If you would like to do a short section hike on the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail (PCT) in the Angeles National Forest, this hike is for you.
The best way to do this hike is by using a car shuttle. Leave one car at or outside of the Eagles Roost Picnic Area (mile 61.6 on Angeles Crest Highway) and take the other car to Cloudburst Summit (mile 57.2 on Angeles Crest Highway). You will need to use an Adventure Pass if you park in the Picnic Area. For more information about Adventure Passes: https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/angeles/passes-permits/?cid=fseprd542024
Begin at Cloudburst Summit, where the PCT begins as an old fire road. The trail descends for about a mile through a wooded area. At 1.2 miles, you will encounter a hairpin turn and then enter a ravine. At 1.6 miles you will arrive at Cooper Canyon Trail Camp. The trail will continue to descend and at 2.7 miles you will cross Little Rock Creek to meet with the Burkhart Trail. Bearing left, the Burkhart Trail takes you to Cooper Canyon Falls. Look or listen for water splashing on the rocks. A rough pathway leads down off of the trail to the pool below.
After enjoying Cooper Canyon Falls, continue down the canyon. You will reach the confluence of Little Rock Creek at 3.1 miles. At this point, the Burkhart Trail splits to the north. Continue east on the PCT. The trail winds along the slope to the north. You again cross Little Rock Creek at 5.1 miles. You will see a white and pink rock outcrop to the north (Eagles Roost). Continue climbing until you reach Eagles Roost Picnic Area.
The total distance of the hike is 6.3 miles. The hike is best done in late spring (April or May) after the snow has melted, as the falls will be much more impressive and you may see a nice variety of wildflowers such as lupines and columbines.
Directions to the trailhead: From the 210 Freeway in La Cañada/Flintridge, take the exit for Angeles Crest Highway (State Highway 2). Travel 61.6 miles until you arrive at the Eagles Roost Picnic Area.
Caution: Weather and road conditions can change in an instant. Always check with the managing agency before embarking on a trip. Always hike with a friend and carry a cell phone for emergencies. Bring plenty of drinking water, food, and clothing for changing weather conditions. Let someone know where you are going and when you intend to be back. Remember, California’s wild places are beautiful but they can also be dangerous to the unprepared and unwary. The California Wilderness Coalition assumes no liability if you intend to visit any of the wild places featured in our materials.
