Rubio Canyon Trailhead

 

Rubio Canyon is a little-known canyon that is located near Altadena, CA. The trailhead is outside the Angeles National Forest. There is a small connector trail that leads to the canyon floor. It is very well maintained, and a short hike can lead to an impressive waterfall.

If you are looking to do a quick and scenic hike in the mountains, you should consider the Rubio Canyon Trail. It starts in the foothills of Altadena. You can access the trailhead from Rubio Vista Road, which is at the intersection of Rubio Vista Road and Pleasant Ridge Drive. This trailhead is located between two homes. Parking is available.

https://medium.com/@protechniquewatermold.mk/the-bunny-museum-7148da6b4cbb

Once you reach the trailhead, you will find an old building that was once the Rubio Pavilion. The area is now a rustic hiking alley. However, the foundation of the structure is still visible from the pavilion. Also, the Rubio Pavilion is located in a small canyon that was once used as the starting point for a steep tram ride up Mount Lowe.

After you reach the trailhead, you will follow a path through tall foxtail grasses. There is a warning sign that warns against personal injury. From here, you'll head east. The trail follows an old rail bed of a historic trolley line, which was built in the 1890's. At one time, this line was operated as a popular resort.

As you follow the trail, you will see several stacked cascades. There are a few loose rocks along the trail. In the event of heavy rainfall, you may experience some rock slide or loose debris. Be very careful when rappelling.

After about a quarter mile, you will encounter Moss Grotto Falls. While it is a tiny waterfall, it can be quite scenic. Another fall is Ribbon Rock Falls. Unlike the Moss Grotto Falls, this fall is free.

From there, the Rubio Canyon Trail continues to the base of Grand Chasm Falls. When you get to the base of the falls, you can choose to continue on to the top of the falls.

On your way to the top of the falls, you will pass by the Leontine Falls. The trail to the falls is steep and brushy, so it is best to trim it on a regular basis. Depending on the season, the waterfall can be quite spectacular. For a more adventurous hike, you can also continue down to the Muir Peak and the Lone Tree Trail.

If you are interested in more information about hiking in the Altadena area, you should check out the Arroyos & Foothills Conservancy. They offer docent-led hiking trips and volunteer opportunities. They accept tax-deductible donations.

The trail to the Rubio Canyon Falls trailhead is administered by the USDA Forest Service. You don't need an Adventure Pass to visit the trailhead. Some water from the creek is diverted by a water company. Therefore, you should be courteous to residents.

Rubio Canyon was once home to a series of seasonal waterfalls. Among the most notable are Moss Grotto Falls, Ribbon Rock Falls, and Leontine Falls.