Posted in Southern California Waterfalls January 31, 2023 by

Spend The Day Exploring Southern California’s Tallest Falls On This Wonderful Waterfall Road Trip

Did you know that Southern California is home to some pretty massive waterfalls that are over 100 feet tall?  If you love adventure and want to check these stunning sites out, then you’ll be thrilled to go on this waterfall road trip in Southern California.

For a refreshing and memorable day in SoCal, we’ve put together the following epic road trip that will take you and your family to several of these breathtaking waterfalls  So, what are you waiting for? Get ready to pack a picnic lunch, load up the car, and hit the road for an adventure that will lead you to some of the most impressive waterfalls in SoCal.

To get going on your adventure, follow this detailed Southern California map. It will take you to four of the tallest and most breathtaking waterfalls in SoCal.
googlemaps
Even though this road trip only requires about hours of driving time, keep in mind that you'll need to allow additional time for each hiking trail leading to these Southern California waterfalls.
Escondido Falls
flickr/kenneth moore
Located near Malibu in the Santa Monica Mountains, Escondido Falls is a heavenly 150-foot waterfall that will take your breath away. This first stop on your waterfall road trip in Southern California is a multi-tiered waterfall that can be reached by hiking along Escondido Canyon Trail in Malibu, CA. Keep in mind that this is a moderate 3.7-mile hike. 
Big Falls
alltrails/austin sherman
Located in the Santa Lucia Wilderness, Big Falls waterfall is a majestic 150-foot waterfall that is a sight to behold. Be prepared to be wowed when you explore what's also known to be the largest waterfall in Southern California.
Tenaja Falls
alltrails/gerry blaksley
To reach Tenaja Falls, a 150-foot waterfall, you'll need to head to the town of Murrieta. After hiking a short and sweet 1.5-mile trail you'll witness this magnificent beauty that's the third stop on this waterfall road trip in Southern California.
Bonita Falls
alltrails/rita martinez
Located in the city of San Bernardino, you can see this massive 90-foot waterfall after heading out on a short 1.5-mile trail. Although the hike is relatively easy, you'll need to climb over some rocks too. However, it'll be worth it once you lay your eyes on these dramatic Southern California waterfalls.

Have you had a chance to visit any of these impressive waterfalls in SoCal? If so, let us know which ones stood out to you in the following comments section.

If you’re looking for a few more outdoor SoCal adventures to enjoy with your family, check out these hikes leading to Southern California waterfalls too.

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Address: 41570 Falls Rd, Forest Falls, CA 92339, USA
Address: Bonita Falls, California 92358, USA
Address: Escondido Falls, Escondido Canyon Trail, Malibu, CA 90265, USA
Address: Tenaja Falls, Forest Rte 7S02, Murrieta, CA 92562, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center

Waterfall Road Trip in Southern California

February 06, 2023
Marla S.

What are some hikes leading to waterfalls in SoCal? 

Here are some hikes leading to waterfalls in SoCal:

  • Cedar Creek Falls: It's about a 5-mile trek to reach the stunning falls on this scenic hike.
  • Three Sisters Falls: If you hit this trail in the summer, bring your bathing suit so you can take a dip in the swimming hole by the waterfall!
  • Los Penasquitos Canyon Preserve: Aside from the actual waterfall, you'll also be mesmerized by the landscape leading to it.
  • Trail Canyon Falls: It'll take about 6 miles to reach this jaw-dropping SoCal waterfall.

 

Learn more about these and other hikes in this article about waterfalls in SoCal.

What are some of the best natural wonders in Southern California?

In addition to taking this waterfall road trip in Southern California, the following is an overview of some of the best natural wonders in this part of the state.

  • Amboy Crater in Mojave: This natural wonder is a stunning volcano cinder crater.
  • Thousand Steps Beach Cave in Laguna Beach: Walk 223 steps to reach this breathtaking cave when the tide is low.
  • La Jolla Sea Caves in La Jolla: Enjoy the impressive views while kayaking on the water.
  • Shiprock in Palm Springs: You'll discover this rock formation as you drive along Highway 111.

 

Take a look at this piece for more information about these and other natural wonders in Southern California.