Best waterfalls around Los Angeles are found within a diverse terrain that includes urban areas and mountain ranges like the San Gabriel Mountains. This region offers natural landscapes, including canyons and forests, providing opportunities for outdoor activities. Many waterfalls here flow best after rainfall, typically in winter and spring. These natural features offer a refreshing escape into varied environments.
Last updated: April 26, 2026
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If you come down from Pincrest Dr, cross the bridge and keep right walking a loop to get under the bridge. From here follow the creek by crossing the stream over rocks and trunks around 10 times before you reach the small lake with the waterfall. Have great fun by taking a "shower".
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Very much weather dependant on what the water table condition is? Either way with a nice bridge on site, it is a great rest spot and might be an opportune spot to cool down or dip your buff in the water.
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40 foot water fall in the San Gabriel Mountains. The hike up to the falls is moderate with several stream crossings. It can get busy during peak times, but is definitely work the trek up.
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Whitney Canyon Trail is a really popular trail for running and hiking. It follows a creek basically the entire time and ends at a trail intersection where you have the option of pushing a little further to a small waterfall. It's slightly uphill the entire time in one direction and slightly downhill the other direction, so it's pretty perfect for trail running.
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40 foot water fall in the San Gabriel Mountains. The hike up to the falls is moderate with several stream crossings. It can get busy during peak times, but is definitely work the trek up.
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Water flow is pretty much determined by current drought conditions. Definitely more of a side trip than destination.
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With narrow paths, beautiful vistas, ponds covered in lily pads and a picture postcard view towards Downtown with the mountains rising behind, Kenneth Hahn State Recreational Area is the perfect place to escape the trouble of the big city. It is also known als L. A.s "Central Park" with nice hiking trails and large enough for a longer run.
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Beyond the well-known Eaton Canyon Waterfall, other popular choices include Escondido Falls in Malibu, known for its three tiers, and Millard Canyon Falls in Altadena, a picturesque 50-foot cascade. Trail Canyon Falls also offers a scenic 30-foot drop in rugged terrain.
Yes, Millard Canyon Falls in Altadena is considered an easy and family-friendly hike through a pleasant, shaded canyon. Kenneth Hahn State Recreational Area, while not solely a waterfall destination, is also noted as family-friendly with hiking trails and scenic views.
The waterfalls in and around Los Angeles are largely seasonal. They flow best after significant rainfall, typically in winter and spring. Visiting during these cooler, wetter months ensures a more impressive display. Always check current trail conditions before heading out.
While many waterfalls are seasonal, Bonita Falls in the San Bernardino National Forest is known for its year-round flow. This makes it a refreshing option for outdoor experiences from summer to winter.
You can expect diverse natural landscapes, including lush canyons, forests, and scenic viewpoints. Hikes often involve stream crossings and offer vistas towards mountains or even Downtown Los Angeles, as seen from places like Kenneth Hahn State Recreational Area.
Yes, some waterfall trails are dog-friendly. For example, the trail to Eaton Canyon Waterfall is noted as dog-friendly. Always check specific park regulations before bringing your pet.
Millard Canyon Falls offers a relatively short and easy walk suitable for all ages. For other easy options, you can explore the Easy hikes around Los Angeles guide, which includes routes like the Temescal Canyon Falls loop.
The trek to Escondido Falls in Malibu is a moderate 3.6-mile round trip. It traverses lush landscapes and crosses streams, offering a serene escape.
It's crucial to be prepared. Bring appropriate footwear, as conditions can be slippery, especially after rain. Water, snacks, and sun protection are also recommended. Always practice Leave No Trace principles.
Yes, Trail Canyon Falls involves a moderate hike with ropes available to assist on the steep descent to the base. Sturtevant Falls is known for its 'upside-down' hike, where you descend to the falls and climb back up, though it has experienced temporary closures.
The Los Angeles area offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including those listed in the Hiking around Los Angeles guide. Cycling is also popular, with routes like the Mount Hollywood loop detailed in the Cycling around Los Angeles guide.
Generally, permits are not required for day hikes to most waterfalls in the Los Angeles area. However, it's always advisable to check the specific regulations for the park or forest you plan to visit, as conditions and rules can change.
Temescal Canyon Falls is a popular waterfall, though its flow is highly dependent on current drought conditions. It features a bridge on-site, making it a great rest spot and a potential place to cool down, especially after rain.


Happy to travel a little further afield? Then browse these guides for the best waterfalls around Los Angeles: