Henninger Flats from Eaton Canyon

At Henninger Flats- Mt Wilson in background 

Perched 2000' above the city of Pasadena, Henninger Flats is like an island in the sky.  No other mountain of the Front Range of the San Gabriels can boast such a forest as Henninger Flats in ratio to its low elevation (2600'). It's tall, majestic conifers can be spotted throughout of the San Gabriel Valley and downtown Los Angeles Metro-area.  Of course, the trees that grow on  the Flats are not natural, but have been planted.  Since the early part of the 20th Century, the folks at Henninger Flats have been growing conifers to transplant to other parts of California after a major wildfire.  Today, the Flats is run by the Los Angeles County Fire Department Forestry Department, and sends out on average 20,000 trees to burned areas all around California.  Here, though, among the California natives such as Ponderosa and Jeffery Pines and Bigcone Douglas Firs, you will find plants such as the Himalayan Fir, and other such exotic specimens of creation.  The reason? Well, way back in the early days Henninger Flats was used for more than reforestation purposes, but also for scientific research (to see how non-native plants would adapt to SoCal's unique weather), as well as for sales (Mr. Henninger always knew how to make a quick buck or two).  Today the camp boasts a small-in-acreage forest (but as beautiful as any in the San Gabriels), as well as a small visitor center (check for hours), and a campground.  This hike begins at over-visited Eaton Canyon County Park (expect hundreds, maybe thousands on a fair-weathered Saturday or Sunday), travels up a very steep small canyon, and join the historic (but shade-less) Mt.Wilson Toll Road to Henninger Flats.  This hike is completely unshaded- please don't become a news story.  Use the Cardinal Virtue of Prudence and hike this trail only in cool weather. 

The Stats:

Category: Moderate 
Miles: 6.3
Elevation Gain: 1600' 
Location: Eaton Canyon Country Park, Angeles National Forest

Directions: Eaton Canyon Natural Area is located at 1750 North Altadena Drive, one block north of New York Drive in Pasadena, California. There is a sign on the east side of the street which clearly marks the entrance to the Park. From the 210 Freeway eastbound, exit at Sierra Madre Boulevard/Altadena Drive. Turn left (north) at the first light (Altadena Drive) and go 1.6 miles to the park entrance. From the 210 Freeway westbound, exit at San Gabriel Boulevard/San Marino. Turn right (north) at the second light (Altadena Drive) and go 1.5 miles to the park entrance. -from: http://www.ecnca.org/information/directions.html  (FREE PARKING)

The Trail: From the parking lot at Eaton Canyon Nature Center, travel north on the well-worn Eaton Canyon Trail through Eaton Wash, past some large Coast Live Oaks, along a Chaparral covered stream bed  to the third trail split on the right.  Immediately the trail begins its steep ascent, not at all like the main trail, up the canyon side, then switchbacking steeply up to a junction with the Mt. Wilson Toll Road (not a real toll road, its now a hiking trail).  Follow the Mt. Wilson Toll Road up as its winds back and forth up the front feet of Mt. Wilson.  You will not be hiking alone, even if its is a weekend, as this trail, like Eaton Canyon is very popular. Enjoy the clear-day views to downtown Los Angeles, the Santa Monica Mountains, Catalina Island, Santiago Peak, and the sprawling metropolis.  Take advantage of the convenient benches along this trail (not exactly a wilderness feel, but a welcome comfort) and look up towards your destination.  After about 2 miles on the Toll Road, you will make it to Henninger Flats, shaded and tranquil, standing high above the bustling metropolis.  Return the way you came.

Saint Secondo of Asti, Pray For Us!


Hiked 3-30-14.  Los Angeles County.  No Adventure Pass Required.