Black Star Canyon Falls Trail is a hidden gem in Silverado, California, that truly comes to life during the spring after a refreshing rain, transforming into a paradise of vibrant wildflowers and cascading waterfalls. In this blog post, we’ll give you all the details you need to know to hike this stunning trail.
Hiking Info
- Trailhead location: 14100 Black Star Canyon Rd, Silverado, CA 92676
- 6.7 mile out and back trail
- Elevation: 846 feet
- Hard: There’s a lot of rock scrambling and some of the rocks are really slippery when the river bed is more active. Definitely keep an eye on the weather and don’t attempt this if there is any chance of rain. It’s best to wear shoes with good traction. Waterproof hiking shoes are also a plus since you’ll be crossing the river bed multiple times. I have a few pairs of adidas® Terrex that I wear for hiking and trail running.
- Free Parking at trailhead
- No bathrooms at trailhead
- Dogs allowed
Tip/Warning: There is a LOT of Poison Oak on this trail, make sure you cover up you skin
When To Go
The best season for this hike is Spring, following ample rainfall to see the waterfall in its full splendor and the blooming wildflowers along the trail. While the elevated water levels add a challenging aspect to the hike, the reward of seeing the cascading waterfall makes it worthwhile. Exercise caution and avoid attempting this hike in the event of rain, as the entire trail traces the river bed to the falls, posing a potential risk of flash floods.
The Hike: Black Star Canyon Falls
Start the Black Star Canyon trail from the dirt parking lot. We did this hike in June of 2023 and it was such a great rain year that there were still tons of wildflowers to see. Spring blooms bring vibrant hues of purple, yellow, and orange, turning the trail into a living canvas.
The trail’s character is defined by its multiple river crossings (unless there hasn’t been rain in a while), adding an element of excitement and unpredictability to the journey. Be prepared to get your feet wet as you navigate the flowing waters.
As you move further along the trail, it involves navigating through rocky terrain and engaging in some rock scrambling. The trail demands a moderate level of fitness and agility. The rocks are rugged and beautiful, shaped by the water over time.
This was definitely a memorable adventurous hike that I would highly recommend! Know of any other great hikes in this area? Let us know in the comments below.
Read more of my blog posts to discover some more hikes in Los Angeles. I’m always looking for new and interesting trails to explore.