Condor Peak and Trail Canyon Falls

Mother Nature didn’t get the memo about dry January: it’s been the wettest month in years.

Lord knows we’ve needed it.

And while the state hasn’t completely beat The Drought, we have had enough precipitation to inspire the outdoor-going man to find the nearest waterfall hike, and stat.

Thing is, you’re not the only man in search of a little cascadian solace, so we’d like to call your attention to Trail Canyon Falls and Condor Peak.

Located in the Angeles National Forest, the trails together are about 16 miles in and out, but you can shorten it with just a four-miler to Trail Canyon Falls.

Here’s the Google Map to the trailhead.

The trail begins to the left side of the parking lot, and crosses what is now a swiftly moving stream. Since the trail zigzags through the canyon, you will hop across this stream multiple times, so do wear proper boots (see below). You’ll start by cresting a steep hill that provides some incredible views of the canyon, but things don’t get too taxing until after you reach the waterfall.

That waterfall is about 40 feet high, and you will have to do some light scrambling to get to it. You can then hike a culvert down to a small trail that leads to the bottom of the falls — it’s roaring right now.

Then it’s a butt-busting hike to the Condor Peak, which will reveal the other advantage to these rains: crystal clear views of the San Gabriels.

On the way home, pop into El Tejano for some high octane Tex Mex. You’re here for nachos, hardshell tacos and cold Pacificos, and there are big-screen TVs airing sports on the patio. There’s also a cornhole court.

And if you need some new gear, here’s your packing list:

1. Lems Boulder Boot ($115) // 2. Coldsmoke Alpha-Lite Shirt ($298) // 3. Essential EDC Kit ($49.98) // 4. Matador Packable Backpack ($59.99) // 5. Glacier Point Vacuum Insulated Waterbottle ($17.97) // 6. Goruck Simple Pant ($94.98)