Hiking is a fantastic pastime, until Los Angeles summers hit and it’s suddenly too hot to walk through the California hills. That is unless you find a trail that leads to waterfall! Whether you find a swimming hole at the end of the trail, or just a magical waterfall, the cool water misting from the falls will cool you off even on the hottest of days! Below, we list some of the must see waterfalls in Los Angeles!
Solstice Canyon Falls
Solstice Canyon Falls in Malibu is more of a nature walk than a hike, but the outcome is still the same! Take the kids and enjoy this 2.1 mile trail through the ruins of the Roberts Ranch House and onto a beautiful waterfall. If you’re willing to try a bit more serious workout, continue onto the Rising Sun and Sosotmo Trails, two slightly more taxing hikes with an ocean view payoff, or the Dry Canyon Trail, which ends in a taller seasonal waterfall.
Sturtevant Falls
This 3.5-mile in Sierra Madre hike starts at the Chantry Flats trailhead in sprawling Angeles National Forest. The trail boasts beautiful foliage, occasional wildlife, and a handful of privately owned rustic cabins nestled in the forest. This trail isn’t for beginners though, you should be prepared for a few obstacles -- like shallow stream crossings and a hilly incline toward the end.
Monrovia Falls
Monrovia
Looking to see a waterfall even in the middle of a the driest summer? Then look no further than Monrovia Falls. Though the waterfall is smaller than the others on this list (it’s only 30ft tall) it is the only one that is consistently a running waterfall. Monrovia Falls flows because of an underground spring that keeps the water moving no matter what time of year. Because of the consistent flow of water, the fall is surrounded by plants and greenery that you won’t want to miss! Another plus is that you the hike to the fall is pretty easy, even a novice hiker could do it with ease!
Eaton Canyon Falls
Eaton Canyon Falls in Altadena is not for beginners. This 3.4-mile hike is tough to navigate, with the terran that goes from moderate to rocky and rugged without warning. Even with it’s more difficult terrain though, this trail is popular for families and dogs, so be prepared to share the sight of the 40ft-tall cascade with a crowd of others.