Little Santa Anita Canyon (Upper)
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| | Difficulty:3B III (v3a2 III) Raps:0-4, max ↨
Red Tape:No permit required Shuttle: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| Condition Reports: | 9 Nov 2024
"Upper Santa Anita is more of a stroll than rappelling. We dropped in north of Orchard Camp as part of a search and explored the canyon till first wat |
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| Best season: | After rains, Spring to Summer
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34.1995, -118.0533
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Introduction[edit]
Descending Little Santa Anita Canyon from Orchard Camp gives you another 4 rappels (or downclimbs) with the largest being about a 20-25' drop. There are a few stone structures that are interesting to look at in the canyon as well as a number of large pools that would be quite enjoyable in the Summer. There are several parts where the canyon kelp is really thick but for the most part it's just a lot of creek walking. Probably not worth doing unless there's a decent amount of flow on a hot day.
Approach[edit]
Hike up the Mount Wilson trail until you get to Orchard Camp. Then enter the canyon and enjoy creek walking for the next 2 hours.
Descent[edit]
The first "major" obstacle is an 8 foot waterfall that is easily downclimbed DCL. The next obstacle, a large boulder, is right below and is also relatively easily downclimbed via the slope DCL or partner assisting down the boulder itself. At least an hour of creek walking until you come to the next waterfall, this is the "big" one, and should be easily downclimbed DCL. Large pool beneath the falls to cool off in. The last waterfall is shortly after this and is a tricky downclimb with slippery rock. Probably better off rappelling down or using a handline. The pool below this one is chest deep in the deepest part.
Exit[edit]
Exit Option One:
Shortly after hiking past the last stone structure there is a trail DCR that takes you back up to the Mount Wilson Trail. You will have walked past this trail on the hike-in, it is right before the (unnecessary) fixed handline. From here simply walk back down the Mount Wilson Trail and back to your car.
Exit Option Two:
Continue hiking to first water and either exit via the Mount Wilson Trail or run Little Santa Anita Canyon.
Red tape[edit]
Pick up your damn trash
