When it comes to the great outdoors beautiful Southern California seems to have it all!
Beaches, lakes, awesome parks, hiking trails, we are truly lucky to live in such a beautiful place. In addition to all these many great places in nature, Southern California also has waterfalls and these magnificent natural displays are located within reach of Los Angeles so we can go out to explore, and enjoy.
In this article we share some of the most captivating waterfall hikes near Los Angeles!
If you want to enjoy a hike in Los Angeles with waterfall this article is for you. Be safe and remember leave no trace.
1 – Santa Ynez Waterfall Trail
Description:
If you are an expert at hiking this is an easy one for you. If you are like us who prefer to hit the easy short trail once in a while 🙂 then you may rate this one as moderate but either way you may want to bring hiking boots. Get camera ready because the trek is worth the rocks and wet shoes.
On the way there to the main event there are lots of trees, birds chirping everywhere, and butterflies. This hike is also fun for older kids who like to jump across creeks and don’t need help walking 2.5 miles, our 8year old had a lot of fun and he is not much of a hiking enthusiast.
So what else can you expect? A fun 2.2 mile hike out and back. A beautiful 18 foot waterfall but will only be flowing good after a rainfall.
During dry conditions you won’t be able to see much at the waterfall but a small puddle and a little drip coming from the big rocks but its still cool to reach it.
On the way to the water fall Oak trees provide shade for most of your trip. No dogs on this one, so leave your furry companion at home.
Also, watch out for poison oak!
Location: Santa Ynez Waterfall Trail, Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
Pic Credit: @doddiegare
2 – Trail Canyon Falls
Description:
At Trail Canyon Falls you can find this is spectacular 40 foot waterfall! Fun hike for all of you outdoor adventure enthusiasts out there looking for a bit of elevation and good workout as this is a 4 mile round trip waterfall hike. Its not all about the workout however as you will get very beautiful views.
Bring water, sunscreen and good shoes. You can bring your dog on a leash but part of the path close to reaching the falls can be pretty steep with tons of rocks around, so be cautious, especially if your dog likes to pull.
Location: 19333 Gold Canyon Truck Trail, Sunland-Tujunga, CA 91040
PIC Credit: @exploringwithsandy
3 – Escondido Falls
Description:
Most Southern California hiking experts agree that during great conditions this waterfall is one of the most stunning local ones.
The waterfall has three tiers, the lower tier is a pretty cool 50 foot tall one. You can continue your journey to the top tier which is 150 foot tall. However it’s rather challenging to get up there, so make sure you use your hiking expertise and good grip shoes.
Not the best parking situation for this one unfortunately, but if you go early enough you should find a spot in the visitor parking. After that you will be walking up hill in a paved road for about a mile through Malibu Hills. Then you will see the sign that says “Edward Albert Escondido Trail and Waterfall”.
Have fun!
Location: Escondido Canyon Trail, Malibu, CA 90265
PIC Credit: @trekking_socal
4 – Millard Falls
Description:
This popular hiking trail is short, a mere 1 mile out and back. The waterfall has a large boulder lodge at the top, which makes it pretty unique. After a strong rainfall you can enjoy a 50 foot tall waterfall. The hike is family friendly because it is short, however after a strong rainfall the path to the waterfall can get very wet and rocks can be very slippery.
To get to this pleasant canyon in the San Gabriel mountains, begin your hike from the Millard campground. Just after you pass the campground you will see the falls trail sign. The hike is nicely shaded, and your dog is welcome on leash.
Location: Altadena, CA 91001
PIC Credit: @gisselwestcoast
5 – Sturtevant Falls
Description:
Many people love to hit this trail, so it is one of the most popular hikes in the San Gabriel Mountains. Beautiful surroundings and at the end of your hike you’ll see a very beautiful 50 foot tall waterfall when the weather conditions allows it.
During dry season the fall won’t be displaying much water.
Because this spot is popular, parking can be challenging so get there early. Bring sunscreen and be prepared to go down hill at the beginning of the hike which means you will climb up at the end of your adventure. Your dog is welcome on leash.
Get you waterproof hiking shoes and enjoy a beautiful day connecting with nature and getting some good work out too.
Location: Chantry Flat Rd, Arcadia, CA 91006
PIC Credit: @trailgirlmagic
Do you agree with our list or did we miss an obvious one? Let us know by commenting below!