Henninger Flats Altadena
Hike to a rustic campground with stunning LA views, featuring pine forests and a unique palm tree.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temps & fewer crowds
Henninger Flats Altadena
Best Time
Cooler temps & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike to a rustic campground with stunning LA views, featuring pine forests and a unique palm tree.
"It's a tough climb, but trust me—it's the kind of hike that leaves you feeling accomplished and inspired."
Bring Plenty of Water! 💧
The 6-mile roundtrip hike is strenuous. Stay hydrated to avoid fatigue and enjoy the climb.
Wear Comfortable Shoes 👟
Sturdy hiking boots or trail shoes are essential for the uphill climb and potential steep declines.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Los Angeles Views
Summit
Breathtaking vistas of the entire Los Angeles basin, stretching to the Pacific on clear days.
Rustic Campground Charm
Summit
A peaceful, pine-scented campground offering a rustic escape with picnic tables and a visitor center.
Unique Palm Tree Oasis
Near helipad
An unexpected palm tree stands amidst the pines, a quirky and memorable sight for hikers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Ascent
Post-Fire Landscape
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Plenty of Water! 💧
The 6-mile roundtrip hike is strenuous. Stay hydrated to avoid fatigue and enjoy the climb.
Wear Comfortable Shoes 👟
Sturdy hiking boots or trail shoes are essential for the uphill climb and potential steep declines.
Sun Protection is Key ☀️
A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are a must, especially during warmer months.
Check Fire Advisories 🔥
Recent fires have impacted the area. Always check for trail closures or advisories before heading out.
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Plenty of Water! 💧
The 6-mile roundtrip hike is strenuous. Stay hydrated to avoid fatigue and enjoy the climb.
Wear Comfortable Shoes 👟
Sturdy hiking boots or trail shoes are essential for the uphill climb and potential steep declines.
Sun Protection is Key ☀️
A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are a must, especially during warmer months.
Check Fire Advisories 🔥
Recent fires have impacted the area. Always check for trail closures or advisories before heading out.
Embrace the Camaraderie 😊
Hikers are friendly! Expect smiles and greetings, making the challenging trek more enjoyable.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Henninger Flats for its breathtaking panoramic views of the Los Angeles basin and the peaceful, pine-scented atmosphere of the summit campground. The challenging hike is considered well worth the effort, with many appreciating the camaraderie among fellow hikers. Some recent visitors have noted the campground appears somewhat distressed, with hopes for future improvements.
"The first time I ever did this hike, I was fourteen years old and a Boy Scout. We even camped up top! Fast forward twenty years, and here I am taking on this six-mile adventure again—but this time, with my boy Shadow by my side.
As everyone says, it’s three miles uphill and three quick miles back down. Does it have some of the best views around? Absolutely, hands down! Is it easy? Definitely not. Is it worth it? Every single step.
Lately, I’ve been hiking a lot, and I have to say, showing up at 7am with fellow hikers made this one of the friendliest hikes I’ve had in a while. Every person we passed said, “Good morning,” with a smile, and honestly, it was refreshing to experience that kind of camaraderie on the trail.
Big shoutout to those hikers! You made an already incredible hike even better.
So whether you’re chasing breathtaking views, looking for a challenge, or just hoping to soak in some good vibes, I 10/10 recommend this trail. It’s a tough climb, but trust me—it’s the kind of hike that leaves you feeling accomplished and inspired."
Mario
"Patience is key on this one but the end is a breezy reward. The elevation is gradual in most areas which is tolerable, with a handful of steep corner turns as you go up. Going down, watch your balance as the decline can get sharp as well. This is rated a 3.5 hour roundtrip hike for 7.3 miles long. It's possible to take this in less time. The top of this location is also a campsite though no one was there at the time. A rewarding breeze wafts under the shade of the tall trees around you as you enjoy the view down to the San Gabriel Valley. On the downhill back to the start, we found there was a shortcut that was more steep as well and less traveled but clearly marked as a path. If you need to get back to the urban, this is the route to take. Would also recommend just having some type of map (google or apple maps) on your phone to make sure you're heading the right way back to the start. And bring plenty of water and wear lots of sunscreen, a hat and/or sunglasses, and a towel too for the buckets of sweat as well."
