Henninger Flats

Dogs Leashed

Features Commonly Backpacked · Views · Wildflowers

A great out-and-back up to Henninger Flats. Enjoy the exhibits and the views.

There is no water or flush toilets at Henninger Flats. Can be hard on pets during hot weather.

From the parking area at Eaton Canyon Nature Center, head north on the dirt Eaton Canyon Path. At a signed junction, turn right to head up Equestrian Trail, a steep but short connecting horse trail that leads to Mt. Wilson Toll Road #2N45. At the junction with Mt. Wilson Toll Road #2N45, take a right (heading out of the Eaton Canyon Park boundary) up a more gradual slope. There is not much in the way of shade until you reach Henninger Flats.

At Henninger Flats, there is much to explore, including several side roads and paths through the shade. Explore the visitor center and the exhibits. There are 3 main camping areas for overnight use but you must bring your own water. After you've had your fill and rested up, head back the way you came.

Thanks to John McKinney, The Trailmaster, for sharing this trail description. To learn more about trails in California, check out his guides at The Trailmaster Store.

Cone bearing trees such as Coulter, sugar, knob cone, gray and Jeffery pine. And more exotic trees like Japanese black pine and Himalayan white pine.

William Henninger came to the area to retire and prospect and discovered the mesa. He built a cabin, planted trees and small gardens. In 1895 when Henninger died, the area became a USFS tree nursery. Due to lack of water, the nursery is no longer in use.