Sunday, October 17, 2010

Monrovia Canyon Fall


Despite our desert climate, Southern California is home to several waterfalls--small but still a delight to visit.
The Monrovia Canyon Fall, in the San Gabriel Mountains, is a 30-foot cascade at the end of an easy 1.7 mile hike.
To visit the fall, you must enter Monrovia Canyon Park. There is a $5 parking charge but it is well worth it.
The water fall is a nice cap to a wonderful hike. The creatures and foliage that live in the canyon come together like nature's greatest symphony. The crickets set the back beat. The frogs perform the melody, and the wind-rustled leaves sound like distant applause. Bravo.
The dirt trail follows a small creek, bordered by oak and sycamore trees that form a shady canopy. It's a great hike on a hot day. Even better, the $5 ensures that the park is kept free of litter--soiled diapers and empty beer cans that trash other parks.
Directions: From Monrovia, take E. Foothill Blvd. east then turn left at North Canyon Blvd. Follow the road uphill and look for the signs that direct you right just before you reach a dead end.