Henninger Flats

There are two ways to access the Henninger Flats Trail. To begin from the south, park at the Eaton Canyon Nature Center and head north on the Eaton Canyon Trail. The other option is to park on Pinecrest Drive and hike south down Eaton Canyon. Due to the parking time limits and restrictions on weekends, it is recommended to use the Eaton Canyon Nature Center starting point.

Regardless of where you begin the hike, you will eventually come to the Walnut Canyon Trail. It forks off from the main Eaton Canyon Trail. Follow the set of switchbacks up to the Old Mount Wilson Toll Road. Since this section is quite steep, your pup may need to paws for a break or two. Once on the Old Toll Road, you’ll be hiking where horse carriages and old automobiles once traveled. This historic road use to be a thorough fare to the Mount Wilson Observatory. Today, it is a pawsome trail frequented by hikers and mountain bikers. Keep trucking up this hill while enjoying puptacular views of the valley below. Take advantage of the benches that are scattered along the way. Shade is rare and the sun gets hot, so make sure your pooch gets plenty to drink during this section of the hike.

Once you reach Henninger Flats, your doggo (and your quads) will be glad the hill is over! Three campgrounds, Henninger Flats Visitor Information Center, and a tree nursery are located on the flats. Most visitors are day hikers enjoying the sweeping views, but if your pup wants to sleep under the stars, snag one of the campsites.

Restrooms and water can be found at both the Henninger Flats Visitors Center and the Eaton Canyon Nature Center.  Don’t forget to bring clean up bags and pick up after your pooch. Make no mistake; this trail will give your pup a pawsome workout!