Nothing beats ending up at a beautiful waterfall after hiking through the SoCal backcountry…except maybe ending up at seven waterfalls. Believe it or not, there’s a trail near Santa Barbara that delivers just that! The Seven Falls Trail is an easy and short trail that amps up in intensity as it gets closer to the falls. It’s all worth it to see the seven beautiful cascades and each of their corresponding pools! Take a look:

(Editor’s Note: The Seven Falls Trail is temporarily closed until March 14, 2023, due to weather conditions. Keep up on the status at AllTrails.)

The beautiful wilderness surrounding Santa Barbara is hiding all sorts of unexpected adventures. The Seven Falls Trail is one of them and it's one you'll definitely want to check off your list!
Jesse St Louis/Google
Seven Falls is a popular hike that starts from the Tunnel Trail. The trailhead can be found up in Mission Canyon at the end of Tunnel Road. From here, it's about a mile and a half until Seven Falls.
Michael Bethune/AllTrails
Although short, the trail can be hard to follow due to the numerous trails that branch off it. Downloading the trail map to your phone ahead of time is highly recommended. The trail jumps from Tunnel Trail to the Inspiration Point Trail to the 7 Falls Trail to the 3 Pools Trail.
Myles G/Google

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The trail is rated as moderate because there is mild climbing and scrambling involved on the trail's later portions. Definitely be prepared with some good hiking shoes. Long pants are also a good idea because poison oak is present throughout the area.
Roger Harrison/AllTrails
After a bit of scrambling and a few creek crossings, you'll be treated to the spectacular sight of Seven Falls! The waterfall is flowing mostly in the spring and even summer months. However, there's bound to be flowing water somewhere throughout the pools even in the dry or late season.
Jesse St Louis/Google
In the hotter months, nothing beats soaking or swimming in one of the stone basins that form underneath the falls! The water is perfectly cool and the pools typically aren't crowded.
Robert/Google
A unique and rewarding hike in the Santa Barbara backcountry, consider exploring Seven Falls for your next adventure! Check out the trail map here.
Daniel Ramirez/AllTrails

What do you think? Will you be adding this epic waterfall hike to your bucket list? This looks like one you have to try at least once! Share your thoughts with us in the comments. If you want to see a lovely waterfall but aren’t up for a hike, take a look at these urban waterfalls in Southern California.

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More to Explore

The Most Beautiful Places in Southern California

William Suphan | January 19, 2023

What are the most incredible natural attractions in Southern California?

The most incredible natural attractions in Southern California include:

  • Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve and Ecological Reserve. You’ll find this gorgeous place just off Newport Beach.
  • Sunset Cliffs Natural Park. San Diego locals often gather here in the evenings to watch the sun setting over the sea.
  • Shaw’s Cove. Located at Laguna Beach, this cove has intriguing tide pools and rock formations that are fun to explore.
  • Trail Canyon Falls. This waterfall in Tujunga Canyon is as beautiful as it gets and is worth the 6-mile hike to get there.

Discover more about the most incredible natural attractions in Southern California. 

What are the most jaw-dropping views in Southern California?

The most jaw-dropping views in Southern California include:

  • Laguna Beach. If you walk along the cliffs you’ll see a wondrous 60-foot stone tower right by the shore.
  • Cabrillo National Monument. This is a popular vista for locals with views that overlook the idyllic San Diego harbor.
  • Joshua Tree National Park. The alien-looking trees in this desert landscape make it look like another planet.
  • La Jolla Cove. The caves here are especially beautiful when seen from a kayak in the water, with wildlife all over them.

Learn more about the most jaw-dropping views in Southern California. 

What are the best bucket list natural attractions in Southern California?

The best bucket list natural attractions in Southern California include:

  • Portuguese Bend Reserve. This is a 339-acre expanse of hills, canyons, greenery, and abundant wildlife.
  • Volcan Mountain Wilderness Preserve. This is a varied landscape of conifer forest, open meadows, oak canopies, and high desert.
  • Carbon Canyon Regional Park. This is a lovely place to walk among the majestic redwood trees that tower above you.
  • Oak Glen Preserve. This is a popular local hiking area in the San Bernardino National Forest that is replete with natural beauty.’

Find out more about the best bucket list natural attractions in Southern California. 

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