Headlands recently emerged with a glow-up. Thank the hearty TLC from the National Park Service. This Golden Gate National Recreation Area gem now has a new trail along with revamped spaces for taking in timeless, grand views.

    View
  3. Mike Zakowski (aka Mike the Baker) standing in front of his wood-fire oven at the Sonoma Valley Farmers' Market

    NEW! Walkin' and Talkin': Break Bread, Go On a Panoramic Hike

    What’s a world-traveling, medal-winning baker’s favorite local hike? Weekend Sherpa co-founder Brad Day caught up with Mike Zakowski (aka Mike the Baker) at Sonoma’s Friday farmers' market, where his wood-fired loaves draw loyal crowds. Between bites of fresh-baked bread, they talk baking, travel, and why Sonoma's Overlook Trail is one of his favorite quick, panoramic hikes.

    View
  4. Sponsored

    Warm Up to Winter in Reno Tahoe

    2026 is just getting started, but there’s one place already rising to the top as the best for adventure and relaxation: Reno Tahoe. The awe—and ahhhs—begin as soon as you arrive. G

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. People on ice learning to curl at Hollywood Curling

    You Go, Curl!

    Hollywood Curling’s Learn to Curl classes make the perfect setting for newcomers. Take the ice, and friendly curling instructors will teach you the basics.

    View

  2. Eat, Sleep, Beach, Repeat

    For an ultra-relaxing getaway where you can sit back and soak in some nature and nurture, head to Mendocino and follow this eat, beach, sleep, repeat itinerary (you won't regret it!) ...

    View

  3. This Skunk Doesn’t Stink!

    All aboard for a ride through history—and through air scented with redwood, dewy ferns, forest-fresh breeze, and a bonus snack and beverage bar, fire pit, and short hike. The World-Famous Skunk Train delivers in every category: scenery, greenery, and towering redwoods.

    View
  4. Hike Cherry Canyon Park

    Cherry on Top

    How do you reach the Ultimate Destination in LA County? Cherry Canyon Park has a 2.5-mile out-and-back hike with a vista point called, well, the Ultimate Destination.

    View