Los Angeles, also referred to as the “The city of Angels” is known across the world as one of the most happening places. The city experienced substantial growth when oil was discovered under the surface back in 1892. Did you know that Beverly Hills, one of the most expensive real estate in the world, started out as a lima bean ranch? Home to the infamous Hollywood sign, Los Angeles is the official home to the American movie industry. Interestingly, filmmakers moved out of New Jersey, where the majority of film patents were held by Thomas Edison, resulting in this development. This article lists the 10 best waterfall hikes near Los Angeles, California. Scroll down to learn more.
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. Sturtevant Falls
Located in the Angeles National Forest, the Sturtevant Falls is one of the most visited hiking trails that lead to a pristine creek. It is located near the San Gabriel Mountains and you would need to hike 3.25 miles (about 5km) to reach these falls. The 60-foot (18-meter) waterfall is truly a spectacular sight.
Sturtevant Falls
Address: Chantry Flat road, Arcadia, California, 91006
Website: Sturtevant Falls
Opening hours: 6am - 8pm (daily)
Price: 5 USD (parking)
2. Hermit Falls
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
While not as popular as the former waterfall in the list, this trail is great if you are looking for a peaceful climb. It is a departure from your traditional routes as the uphill portion of the climb comes near the end of your hike.
Hermit Falls
Address: Monrovia, California, 91016
Website: Hermit Falls
Opening hours: 6am - 8pm (daily)
Price: 5 USD
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3. Eaton Canyon Falls
The Eaton Canyon is a 40-foot (12-meter) waterfall that tumbles into a wide pool, perfect to relax in. The water is waist-deep, making it safe for non-swimmers. This place is great to beat the heat, especially during summer.
Eaton Canyon Falls
Address: 1750, N Altadena Dr Pasadena, California, 91107
Website: Eaton Canyon Falls
Opening hours: 7.30am - 7pm (daily)
Price: Free
4. Monrovia Falls
Located in the San Gabriel Mountains, the Monrovia Falls is a 30-foot (9-meter) waterfall that is enriched with bays and alders. This 1.6-mile (2.5-km) round trip hike is great for people new to hiking due to its relatively short distance.
Monrovia Falls
Address: 973-1199 N Canyon Blvd, Monrovla, California, 91016
Website: Monrovia Falls
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 8am - 5pm; Sat - Sun: 7am - 5pm (closed on Tuesday)
Price: 5 USD
5. Paradise Falls
Paradise Falls is a 40-foot (12-meter) drop which leads to a large water pool in Thousand Oaks. This 2.55-mile (4-km) hike is a must visit especially for newbie hikers. The name Paradise Falls might sound familiar, it was featured in Pixar’s animated movie, Up. This picturesque waterfall is truly a sight to behold.
Paradise Falls
Address: 928 West Avenida De Los Arboles, Wildwood Regional Park, Thousand Oaks, California 91360
Website: Paradise Falls
Opening hours: 6am - 8pm (daily)
Price: 5 USD
6. Switzer Falls
Switzer Falls is an amazing 4.5-mile (7km) hike with a variety of terrains, including trails, boulders, river crossings and more. Expect to hike for about three hours to reach the waterfall. The magnificent beauty of this waterfall is truly a sight to behold. These Falls are located a mere 15-minute drive away from the Angeles Forest sign.
Switzer Falls
Address: 701 Angeles Crest Hwy, Tujunga, California 91042
Website: Switzer Falls
Opening hours: 6am - 8pm (daily)
Price: 5 USD
7. Trail Canyon Falls
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Located on the West side of the San Gabriel Mountains, this trail leads to a brilliant 30-foot (9-meter) waterfall. The trail crosses multiple streams to reach the spot where you can enjoy broad views of the mountains and nearby canyons. This is a 4.5-mile (7.2-meter) hike. This is part of the Los Angeles National Forest.
Trail Canyon Falls
Address: Tujunga, California 91042
Website: Trail Canyon Falls
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: 5 USD
8. Millard Canyon Falls
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
The Millard Canyon Falls is a 2.6-mile (4 km) back trail which is frequented by hiking enthusiasts. If you like to meet new people, this would be a great trek for you. This trail is often used for running and hiking and the paths are dog-friendly. What’s more, the Millard Canyon Falls trail is open to tourists all around the year. Please ensure that you purchase a parking pass before heading in.
Millard Canyon Falls
Address: Altadena, CA 91001, USA
Website: Millard Canyon Falls
Opening hours: 24-hours (daily)
Price: 5 USD
9. Santa Ynez Falls
The Santa Ynez Falls is located in the Santa Monica Mountains. This is a 2.5-mile (4-km) return trek with a comparatively low elevation. This makes it great for bringing kids along as well. You start at the Topanga State Park and as you progress along the trek you get closer to nature and away from the urban world. You can choose to end your hiking at the falls, but for thrill seekers, it is possible to go beyond the canyon. Please note that this trail consists of a large number of poison oaks, so long pants are recommended for hikers.
Santa Ynez Falls
Address: Santa Ynez Waterfall Trail, Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
Website: Santa Ynez Falls
Opening hours: 24-hours (daily)
Price: Free
10. Fish Canyon Falls
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
The Fish Canyon Falls Trail is a 4.8-mile (7.7 km) return hike which takes about 2.5 hours to cover. The best time to visit this place is in the early spring as the water flows into the canyon, turning it green. This trail is known to have dangerous animals present in the area, please be careful on your hike. Additionally, the trail also consists of a large number of poison oaks and ticks so ensure that you wear long clothing to protect yourself.
Fish Canyon Falls
Address: Los Angeles County, California
Website: Fish Canyon Falls
Opening hours: 24-hours (daily)
Price: Santa Ynez Waterfall Trail, Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
Plan your next vacation to Los Angeles, California
So as you can see, Los Angeles offers a lot more in terms of hiking and spectacular falls as one might have known. This place is perfect for adrenaline junkies who are addicted to getting their heart racing. Book your next adventure here and experience the true natural beauty of LA.
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