⛰️ FISH CANYON ADVENTURE HIKE! ⏩ THROUGH THE NARROWS ⛏️ TO CIENAGA WATERFALLS 💦
📅 SATURDAY, MAY 10, 2025 | 🕘 MEET AT 9:00 AM – HIKE STARTS PROMPTLY AT 9:15 AM
Calling all adventurers and nature lovers! Join the Happy Feet Hikers as we embark on an exhilarating journey through the winding Fish Canyon Narrows and venture deep into the Angeles National Forest to discover the peaceful beauty of Cienaga Campground and its hidden waterfalls!
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DETAILS
📍 TRAILHEAD PARKING COORDINATES:
34.60221° N, 118.67053° W – Located at the end of Templin Highway in Castaic, CA.
Park along the shoulder near the locked gate. No designated lot, so arrive early for the best parking spots.
🕘 MEETUP TIME: 9:00 AM
⏱️ HIKE BEGINS PROMPTLY AT 9:15 AM
Don’t be late — we’ll be heading out on time to beat the heat and maximize our time in the canyon!
🎫 ADVENTURE PASS REQUIRED TO PARK
Available at REI stores or online from the USDA Forest Service. Display on dashboard or rearview mirror.
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HIKE STATS
🥾 Distance: 5.7 miles (Out-and-Back)
⬆️ Elevation Gain: 587 feet
🕓 Estimated Duration: 2 hours and 14 minutes (moving time), allow up to 3 hours for snacks, breaks, photos, and waterfall lounging
🌄 Difficulty: Easy to Moderate – Suitable for hikers with some experience on uneven terrain and creek crossings
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WHAT TO BRING
• Min. 1.5–2 liters of water
• Snacks or light lunch
• Hiking shoes with good traction (there are several shallow stream crossings)
• Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
• Bug spray
• Light jacket (can be breezy in the canyon)
• Dry bag or ziplock for electronics
• Trekking poles (optional but useful for balance on rocky sections)
• A spirit for adventure and curiosity!
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IMPORTANT REMINDERS
• Park respectfully along Templin Highway at the gate. Do not block road access or trailhead entry.
• There are no restrooms or water fountains at the trailhead or along the route. Plan accordingly.
• Cell service is unreliable in the canyon. Download maps offline (AllTrails or Gaia GPS recommended).
• Please respect nature: Pack out all trash, stay on trail, and do not disturb wildlife.
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EVENT DESCRIPTION — WHAT TO EXPECT
This adventure begins with a short paved walk along the closed portion of Templin Highway, which transitions into a dirt road flanked by chaparral and riparian greenery. Before long, we’ll enter the heart of Fish Canyon Narrows — a dramatic, enclosed gorge with towering rock walls that echo the sound of running water.
Along the way, we’ll cross the creek multiple times, navigate gentle slopes and rocky passages, and marvel at the raw, untouched beauty of the canyon. The sounds of birds, the trickle of the creek, and the occasional splash of waterfalls make this a soothing and immersive experience.
Our turnaround point is the historic Cienaga Campground, a peaceful forest clearing once used as a backcountry site. Nearby, you’ll find a charming seasonal waterfall — the perfect spot for photos, rest, and refueling. We’ll pause here to enjoy snacks, soak in the wilderness vibes, and snap a few group pictures.
This trail is less trafficked and feels wild and remote — yet it’s just a short drive from LA. A true hidden gem for those craving a canyon adventure without the crowds!
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⚠️ LIABILITY DISCLAIMER
By participating in this hike, you and your guests acknowledge that you are voluntarily joining a non-professional, volunteer-led activity and accept full responsibility for your own safety and actions. This hike is organized by Patrick Chun on behalf of Happy Feet Hikers — an informal hiking group with no affiliation to any commercial or licensed guiding service.
You and your guests agree to release Patrick Chun, Happy Feet Hikers, all co-hosts, and any of their guests or participants from any liability for injuries, accidents, illness, property damage, or other harm that may occur before, during, or after the hike. You are responsible for evaluating your own (and your guests’) fitness levels, preparedness, and equipment for this hike. By attending, you confirm that you and your guests have read, understand, and agree to this disclaimer.
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📸 PHOTOGRAPHY DISCLAIMER
Photos and videos may be taken during the hike. By attending, you and your guests consent to being photographed and having those images shared for group or promotional purposes. If you prefer not to be included, please inform the organizer before the hike begins.
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LET’S HIKE!!! ⛰️⛏️💦
We can’t wait to hit the trail with all of you! This is one of the most scenic and exciting hikes in our rotation — cool water, soaring canyon walls, and the relaxing beauty of Cienaga Falls await. Lace up your boots, grab your pass, and let’s make this a day to remember!
SEE YOU ON THE TRAIL — LET’S GO HAPPY FEET!!!
