When I first moved to San Diego, I didn’t realize that there were so many San Diego hikes with waterfalls. I was spending my time in Torrey Pines and the Southern California Mountains. But I still remember the first time I climbed down to Three Sisters Falls, nestled in a remote canyon in Cleveland National Forest. It was like finding a hidden paradise (especially since I visited in the off season!)
So here are 3 of my favorite San Diego hikes with waterfalls:
Three Sisters
The first time I hiked Three Sisters, it was a rugged and steep trail adorned with ropes. Now, let’s just say it’s a little more… safe. They redid the trail to make it a lot less steep and more accessible. Once you reach the bottom, you’ll be rewarded with three cascading waterfalls to jump into. You will be hiking into a canyon on this one, so the way back up is the tough part.
Stats:
Distance: 3.9 Miles
Elevation Gain: 908 Ft.
Visit in: The spring when the snow is melting in the mountains for the most water on the falls. The falls do slow to a trickle in the late summer months but if you check the reviews on Alltrails, you can usually see if the water is running or not before making the commitment.
Download the trail map and read reviews here.
Tips: Check the weather ahead of time, the temperatures inland in the summer can be really hot. Make sure to pack a lot of water and sunscreen, and a bathing suit!
Cedar Creek Falls
Of all the San Diego hikes with waterfalls, Cedar Creek is my favorite. I think it’s the most scenic hike out of all three, and the yellow canyon walls surrounding it are breathtaking. Similar to Three Sisters, you will start this hike by hiking down into the canyon, and finish by hiking up and out of it.
Stats:
Distance: 5.5 Miles
Elevation Gain: 1,069 Ft.
Visit in: The spring when the snow is melting in the mountains for the most water on the falls. The falls do slow to a trickle when it’s hot, so check Alltrails ahead of time to make sure the fall is running.
Tips: You need a permit for this one! Apply for one here.
Download the trail map and read reviews here.
Kitchen Creek Falls
This San Diego waterfall hike took me a while to find, so it holds a really special place in my heart. And for some reason, the photos just don’t do it justice. Be warned, this fall is a lot larger in person.
Stats:
Distance: 4.9 Miles
Elevation Gain: 816 Ft.
Location: Lake Morena County Park
Visit in: The spring when the snow is melting in the mountains for the most water on the falls. Similar to the other waterfalls in this post, this one can also dry up. Check Alltrails for recent reviews to make sure it is running before driving to the trailhead.
Download the trail map and read reviews here.
Do you know of any other San Diego hikes with waterfalls? Feel free to comment below!
And if you’re interested in more hikes in San Diego County, here is my full list of the best San Diego hikes.