Haines Your Way

We all heart the superstar H2Os of the mountains—lakes, rivers, waterfalls, even man-made dams and reservoirs. But what about the unsung heroes of water management? Enter the debris basin, one of the less-visited, less-appreciated water features of the San Gabriels. See one on a 2.5-mile out-and-back hike (or mountain bike ride) that highlights the Haines Canyon Debris Basin, as well as some awesome valley views, and an optional route to the city’s highest point.

Park on the street at the north end of Haines Canyon Avenue and walk past the gate to reach the wide dirt trail. You’ll pass another Forest Service gate, and the Haines Canyon Debris Basin will be immediately on your right. Debris basins are specifically developed to capture any debris washed out of canyons by storms, including sediment, gravel, and local vegetation. Here at the bottom of Haines Canyon, this debris basin protects the surrounding area of Tujunga and beyond from floods, while allowing water to flow into the storm drain system. Because of that, the water level will vary depending on when you visit in relation to rains (and wow do we need some in SoCal!).

At the northeastern end of the debris basin, you’ll find a trail junction. Take a detour and head left up the steep incline; this is the Graveyard Truck Trail. Ultimately, it leads north almost all the way to Big Tujunga Canyon Road, passing the famous E.T. House along the way. At the top of the climb, check out the huge views of the San Fernando Valley. After enjoying the LA Kodak moment, head back down the way you came and continue along the fire road into the canyon, paralleling Haines Creek. 

As the trail gradually descends into the canyon, pass beautiful oak groves, mountain-bike spur trails, and 12 check dams (small constructions reducing water flow velocity). It’s picturesque throughout, with native riparian specimens dominating the trailside, including willows, sycamores, and cottonwoods. At the 1.25-mile mark (and about 600 feet in gain), you reach a T-junction. Both routes lead to Mount Lukens, the highest peak within the Los Angeles city limits (the more common route is via Deukmejian, which connects later on this trail), but if you’re here for the basin, this is a good spot to turn back unless you’re up for a big workout. Share the trail with mountain bikers as you head back to your car, and tip your hat to our new favorite flood-fending debris basin on the way out.

To get to the Haines Canyon Debris Basin and trailhead, exit Lowell Ave. off the I-210 and head north. After just over half a mile, turn left onto Foothill Ave. and after nearly a mile, turn right onto Haines Canyon Ave. You’ll have to make a quick right onto Day St. followed by a quick left to get back onto Haines Canyon Ave. After half a mile, you will reach the trailhead and street parking. Dog-friendly!

Story and photos by Matt Pawlik.