Looking for a beautiful way to enjoy some time in the great outdoors right here in Southern California? Then you’ll want to check out these magnificent waterfall trails that are a blast to explore year-round, but especially during the scorching heat of the summer. From quick and easy hikes to uphill trails that will leave you feeling accomplished, you’ll be glad to know these stunning waterfalls can be found right here in Southern California and are some of the best hikes in Southern California.

1. Eaton Canyon Falls
Eaton Canyon Falls Trail, Altadena, CA, USA
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To reach the trailhead that will lead you to Eaton Canyon Falls, just go to 1750 North Altadena Drive, Pasadena, CA, 91107. Once you arrive, you'll discover a fairly easy trail approximately four miles long round trip. This is a popular trail, so if you'd prefer to avoid the crowds make sure to head up early in the morning and you may just find you have the trail to yourself.
2. Cedar Creek Falls
Cedar Creek Falls, California 92065, USA
michelle manuel/googlemaps
Before you head out on the trail to reach Cedar Creek Falls, make sure you come prepared with a ton of water as the trail to this stunning waterfall can be quite exhausting in the heat. In addition to the heat, this trail will require lots of energy as it is approximately five miles round trip. But once you reach the waterfall, you'll quickly find out that the hard work on the trail is totally worth it. You can reach Cedar Creek Falls by starting out on the trailhead located at 15519 Thornbush Rd., Ramona, CA, 92065.
3. Millard Falls
Millard Falls Trailhead, Brown Mountain Fire Rd, Altadena, CA 91001, USA
nahyaab shaik/googlemaps
Looking for a family-friendly waterfall hike that's suitable for all ages? Then make your way to the trailhead of Millard Canyon Falls inside the Angeles National Forest at 4041 Chaney Trail, Altadena, CA, 91001. You'll find a short and easy hike that's less than two miles round trip. Beautiful scenery along with a refreshing waterfall makes this a spot the whole family will love.

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4. Three Sisters Falls
Three Sisters Falls Trail, California, USA
africa lorenzen/all trails
Right outside the charming town of Julian in San Diego County you'll find a picture-perfect trail that leads to a glorious waterfall and swimming hole. You'll find the Three Sisters Waterfall Trail at 1450 Boulder Creek Rd., Julian, CA, 92036. Be prepared for a moderate four-mile hike that will lead you to absolute perfection.
5. Los Penasquitos Canyon Preserve
Los Penasquitos Canyon Trail, San Diego, CA, USA
andy chen/googlemaps
Located at 12115 Black Mountain Rd., San Diego, CA, you'll find the Los Penasquitos Canyon Preserve. Situated in a peaceful location surrounded by an abundance of natural scenery, you'll enjoy all the beauty along the way as you head to this small SoCal waterfall that will put a smile on everyone's face.
6. Escondido Falls
Escondido Falls, Escondido Canyon Trail, Malibu, CA 90265, USA
rj schultz/googlemaps
When you're seeking the magnificence of a SoCal waterfall but don't have a lot of time to head out on a long hiking trail, this picturesque waterfall is the perfect destination. Located at 27200 Winding Way, Malibu, CA, 90265, you'll find a glorious waterfall that can be reached in a little under two miles. In addition to this waterfall on the lower end of the falls, you'll also have the opportunity to see other falls along the trail if you're willing to take a more strenuous hike.
7. Trail Canyon Falls
Trail Canyon Falls, Tujunga, CA 91042, USA
rachael andrews/googlemaps
Perfect for the hiker who enjoys a bit more of a challenge along the trail, the hike to Trail Canyon Falls will leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. You can reach the trailhead for Trail Canyon Falls at 19607 N. Trail Canyon Road in Tujunga, CA. Be prepared for a five to six-mile hike that will treat you to breathtaking scenery at every turn as you make your way to the waterfall.

Do you have a favorite waterfall trail on the list? If so, we’d love to hear about it in the comments. Looking for more outdoorsy adventures in Southern California? Then make sure to take a look at these 11 magnificent trails in Southern California that you must see before you die.

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Best Hikes In Southern California

SKS | April 12, 2022

What are the most scenic hikes in Southern California?

Most people know that California has some of the best hikes in the country, and while Southern California may not have the famous hikes in Yosemite National Park or Sequoia National Park, it still has some of the most scenic hikes around. Here are some of the best.

Bridge To Nowhere

The Bridge to Nowhere can be found in Angeles National Forest and is a bit of a long one. Clocking in at 10 miles, this hike will take you through the San Gabriel Valley as you traverse canyons and walk along the scenic San Gabriel River. The bridge was built almost 30 years ago in 1936 and has been used by bungee-jumpers in the past. On warm days, you can also jump in the river to cool off.

San Jacinto Peak

Unsurprisingly, one of the tallest mountain peaks in Southern California has one of the best views in the state. Mt. San Jacinto Peak has an elevation of 10,834 and is a journey to get to. Most people take the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway up part of the mountain, which just leaves the final 2,400 feet of elevation for you to hike up on the Round Valley Trail. Others looking for even more of a challenge can hike from the small town of Idyllwild, California, taking the long and scenic route up to the peak. For those looking for even more options to reach the top of Mt. San Jacinto, the Cactus to Clouds Trail, known as the Skyline Ridge Route to some, is a 14 mile hike that is incredibly steep. However, this trail will give you major bragging rights as it begins on the desert floor and you’ll have to hike all the way up without the help of the aerial tramway.

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