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    North Etiwanda Preserve

    4.0 (306 reviews)
    Open 6:30 am - 6:30 pm
    Updated 3 months ago

    North Etiwanda Preserve Photos

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    Danielle P.

    Nice way to get out in nature close to home. There's a series of light to moderate hiking trails here, the most popular being the Etiwanda Falls hike. I've done that one many times and tend to venture out to other trails nowadays to avoid the crowds. Parking is not free and can be difficult to find. Be sure to stay in the lot or you most definitely will get towed. Fees are $3 for up to 4 hours and $5 for a full day/more than 4 hours. There's QR codes and payment can be made by phone if you're lucky enough to have a signal lol. There's a lot of development starting just south of the area, so I'm not sure what to think of that. It will just get more crowded, but will hopefully stay open and available.

    Uphill
    Marco R.

    3.5* This used to be my almost daily trail. Especially during the summer. Hadn't been here in a few years. Decided to check it out again today. To my surprise they now have paid parking. I understand why they have to charge now. I'm sure not everyone pays (ahem). QR codes throughout the lot. Unfortunately, no apple pay available. You need a physical card to input the info in the website. I travel very light (phone, headphones, sunglasses, running hat, and license stored in phone case) so I didn't have my wallet with me. In short bring a card with you or risk a ticket and a tow. One of the things that irked me before was that no dogs are supposed to be on the trail but almost every other hiker had their dogs with them. This lead to lots of dog poop on the trail. This time around I saw zero dogs. My favorite thing about this hike is the abundance of sage along the trail and the pleasant smell. It's like an aura cleanse while you get your steps in. Most people are friendly on the trail. While others will see you coming up the trail and not have any etiquette. Please move over to one side or another. If you're in a group try and single file it and give others an opportunity to pass. Views aren't epic but they're still very nice. Looking to enjoy some time outdoors this place will scratch your itch. Very limited shade to none at all on the trail though.

    Vuoch L.

    Parking is no longer free , scan QR code at various locations throughout the car park or at the entrance to the trail . $3 for 4 hours or $5 for all day parking . . ( Don't even think about parking in the sidewalk , Seriously they will tow your car )

    Angela N.

    Moderate hike with decent views. The start of the hike was the easiest. Where it starts getting tricky is when you get closer to the waterfall. It gets rocky so make sure to bring appropriate shoes. There is a parking lot at the foot of the trail. We had no trouble finding a spot because we came around 7am. When we came back down there was a line of cars so it definitely gets packed the later you go.

    Moonrise night of the blue moon!
    Mylene C.

    Beautiful place to watch the moonrise! Have not hiked here yet, but I heard it's beautiful after the rain and flowers blooming!

    Adriana L.

    Husband had to go on a hike as a school requirement so a group of his classmates (& plus 1s) all went together. We got to the North Etiwanda Preserve around 7:30am and we're able to find parking quite easily. The second group arrived around 8:30am and they had to park further down because there was no parking! The views from here are absolutely breathtaking. It was a semi steep hike and we did have to stop for a few breaks going up. Once at the waterfalls/water, we took the views in, took photos, and even put out feet in the water. It was freezing, but absolutely amazing. There were about 10 or so other groups up there when we arrived. Everyone comes and goes so it wasn't completely saturated at any point. We finally made our way back down around 10am. There were still several people coming up at that time. We'd definitely come back!

    Amanda C.

    Needed something to do while waiting and found this place nearby. I went around 8:00 am and there were only a few cars in the lot, so there was ample parking. I decided to download the AllTrails app, just so I could track how much further we had on our hike until we hit the waterfall. The trail is mostly rocky, but can be done in casual clothing (I only had my toms slip-ons since I didn't plan on hiking). Most of the trail isn't shaded, so be prepared with water. The trail headed to the waterfall was a lot of uphill walking, definitely made for great exercise. The waterfall and creek were flowing and that scenic area made for some great photos!

    The trail.
    Tina K.

    I wanted to share my thoughts on this trail. In summary this trail are both easy+hard. Easy part: It is one way up, no climbing, not slippery, no water, you can wear very casual clothes and be able to hike to the top. Hiking all the way up to the river takes about 1 hour nonstop. Hard part: I was horribly dehydrated because it was so hot, I was hiking under 95 degree, no shade, no view, rocks everywhere, and worst of all uphill ALL THE WAY. I think some people may say it's really easy because it's just cardio, you don't need a cane or hiking shoes, but I can imagine it would be hard for certain people. Hopefully you can have a good understanding and have a good hike :)

    Bernadette C.

    After coming here for 15 years, they are now charging to be here. I've always loved it here and this was my safe haven to get away from the rest of the world as I'd sit at the top at the tree and gazebo and look over the whole city. Always so peaceful. It should have stayed free. I'd make it 1 star if I could but I love the preserve too much.

    From the parking lot
    Amy M.

