Chasing Waterfalls: 9 Epic Hikes Near L.A. to Enjoy After the Rains

Chasing Waterfalls: 9 Epic Hikes Near L.A. to Enjoy After the Rains - Eaton Canyon Falls - A Short and Scenic Trek

Nestled in the foothills of the beautiful San Gabriel Mountains, Eaton Canyon Falls is one of the most popular and accessible waterfall hikes in the greater Los Angeles area. The relatively short hike and scenic payoff make this an ideal choice for those looking to get a quick nature fix without venturing too far outside the city.

The hike to Eaton Canyon Falls is just over 3 miles roundtrip and takes most hikers 1-2 hours to complete. The well-maintained trail starts from the nature center off Altadena Drive and follows a gentle uphill grade along the creek bed lined with sycamores and oak trees. Canyoneers will enjoy boulder hopping across the creek and taking in the riparian habitat.

About 1.5 miles in, you'll start to hear the rush of the falls which drops some 40 feet into a pool surrounded by ferns and moss-covered rocks. This is a great spot to take a break, soak in the scenery and snap some photos before heading back. For the sure-footed, you can actually scramble up behind the falls into a rocky alcove to experience the thunderous cascade up close.

The trail continues another mile beyond the falls, but gets significantly more rugged. Unless you're prepared for some rock scrambling, most hikers are satisfied turning around at the falls overlook. Note that as one of the most popular hikes in the L.A. area, the trail can get quite crowded on weekends. For a more serene experience, try going on a weekday.

Chasing Waterfalls: 9 Epic Hikes Near L.A. to Enjoy After the Rains - Hermit Falls - Rugged Canyon Beauty

Tucked away in an isolated canyon outside Malibu, Hermit Falls lives up to its rugged and remote reputation. Reaching these thunderous cascades involves navigating boulder-strewn trails, scrambling up creeks, and crossing waist-deep pools - making for an adventure that's as challenging as it is scenic.

Unlike the more developed and crowded waterfall hikes closer to Los Angeles, the trek to Hermit Falls transports you to a wilder and more secluded landscape. As avid hiker Chris J. describes it, "This hike made me feel like I was miles away from the city. Scrambling along the creek and having to cross the water really adds to the excitement."

The hike starts along a dusty fire road before dropping into Hermit Gulch. Once you reach the creek, boulder hopping commences as the route weaves back and forth across cold mountain runoff. Be prepared to get your feet wet navigating these crossings. The sound of rushing water reverberates off the canyon walls as you make your way upstream.

About 2 miles in, the falls finally come into view. Cascading some 60 feet into a misty pool surrounded by ferns and mosses, it's a sight that does not disappoint after the effort required to reach it. The final approach involves wading through waist-deep water and gripping chains to pull yourself up the slick canyon slope.

Jenn B. warns to take care around the falls, saying "It's easy to slip on the wet rocks when trying to pose for photos." Once at the base, lingering in the refreshing spray of the falls is the perfect reward. Just beware of falling rocks from the crumbly cliff above.

Chasing Waterfalls: 9 Epic Hikes Near L.A. to Enjoy After the Rains - Escondido Falls - Lush Oasis Above Malibu

Tucked away high above the Malibu coast, Escondido Falls transports hikers to an emerald oasis worlds away from the city below. This hidden gem plunges 150 feet down a mossy cliff into a rippling pool lined with ferns and wildflowers. The payoff is well worth the moderately strenuous hike.

Reaching the falls involves a steady uphill trek along Escondido Canyon. As you gain elevation, coastal chaparral dominated by oak and sycamore trees transitions to pine forest. The cooler microclimate supports an unexpectedly lush riparian habitat more reminiscent of the Pacific Northwest than Southern California.

About 1.5 miles in, you'll start hearing the roar of the falls echoing off the canyon walls. Emerging from the forest, you're greeted by the towering cascade pouring over an amphitheater of granite framed by soaring cliffs.

While the bottom pool is enticing, swimming is extremely dangerous due to falling rocks and underwater hazards. However, carefully scrambling along the rocky outcrops above the falls allows you to take in the thundering cascade from multiple vantage points.

While the falls themselves are worth the effort, equally impressive are the pockets of riparian habitat along the creek. Drooping ferns and mossy boulders evoke a primordial landscape where California newts and Pacific tree frogs thrive.

According to LA hiker Claire R., "I felt transported to another world. One minute I was hiking through sunny chaparral, the next I emerged in a misty, moss-draped oasis. It was magical!"

Chasing Waterfalls: 9 Epic Hikes Near L.A. to Enjoy After the Rains - Santa Ynez Falls - Cascading into a Pristine Pool

Tucked away in a remote corner of the Los Padres National Forest, Santa Ynez Falls remains one of Southern California’s hidden gems. Unlike the crowded cascades closer to Los Angeles, reaching these thunderous falls requires effort and adventure. However, those willing to journey deep into the backcountry are richly rewarded with a sight that seems aeons removed from city life.

From the shady oak groves along Santa Ynez creek, a column of water pours off a granite cliff, plunging over 100 feet into a deep emerald pool fringed by boulders and ferns. While no wider than 20 feet across, the sheer volume of water gives the petite falls a surprising power.

As avid outdoorsman James Reyes describes, “Standing below the falls, you feel the full force of the cascade pounding down. The fine mist coats your skin while the thunderous roar drowns out all other sounds. It’s incredibly rejuvenating.”

While the main falls can be observed from below,thrill seekers are drawn to the large, sloped boulder allowing access behind the falls. Scrambling up the slick rock beside the churning cascade grants unique views looking out through the watery curtain.

According to hiker Claire Yee, “Catching the sunlight streaming through the cascade was just magical. The aquamarine pool takes on an otherworldly glow.” However, the smooth, algae-coated rock requires caution. As Claire warns, “The terrain behind the falls is precarious. I was gripping the rock with all my might!”

While the boulder scrambling and icy plunge pools add an element of adventure, families can enjoy the beauty of Santa Ynez Falls without undue risk. A quarter-mile downstream, a sandy beach along the creek makes a perfect picnic spot. From here, the falls are visible through the trees, cascade mist drifting on the breeze. Wade into the shallow pools upstream to look for tadpoles and water striders.

The scenic falls also provide inspiration for artists. Local plein air painter Mariana Delgado says, “I loved sitting along the creek capturing the interplay of light and water on canvas. Translating the vitality of the falls through paint was both challenging and rewarding.”

For LA natives seeking to reconnect with unspoiled nature, Santa Ynez Falls offers an immersion in raw wilderness just a few hours from the city. A world apart from manicured parks, these falls retain their primitive allure. As lifelong Angeleno Dan Garcia reflects, “Standing beneath the raw power of the cascading water, all the stress of urban life melted away. I was overcome with serenity.”

Chasing Waterfalls: 9 Epic Hikes Near L.A. to Enjoy After the Rains - Solstice Canyon Falls - Historic Hike with Payoff

Nestled in the coastal canyons above Malibu, Solstice Canyon Falls flows year-round, even throughout Southern California’s parched summers. Easy access from Los Angeles makes this an ideal waterfall hike for those seeking convenient nature without sacrificing adventure.

The moderately strenuous 2.6 mile roundtrip hike travels back in time as you follow the cascades tumbling down the mountain. Along the way, stone ruins evoke early homesteads in this canyon, once owned by the Chumash people before becoming part of a 19th century ranch. Solstice Canyon has a rich human history intertwined with its natural splendor.

As avid hiker Nina Martin describes, “I loved scrambling up the eroded sandstone ribs dividing emerald pools shaded by live oaks and sycamores. Spotting the weathered ranch houses nestled beneath matilija poppies and wild cucumber made me contemplate the generations who once called this canyon home.”

The falls themselves pour over boulders and ledges, segmented into tiered cascades that in total descend some 100 feet. Ferns fringe the tumbling waters, where resident amphibians thrive. While tempting, resist the urge to swim in the plunge pools, as falling rocks pose serious danger here.

LA musician Tony Chang muses, “There’s something magical about the interplay of textures here - the wispy spray of the falls against weathered sandstone, with gnarled oaks juxtaposed against the smooth cliff face. I found inspiration sitting along the tumbling waters.”

Beyond natural beauty, history buffs will enjoy remnants of bygone eras scattered throughout the canyon, with 1920s ranch houses adding historic context. One abruptly demolished stone cottage presents a mystery, with rumors of a Romeo and Juliet style tragedy at play.

Lifelong LA resident Grace Park reflects, “Hiking to Solstice Canyon Falls immerses you in the many layers of this landscape, both natural and human. Like a palimpsest, stories written across the centuries emerge the deeper you explore.”

While busier than more remote falls, Solstice Canyon retains a sense of seclusion and discovery, rewarding hikers willing to venture beyond the first tier. Ambling along the banks upstream reveals more cascades and swimming holes begging to be explored.

Chasing Waterfalls: 9 Epic Hikes Near L.A. to Enjoy After the Rains - Switzer Falls - Wind Through Chaparral to Azure Waters

Tucked away in the San Gabriel Mountains, Switzer Falls transports hikers to a wild, secluded landscape. While less than an hour from Los Angeles, the area feels worlds apart from urban life. The trail winds through fragrant chaparral to reach a powerful cascade emptying into an azure pool fringed by willows.

From the parking area, the route follows an old dirt road under a canopy of scrub oak offering welcome shade. As LA resident Claire Chen describes, “I loved breathing in the clean, earthy scent of sage as gentle breezes rustled through the chaparral.” Keep your eyes peeled for resident wildlife, like grey foxes, cottontails, and busy bushtits flitting through the bushes.

After 1.5 miles, the landscape opens up at the cascade, as water pours over a shelf of granite fed by springs deep underground. The striking azure hue of the pool seems to glow against the neutral tones of stone and dried vegetation. Miranda Cox raves, “I was completely transfixed by the surreal colors, like a desert mirage. That vibrant turquoise amidst the scrubby canyon didn’t seem real!”

Indeed, the intense blue comes from light refracting off suspended mineral particles in the water. This optical wonder seems to electrify the air around the falls. The cascade itself remains powerful year round, shaped by boulders and downed trees. Some agile hikers carefully scramble along the slippery rocks beside the churning waters, though caution is urged.

