Who would expect to find scenic hiking trails with waterfalls in the desert landscapes of Los Angeles County? While many falls slow to a trickle during dry months, winter rains and El Niño seasons can transform these hikes into stunning destinations with flowing water that often lasts into spring. If you’re searching for the best waterfall hikes near Los Angeles, especially after rainfall, these trails are definitely worth exploring.
Note: Whenever we hike, I check the conditions on the All Trails app first to see if conditions have changed before we start off.
Monrovia Canyon Falls, Monrovia
Length: 3 miles out and back Effort: easy Climb: 311 feet
Parking in Park: $6 for the shortest hike, park in the most upper lot
Picnicking and BBQs available/Bathrooms
Dogs: on leash
On this hike, you will enjoy the many trees and heavy vegetation along the path following the adjacent stream. The Canyon is beautiful. There is one area where the path becomes narrow for people passing each other but there is room to stand to the side if you plan for it. At the end is a beautiful waterfall. We have gone twice in June and the water was still running. The hike is popular so plan on other people and pups along the route. The second time we grilled some hotdogs in the park and a bear showed up not 25 yards from us to dig into trash left by other picnickers. He wasn’t threating and didn’t appear afraid or agitated by people but to be on the safe side, we called the rangers and packed up.
Length: 3.5 miles out and back Effort: easy Climb:436 feet
Parking: Park along side of the road
Dogs: on leash
The waterfall here awesome for Southern California’s desert. The hike is easy and there are multiple trails in the area so follow the map. The trail is fairly flat and is a favorite of people in the area so plan on having others hiking with you. You also cross the river multiple times but there are stepping stones to keep you out of the water. I always wear my hiking sandals as I’m a klutz and its better for me to walk through than jump from rock to rock. –Besides then you can get into the water at the end without having to trudge back in wet tennies.
Millard Canyon Falls, Pasadena
Length: 2.6 miles out and back Effort: easy Climb:564 feet
Parking in Park: Parking along side of the road; In lot needs a permit and is limited. We used our National Park Pass. You can also purchase one there. Do it or you will be ticketed.
Dogs: on leash
This is an easy walk and you cross the stream (A California river lol). The trail is highly shaded and beautiful. At the end, you’ll be rewarded with a lovely waterfall that cascades gracefully along green plants and moss. We went in the early spring. Parking is tight so its recommended to get there early. From this same trailhead area, you can also reach Bronson Caves.
Length: 3.7 miles out and back Effort: easy Climb: 626feet
Parking: Park along side of the road or in lot is $8.
Dogs: on leash
This hike gets crowded so if you don’t want to hike a long way from your parking spot to the trailhead, get their early. Also have patience as its located right off Pacific Coast Highway and you may need to park here. The hike is easy and pretty. Parts of Malibu Canyon burned in 2018 but with the rains of 2019, vegetation is returning and the wildflowers along with the butterflies were beautiful. At the end you’ll find the waterfall and its worth the time and effort to see.
Have fun, obey the rules, leave no trace behind.
