Southern California is known primarily for its sunny weather, soft sandy beaches, tall palm trees and laid-back lifestyle.
But did you know that SoCal also has impressive waterfalls too?
Not many people do.
From majestic waterfalls that drop over 500 ft to crystal-clear pools that are perfect for swimming in, SoCal has it all.
Finding the best waterfalls can take A LOT of research so that’s why we’ve put together this handy guide which has done all the hard work for you.
We’ve put together the ultimate waterfall road trip in Southern California that takes you to 11 of the region’s best waterfalls.
And the best bit is that the road trip actually forms a loop which will save you a lot of time and avoids having to visit the same area twice!
We’re starting in Los Angeles but feel free to start anywhere you like along the route.
1. Trail Canyon Falls
Trail Canyon Falls is a beautiful hidden waterfall located in the Angeles National Forest, near the community of Tujunga.
This scenic spot is known for its dramatic 40-foot cascade that tumbles into a rocky pool below, surrounded by rugged canyon walls.
To get there, you’ll start your hike from the Trail Canyon Trailhead off Big Tujunga Canyon Road, where there is a small dirt parking area available.
The hike is about 4 miles round trip, taking most people 2 to 2.5 hours to complete, and is rated as moderate due to some elevation gain and narrow paths.
Along the way, you’ll walk beside a seasonal creek, pass through shaded areas of oak and sycamore trees, and enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding mountains.
The final approach to the falls requires a bit of scrambling down a steep slope, so sturdy shoes and caution are advised.
Best visited in the spring after seasonal rains, Trail Canyon Falls is a quiet and rewarding hike with fewer crowds than more well-known hikes in the area.
2. Cooper Canyon Falls
Cooper Canyon Falls is a hidden gem located in the Angeles National Forest, not too far from the city of Los Angeles.
This waterfall is known for its beautiful setting and the refreshing pool at its base, where the water drops about 30 feet.
To reach Cooper Canyon Falls, you need to start at the Buckhorn Campground which is the beginning of the trailhead.
The hike to the falls and back is about 6 miles round trip and is rated as moderate so it’s a bit challenging but definitely worth the effort.
This takes most people just over 3 hours to complete.
The trail takes you through a beautiful forest with tall trees that provide shade along the way. It’s really scenic.
You’ll also cross a few streams and navigate over some rocky areas so be sure to wear some sturdy shoes.
During the hike, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife and the many different types of plants that grow in the area.
The best time to visit is in the spring or early summer when the water flow is strongest due to all the melting snow. However, the falls do flow all year round.
3. Stoddard Canyon Falls
Stoddard Canyon Falls is located near the city of Upland in Angeles National Forest.
It is known for its natural beauty and the peaceful surroundings of Stoddard Canyon.
To get there, you’ll want to start from the trailhead on Mount Baldy Road which is just a short drive from Upland.
The hike to the falls is relatively short (~20 minutes each way) but can be challenging due to steep and sometimes slippery paths.
Along the way, you’ll descend into the canyon and walk through a lush forest that is filled with a variety of lush plants and the sounds of nature. It’s really peaceful.
The waterfall itself is a beautiful sight with water cascading down into a small pool below. It reaches around 40 ft.
You’re actually allowed to swim in the pool beneath the waterfall which allows you to cool off after the hike.
The waters here are crystal clear so it’s a great place to relax and take in the views.
Because this trail is lesser known, it’s often less crowded compared to other hiking spots in Southern California which is another plus.
4. Bonita Falls
Bonita Falls is a stunning waterfall located near Lytle Creek in the San Bernardino National Forest.
This stunning waterfall is known for its impressive 100-foot drop which actually makes it one of the tallest waterfalls in Southern California.
To get there, you’ll start from the Bonita Falls Trailhead which is easily accessible by car. It’s located just off the I-15 near the small community of Lytle Creek.
The hike to the falls is relatively short at around 1.5 miles round trip but it can be a bit challenging due to the rocky and sometimes slippery path.
It takes most people around an hour to complete.
Along the way, you’ll cross a creek but there are plenty of stones and logs to help you cross without getting your feet wet.
The trail is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery which offers a great opportunity to enjoy the outdoors and maybe even spot some local wildlife.
Once you reach Bonita Falls, you’ll be greeted by the breathtaking sight of water cascading down a rocky cliff into a clear pool below.
Please note that an Adventure Pass is required for parking.
5. Big Falls
Big Falls is an impressive waterfall located in the San Bernardino National Forest, near to the town of Forest Falls.
It’s one of the tallest waterfalls in Southern California and actually features a series of 5 cascades that drop over 500 feet in total!
It’s incredible to see in real life.
To get there, you’ll start at the Big Falls Trailhead which is easy to find at the end of Valley of the Falls Drive, just past the small town.
The hike to the viewpoint of Big Falls is pretty short as it’s a 0.7 mile round trip which takes around 30 minutes to complete.
It’s ideal for families and people of all ages as the hike is fairly easy going.
The path to the falls is well-marked and takes you through a beautiful forest filled with giant redwood trees which provides some welcome shade from the hot sun.
As you reach the waterfall, you’ll notice the natural mist that has formed due to the crashing water. It’s really refreshing, especially after the hike.
It’s recommended that all hikers stay on the designated trail and don’t venture off path as the area around the falls can be dangerous.
The short hike will lead you to an incredible viewpoint which will give you the best views of the waterfall.
Please note that an Adventure Pass is required for parking.
