These 9 Hidden Waterfalls In Southern California Will Take Your Breath Away
There’s nothing more rewarding than getting out in nature and exploring some of the breathtaking scenery that surrounds us here in Southern California. And although we’re not known for our waterfalls in this part of the country, you might be surprised by how many we have. So if you’re looking up “waterfalls near me,” you’ll find this list to be quite handy. Take a look at this list of waterfalls and see if you can recognize where they are located in our fabulous state.
First up on our list of relatively easy-to-find "waterfalls near me" in Southern California is Eaton Canyon Falls. This waterfall is hidden near Pasadena on the Eaton Canyon Trail. Learn more about how you can walk to this magical waterfall in Southern California.
2. Escondido Falls
Escondido Falls Terrace, Escondido Falls Terr, Fremont, CA 94539, USA
Malibu has more to offer than sand and beaches. This stunning waterfall is tucked away off the Winding Way Trail in the Santa Monica Mountains. There's a lot to enjoy about this stunning, picturesque waterfall hike in Southern California.
Located in the Santa Anita Canyon, this trail is about a 9-mile hike round-trip. After a long day in the woods there is nothing more picturesque than 50-feet of cascading water. Looking to continue your adventure? Hike to Sturtevant Camp, another breathtaking day hike in Southern California.
4. Holy Jim Falls
Main Parking for Holy Jim Falls and Trail, Trabuco Creek Rd, Corona, CA 92883, USA
This calming waterfall can be spotted in Orange County along the Holy Jim Trail. Looks like the perfect stop to dip your toes for a little splash. And, while you're in the area, be sure to check out the nearby small town of Trabuco Canyon.
Next up on our list is a little-known waterfall that really lives up to its name. As you can tell from the photo above, it's shaped like a heart! Learn more about hiking to this little-known waterfall in Southern California.
6. Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanical Garden
Los Angeles County Arboretum, 301 N Baldwin Ave, Arcadia, CA 91007, USA
This lovely sanctuary of paradise is located in Arcadia, CA. What a nice way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Learn more about what makes the arboretum such a unique Southern California day trip destination.
Located in Thousand Oaks, you can see this stunning waterfall while taking a leisurely 2-hour hike through Wildwood Park, a little-known park that will make you feel as though you've discovered one of Southern California's best-kept secrets.
This spectacular spot features 80-feet of water-flowing goodness. The hiking trail to get here is in Ramona outside San Diego. It's best to hike here in the spring, winter and fall as the scorching temps in the summer can put a damper on the experience. When it comes to the best waterfall trails in SoCal, Cedar Creek Falls definitely makes the cut.
A waterfall out in the desert is always a sight to behold. Located in Riverside County, Tahquitz Falls can be seen while enjoying a nice 2-mile hike through this area. While it's beautiful year-round, Tahquitz Falls actually makes for a beautiful winter hike in Southern California.
We sure live in a beautiful place with so much to explore. Lace-up those tennis shoes; put on some sunscreen, and have a little date with Mother Nature out in the fresh air. And don’t forget to snap some pictures! The next time you’re looking for waterfalls near me in Southern California, we hope this list comes in handy.
Address: Escondido Falls Terrace, Escondido Falls Terr, Fremont, CA 94539, USA
Address: Sturtevant Falls, California, USA
Address: Eaton Canyon Falls Trail, Altadena, CA 91001, USA
Address: Tahquitz Falls, Palm Springs, CA 92264, USA
Address: Cedar Creek Falls, California 92065, USA
Address: Los Angeles County Arboretum, 301 N Baldwin Ave, Arcadia, CA 91007, USA
Address: Wildwood Park, San Bernardino, CA, USA
Address: Main Parking for Holy Jim Falls and Trail, Trabuco Creek Rd, Corona, CA 92883, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
waterfalls near me
April 21, 2022
Beth C.
What’s the tallest waterfall in Southern California?
If you’re fascinated by waterfalls, you’ll be pleased to hear that Southern California has its fair share. One of the tallest is truly bucket list-worthy, and it can be found in a place called Forest Falls. The appropriately-named Big Falls measures between 150 and 200 feet. To reach this magnificent landmark, you’ll take a meandering 4.4-mile trail. The trail is also popular among photographers and bird-watchers.
What are the most beautiful trails in Southern California?
There’s no better way to appreciate the vast landscape of SoCal than by embarking on a hike. Wondering where to start? We’ve outlined some of the most beautiful trails in the region so that you can put together your outdoor itinerary. One of our favorite recommendations is the Mt. San Jacinto Trail. Located in San Jacinto State Park, this epic trail requires a ride on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, which climbs 6,000 feet to Mountain Station. Of course, this is half the fun, assuming you’re not afraid of heights! Other beautiful trails in Southern California include the Ice House Canyon Trail, Mt. Wilson Trail, Mishe Mokwa Trail, Kelso Dunes, San Clemente Beach Trail, Slot Canyon, and Carpinteria Bluffs Nature Preserve.
Address: Escondido Falls Terrace, Escondido Falls Terr, Fremont, CA 94539, USA
Address: Sturtevant Falls, California, USA
Address: Eaton Canyon Falls Trail, Altadena, CA 91001, USA
Address: Tahquitz Falls, Palm Springs, CA 92264, USA
Address: Cedar Creek Falls, California 92065, USA
Address: Los Angeles County Arboretum, 301 N Baldwin Ave, Arcadia, CA 91007, USA
Address: Wildwood Park, San Bernardino, CA, USA
Address: Main Parking for Holy Jim Falls and Trail, Trabuco Creek Rd, Corona, CA 92883, USA
Southern California In Your Inbox
Thank you! You'll receive your first newsletter soon!
