
With so much natural splendor, it’s no wonder we love spending time outdoors. The waterfalls in and around San Diego are great spots to visit, any day. Here’s a list to inspire your next adventure!
1.Weir Trail
Even though Weir Trail doesn’t lead to a waterfall per se, but rather a cascade – this is still a great trail, so we had to include it. You’ll access the trail from Palomar Mountain State Park. If you don’t have a state park pass you’ll need to pay $10 to access the park.
2. Cedar Creek
Cedar Creek is located within Cleveland National Forest. It is a trendy hiking spot outside of San Diego. The hike is approximately 3 miles long and is considered fairly challenging. Hikers are required to have a permit, so be sure to plan ahead!
3. Oak Canyon
This beautiful waterfall only comes to life after heavy rainfall. But once it does, it is a sight to behold! The colorful metamorphic rocks that the water cascades down are quite a sight, making it one of the prettiest waterfalls around. The hike is about 3 miles long.
4. Three Sisters Falls
This has got to be one of the most popular hikes in the area. Like other waterfalls on this list, Three Sisters Falls is at its best after heavy rain. The hike before reaching the falls is about 2 miles, and the hike in total is 4 miles long.
5. Horsethief Canyon
Horsethief Canyon stands out from this list because it’s not exactly a waterfall per se. It is made up of many cascades that empty into a pull at the confluence of Pine Valley Creek and Horsethief Canyon. This is a true oasis; you can come here and completely disconnect from the outside world.
6. Cottonwood Creek Falls
Cottonwood Creek Falls is one of the many beautiful seasonal waterfalls, in a hidden grotto south of the Laguna Mountains. This trail is somewhat obscure and leads to a tranquil series of cascades.
7. Green Valley Falls
Green Valley Falls is a 0.6-kilometer loop trail near Descanso, California, perfect for all levels of hikers. Its waterfall is beautiful and easy to reach, so if you’re looking for a place to start, this is it.
8. Maidenhair Falls
Maidenhair Falls via Hellhole Canyon Trail is a 9.0 kilometer heavily trafficked trail near Borrego Springs, California. It’s a moderate hike, and it features a gorgeous waterfall. The trail is best used from October until May.
9. The Kitchen Creek Falls
The Kitchen Creek Falls are located in the Cleveland National Forest along the Pacific Crest Trail, about 50 miles east of San Diego. This is a perfect hike for beginners, as the terrain isn’t as tough as other trails. It can still get sweltering here in the summer, so use precaution if that is when you plan on hiking; bringing plenty of water is a must. The hike to the falls is around 1.8 miles.
10. Borrego Palm Canyon
This 3-mile roundtrip down to Borrego Palm Canyon is a fascinating hike for amateur botanists and geologists! Desert hikers are rewarded with a surprising amount of cascades throughout the trail. There’s a free pamphlet at the trailhead that will help identify biological and historical note items along the way.
11. Harper’s Creek Falls
Harper’s Creek Falls is a lesser-known waterfall but definitely worth visiting. You’ll find this trail and waterfall approximately 2.75 miles down the East Side Trail within Cuyamaca State Park. Like some other items on this list, it’s best to visit from late December to March.
12. Los Penasquitos Falls
Los Penasquitos Falls is just 30 minutes north of downtown San Diego and one of the city’s most known waterfalls. You’ll find it on a volcanic outcrop in the center of Penasquitos Canyon. The hike is about 6.7 miles long.