16 Best Waterfalls Near Los Angeles

Are you looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles and explore some beautiful natural scenery? Look no further than the breathtaking waterfalls near the city. With cascading waters and lush greenery, these picturesque spots offer a serene retreat from urban life.
Whether you're an avid hiker or just looking for a peaceful picnic spot, there is a waterfall near Los Angeles to suit your needs. From easy access trails to more challenging hikes, each waterfall offers its own unique charm and beauty. So pack your hiking boots and camera, and get ready to discover the best waterfalls near Los Angeles.
- Distance from Los Angeles
- Hiking difficulty level
- Scenic views
- Parking availability
- Picnic areas
- Accessibility for all ages
Don't miss out on the opportunity to experience the natural beauty that surrounds Los Angeles. Check out the list below to find the best waterfalls near Los Angeles and start planning your next outdoor adventure.
- 1. Eaton Canyon Falls
- 2. Paradise Falls
- 3. Millard Falls
- 4. Switzer Falls Trail
- 5. Trail Canyon Falls
- 6. Meyberg Waterfall
- 7. Escondido Falls
- 8. Tahquitz Falls
- 9. Temescal Canyon Falls
- 10. Bonita Falls
- 11. Sturtevant Falls
- 12. Santa Ynez Falls
- 13. Water Falls
- 14. Temescal Canyon Waterfall
- 15. Los Angeles River
- 16. Falls Creek
1. Eaton Canyon Falls
Information and Reviews
Customer reviews rave about Eaton Canyon Falls, highlighting these key points:
- Beautiful and full of water after the rain
- Great for a family outing with native animals at the nature center
- Easy hike with plenty of river crossings
- Plenty of street parking and accessible nature preserve
With a fantastic ranking of 4.7 and numerous positive reviews, Eaton Canyon Falls is a must-visit for anyone looking to connect with nature and enjoy a memorable outdoor experience.
2. Paradise Falls
Information and Reviews
- Fabulous hike with easy trails suitable for families and pet-friendly.
- Well-maintained paths with convenient amenities such as drinking fountains and picnic tables.
- Beautiful waterfall and serene surroundings make it a favorite spot for local hikers.
Discover the beauty of Paradise Falls and enjoy a peaceful outdoor adventure surrounded by nature's wonders.
3. Millard Falls
Information and Reviews
The customer reviews reflect the positive experiences that visitors have had at Millard Falls:
- This hike is like the little brother of Eaton Canyon, but much shorter. It's perfect for a short, easy hike with lots of shade. Parking can be tight, so arrive early. - Blazing Faith
- One of the best waterfall hikes for families, easy with amazing scenery. Be prepared for water crossings and bring snacks and water. - Going Home
- An easy to find trail with designated parking and restrooms. Arrive early to secure a parking spot and don't forget your Adventure Pass! - geovany Hernandez
- A short and easy hike, but be prepared for parking challenges. Remember to bring an Adventure Pass and follow the trail to the falls. Leave no trace and enjoy the hike! - Andrea Kibler
Whether you are looking for a peaceful retreat or a family-friendly outdoor adventure, Millard Falls offers a little something for everyone. Visit their website for more information and start planning your next nature getaway today.
4. Switzer Falls Trail
Information and Reviews
Customer reviews highlight the beauty and accessibility of the trail:
- Midway to the top of Angeles Crest highway. In this wooded canyon you can choose trails up or down the stream that cut through the mountains. Air is usually clean and visibility is far and wide. If you go downstream to the falls, you’ll find this leg is an easy wide trail with a low grade. You will need to cross the water several times and after a rain it can be a wet experience stepping on partial submerged rocks. Bring shoes that have some grip if you want to get to the top of the falls.
- One of my favorite hikes. The waterfall at the end is rewarding! You'll need the adventure pass and an extra pair of socks bc you'll get your feet wet from passing through the water, which was fun!! Highly recommend this hike.
