Best Waterfall Hikes in Los Angeles: A Local’s Nature-Soaked Guide

Hi! I’m Sarah — graphic designer by weekday, trail wanderer by weekend. One of my favorite things about living in LA is that you can be stuck on the 405 in the morning and standing under a waterfall by noon. Yes, a real waterfall — not something out of a travel ad for Costa Rica.

Whether you’re craving a peaceful nature fix, a cool mist on your face, or a bit of an adventure with some friends, Los Angeles has several amazing waterfall hikes you can tackle in just a few hours. Below are my go-to trails for chasing waterfalls around LA — tried, tested, and totally worth the dirt on your shoes.

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1. Escondido Falls – Malibu’s Hidden Gem

Let’s start strong. Escondido Falls is hands-down one of the prettiest waterfall hikes in LA. Located in Malibu, it’s got that wild, overgrown, almost-fairytale vibe. The trail leads to a tiered waterfall, and after a rainy season, it really gushes.

• Trailhead: 27200 Winding Way, Malibu, CA
• Distance: About 4 miles round trip
• Level: Easy to moderate
• Waterfall rating: 10/10 when flowing
  
  

Just a heads-up: the lower falls are easy to reach. The upper falls? You’ll need to scramble up a steep, muddy section — not officially part of the trail — so wear good shoes and don’t attempt it if it’s slippery.

Tip: Parking is tricky. You’ll need to park along Winding Way and walk a bit through a residential area.

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2. Sturtevant Falls – Forest Escape in the San Gabriels

This one feels like you’ve left LA completely. Located in the Angeles National Forest, Sturtevant Falls is shaded, green, and full of those peaceful pine tree smells that make you instantly forget about your inbox.

• Trailhead: Chantry Flat Road, Arcadia
• Distance: Around 3.3 miles round trip
• Level: Easy to moderate, with a hill on the way back
• Waterfall rating: Solid 8.5/10, beautiful year-round
  
  

You’ll pass little cabins, wooden bridges, and trickling streams before reaching the 50-foot waterfall. It’s a classic.

Important: You need a National Forest Adventure Pass to park at Chantry Flat. Grab one online or from a local ranger station.

  

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3. Paradise Falls – Waterfall Meets City Park Vibes

If you’re out in the Thousand Oaks area (or want to make a day trip out of it), Paradise Falls in Wildwood Park is such a fun, family-friendly hike. It’s not deep-forest secluded, but the waterfall is very much the real deal.

• Trailhead: Wildwood Regional Park, Thousand Oaks
• Distance: About 2 miles round trip
• Level: Easy, with a few short hills
• Waterfall rating: 7/10 — charming and reliable
  
  

There are plenty of benches, shaded spots, and trail loops if you want to keep walking. Bonus: no parking pass needed, and there are restrooms at the trailhead.

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4. Switzer Falls – My Favorite “In-the-Woods” Spot

I saved this one for last because it’s one of my personal favorites. Switzer Falls is located off the Angeles Crest Highway, and it gives serious “mountain getaway” energy without the long drive.

• Trailhead: Switzer Picnic Area, Angeles National Forest
• Distance: Around 4.5 miles round trip
• Level: Moderate (watch for rocks and creek crossings)
• Waterfall rating: 9/10 when flowing strong
  
  

You’ll wind through canyons, cross small streams, and maybe even spot deer if you go early. The trail is popular but not overrun, and the two-tiered waterfall is absolutely worth the effort.

Don’t forget: You’ll also need that Adventure Pass to park here.

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A Few Local Tips Before You Go

• Best time for waterfalls in LA: Late winter to early spring (after the rains). Summer? The falls slow down or dry up.
• Waterproof shoes: Not essential, but helpful for creek crossings.
• Watch the weather: Avoid these trails after heavy rain — flash floods and muddy conditions can be dangerous.
• Pack in, pack out: Please, please don’t leave trash. These spots are too pretty to ruin.
  
  

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Final Thoughts

People think of LA as beaches and billboards, but we’ve got secret waterfalls, too. Whether you want a quick, relaxing walk or something more adventurous, these trails deliver nature and reward — all without leaving the county.

So grab some snacks, fill up your water bottle, and go find your own little hidden waterfall this weekend. I’ll probably be on the trail too — say hi if you see me!

Stay wild,
– Sarah

Ooh, waterfalls in LA!  Sounds amazing.  I've always wanted to check out Escondido Falls.  Have you been before?  Any tips for getting there?  I'm always up for a good hike.