Los Angeles may be known for its sunny beaches and bustling city life, but it’s also home to some of the most breathtaking waterfall hikes in Southern California. Tucked away in canyons and forests, these trails offer the perfect escape into nature, with the reward of cascading falls waiting at the end. Whether you’re seeking a family-friendly outing or an adventurous trek, here are five of the best waterfalls in L.A. that are sure to inspire your next outdoor adventure.
If you’re looking for some good books for hiking or nature in Los Angeles, try Wild LA: Explore the Amazing Nature in and Around Los Angeles (Amazon) or Best Hikes Los Angeles: The Greatest Trails in the LA Mountains, Beaches, and Canyons (Amazon).
When to go see waterfalls in L.A.
The best time to visit these waterfalls in L.A. is during the late winter and early spring months, typically from February to May. During this time, seasonal rainfall and snowmelt ensure the waterfalls are flowing at their fullest, creating a spectacular sight. Summer and fall often bring drier conditions, which can reduce the flow to a trickle or leave some falls dry, so plan your hike during the wetter months for the best experience.
Trail Canyon Falls
Trail Canyon Falls in the Angeles National Forest is a stunning 30-foot waterfall in the rugged beauty of Big Tujunga Canyon. On this 4-mile round-trip hike, you’ll get to experience scenic views, creek crossings, and lush greenery. At the end of this hike you’ll be rewarded with the sight of the cascading water and a serene spot to rest, surrounded by the tranquil sounds of nature. You can enjoy this hike from the base of the waterfall or challenge yourself by climbing to the top—we did both! Reaching the bottom requires a bit of a trek, so make sure to wear high-grip shoes to navigate the steep downhill section safely.
Upper Zuma Falls
Upper Zuma Falls is tucked away in the Santa Monica Mountains near Los Angeles. After hiking for a few miles, reaching the falls requires navigating a short unmarked trail and scrambling through rugged terrain, making it an exciting challenge if you you like off-the-beaten-path destinations. The waterfall cascades down a dramatic, multi-tiered rock face into a tranquil pool—an absolutely stunning sight that makes the trek well worth it.
Tip: I recommend downloading a map from an app like All Trails, it makes it easy to navigate even when there’s no cell service
Escondido Falls
Escondido Falls, one of Los Angeles’ most picturesque waterfalls, is a must-visit spot tucked away in Malibu. The 3.8-mile round-trip hike takes you through scenic trails, lush greenery, and even a creek crossing before revealing the multi-tiered, 150-foot waterfall. Whether you’re stopping at the lower falls or tackling the more challenging climb to the upper falls, this spot offers a refreshing escape into nature. These photos below are the lower falls, we need to get back out there this Spring to find the Upper Falls!
Paradise Falls
Paradise Falls in Thousand Oaks is a 40-foot waterfall within the scenic Wildwood Regional Park near Thousand Oaks. The 2.8-mile round-trip hike to the falls is family-friendly, offering a mix of shaded trails, wooden bridges, and stunning canyon views along the way. Along the way, you’ll encounter unique sights like a large teepee and a fascinating Indian cave. When we visited in the spring, the trail was bursting with vibrant wildflowers, adding even more beauty to the experience.
Eaton Canyon Falls
Eaton Canyon Falls, located in Pasadena, is a popular 40-foot waterfall that offers a refreshing escape into nature just minutes from Los Angeles. The 3.5-mile round-trip hike is family-friendly, featuring a mix of scenic trails, creek crossings, and shaded canyons. As you reach the falls, you’ll be greeted by the sight and sound of cascading water, making it a perfect spot to relax and cool off. Check sites like All Check the trail conditions before heading out—when we visited after heavy rainfall, we didn’t realize it would mean numerous creek crossings and wading through knee-high water. It wasn’t the most convenient, but it definitely turned into an unexpected adventure!
Another thing to note on any waterfall hike is to be sure there isn’t any chance of rain. This could cause a flash flood and sweep you down a rushing river.
Additional Tips
Check Trail Conditions: Always check recent trail reports and weather updates before your hike. While waterfalls are most impressive after rain, heavy rainfall can make trails slippery and create dangerous creek crossings or flash floods. Avoid hiking during or right after rain to ensure safety and enjoy the best conditions.
Wear Proper Footwear: Opt for sturdy, waterproof hiking shoes, as many trails involve creek crossings or slippery rocks.
Pack Essentials: Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and a map or GPS for navigation. A small towel or change of socks can be handy for wet trails.
Time Your Visit: Go during the late winter or early spring for the best waterfall flow, and start your hike early to beat the crowds.
Leave No Trace: Respect nature by packing out all trash and staying on marked trails to preserve the environment.
Be Prepared for Water: Expect to get a little wet near the falls or during creek crossings, so dress appropriately and protect any electronics.
Safety First: Watch your footing on wet rocks, and avoid climbing areas that are marked as unsafe or off-limits.
Hiking to these five stunning waterfalls in L.A. offers the perfect escape into nature, right in the heart of Los Angeles. Each trail provides a unique adventure, from creek crossings to lush wildflower views, and rewards you with breathtaking sights that make every step worthwhile. These waterfall hikes are a must-do for anyone exploring L.A.’s natural beauty. So lace up your boots, check the conditions, and get ready to experience the magic of L.A.’s waterfalls!
L.A. Hiking Books
