Eaton Canyon Falls in Pasadena is where you’ll find a forty-foot waterfall that drops into a shallow pool—usually waist-deep—surrounded by canyon walls and oak trees. The hike itself is about 3.25 miles round trip, climbing gradually through Eaton Canyon on a well-established trail that follows a creek bed. On warm weekends, you’ll see plenty of people in swim clothes wading in the pool, and dogs splashing around alongside them.

The trail starts near the Eaton Canyon Natural Area visitor center and stays mostly shaded, which helps when you’re hiking with a dog. The creek runs year-round, so there’s water for your dog to drink along the way, though you might want to bring a collapsible bowl just in case. The pool at the base of the falls is the real draw—it’s cold and clear, and while the rocks can be slippery, the water depth makes it manageable for both humans and dogs who want to cool off.

One thing to know: the trail can get muddy in spots, particularly near the creek, and your dog will likely come out looking like they took a mud bath. Bring a towel and maybe a change of clothes. The area also gets crowded on nice weekends, so going early morning is smart if you want a quieter experience.

Leashes are required on the Eaton Canyon Trail itself, so your dog won’t have complete freedom to roam, but once you reach the pool area at the falls, there’s a bit more room to move around. The whole hike is manageable for most dogs in decent shape, though the rocky terrain means it’s better for dogs with tougher paws. The shade and water access throughout make it doable even on warmer days.