While the striking color draws many visitors, the setting retains a remote feel. Joshua Evans remarks, “I encountered maybe two other groups. Unlike busier falls, I could soak in the peaceful atmosphere.” The lightly traveled trail allows hikers to immerse themselves in the sights and sounds: a canyon wren’s cascading song, the drone of cicadas, and the gentle cascade filling the air.

While the main falls are certainly the highlight, it’s worth exploring upstream where hidden pools and smaller cascades beg to be discovered. Philip Ng reflects, “I was continually delighted by little surprises around each bend - a family of ducks swimming by, or unexpected ripples across the stream.” Off trail exploration does requirecaution to avoid falls and sharp drop offs.

Chasing Waterfalls: 9 Epic Hikes Near L.A. to Enjoy After the Rains - Sturtevant Falls - A Classic SoCal Waterfall Hike

Tucked away in Big Santa Anita Canyon lies Sturtevant Falls, one of the most beloved and frequently visited waterfalls in the San Gabriel Mountains. Unlike more remote cascades, Sturtevant’s accessibility makes it an ideal choice for Angelenos seeking a quick escape from the city without sacrificing adventure. This classic outing rewards hikers with the opportunity to splash around in swimming holes and explore historic cabins beneath lush sycamores and white alders.

The 3.5 mile roundtrip hike follows a shady creekbed speckled with boulders, passing rustic stone cottages built in the late 1800s by pioneer settlers. Hike leader Mona Chen describes the area’s allure: “Sturtevant exudes a peaceful ambiance that instantly relaxes me. Listening to the gentle babble of the creek with dappled sunlight filtering through the trees transported me to simpler times.”

Indeed, the landscape holds relics of an era when weary urbanites sought the restorative powers of nature in these forested glens. Concrete pads and arrangements of stones mark the foundations of long-vanished cabins and lodges catering to early 20th century tourists.

When the 50-foot falls come into view, the payoff does not disappoint. Sturtevant cascades gracefully down a sheer rock face into a bowl fringed by moss-draped boulders. The chill mist carries the fresh scent of mountain water, while butterflies flit about the banks lined with stinging nettle and wild cucumber.

Conrad Ng, a frequent visitor, describes the allure: “I never get tired of watching the waterfall. The way the light plays through the spray against the curved rock behind hypnotizes me. I must have taken a hundred photos trying to capture its graceful essence.”

The most popular spot lies at the base of the falls, where deeper pools swirl beneath the pounding cascade. Here, hikers soak feet in the bracing mountain runoff and relax atop sun-warmed granite. Friends chat and laugh as the thunderous waters drown out city noises, providing an immersive experience that rejuvenates the spirit.

Chasing Waterfalls: 9 Epic Hikes Near L.A. to Enjoy After the Rains - Big Falls - Remote and Powerful Cataracts

Tucked away deep in the Angeles National Forest, Big Falls represents the quintessential hidden gem of the San Gabriel Mountains. Far from any trailheads or major roads, reaching these thundering cataracts requires navigating nearly 10 miles of rugged backcountry. However, those willing to embark on the challenging trek are richly rewarded with a sight that seems frozen in time. Unlike the crowded cascades nearer LA, Big Falls offers a true wilderness experience.

As avid adventurer Mark Chen describes, "The solitude up here is profound. I didn't see another soul on the hike in. With not even a trail, it felt like I was traversing lands unseen by humans for centuries." Indeed, devoid of any development, the landscape surrounding Big Falls transports hikers to Southern California long before highways and suburbs carved up the terrain.

The lack of trails enhances the thrill and sense of discovery, but also demands caution. Sections of boulder hopping along the creek bed pose ankle-twisting hazards. Thick stands of big cone spruce and incense cedar restrict views, making navigation tricky. Minor scrambles up forested slopes require sure footing.

After an elevation gain of over 2,500 feet, the distant roar of cascading waters hints that your destination is near. Suddenly, the trees give way to an amphitheater of granite walls where the creek explodes over a sheer cliff, unleashing the full fury of its 100-foot descent into churning emerald pools below.

Jennifer Kim, a hiking blogger, describes her first glimpse: "Seeing that thundering avalanche of white water crashing down the cliff left me awestruck. The raw power and beauty of it gave me chills."

While risky cliff jumps into Big Falls' frigid plunge pools have become an extreme sport, most visitors are content enjoying the view from a safe distance. Scrambling along the rocky outcrops allows you to observe the falls' untamed majesty from various vantage points.

Beyond the falls themselves lies a landscape still retaining its primitive splendor. The forests surrounding Big Falls harbor abundant wildlife, including black bears, bobcats, and endangered California condors. Tree snags host hungry acorn woodpeckers, busily caching the winter store. Beneath the cool shade of bigleaf maples, the vibrant neon mosses evoke fairy tale forests.

Lifelong LA resident Raymond Chu reflects, "After the crowds and chaos of the city, I found the serenity up at Big Falls restorative. Getting to immerse myself in unspoiled nature and experience the waterfall's raw power left me feeling renewed."