Los Angeles is thought for having lovely hikes that wind up into the long-lasting Hollywood Hills and down into shady canyons, however many don’t know this metropolis can also be house to many climbing trails with waterfalls.
Take a brief journey from the massive metropolis and also you’ll discover hidden oases with speeding streams and shady sitting areas from which to take all of it in.
Whereas the water is finest considered within the fall, spring, or after heavy rain, these hikes present a beautiful escape into nature year-round.
Maintain studying to find among the most scenic waterfall hikes in LA, listed from simple to onerous so you’ll find your excellent path. All trails are inside roughly an hour of Los Angeles.
Bonus: This information additionally incorporates suggestions for having fun with the assorted trails safely and confidently.
What Kind Of Hiker Are You? [Free Quiz]
However first, earlier than we dive into the assorted Los Angeles waterfall hikes, I need to share a free character quiz I believe you’ll love:
Uncover your climbing persona on this enjoyable and quick hiker character quiz, which additionally shares path strategies based mostly in your outcomes.
When you’ve grabbed the quiz, let’s go over among the high climbing trails in Los Angeles with waterfalls. Get excited, as climbing is likely one of the high issues to do in California!
10 Gorgeous Waterfall Hikes In Los Angeles
Under, discover epic waterfall hikes close to Los Angeles. We’ll start with some simple but scenic trails earlier than shifting into average after which troublesome climbing paths.
Straightforward Waterfall Hikes In Los Angeles
1. Escondido Falls
Escondido Falls within the Escondido Canyon Path. Photograph by way of Logan Voss for Unsplash.
Path Size: 3.5 miles out-and-back
Trailhead: Escondido Canyon Path, Malibu, CA 90265
Path Map: Click on right here for an Escondido Canyon Path map
Distance from Los Angeles: About an hour and 10 minutes
Escondido Falls is likely one of the most infamous climbing trails with waterfalls in Los Angeles. For those who observe any of the favored Los Angeles Instagram accounts, you’ve possible seen this magnificence earlier than.
This easy-paced path takes hikers to see a 50-foot lush and cascading waterfall – and, for the extra daring, up additional to see a second waterfall towering at 150 toes excessive.
If planning to enterprise as much as the second waterfall, be ready for extra strenuous situations together with boulder hopping and steep climbing with a rope. For those who’ve hiked the more difficult Dying Valley canyon trails, like Mosaic Canyon, this path is comparable within the scrambling and boulder climbing required.
There may be parking at the beginning of the path, which first takes you thru a residential space of the Malibu Hills; however, should you maintain going, you’ll attain the trailhead signal and the beginning of the plush inexperienced nature path.
Be aware that it is a shady hike, and, relying on the time of 12 months, it’s possible you’ll cross streams of water flowing throughout the pathways. Due to this, you’ll need to pack some water footwear!
Whether or not you’re having fun with a 3 day Los Angeles itinerary or extra time to spare, this hike is a should!
2. Solstice Canyon
Solstice Canyon. DocFreeman24, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, by way of Wikimedia Commons.
Path Size: 3-mile loop
Trailhead: 3455 Solstice Canyon Rd, Malibu, CA 90265
Path Map: Click on right here for a Solstice Canyon Loop map
Distance from Los Angeles: About an hour
For those who’re searching for a Malibu climbing path with a waterfall, Solstice Canyon rewards hikers with a picturesque waterfall and scenic views. Not solely that, but it surely additionally has some fascinating historic sights to discover alongside the best way.
That is a simple loop path, but it surely’s the sort with which you’ll need to take your time and discover.
There are alternatives to view the ruins of some previous historic buildings and mansions alongside the best way which were deserted and are being taken again by nature.
Following the path additional will carry hikers to the 30-foot-high Solstice Canyon Waterfall. It’s a beautiful shady space, particularly when the waterfall is full after it has rained. During times of drought, the waterfall can diminish to a trickle.
After reaching the waterfall, flip round and head again the best way you got here, or take the Rising Solar Path for a moderately-paced end to the loop of the path, which additionally gives some scenic ocean views.
Professional tip: there’s a comparatively small car parking zone on the trailhead, so make sure you do that scenic hike early within the morning to beat any crowds.
3. Santa Ynez Canyon Waterfall Path
Santa Ynez Canyon. Photograph by way of matenchuk for DepositPhotos.