    This is such an amazingly beautiful slice of land here in Rancho Cucamonga. I hiked the trail to the waterfall and it was glorious! Unfortunately, I was painfully disappointed in seeing the graffiti up there. It's so disrespectful to bring your "artwork" up into nature. It's also contaminating our local water supply which saddens me. Anyway, there are two creeks that lead to the waterfall and as of January 10th there was quite a bit of water running through the creek beds. The hike up is pretty much all uphill and a great leg workout. It's also ROCKY! Hiking boots or thick soles shoes work best. You may be tempted to turn back around if your not in the best of shape, but DON'T! The reward is always at the end of the biggest struggle. You got this! As for the preserve, there is so much to learn and observe! There is an old ruin of a chimney and there are so many informative boards explaining the history, the how, when & why's the water is collected and transferred to the local community. It truly is a history lesson. While there is so much more of like to share in regards to this epic place, I'm going to remain silent as to not tempt people to explore abc possible ruin the surroundings for the rest of us. But I will say this- they patrol the preserve. They are watching you. Maybe not every minute but they are there. They have stories of idiots getting caught graffitiing and destroying what Mother Nature has given to us. Please respect this land and don't lit end up closed and off limits like Sapphire Falls.

    Devianna C.

    Simple and easy trail as far as distance goes, the difficult part would be the rocks. Sooo many Little Rock's it's easy to slip and trip. It's about 1.5-2miles to the little water fall. I must say we could definitely use some Rain because this waterfall was pretty weak. None the less it's a beautiful site Bering surrounded by nature and life. Now if your Covid scared I don't suggest coming here, 90% of people had no masks on at all. There's no accessible bathrooms and parking is scarce so I would avoid a weekend.

    Map and hours of operation
    Ciara M.

    First things first, if you are a beginner when it comes to hiking then this is the place for you. But, if you aren't fond of big crowds. Especially during COVID. Then you should probably steer clear. Unless you come when it first opens or right before the preserve closes. If not, be prepared to see A LOT of folks! And I guess that makes sense because hey, what else could we possibly do anymore besides exercise our little hearts out. With so many people at this preserve this Saturday it made it a little hard to enjoy the peacefulness that a hike can usually bring. But, there were bits and pieces that managed to creep into our trip up the mountain. Especially because the preserve provides quite a bit of shade and level ground to give you enough time to take a second, catch your breath and check out the beauty of nature. There are a few different paths you can take. But of course we decided the one more traveled. That's the one that gets you to the pretty little stream! The end of the adventure, and it is worth the hike. If there aren't to many people you might have a chance to even enjoy it. Take a seat and a quick rest before you head back down. All in all, it isn't a bad place to get a quick morning hike in. I just wish people would follow the rules about no dogs! And be mindful of others coming and going down the trail.

    Map
    Audris T.

    Finally got to check this place out! Great local hike that's not too far away. I love hikes with waterfalls! It's about a 4 mile round trip hike that takes less than 2 hours to complete (including time hanging out by the falls). Most of the trail is very sandy and rocky, so please wear shoes with good treads! No shade until you get to the waterfalls either, so wear a hat! Perfect hike to do in overcast weather so you don't feel like the sun is beating down on you. Great views too! Tip: if you're hiking straight to the falls, when you reach the three-way division in the trail, take the center trail! Parking: free parking in the dirt lot in front of the trailhead. Restrooms: two porta-potties at the trailhead Will definitely be back!

    Parking lot

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    2 months ago

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    9 months ago

    Awesome for hiking! Miss going here, use to go almost every day! Gets very crowded! Get there early so you can enjoy without crowds

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    3 years ago

    Great spot but 4 stars because it gets crowded and you have to park down the street and risk getting towed.

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    Ask the Community - North Etiwanda Preserve

    Since when did they start charging for parking? I tried to pay but it just gave me an error message.

    Is it crowded here?

    Extremely crowded most of the time. It's hard to find parking.

    Has there been any kind of animal sightings outside of deer at this location?

    Yes, we have spotted deer here several times, usually in the early morning near the platforms.

    Is this open during the COVID-19 pandemic?

    I just called and they said they re opened since 4/25

    Does this hiking spot allow off leash dogs?

    Dogs are not allowed at the North Etiwanda Preserve at any time.

    Is there parking? And where can you park?

    There is a designated parking lot for the area delineated by a large entry gate and signage. Please park only within the gates area below the emergency parking section at the top. If there appears to be no spots in that area, please be patient and… Read more

    Is mountain biking allowed?

    Thank you for your question, but unfortunately Mountain Bikes are not allowed on the property. For a full list of restricted activities visit:… Read more

    Is it kid friendly ? Can I take a stroller?

    Not really. It's kind of Rocky for a stroller.

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    Review Highlights - North Etiwanda Preserve

    Be careful there are a lot of rocks and no shade so bring water and go early.

    Mentioned in 9 reviews

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    Etiwanda Falls Trail

    Etiwanda Falls Trail

    4.3
    (58 reviews)
    0.1 mi

    $4 for short term parking. There are about~60 parking spots in the lot and no neighborhood parking…read morealternatives, it's all permit parking which is understandable. If you get here at prime-time around 8am on the weekends, should be fine but past 9am and you're going to be SOL. Better to wait until the first wave of visitors finish... Takes about 1.5hrs. More parking in the afternoon but then you're risking peak sun which can be unbearable depending on the weather. Little to no shade on this tail. Lots of areas with loose rock, so be careful with casual shoes. It gets very, very windy towards the top of the trail and some areas along the hike. There is some graffiti on the trail. The waterfall is okay, can't complain considering limited hike options nearby.

