Franklin Canyon Site Trail

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Easy
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
1h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
3.2 km
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
67 m
User Ratings
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Directions to Trailhead

The Franklin Canyon Site Trail is a popular family-friendly hiking route outside of Los Angeles that circles around a reservoir and offers plenty of wildlife viewing opportunities. While out hiking the trail, you will enjoy views across the Upper Franklin Canyon Reservoir and Heavenly Pond, as you explore the canyon landscape along an easy to traverse path. Hikers can also check out the Sooky Goldman Nature Center near the trailhead to learn more about the local plant and animal life in the area.

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Route Description for Franklin Canyon Site Trail

Hiking the Franklin Canyon Site Trail is a popular adventure near Los Angeles, and while there is ample parking in the area, you might want to arrive early to save some time securing a space. Some trails in the area also lack proper signage, so you might want to bring a trail map or GPS in order to stay on the proper track.

Featuring a strong network of trails, Franklin Canyon Park is a great place to spend an afternoon exploring the outdoors. Spend some time by the reservoir, meander along the winding trails, or head over to the nearby nature center to learn about the wildlife that can be found here; the opportunities are nearly endless when planning for a few hours on the Franklin Canyon Site Trail.

Setting out from the parking lot, you will make your way south along Franklin Canyon Drive, following the road until you meet up with the Chernoff Trail near the Upper Franklin Canyon Reservoir. Here, you will continue south along the water’s edge while taking in the views across the reservoir.

Eventually, you will cross over Franklin Canyon Drive and pick up the Ranch Trail, following it further to the southwest across the undulating landscape until you arrive at a small parking area. Turning back to the north, you will pass through the forested landscape along the winding Upper Franklin Canyon Drive Trail.

As you make your way back to the north, you will pass by the edge of the Heavenly Pond, before arriving back at the shoulder of Franklin Canyon Drive. Turning right, you will follow the road south until you arrive back at the trailhead where you began your adventure along the Franklin Canyon Site Trail.

Those who want to spend some more time in the area can make the short walk over to the Sooky Goldman Nature Center to learn about the flora and fauna of the area.

Insider Hints for Franklin Canyon Site Trail

  • Toilet facilities can be found near the Heavenly Pond on Franklin Canyon Drive.
  • While much of the trail is wheelchair/stroller friendly, there are a few steep sections to take note of.
  • Keep your dog on a leash at all times.

Getting to the Franklin Canyon Site Trail Trailhead

The trailhead for the Franklin Canyon Site Trail can be found next to the Sooky Goldman Nature Center on Franklin Canyon Drive.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground

    No

  • When to do

    Year-Round

  • Pets allowed

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly

    Yes

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    High

  • Route Type

    Circuit

Franklin Canyon Site Trail Elevation Graph

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