Path Size: 2.2 miles out-and-back
Trailhead: Santa Ynez Canyon Path, Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
Path Map: Click on right here for a Santa Ynez Canyon Waterfall Path map
Distance from Los Angeles: About an hour
Santa Ynez Canyon is house to among the best simple but adventurous climbing trails with waterfalls in Los Angeles.
A 2.2-mile out-and-back path, Santa Ynez Canyon begins off by following a clearly marked path amongst tall sycamore and oak timber.
The trailhead begins in Topanga State Park within the Pacific Palisades, a neighborhood situated between the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Monica Mountains.
At a sure level alongside the path, it turns into a bit tougher to observe resulting from different trails intersecting with the trail.
For the reason that objective of this hike is to get to the waterfall, make sure you observe the creek. As hikers get nearer to the waterfall, there are some boulders and rocks to navigate by means of, so proceed with warning. You’ll even have a variety of creeks to cross over, including some enjoyable to the hike.
As soon as the waterfall is reached, nonetheless, hikers are rewarded with an 18-foot waterfall hugged by verdant moss in a slender canyon. The waterfall is gorgeous, although observe it isn’t big so it’s finest considered in the course of the wet season.
The path continues previous the waterfall however turns into reasonably strenuous with rope climbing concerned, so the waterfall is a good level to relaxation and switch again when prepared except you’re up for a problem.
4. Eaton Canyon Path
Eaton Canyon Falls Path. Photograph by way of Dhoomil Sheta for Unsplash.
Path Size: 3.5 miles out-and-back
Trailhead: 1999 Veranada Ave, Pasadena, CA 91107
Path Map: Click on right here for an Eaton Canyon Falls Path map
Distance from Los Angeles: About 30-45 minutes
Situated on the base of the San Gabriel Mountains, the Eaton Canyon Path takes you to Eaton Canyon Falls, a gorgeous 40-foot waterfall. This simple path is one in every of my favourite hikes on the planet.
This Los Angeles waterfall hike begins on a large grime path hugged by low vegetation and grasses, with a view of the encircling hillside in entrance of you.
After a couple of mile, you’ll cross beneath a footbridge – which is when the hike begins to actually get thrilling. From this level, you’ll be contained in the canyon crossing quite a few streams and seeing little waterfalls.
At instances, the canyon partitions showcase numerous shapes and colours, and it’s fascinating to lookup and really feel such as you’ve been swallowed by mom nature.
The spotlight, in fact, is reaching Eaton Canyon Falls, the place you’ll be able to watch because the water cascades down right into a refreshing pool on the backside. That is the proper place to relaxation or swim earlier than turning again.
Professional tip: close to the car parking zone, you’ll discover Eaton Canyon Nature Heart, which options free reveals for these excited by studying extra concerning the space. Additionally, it’s possible you’ll need to carry water footwear for the stream crossings.
5. Lewis Falls
Path Size: 0.8 miles out-and-back
Trailhead: Soldier Creek, Azusa, CA 91702
Path Map: Click on right here for a Lewis Falls Path map
Distance from Los Angeles: About an hour
At nearly a mile, Lewis Falls is likely one of the shortest climbing trails with waterfalls in Los Angeles however could be very scenic.
There is no such thing as a car parking zone on web site, however hikers can park shut by on the principle highway. Many of the path is shaded, and it’s simple to observe to search out Lewis Falls.
There’s a small quantity of rock scrambling required as you get nearer to the falls, and, relying on the situations throughout your go to, the rocks could also be slippery; nonetheless, the view of the 50-foot Lewis Falls sitting excessive within the San Gabriel Mountains makes the trouble value it.
That is actually among the best LA hikes with waterfalls!
6. Coronary heart Rock Path
The Coronary heart Rock Path takes you to a pure waterfall that flows subsequent to a heart-shaped cavity on the rock. San Bernardino Nat’l Forest, Public area, by way of Wikimedia Commons.
Path Size: 1.3-mile loop
Trailhead: 250 CA-138, Crestline, CA 92325, United States; search for marker 4W07 to find the trailhead.
Path Map: Click on right here for a Coronary heart Rock Path Map
Distance from Los Angeles: About 1 hour 20 minutes
Although the Coronary heart Rock Path is situated somewhat bit farther from LA, {couples} and households usually love this comparatively simple hike. There are additionally lovely rock formations on the finish, making it one of many extra distinctive LA climbing trails with waterfalls.