    This was a moderate trail as far as difficulty mainly due to steady incline. There is no shade on…read morethe trail. Once you get to the falls, there's plenty of shade from the trees. Wear decent shoes; the fire road is dirt and rocks the whole way. Take water. Your body will thank you. Parking- there is a decent amount of parking in two small lots at the end of the paved road. There are QR codes to scan to buy a day pass. It's $4 for 4 hours. That's plenty of time to get to falls, enjoy them for a bit and get back. Keep the trail and waterfall preserve area nice by taking your trash home with you. We all want to enjoy this space

    Photos
    Sophomore in College : j
    Sophomore in College : j
    This waterfall is a little bit further up after the first waterfall that everyone stops at.
    This waterfall is a little bit further up after the first waterfall that everyone stops at.
    Etiwanda Falls Trail

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    Potato Mountain

    Potato Mountain

    4.5
    (144 reviews)
    9.1 mi

    My friend and I went hiking in Claremont and intended on doing the loop, but when we saw the sign…read moreleading to Potato Mountain, we decided to head up! I've only heard about this spot, but have never been so I was excited to explore. The hike is not shaded and has a steady incline, so I was grateful that it was overcast and cool most of the day. The trail is wide enough for a car to drive on, and no major rocky areas, so I would say that if you were reeeeeally ambitious and wanted to push a jogging stroller up and down, you probably could. There are occasional bikers that we passed, but otherwise just a few hikers doing this trail, much less than the number of people doing the loop, which I actually liked. With the exception of the ugly graffiti on the concrete thing at the top, we were rewarded with a beautiful view of the valley on one end, and snow capped mountains on the other end. It didn't take that long to summit ( I think it took us less than an hour each way), so if you have a couple hours for something a little more challenging than the loop, this is a good hike! Parking is available in the lot starting at $10 (Yikes!) on the weekends. Enjoy!

    First time visitor There are not bathrooms anywhere…read more There are a few (3?) trash can / compost / recycle green bins at the start of the trail There is not a designated parking area if coming on MT Baldy RD, park after the last No Stopping Any time sign (will see Angeles Forest large sign) then can park on the side of the road and forward Be aware of oncoming traffic both directions when walking to the trail head Bring a hat, sunglasses, sunblock, water, snacks It is dog friendly but tough for stroller I think based on continual incline and gravel and rocky terrain Also note air may feel thinner as you start the trail so be mindful of your breathing and take rest stops Start of trail will be walking through shaded area with tree and can hear water and as continue the pathway make your descent up As you make your way further up, there will be part to turn left or go straight to the right, head to the left to continue upward - you'll see amazing clouds surrounding the mountain and the trail continuing You'll see a pathway that curves down the hill then back up, a right triangular metal sign will indicate going the right way and almost to the end of the trail. Other markers is seeing small forms of graffiti and the name Joey tagged on things Once on top, enjoy your accomplishment and then it's primarily a down hill return Enjoy Hydrate Limited cell service pending what part of the mountain on Enjoy the birds flowers rock formation little critters that pop In and out Would certainly return to try the other routes to potato mountain

    Photos
    The summit (with ugly graffiti)
    The summit (with ugly graffiti)
    Potato Mountain
    Plenty of potatoes brought up by other hikers.

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    Plenty of potatoes brought up by other hikers.
    Stoddard Canyon Falls

    Stoddard Canyon Falls

    3.6
    (33 reviews)
    9.0 mi

    Incredible the energy, peaceful and quiet. The weather was…read morebeautiful, and it was very safe.

    Avoid During Summer Weekends!…read more This is a short hike in Stoddard Canyon to the waterfall and swimming hole in the Mt Baldy region. The hike is approximately 1.25 miles out and back. There are several routes to get to the waterfall- the safest route is to descend down the side of the canyon by a pillar like structure using a rope. The river leading to the waterfall is within a canyon, temperature is cooler, water temperature is comfortable. During the hike to the waterfall, you will have to meander around boulders, rocks, and use ropes to get to the endpoint where the final pool and waterfall exist. On a crowded day, you may have to wait patiently and you might feel pressure, which could lead to an injury. Rocks are also very slippery as you transcend to the waterfall. Wear slip resistant shoes- I wore my hiking boots. Unfortunately the rocks along the river has been trashed. People are partying in this area and leaving their trash behind. Plus you will see graffiti on the rocks. Sad to see in such a beautiful area. All this takes away from the beauty of the river and the waterfalls. There are several parking lots near the trailhead- the parking lots on the weekends fill up quickly so get to the park early. Also, read the signs, as there are a lot of no parking signs near the trail. Lastly, do not leave valuables in the car, as some break ins are know to occur in this area.

    Photos
    You walk this path to climb down to the area
    You walk this path to climb down to the area
    Stoddard Canyon Falls
    Stoddard Canyon Falls

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    North Etiwanda Preserve - hiking - Updated July 2026

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