6. Tahquitz Falls
Tahquitz Falls is a beautiful waterfall located in Palm Springs. You’ll find it within the Agua Caliente Band of the Cahuilla Indians reservation.
This stunning natural attraction is known for its 60-foot waterfall that cascades into a clear, cool pool below.
To reach Tahquitz Falls, you’ll start at the Tahquitz Canyon Visitor Center which provides maps of the trail. You do also need to pay an entrance fee here.
The hike to the falls is around 2 miles round trip and is considered to be fairly easy so it is suitable for most hikers.
The trail winds through the desert canyon and offers views of native plants, wildlife and impressive rock formations along the way including a huge sacred rock.
There are several rock bridges that have been put in place to help you cross the streams without getting wet.
The sound of the waterfall can be heard well before it comes into view.
It’s super exciting to finally turn the last corner and see the gushing water crashing into the pool below!
Swimming is allowed in the falls if you fancy a refreshing dip before hiking back.
Please note that there is a $12.50 entry fee for this waterfall which includes an optional tour guide.
7. Three Sisters Falls
Three Sisters Falls is a captivating series of waterfalls located in the Cleveland National Forest, near the town of Julian.
This natural wonder is known for its three distinct cascading falls which give the site its name. It’s truly breathtaking!
To get there, you’ll need to take a hike from the trailhead on Boulder Creek Road which is accessible by car.
The hike to Three Sisters Falls is about 4 miles round trip but it is considered challenging due to its steep and rugged terrain. It commonly takes between 3 and 4 hours to complete.
I’d recommend wearing sturdy shoes and be prepared for a bit of scrambling and using ropes in certain sections.
The best time to visit is in the spring or just after a rainstorm as this is when the waterfalls will be at their fullest.
Along the way, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Once at the falls, you can enjoy the sights and sounds of the water cascading over rocks into pools below.
Please note that an Adventure Pass is required for parking.
8. Cedar Creek Falls
Cedar Creek Falls is a breathtaking waterfall located in the Cleveland National Forest which is near San Diego.
It features an impressive 80-foot waterfall that plunges into a large, clear pool below.
To visit Cedar Creek Falls, you’ll want to start your journey at one of two trailheads: either the San Diego River Gorge Trailhead or the Saddleback Trailhead.
Both routes are incredibly scenic and lead to the falls, with the hike being about 5 to 6 miles round trip, depending on the starting point.
The trail is considered to be of moderate difficulty, as there are some steep and rocky sections, so wearing good hiking shoes is a must.
It’s also very important to carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months, as the trail can be hot and exposed with little shade.
The best time to visit is in the spring when the waterfall is most likely to be flowing after the winter rains. Avoid peak summer as it gets VERY hot.
Swimming is allowed in the pool beneath the falls so it’s a great spot to cool off after the long hike.
Just a heads up, you do need a permit to access the trail. You should get one online beforehand as they don’t sell them on-site.
9. Tenaja Falls
Tenaja Falls is a picturesque, multi-tiered waterfall tucked away in the Santa Ana Mountains within the Cleveland National Forest.
Located near the town of Murrieta, this waterfall is known for its elegant 150-foot cascade that spills down smooth granite rock faces, especially impressive after recent rainfall.
To reach the falls, you’ll begin your hike at the Tenaja Trailhead off Forest Route 7S02, where a small parking area is available (an Adventure Pass is required).
The hike is about 1.5 miles round trip and is considered easy to moderate, making it suitable for most hikers.
The trail winds through oak woodlands and open meadows, offering beautiful views and a peaceful setting throughout.
While the waterfall flows most prominently in the late winter and early spring, it can be dry during hotter months, so it’s best to check conditions before heading out.
The area is also home to unique rock formations and native wildlife, making it a great spot to explore more of nature.
10. Black Star Canyon Falls
Black Star Canyon Falls is a dramatic waterfall located in the Santa Ana Mountains near Silverado.
Known for its rugged beauty and remote feel, the waterfall features a striking drop of about 65 feet, cascading into a rocky grotto surrounded by towering cliffs.
To reach the falls, you’ll start at the Black Star Canyon Trailhead off Black Star Canyon Road.
The hike is around 7 miles round trip and is rated as challenging due to rough terrain, boulder scrambling, and stream crossings—this one’s best suited for experienced hikers.
The first part of the trail is a wide dirt road that gradually transitions into a narrow canyon with dense vegetation and rocky paths.
You’ll need to climb over large rocks and navigate through flowing water as you approach the falls, especially in the spring when the stream is active.
The best time to visit is late winter through early spring, after recent rains, when the water is flowing and the surrounding canyon is lush and green.
While this hike is not for the faint of heart, the payoff is a secluded and spectacular waterfall experience away from the crowds.
11. Paradise Falls
Paradise Falls is a beautiful waterfall located in Wildwood Park, in the city of Thousand Oaks.
It features a scenic 40-foot drop into a large pool below which also features a rock grotto.
To get there, you can park at the Wildwood Park parking lot and follow the signs for the trailhead.
The hike to Paradise Falls is about 2.8 miles round trip which takes around 1.5 hours to complete. The paths are well-maintained and suitable for hikers of all levels.
Along the way, the trail offers views of rolling hills, oak trees and a variety of plant and animal life.
The path to the falls does include a few hills but it’s mostly easy walking.
When you reach Paradise Falls, you’ll find a peaceful area that is perfect for picnics, photos and enjoying the sound of falling water.
Swimming is not allowed in the pool but there is plenty of space to relax and take in the scenery.
It’s best to visit during the cooler months or early in the morning to avoid the heat of the day.