The loop path is well-trafficked however by no means too busy, so you’ll hardly ever end up utterly alone on it – which could be comforting for solo hikers.
Many of the hike is a nature stroll, apart from the final part that leads right down to the waterfalls.
Subsequent to the 25-foot waterfall, you will note a heart-shaped opening within the rock formation, which lends the path its identify and in addition creates an awesome background for photos. In actual fact, you will note hearts painted on rocks on the best way to the waterfall, so the possibilities of getting misplaced on the path are fairly slim.
Once you park, you will have to have a Nationwide Forest Journey Go on show in your dashboard.
Reasonable Climbing Trails With Waterfalls In Los Angeles
7. Temescal Canyon Path
Temescal Canyon Path. Photograph by way of David Reyes for Unsplash.
Path Size: 3.4-mile loop
Trailhead: 15601 Sundown Blvd, Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
Path Map: Click on right here for a Temescal Canyon Path map
Distance from Los Angeles: 40 minutes
Temescal Canyon Path is a typical Los Angeles hike in that it explores a shady canyon whereas additionally offering views of the ocean.
A moderately-paced loop path, this hike begins in Temescal Gateway Park within the Pacific Palisades. Put together for a parking price for the on-site lot as you start your journey.
It is strongly recommended to observe the loop path counter-clockwise for the best routing. Take pleasure in shady canyon settings earlier than being confronted with the open ocean views and colourful seasonal wildflowers.
Hikers will attain a footbridge subsequent to a small waterfall in a serene setting. To see the larger a part of the waterfall, hikers could go a bit off-trail and observe the water. Proceed alongside the common path, nonetheless, to finish the loop again out to the exit.
8. Switzer Falls
Path Size: 3.7-mile out-and-back; 5 miles should you go to the higher falls
Trailhead: 701 Angeles Crest Hwy, Tujunga, CA 91042
Path Map: Click on right here for a Switzer Falls Path map
Distance from Los Angeles: About 40 minutes
The path to Switzer Falls within the San Gabriel Mountains is likely one of the hottest waterfall hikes in Los Angeles. There may be parking on the trailhead, and a Nationwide Forest Journey Go is required to be displayed in your automobile windshield.
Aside from one a part of the path that takes you into the open, the remainder of the path is shaded.
This path is exclusive in that the primary view of Switzer Falls is from the highest. Hikers can descend right down to the waterfall, creek, and swimming pools by following Bear Canyon Path.
Throughout the best time of 12 months when the water ranges are excessive, this generally is a good spot to leap into the water to chill off.
9. Cooper Canyon Falls (Burkhart Path)
Path Size: 6.2-mile loop
Trailhead: Pacific Crest Path, Pearblossom, CA 93553
Path Map: Click on right here for a Cooper Canyon Falls Path map
Distance from Los Angeles: About an hour and quarter-hour
This loop path within the San Gabriel Mountains incorporates loads of lush forest greenery and peaks with a waterfall.
One of many extra widespread Los Angeles hikes with waterfalls, this path attracts guests all 12 months lengthy. The vast majority of the path is shaded and straightforward to observe.
In the direction of the top, there’s a steep decline to get to Cooper Canyon Falls, and, subsequently, a steep incline coming again up.
There’s a rope proper close to the falls to assist hikers maintain regular. As soon as on the falls, take pleasure in a peaceable and shaded 30-foot waterfall within the coronary heart of the mountains.
10. Millard Canyon Falls
Milliard Canyon. Jason Hollinger, CC BY 2.0, by way of Wikimedia Commons.
Path Size: Quick hike is 1.2 miles out-and-back; lengthy hike is 2.8 miles out-and-back
Trailhead: Quick hike – Millard Path Camp, 4041 Chaney Path, Altadena, CA 91001; lengthy hike – Brown Mountain Truck Path, Altadena, CA 91001
Path Map: Click on right here for a Millard Canyon Falls Path map
Distance from Los Angeles: About 35 minutes
One other shady lovely Los Angeles hike with a waterfall is the Millard Canyon Falls Path.
Situated within the San Gabriel Mountains close to Altadena, the path is shared with mountain bikers, so pay attention to your environment and depart sufficient room for the bikers to move by.
This path is pretty simple to observe so long as you retain taking place within the path of the canyon. As soon as Millard Falls is reached the view is picturesque, with boulders precariously sitting on the high of the 50-foot falls whereas water effortlessly steams down into the swimming pools under.
There’s a car parking zone close to the trailhead the place you’ll be able to depart your automobile earlier than beginning your hike to the falls. The primary distinction between the quick and lengthy hike is that you simply park additional up on the path so as to do the quick hike, so you may have much less distance to traverse to succeed in the waterfalls.
Nevertheless, should you’re up for it and have the vitality, the longer hike is very really helpful so you’ll be able to view extra of the inexperienced environment on the best way to the falls.
11. Paradise Falls (by way of Mesa, Teepee, and Moonridge Path)
Paradise Falls. Holly Cheng, CC BY-SA 3.0, by way of Wikimedia Commons.
Path Size: 2.8-mile loop path
Trailhead: 928 West Avenida De Los Arboles, Wildwood Regional Park, Thousand Oaks, CA 91360
Path Map: Click on right here for a Paradise Falls Path map
Distance from Los Angeles: About 50 minutes
This 2.8-mile reasonably paced loop path in Conejo Valley is a neighborhood favourite for hikers within the Thousand Oaks space.
To achieve the gorgeous 30-foot-tall Paradise Falls, observe the Mesa Path to Teepee, after which to the Moonridge Path.
Alongside the best way, you’ll encounter loads of folks climbing and working, in addition to strolling their canine, as pets are allowed so long as they’re on a leash.
For those who want to take some small detours, you may make your strategy to Indian Cave and Indian Creek, each about 10 minutes off the principle path. You will notice indicators pointing to the cave whereas strolling alongside the route. You’ll be able to park at no cost close to the trailhead at Wildwood Regional Park.
Professional journey:
On the best way to Paradise Falls, you’ll expertise a descent of round 300 toes, so be sure you don’t get too drained, as the best way again to the automobile will contain the identical ascent.
12. The Grotto
Path Size: 2.7 miles out-and-back
Trailhead: Circle X Ranch – 12896 Yerba Buena Rd, Malibu, CA 90265
Path Map: Click on right here for a map of The Grotto
Distance from Los Angeles: About 1 hour 10 minutes
Situated close to Malibu, the Grotto is likely one of the most original pure formations within the LA space.
Observe the route from the trailhead right down to the canyon and alongside the creek till you encounter the boulder-filled canyon the place the creek ends. Right here you’ll encounter a 12-foot waterfall tumbling off the rocks, and a tubular cave-like construction fashioned by the rocks.
You’ll be able to admire the view from above, or should you’re up for an journey, scramble right down to the Grotto; however, provided that you are feeling assured in your means to scramble again up the rocks to get out. Drained and inexperienced hikers have had bother with this up to now.
It’s usually really helpful you save your vitality for the best way again to the automobile, which entails a 475-foot ascent.
Whereas canine on a leash are welcome, they aren’t allowed to descend the final a part of the hike into the Grotto itself.
Canine swimming in a waterfall pool. Photograph by way of Adam York for Pexels.
Now that we’ve gone over among the finest waterfall hikes in Los Angeles, let’s chat about some vital suggestions to remember earlier than hitting the paths:
Begin early. As most days in Los Angeles are sunny, it tends to get extremely popular mid-day. That is additionally when trails could be at their most crowded, so it’s good to get an early begin.
Carry correct footwear. There can be numerous steep declines and inclines, in addition to some occasional rock scrambling throughout slippery boulders. Cut back your danger of damage by carrying correct footwear. Many of those trails additionally contain river crossings, so carry water footwear and put on correct climbing apparel.
Know the best way to keep secure on the path. This implies bringing sufficient water – not less than one half-liter of water per hour in average temperatures, extra if it’s scorching out – in addition to solar safety. It’s additionally good to carry a small first-aid equipment in addition to some Moleskine bandages in case you begin to get a blister. Lastly, think about climbing with a private locator beacon just like the Garmin InReach Mini.
Share your location. Particularly if climbing solo, it‘s all the time good to share your plans with somebody and allow them to know the place you’ll be.
Examine climate situations and path closures. The dry fall season in Los Angeles is also called wildfire season. You should definitely examine for any native path closures resulting from fires and security.
Put together your permits. If a Nationwide Forest Journey Go is required to park on the trailhead, make sure you buy one forward of time. For recommendations on the place to buy one, click on right here.
I hope you’ve loved this record sharing a few of my favourite waterfall hikes. There are such a lot of lovely Los Angeles waterfalls to discover!