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Barrett-Stoddard Canyon Falls
4.6 ★★★★★ 264 Google reviews · Running trail in Claremont, California · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Crushed gravel
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Not reported
Confirmed from Barrett-Stoddard Canyon Falls' own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Short, rugged trail featuring a waterfall and a pool suitable for swimming.
What runners say about Barrett-Stoddard Canyon Falls
“This waterfall isn’t just a scenic reward—it’s a quiet nod to those who relish paths less traveled.”
Absolutely breathtaking waterfall! It's a short hike from the trailhead but can be a treacherous trek getting there. First you have to go down this very steep decline of rocks and dirt. If you get to the bottom, you then got to cross the stream, which can be knee deep and cold. I highly recommend bringing swimwear.
Amazing place to visit on a hot summer day. Water is so refreshing it’s better than any beach. Lots of hiking but totally worth it once you get to the waterfall. Or you can take the shortcut and go down the waterfall super fun. But I advise everyone to lock their vehicles.
Stoddard Falls is an Epic LA waterfall hike in San Gabriel Mountains. It’s a great summer spot to get away from the heat, swim and even go down a 40’ waterslide. Always be wise and check depth before attempting any jump or slide in natural pools, depths change continuously.
This is a gem. Stay on the right hand side of the canyon to reach the waterfall and pools. The terrain is paved until you have to traverse down a steep little slope. Bring water and towel. You will get your feet wet, getting to the waterfall or pools. **Be very careful as their are lots of steep and sudden drops.**
Trail conditions & character
“This waterfall isn’t just a scenic reward—it’s a quiet nod to those who relish paths less traveled.”
“It's a short hike from the trailhead but can be a treacherous trek getting there.”
“The terrain is paved until you have to traverse down a steep little slope.”
“The riverbed is uneven, with slick rocks and shifting gravel, making footing difficult.”
Plan your run at Barrett-Stoddard Canyon Falls
The practical stuff
- AccessHours vary — hours are not posted for this trail, so check before an early or late run
- SurfaceCrushed gravel — the rail-trail classic: softer than asphalt, still smooth enough for tempo work
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
Running trails near Claremont
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
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