Top 21 Waterfall Hikes In Southern California

Travel Advisory

Trip101 recommends assessing the risks before hitting the hiking and trekking trails. Please be especially aware of the difficulty levels, the locations’ ground conditions, as well as the seasonal risks.

1. Eaton Canyon Falls, Pasadena

Is the heat in Southern California proving too unbearable? Well, it is your lucky day because there’s a lovely place where you can swim or relax in a natural swimming pool—Eaton Canyon Falls. This is a 3.5-mile (5.63 km) out-and-back trail that is usually buzzing with hikers, people jogging, and even people bringing their dogs for a walk. Locals and tourists come here to enjoy a quiet, romantic getaway by the amazing 40-foot (12.19 m) waterfall, which has a spectacular pool where people come to have fun. From the top, you’ll get wonderful views of the San Gabriel and Santa Monica mountains.

Eaton Canyon Falls

Address: Pasadena, CA

2. Paradise Falls, Thousand Oaks

Explore this rare phenomenon that is tucked away in the romantic Wildwood Regional Park, in Thousand Oaks, boasting a wide array of eye-catching features—Paradise Falls. This is a spectacular 40-foot (12.19 m) waterfall hanging in a gorgeous terrain, which can be accessed via a 2.7-mile (4.35 km) trail loop that takes you downhill to lovely caves. Make a little stop and pose for some photos in those charming caves. After enjoying a lovely, dramatic hike through the desertlike park, under the blazing sun, it will feel relaxing and rewarding to finally sit by the massive pool below the beautiful Paradise Falls.

Paradise Falls

Address: 928 W Avenida de los Arboles, Wildwood Regional Park, Thousand Oaks, CA

3. Sturtevant Falls, Arcadia

Enjoy an epic experience as you hike on this lovely 3.3-mile (5.31 km) trail hidden in the lush, green Angeles National Forest—Sturtevant Falls Trail. Featuring a spectacular cascading 50-foot (15.24 m) waterfall, this is one of the easiest and most intriguing hikes in the area, where you can bring your family for outdoor fun. It starts with a steep decline before ascending, then brings you to a tranquil stream flowing toward the waterfall. This hike will take you past the picturesque creek and a host of wonderful old resort cabins for campers, honeymooners, and adventure seekers to enjoy their privacy.

Sturtevant Falls

Address: Forest Rte 2N40, Arcadia, CA

4. Tangerine Falls, Montecito

Are you planning to surprise your beloved by taking them for a date in the woods? In California, there are so many charming places where you can enjoy a romantic getaway, but at Tangerine Falls, you would get a unique, mind-blowing experience. Tucked away in Montecito, this area has a nice trailhead that is about 2.2 miles (3.54 km) and takes you to the base of the waterfall—Tangerine Falls Trailhead. Although the hiking trail is steep and difficult to climb, it is filled with a lot of eye-catching features. During spring is when this beautifully cascading 100-foot-tall (30.48 m) waterfall blooms.

Tangerine Falls

Address: E Mountain Dr, Montecito, CA

5. Escondido Falls, Malibu

Are you a hiking enthusiast or a traveler seeking to explore nature but don’t know where to go for adventure around California? Well, in Malibu, Los Angeles, there’s a fantastic gem that might be what you’re looking for to light up your day—Escondido Falls. There is a scenic hiking trail that meanders across creeks, leading you to the amazing waterfall. The trail takes you across lovely forests, wildflowers, and a variety of breathtaking geographical features. The climax of this hike is when you get to the spectacular falls comprising three distinct tiers. You can be sure that this hike will leave you with the best memories of Southern California.

Escondido Falls

Address: Escondido Canyon Trail, Malibu, CA

6. Three Sisters Falls, Santa Ysabel

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Hidden away somewhere near Descanso in California is a spectacular 4.2-mile (6.76 km) out-and-back trail that comes with an endless list of amazing options—Three Sisters Falls Trail. This trail allows you to enjoy spellbinding views of Sunshine Mountain at the very start before you disappear in the thicket of lush, green oak trees. The trail has a steep descent cutting across a collection of blooming ceanothus and lovely spring flowers and comes to emerge with thrilling views of the gorge below. Your destination is the wonderful waterfalls surrounded by a large slab of granite and green shrubs.

