7 Spectacular Waterfall Day Trips Just Outside Los Angeles, California
Los Angeles might be known for beaches and palm trees, but just a short drive away, hidden waterfalls await exploration.
After winter rains, these cascading wonders come alive, offering refreshing escapes from city life.
Pack your hiking shoes, some water, and your sense of adventure for these seven breathtaking waterfall destinations near LA.
1. Sturtevant Falls
Nestled in the San Gabriel Mountains, this 50-foot cascade rewards hikers with stunning blue-green waters. The 3.5-mile round trip journey winds through a charming cabin community before revealing the majestic falls.
Lush ferns and moss-covered rocks create a magical atmosphere that feels worlds away from the city. Weekday visits offer more solitude for those seeking peaceful nature communion.
2. Santa Ynez Falls
Tucked away in Topanga State Park, this hidden gem offers a family-friendly adventure through oak groves and stream crossings. Spring visits showcase wildflowers dotting the trail leading to this seasonal cascade.
A moderate 2.5-mile trek rewards explorers with a secluded grotto where water tumbles down moss-covered rocks. Kids especially love scrambling over the boulders near the falls’ refreshing pool.
3. Millard Canyon Falls
Just minutes from Pasadena awaits an easily accessible 50-foot waterfall perfect for novice hikers. Morning light creates magical rainbow effects as sunbeams dance through the mist.
Shaded by ancient oak and sycamore trees, the short one-mile round trip trail follows a babbling creek. Wooden footbridges and rocky stream crossings add adventure elements that make this journey particularly memorable.
4. Hermit Falls
Adventure seekers flock to this swimming hole paradise in the San Gabriel Mountains. The moderately challenging 2.5-mile trail descends into a canyon where brave souls can cliff-jump into deep, refreshing pools.
Wildflowers carpet the surrounding hillsides during spring months. Summer weekends bring crowds, so plan early morning visits to experience the tranquil beauty of this natural swimming spot.
5. Trail Canyon Falls
Off the beaten path in the Angeles National Forest sits this 30-foot cascade that plunges into a picturesque pool. Ambitious hikers relish the moderate 4-mile round trip journey through diverse terrain.
Sunflowers and wild sage line the trail during warmer months. Rock-hopping across several stream crossings adds excitement before the grand finale reveals itself – a powerful waterfall framed by towering canyon walls.
6. Eaton Canyon Falls
Popularity hasn’t diminished the magic of this 40-foot waterfall just minutes from Pasadena. Year-round water flow makes it reliable even during drier seasons, while the wide trail accommodates hikers of all skill levels.
Birdwatchers spot numerous species along this 3.5-mile journey. Reaching the falls requires crossing the stream several times, so waterproof footwear helps keep adventures comfortable.
7. Escondido Falls
Malibu hides California’s tallest waterfall, a magnificent three-tiered cascade reaching 150 feet after good rains. Getting to the upper falls requires scrambling skills, but even the lower 50-foot tier impresses with its delicate curtain of water.
Wildflowers blanket the meadows along the initial portion of this 3.8-mile journey. Spring visits offer the most dramatic water flow, transforming this Malibu treasure into a truly spectacular sight.