- This is a moderate trail for most people. There are a few water crossings, you can either cross from the water or find rocks to jump to avoid getting your shoes wet. I went to the lower fall and kept going in the canyon and reached the upper fall. Both are really beautiful and I highly recommend this trail.
5. Trail Canyon Falls
Information and Reviews
Customer reviews highlight the following key points:
- The hike offers a mix of moderate and intense sections, taking about 1 and 1/2 hours to reach the waterfall.
- Visitors recommend bringing water shoes or extra socks/shoes for multiple water crossings and climbing down to the waterfall.
- The trail provides beautiful views and a great spot for picnics, making it a family-friendly destination.
- Be prepared with snacks, water, toilet paper, and a flashlight if planning to hike later in the day.
6. Meyberg Waterfall
Information and Reviews
Some of the standout services and features offered by Meyberg Waterfall include:
- Wheelchair-accessible car park and entrance,
- Getting tickets in advance is recommended,
- Great for kids.
Customers have raved about their experiences at Meyberg Waterfall. Here are some summarized reviews:
- SO PRETTY! A peacock escaped in the parking lot, but 5 stars for the gorgeous waterfall.
- A small beautiful waterfall in a lush park setting, loved it!
- Nature at its best with wide-open spaces, beautiful trees, and blooming flowers; a must-visit destination.
- Clean pathways, diverse plant life, peacocks wandering around, and restrooms available; a gem for enthusiasts.
Don't miss the opportunity to explore the tranquility and beauty of Meyberg Waterfall in the heart of Arcadia.
7. Escondido Falls
Information and Reviews
- One customer highlighted the beautiful waterfalls that are at their best after a rainy season. They recommend bringing proper gear like hiking poles and gloves for a safe and enjoyable experience.
- Another visitor emphasized the scenic landscapes and the lush greenery along the trail. They found the moderate difficulty suitable for all skill levels and mentioned the well-maintained path with clear markers.
- A hiker described their experience as an amazing walk with their family. They mentioned the 3.5-mile hike, the family-friendly environment, and the necessity of bringing extra shoes for the post-hike journey.
- Another review mentioned that despite being crowded at times, the waterfall did not disappoint. They noted the flowing water and the picturesque scenery, despite the noise from the crowd.
Visit Escondido Falls for a memorable outdoor adventure surrounded by nature's beauty and tranquility.
8. Tahquitz Falls
Information and Reviews
- This waterfall is amazing and perfect for families, especially during hot weather.
- The hiking trail is moderate and offers a great opportunity to cool off in the fresh mountain water.
- Visitors recommend bringing water and sandals to fully enjoy the experience, especially in the spring months.
- The $15 entrance fee is worth it for the beautiful views and well-maintained park.
With a ranking of 4.7 and numerous positive reviews, Tahquitz Falls is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Be sure to plan your trip and experience the beauty of this hidden gem in Palm Springs!
9. Temescal Canyon Falls
Information and Reviews
10. Bonita Falls
Information and Reviews
Customer reviews highlight the following key points:
- Nice place to escape the hot weather, with plenty of shade and a flowing river.
- Great experience for hiking, with affordable parking options.
- Beautiful waterfall surrounded by mountains, perfect for a short hike.
- Challenging rocky path leading to the falls, but worth it for the picturesque view.
Overall, Bonita Falls offers a refreshing natural getaway for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a memorable adventure.
11. Sturtevant Falls
Information and Reviews
Here are some key points from customer reviews:
- The hike offers stunning views and is worth the drive.
- It is recommended to visit during the week to avoid crowds.
- Bring bug spray during the summer months.
- Parking can be limited, so it's advisable to arrive early.
12. Santa Ynez Falls
Information and Reviews
13. Water Falls
Information and Reviews
Here are some key points from customer reviews:
- Tried going here but the road was closed, leading to confusion and concern about trespassing.
- Visitors loved the peaceful morning hikes and the serene ambiance of the place.
- Some noted the easy trails and the recent clearing of debris from past storms.
- One reviewer pointed out the beauty of the waterfall especially after recent rains.