Three Sisters Falls

Address: Boulder Creek Rd, Santa Ysabel, CA

7. Cedar Creek Falls, Ramona

Located off Thornbush Road in Ramona, the way to Cedar Creek Falls is a gorgeous backcountry trail boasting a plethora of mind-blowing attractions. If you’re someone looking to seriously burn some calories as you enjoy sightseeing, then this is the activity for you. It is a challenging path to walk, especially for beginners, as it is steep and some places have loose soil where you can slip. You’ll get to enjoy picturesque views of San Diego River Gorge and fantastic sights of beautiful hills on this route.

Cedar Creek Falls

Address: 15519 Thornbush Rd, Ramona, CA

Website: Cedar Creek Falls

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

8. Big Falls, Arroyo Grande

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Enjoy the charming atmosphere of the Pacific coast as you take on this scenic 4.4-mile (7.08 km) hiking trail found in Arroyo Grande—Big Falls Trailhead. This is one of the most sought-out trails because it’s easy to trek and boasts an incomparable beauty. As you cut through the Santa Lucia Wilderness in Los Padres National Forest, you’ll pass impressive forests of oak trees before you descend to a magical oak grove. You may come across fellow hikers, honeymooners, and lovely birds on this hike. Afterward, enjoy a refreshing swim in the pool at the base of the waterfalls.

Big Falls

Address: 3994 Upper Lopez Canyon Rd, Arroyo Grande, CA

Website: Big Falls

9. San Antonio Falls, Mt Baldy

Explore the beautiful geography around Mount Baldy when you set out for an adventure on this 1.3-mile (2.09 km) trail found in the San Antonio Canyon at the foot of the mountain—San Antonio Falls Trail. It is a relatively easy, out-and-back trail that takes you to the beautifully cascading San Antonio Falls. The trail is nicely manicured and takes you past beautiful cabins, after which you’ll be able to see the waterfalls from a distance. As you make your way down to the creek, be wary of sliding. At the base, you can find a nice spot to relax and enjoy the pristine views.

San Antonio Falls

Address: Mt Baldy Rd, Mt Baldy, CA

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

10. Switzer Falls, Tujunga

Located along Crest Highway in Tujunga is a scenic hiking trail that takes you not only through historic ruins but also to one of the most amazing waterfalls in Southern California—the 50-foot (15-meter) Switzer Falls. The trail covers about 4.5 miles (7.24 km) of spectacular beauty, with eye-catching features such as a babbling brook and a breathtaking gorge. Although the hike is a bit steep, you stand to enjoy a magical experience traversing this hilly terrain. Before you are at the waterfalls, you will find where the trail kisses the river.

This place is kid-friendly and beginner-friendly because of its straightforward out-and-back track. If you don’t want your pet dog to miss the fun, you can definitely bring him or her with you - just be sure to bring a leash!

Switzer Falls

Address: 701 Angeles Crest Hwy, Tujunga, CA

Other hiking and trekking spots in Southern California

Do you want to explore more than just stunning waterfalls? Then, check out the other hiking and trekking spots in the state and enjoy unmatched scenery in idyllic settings!

11. Big Laguna Trailhead, Mt Laguna

Big Laguna Trailhead can be reached through Laguna Campground or Penny Pines, close to Mount Laguna. As it is near these tourist attractions, it makes it a great hiking trail to explore, and you will also have the opportunity to visit interesting spots before and after your hike. This trail is considered to be a moderately difficult hiking trail to take on and is suitable for intermediate to advanced hikers. There are also several activities that you can do here, such as camping, horseback riding, and bird watching. You can bring your trusted canine with you so long as he or she is leashed.

Big Laguna Trailhead

Address: Pacific Crest Trail, Mt Laguna, CA 91948, United States

12. Solstice Canyon Trail, Malibu

Solstice Canyon Trail is a 3.2-mile (5.1-kilometer) out and back hiking trail located in the Santa Monica Mountains. One of the reasons why hikers visit this spot is because of the waterfall where you can freshen up after a tiring trek or simply adore its natural beauty. This is an ideal place to spend some quality time with your family since it is regarded as kid-friendly and has several spots where you can go camping or picnicking. It is also home to one of the oldest stone buildings in Malibu. Whether you’re an adult, a child, or a leashed canine, you’ll definitely enjoy trekking here.

