COOPER CANYON FALLS ADVENTURE VIA BURKHART TRAIL 🌲💦⛰️ LET THE FALLS CALL YOU!

COOPER CANYON FALLS ADVENTURE VIA BURKHART TRAIL
🌲💦⛰️ LET THE FALLS CALL YOU!

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📅 Date: Saturday, June 14, 2025
⏰ Meeting Time: 8:00 AM
🚶‍♂️ Hike Start Time: 8:10 AM sharp
📍 Trailhead: Buckhorn Campground, Angeles National Forest
🥾 Distance: 5.2 miles (out and back)
📈 Elevation Gain: 1,122 ft
⏳ Estimated Duration: 2 hrs 41 mins (AllTrails) — plan for up to 3 hrs 30 mins with breaks, pictures, and time to soak in the beauty
🎟️ Parking Pass: Adventure Pass required – $5/day or $30/year

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HIKE DESCRIPTION:

Ready to answer the call of falling water? Join us for an invigorating morning adventure as we journey to Cooper Canyon Falls, a secluded waterfall oasis nestled deep within the San Gabriel Mountains. This hike begins at the scenic and tranquil Buckhorn Campground — a high-altitude retreat known for its cool air, towering Jeffrey pines, and lush surroundings.

We’ll descend via the Burkhart Trail, a beautiful and lesser-traveled path that meanders through shaded alpine forest and follows the natural contour of the mountains. As we descend gently into the canyon, you’ll notice a symphony of wild nature — whispering pine needles overhead, the soft crunch of trail underfoot, and the occasional birdsong echoing through the trees. The air is crisp, the trail quiet, and the views — spectacular.

Along the way, you’ll see carpets of ferns and wildflowers (especially vibrant in early summer), and there are a few stream crossings that bring a refreshing touch of water and life. The terrain is a mix of packed dirt, light rock, and gentle switchbacks, making it a moderate hike suitable for hikers with some trail experience.

As we approach the canyon floor, the sound of rushing water grows louder — the telltale sign that Cooper Canyon Falls is near. Tucked into a granite alcove surrounded by moss and boulders, the falls cascade into a cool pool below — a serene and photogenic reward at our turnaround point.

This is where we’ll rest, snack, hydrate, and take in the beauty of this hidden mountain gem. Don’t forget to bring a camera or phone — the waterfall, the rocks, and the surrounding greenery offer perfect backdrops for photos and memories.

After our waterfall pause, we’ll hike the same route back, gaining elevation on the return. While the way up is a bit more strenuous, the shaded trail and cool forest air make it manageable and enjoyable. We’ll move at a comfortable group pace and take short breaks as needed.

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🌟 TRAIL HIGHLIGHTS:
• 🌲 Towering pine forests and alpine serenity
• 🏞️ Canyon views and seasonal wildflowers
• 💦 Beautiful, hidden waterfall destination
• 📷 Abundant photo opportunities throughout
• 🐦 Wildlife sightings — including birds of prey, deer, and chipmunks
• 😌 Peaceful, uncrowded trail perfect for nature-lovers

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🐕 DOGS:
Dogs are welcome on this trail, but must remain on leash at all times in accordance with National Forest regulations. Please be sure your dog is trail-fit and friendly, and pack enough water and waste bags for your pet.

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🅿️ PARKING & PASSES:
Parking is available at the Buckhorn Campground Day-Use Area, which gives direct access to the Burkhart Trail. A National Forest Adventure Pass is required to park here. Passes can be purchased in advance at the following locations:
• Big 5 Sporting Goods (available throughout Southern California — call ahead to confirm stock)
• REI stores
• USDA Forest Service Vendors
• Online: fs.usda.gov

NOTE: If Buckhorn Campground is closed or gated, you may need to park along Angeles Crest Highway (CA-2) and walk approximately 0.5 to 1 mile to reach the trailhead. Please plan for extra time.

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⚠️ LIABILITY & SAFETY DISCLAIMER:

By joining this hike, you acknowledge that Patrick Chun, organizer of Happy Feet Hikers, is a volunteer and not a professional, licensed, or paid guide. This hike is being organized solely for recreational purposes to foster community and a shared love of the outdoors.

🛑 All participants (and their guests) participate voluntarily and at their own risk.
You are solely responsible for your own safety, health, and preparedness. The organizer is not liable for injuries, accidents, lost property, delays, encounters with wildlife, inclement weather, or any other unforeseen events during or around the time of the hike.

Please evaluate your own fitness level before attending, and ensure you bring appropriate hiking shoes, water, sun protection, snacks, and any personal items or medications you may need. This trail, while moderate, involves uneven ground, exposure to sun, and some incline.

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📸 PHOTOGRAPHY NOTICE:
Photos may be taken during the hike for memories, group sharing, or promotion of future hikes. By attending, you consent to being photographed. If you prefer not to appear in photos, kindly inform the organizer at the beginning of the event.

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🔥 FINAL THOUGHT:
The journey to Cooper Canyon Falls is more than a hike — it’s a reconnection with the wild beauty of our local mountains.