For those seeking a tranquil retreat into nature, Water Falls promises a rejuvenating experience with its scenic trails and captivating surroundings.
14. Temescal Canyon Waterfall
Information and Reviews
- This is a review for just the Temescal Canyon Waterfall, the hike itself is very easy with plenty of shade.
- Best hike near me by far, can't beat a waterfall feature with amazing views.
- First time and enjoyed it.
- The place is too far to walk and there's no space to play around in the water.
With a solid ranking of 4.6, this is a must-visit spot for nature lovers and hikers looking for a peaceful retreat.
15. Los Angeles River
Information and Reviews
- Great bike path, good coffee, and scenic fishing hole.
- Nice long river walk along LA river channel. Specially nice after some rains.
- Beautiful scenery and great for running.
- A nostalgic place with unique corners to explore.
Visitors can enjoy a peaceful and invigorating experience along the river banks, with easy access at many intersections. The area known as "Glendale Narrows" provides seven miles of natural river where wildlife can be easily observed. Whether you're looking for a relaxing stroll or an adventure-filled day, Los Angeles River has something for everyone.
16. Falls Creek
Information and Reviews
Customer reviews praise Falls Creek for its peaceful atmosphere, stunning views, and friendly staff. Some key points from customer reviews include:
- Beautiful surroundings and well-maintained facilities.
- Great spot for fishing and picnicking with family and friends.
- Helpful and attentive staff who make sure visitors have a pleasant experience.
Visit Falls Creek today to experience the tranquility and beauty of this charming river location in Los Angeles.
Map of Waterfalls Near Los Angeles
Los Angeles may be known for its beaches and palm trees, but waterfall enthusiasts will be pleasantly surprised by the stunning waterfalls located just a short drive away. Whether you're looking for a quick weekend getaway or a challenging hike, these cascading wonders offer a refreshing escape from city life. Check out the map below to discover the best waterfalls near Los Angeles.
Where are the closest waterfalls to Los Angeles?
There are several scenic waterfalls within a few hours' drive from Los Angeles. Some popular options include Sturtevant Falls in the San Gabriel Mountains, Eaton Canyon Falls in Pasadena, and Solstice Canyon Falls in Malibu.
For a longer day trip, you can also visit the stunning Escondido Falls in Malibu or the picturesque Paradise Falls in Wildwood Regional Park in Thousand Oaks.
Remember to check trail conditions and accessibility before heading out, especially after heavy rains when some waterfalls may be more impressive but also harder to reach.
Are the waterfalls near Los Angeles easily accessible?
Access to the waterfalls varies, with some requiring a short hike while others are more accessible. Sturtevant Falls, for example, is relatively easy to reach with a 3.2-mile round-trip hike from Chantry Flat.
Eaton Canyon Falls, on the other hand, is just a 1.5-mile round-trip hike from the trailhead in Pasadena, making it a popular choice for those looking for a quick outdoor adventure.
Always make sure to wear appropriate footwear and bring plenty of water, especially on hot days, as some hikes can be strenuous even if they are short.
What is the best time of year to visit waterfalls near Los Angeles?
The best time to visit waterfalls near Los Angeles is typically in the spring, after the winter rains have filled the streams and creeks, creating impressive displays of nature.
Summer can also be a good time to visit, as the weather is warm and you can cool off in the mist from the falls. However, some waterfalls may run dry during the dry season, so it's important to check conditions before heading out.
Fall can be a beautiful time to visit as well, with the changing colors of the leaves adding to the scenery around the waterfalls.
What should I bring when visiting waterfalls near Los Angeles?
When visiting waterfalls near Los Angeles, it's important to pack essentials such as water, snacks, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes for hiking. Depending on the season, you may also want to bring insect repellent and extra layers of clothing.
A camera is a must to capture the stunning views and memories of your trip. Consider bringing a tripod for long exposure shots of the waterfalls if you are into photography.
For longer hikes, consider bringing a daypack with additional supplies such as a first aid kit, map, and flashlight in case you end up staying out longer than planned.
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