Solstice Canyon Trail

Address: Solstice Canyon, Malibu, CA 90265, United States

Opening hours: 8am - 7pm (daily)

13. Borrego Palm Canyon Nature Trail, Borrego Springs

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Borrego Palm Canyon Nature Trail is a relatively short hiking trail. It is 2.9 miles (4.6 kilometers) long and is located near Borrego Springs. It is yet another beginner-friendly trail, so it is a great spot where families can spend time together. Some of the highlights of this trail are a waterfall, wildlife, and stunning views. The trail is moderately difficult, and its elevation gains are up to 462 feet (about 140 meters). If you want to see the wildflowers at their most beautiful, its best to visit this place during the spring season. Dogs are not allowed, but don’t let that discourage you from experiencing the beauty of this place

Borrego Palm Canyon Nature Trail

Address: Unnamed Road, Borrego Springs, CA 92004, United States

14. Bridge to Nowhere, Azusa

Bridge to Nowhere is a 9.3-mile (15-kilometer) out and back trail situated in Azusa, California. It also has a waterfall, which is great if you want to refresh after a tough hike. Some of the activities that you and your group will enjoy here are fishing, backpacking, and bird watching. Elevation gains reach 1,276 feet (389 meters). The route isn’t recommended for people who are new to hiking, as it can be quite challenging due to several stream crossings and washed-out parts.

Bridge to Nowhere

Address: Mt. Baldy, Azusa, CA 91759, United States

15. Salt Creek Interpretive Trail, Death Valley National Park

Salt Creek Interpretive Trail is great for people who are just learning the ins and outs of hiking. The whole route is less than a mile (about 1.4 kilometers), and the elevation gains are just 26 feet (less than 8 meters) above sea level. The trail is for people who just want to see a bit of nature without hardcore hiking. It is stroller-friendly, as it is mostly boardwalk, so you can bring your baby with you and expose them to nature early on. And to give you another reason to visit this place, it is home to some rare and endangered pupfish that you might want to see!

Salt Creek Interpretive Trail

Address: Death Valley National Park, California 92328, USA

Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)

16. San Jacinto Peak, Riverside County

San Jacinto Peak is not for the faint of heart! Marion Mountain Trail is one of the most difficult trails here - it is for serious hikers who are up to the challenge of up to 4,500 feet (more than 1,300 kilometers) of elevation gains! Just imagine how hard that journey would be. However, reaching the peak of the second-highest mountain in Southern California is worth the hike, as the panoramic views from the top will surely take your breath away. In case you’re wondering, yes, there are lesser trails that you can take if you are not prepared to face such a difficult path.

17. Baldy Loop, Los Angeles County

Baldy Loop, also known as Mt. Baldy or Mt. San Antonio, is recommended for advanced hikers. Its elevation gains reach 3,940 feet (1,200 meters). Though it is even more attractive when it snows, it will definitely be more challenging to hike. Please do not attempt to hike the Devil’s Backbone or Baldy Bowl when it is snowing, as it can be dangerous without professional equipment. Some of the most famous activities here include snowshoeing, bird watching, and skiing.

18. El Moro Canyon Trail, Laguna Beach

El Moro Canyon Trail is a five-mile (eight-kilometer) trail situated near Laguna Beach. It is a relatively easy hike and is kid-friendly. Some of the most popular activities for tourists here are horseback riding, mountain bicycling, and running. It is also known for the beautiful wildflowers that bloom during the spring season, which makes the whole trek even better, especially for photography enthusiasts.

El Moro Canyon Trail

Address: 8471 N Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach, CA 92651, United States

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

19. Split Rock Trail, Twentynine Palms

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Situated near Twentynine Palms, Split Rock Trail is a sight to behold. You’ll see stunning natural rock formations, plants, and even several species of animals. There are also caves that you might want to explore in the area, and the total distance of the trail is 1.9 miles (3.0 kilometers). The path is pretty simple and not that physically demanding to take, so it is perfect for amateur hikers.

Split Rock Trail

Address: Twentynine Palms, CA 92277, United States

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

20. Boucher Hill Loop, Palomar Mountain State Park

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

If you are in Pala, California then you should visit Boucher Hill where you can enjoy bird watching in the forest. The route is a loop, and the total distance from start to finish is 1.9 miles (3 kilometers), with an elevation gain of 321 feet (98 meters). The highlight of this trail is its breathtaking views from the top. It is a great place to bond with friends or family members, or if you feel like solo soul-searching surrounded by nature.

Boucher Hill Loop

Address: Palomar Mountain State Park, California 92061, USA

Explore the scenic beauty of Southern California

The wide range of pristine beaches along the magnificent Pacific coastline, breathtaking canyons, gorges, creeks, mountains, and scenic trails - truly there’s a huge array of natural attractions that this region has to offer. Put on your hiking boots and trek to some of these stunning places using this article as your guide!