Kevin Chen
"Eaton Canyon Waterfall, crowded. Henninger Flats, nice and peaceful. Winter is perfect time to hike up the bright open hills with great views of the LA Basin all the way to the Pacific"
Abe Achkinazi
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common access point is via the nature center, following trails like the Eaton Canyon Trail or Altadena Crest Trail. The Mt. Wilson Toll Road is also an option. Be aware that some routes may have been affected by recent fires. 
Parking is available at the trailhead, typically near the nature center. Arrive early, especially on weekends, as it can fill up quickly.
Yes, bikepacking is possible, and the trails offer a scenic route for cyclists. Some sections can be challenging.
Public transportation to the immediate trailhead is limited. It's generally recommended to drive or use ride-sharing services to reach the Altadena area.
Reconnaissance has been performed on the Mt. Wilson Toll Road up to Henninger Flats post-fire, indicating it's accessible for utility and forest service workers.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, hiking to Henninger Flats is generally free. There are no admission fees for the trails or the campground.
The trails are typically open from dawn to dusk. The campground is available for overnight stays, but check for any specific access restrictions.
Yes, Henninger Flats offers a rustic campground. It's a popular spot for overnight stays, offering a unique experience under the stars.
While generally free, it's always a good idea to check with the local forestry service or park authorities for any potential permit requirements, especially for group camping.
Some visitors have noted that the campground appears 'distressed' post-fire, with hopes for future restoration.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike is approximately 6 miles roundtrip, taking about 3 to 3.5 hours for most hikers. It's a gradual uphill climb with some steeper sections.
It's considered a moderate to strenuous hike due to the elevation gain. It's a good challenge for those seeking a workout with rewarding views.
You'll find stunning panoramic views of Los Angeles, a unique palm tree, a helipad, and a rustic campground with picnic areas and a visitor center.
Restroom facilities are available at the campground and visitor center area.
While the hike is challenging, families with older children who are accustomed to hiking can enjoy the experience. The campground offers a unique overnight adventure.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants or food vendors at Henninger Flats. You'll need to bring all your own food and drinks.
Pack plenty of water, snacks, and a picnic lunch if you plan to spend a significant amount of time at the summit.
Yes, there are picnic tables available at the campground, making it a great spot for a packed lunch with a view.
📸 📸 Photography
The panoramic views of the Los Angeles basin are spectacular, especially during sunrise and sunset. The unique palm tree and the rustic campground also make for interesting shots.
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for landscape photography, minimizing harsh shadows and capturing the golden hour.
Drone usage is typically restricted in national forests and protected areas. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.
While not a primary focus, the area has historical significance related to early Altadena development and the fires. The Mt. Wilson Toll Road has historical elements.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A telephoto lens can be useful for details in the city below. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Once at the summit, the rustic campground offers a unique experience for an overnight stay, providing a sense of adventure. The picnic areas are perfect for a family lunch with a view.
Remember to pack plenty of water, snacks, and sun protection for everyone. The unique palm tree is also a fun point of interest for kids to discover. 💰 Budget Travelers
Packing your own food and water is essential, as there are no concessions available.
🏃♀️ Trail Runners & Fitness Enthusiasts
Starting early is key to avoid other hikers and enjoy a clear path. Be mindful of the terrain, especially on the downhill sections, which can be steep and require good balance.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Eaton Fire's Impact
This resilience is a testament to the natural environment's ability to regenerate. Visitors can still experience the beauty of the area, but it's crucial to be aware of the post-fire conditions and any potential trail advisories or closures. Social media content often captures the stark contrast between the pre-fire beauty and the aftermath, with some videos showing the extent of the damage and others highlighting the survival of landmarks.
When planning your visit, always check the latest information from local authorities regarding trail access and safety. The landscape is dynamic, and understanding its recent history adds another layer to the experience of visiting Henninger Flats.
Hiking to Henninger Flats: A Challenging Ascent
Hikers often recommend starting early in the morning to avoid the midday heat and to enjoy a more peaceful trail.
For those looking for a slightly different route or a quicker descent, a steeper, less-traveled shortcut is sometimes mentioned.
+1The Unique Flora of Henninger Flats
The presence of the palm tree amidst the pines is a quirky detail that adds to the charm of Henninger Flats. It's a visual anomaly that has become a point of interest and a popular spot for photos.
Beyond the palm, the area boasts the natural beauty of the San Gabriel Mountains, with the pine forest providing welcome shade and a refreshing scent.
The resilience of the plant life, even after recent fires, is also noteworthy, with new growth beginning to emerge in some areas. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit