Waterfall Hikes in Los Angeles…Southern California may seem like a parched landscape, but hidden within the canyons and mountains surrounding Los Angeles are numerous scenic waterfalls waiting to be discovered. From gentle trickles to powerful cascades, these watery wonders offer a cool refuge during the hot summer months.
- The best time to catch the waterfalls at their peak flow is during the winter rainy season from December to April. But even in the drier months, many still have a steady stream. With the right timing after a storm, you may get lucky with an exceptional flow.
- Be sure to check weather and trail conditions before heading out. And never attempt to hike during an active rainstorm, as flash flooding is a serious danger in these narrow canyons. With some preparation and care, you can safely enjoy the rejuvenating beauty of these magical waterfall oases.
Best Waterfall Hikes in the San Gabriel Mountains
The San Gabriel Mountains north of Los Angeles harbor several of the most spectacular waterfall trails, featuring cascades dropping over 50 feet into crisp pools surrounded by mossy boulders and forest greenery.
1. Sturtevant Falls
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- 50 foot powerful cascade
- Accessible from Chantry Flat Picnic Area
- 3.6 mile roundtrip hike
- Pools at base for wading
This beauty lies in Santa Anita Canyon and pours down a sheer rock face into a large pool ideal for wading on a hot day. The hike follows a shady streambed lined with bigleaf maples and oaks. Pack a picnic to enjoy at the falls before heading back.
2. Hermit Falls
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- 30 foot tucked-away falls with cliff jumping
- Accessible from Chantry Flat Picnic Area
- 2.6 mile roundtrip hike
- Cliff jumping allowed into base pool
Just downstream from Sturtevant Falls lies this more secluded cascade. A short spur trail takes you to the top where daring souls can cliff jump into the pool below. But be warned – cliff jumping is risky with a number of injuries reported here each year.
3. Eaton Canyon Falls
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- 50 foot slide down rock face into punchbowl
- Accessible from Eaton Canyon Nature Center
- 3 mile roundtrip hike
- Wading pool at base
This popular hike near Pasadena passes through oak and sycamore forests before revealing a tall waterfall pouring into a round pool. Famed naturalist John Muir described it as having a “low, sweet voice, singing like a bird.”
4. Escondido Falls
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- 150 foot dramatic tiered cascade
- Accessible from Winding Way Trailhead
- 4 mile roundtrip hike
- No swimming allowed
The tallest waterfall in the Santa Monica Mountains cascades down a striking cathedral-like rock formation. A moderate uphill hike takes you to the base of the upper falls, but swim at your own risk as the pool can have strong currents.
5. Switzer Falls
image by:https://www.world-of-waterfalls.com/
- 50 foot multi-tiered cascade
- Accessible from Switzer Picnic Area
- 6 mile roundtrip hike
- Wading pools between falls
This popular hike follows the Arroyo Seco into the canyon revealing a set of cascading falls and pools perfect for a refreshing dip on a warm day. For a more secluded small waterfall, continue another 0.5 miles upstream.
Best Waterfall Hikes in the San Gabriel Foothills
The lower elevation canyons on the slopes of the San Gabriels also offer some pleasant waterfall walks accessible not far from cities like Pasadena and Glendale.
6. Millard Falls
image by:https://californiathroughmylens.com/
- 80 foot fall into shallow pool
- Accessible from Chaney Trailhead
- 2 mile roundtrip hike
- Limited wading in pool
A short hike in the Altadena foothills leads to this slender but beautifully picturesque cascade. The trail follows pretty Millard Canyon lined with oaks, sycamores and boulders to the base of the falls.
7. Monrovia Canyon Falls
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- 25 foot cascading fall into pool
- Accessible from Monrovia Canyon Park
- 2.4 mile roundtrip hike
- Swimming hole at base
Nestled in the foothills above Monrovia, a shady canyon trail takes you to this gentle waterfall that fans across a rock face in multiple tiers. Kids enjoy splashing in the swimming hole beneath the falls.
8. Eaton Canyon Falls
- 35 foot sloped cascade into pool
- Accessible from Eaton Canyon Nature Center
- 3 mile roundtrip hike
- Swimming hole at base
Just north of Pasadena, this easy hike crosses a sandy canyon floor lined with oaks and sycamores, leading to a pretty sloping waterfall with a pool below. It’s especially lovely after winter rains.
Best Waterfall Hikes in the Santa Monica Mountains
The Santa Monica Mountains lining the LA coastal plain also harbor secluded cascades worth discovering if you time a visit just after the rainy season.
9. Solstice Canyon Falls
- 30 foot cascade into small pools
- Accessible from Solstice Canyon Trailhead
- 2 mile roundtrip hike
- Wading in pools
Following a shady canyon trail leads you to this charming cascade falling into a series of pools amidst mossy boulders and ferns. Wading and exploring the pools is the perfect reward after the hike.
10. Paradise Falls
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- 40 foot waterfall into rocky grotto
- Accessible from Wildwood Park Trails
- 4 mile roundtrip hike
- No swimming allowed
In the western end of the range, Wildwood Regional Park holds this scenic cascade spilling into an impressive amphitheater of stone, as well as miles of additional scenic trails. While swimming is unsafe, it’s still a refreshing place to take a break.
When to Visit Waterfalls Near Los Angeles
As a general rule, aim to visit these waterfalls in the late winter through early spring for the best flow. But the season can vary a bit year to year. Some tips:
- For peak flow, visit 1-2 days after a heavy rainfall when water levels have stabilized.
- By April, snowmelt supplements falls in higher elevation canyons.
- In a dry winter, rainfall until March may be needed to spur flows.
- In drought years, even spring flows diminish, but some cascades have year-round trickles.
- Always check weather and trail conditions before choosing a waterfall hike.
- Never attempt to hike during or soon after rainfall due to flash flood danger.
While you may still find flowing water in the summer and fall, expect more of a trickle. But the lush canyons stay cool and green year-round, making the trails rewarding in any season.
With hundreds of miles of trails crossing streams and canyons, more obscure waterfalls likely wait to be found by intrepid explorers in the LA area. But the above ten are sure bets offering reasonably accessible cascades in scenic settings. Just be sure to time your visit right after the rains for the full effect.
Pack along a trail map, plenty of water, and sturdy footwear. And bring your camera to capture these ephemeral watery wonders before they dry up for the season. While taking care around the slippery rocks and cliffs, relax and enjoy the restorative natural beauty these sublime oases provide so close to the city.
More Tips for Visiting Waterfalls Near Los Angeles
Here are a few more tips to help you have the best and safest experience:
- Always verify trail conditions and weather before heading out.
- Pack essentials like first aid, extra water, and sun protection.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good traction.
- Follow all posted warning signs and barricades.
- Never swim above or near waterfalls – currents can pull you over.
- Watch footing on slick rocks, steep slopes and stream crossings.
- Avoid climbing near cliffs and steep banks.
- Prevent erosion by staying on marked trails.
- Never drink untreated waterfall water.
- Help preserve these special areas by packing out all trash.
With smart preparation and safety awareness, you’re sure to have an rejuvenating adventure discovering some of nature’s most enchanting wonders – the waterfalls hidden right in LA’s backyard!
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