Los Angeles may be known for its sunny beaches and city life, but there’s another side to this iconic city that many visitors often overlook – the stunning natural beauty. Southern California is home to a plethora of incredible hikes perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, or anyone looking to escape the city for a few hours. In this list, we’ll highlight some of our favorite dog-friendly waterfall hikes near Los Angeles (not in any particular order). So, lace up your hiking boots and get ready to explore the stunning beauty of Southern California’s waterfalls.
Eaton Canyon Falls
Located in Pasadena, Eaton Canyon Falls is a popular hike that offers stunning views of the waterfall and the surrounding wilderness. Depending on which trailhead you take, the trail is just up to four and a half miles round-trip and offers a moderate level of difficulty. Along the way, you’ll pass through beautiful forested areas and cross the creek several times, eventually reaching the waterfall, which cascades over a series of tiered rocks and into a pool below. This hike is great for families and is also dog-friendly, but I would not recommend it if your dog is not great with a generally crowded trail with other dogs.
Solstice Canyon Falls
Located in the Santa Monica Mountains, Solstice Canyon Falls is a beautiful and relatively easy hike that takes you to a stunning waterfall and historic ruins. The trail is about 3 miles round-trip and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness and the waterfall itself, which cascades over a series of rocks. Along the way, you’ll also have the opportunity to explore the ruins of a burned-out mansion, which provides a fascinating glimpse into the area’s rich history. A fairly mellow trail for kids and dogs to explore alongside you.
Escondido Falls
Located in Malibu, Escondido Falls is a breathtaking hike that takes you through rolling hills and lush forests to a stunning 150-foot waterfall. The trail is a 4-mile round-trip hike with a moderate level of difficulty, but the views along the way are truly breathtaking. Along the way, you’ll pass through dense forest areas and cross several streams, eventually reaching the waterfall, which cascades down a series of rocks and into a serene pool below. The trail has both wide and narrow sections, which can be tricky if you have any special spacial needs for you or your dog/s.
Switzer Falls
Switzer Falls is a stunning waterfall located in the Angeles National Forest, just a short drive from Los Angeles.
The hike to Switzer Falls is a moderate 4/4.5-mile round-trip trek that takes you through a beautiful canyon, past glistening streams, and over rocky terrain. Along the way, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and forested areas.
As you approach Switzer Falls, you’ll hear the sound of rushing water in the distance. The falls themselves are a 50-foot cascade that tumbles down a series of rocks and into a pool below.
Paradise Falls
Paradise Falls is a hidden gem located in Thousand Oaks, California. This stunning waterfall is part of the Wildwood Regional Park, a 1,765-acre wilderness area that is home to a variety of trails, picnic areas, and outdoor activities.
The hike to Paradise Falls is a moderate 2.5-mile round-trip trek that takes you through lush forests and over streams. Along the way, you’ll be surrounded by the beauty of the Santa Monica Mountains, with stunning views of the surrounding wilderness and the sound of birds chirping in the background.
As you approach Paradise Falls, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of this 40-foot tall waterfall, which cascades down a series of rocks and into a tranquil pool below. The best view of the falls can be seen by crossing the river and climbing up along the rocks.
Millard Canyon Falls
Millard Canyon Falls is a beautiful waterfall located in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains, just a short drive from Altadena. This hidden gem is part of the Millard Canyon Trail, a 1.2-mile round-trip hike that takes you through a shaded canyon, past a seasonal stream (likely several times depending on how much water is flowing), and over rocky terrain.
As you approach Millard Canyon Falls, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of this 50-foot tall waterfall, which cascades down a series of rocks and into a tranquil pool below.
Whitney Canyon Falls
Whitney Canyon Falls is a hidden gem located in the Santa Clarita Valley, just a short drive from Los Angeles. This stunning waterfall is part of the Whitney Canyon Park, a 442-acre wilderness area that is home to a variety of trails, picnic areas, and outdoor activities.
The hike to Whitney Canyon Falls is a moderate 3-mile round-trip trek that takes you through a picturesque canyon, past scenic vistas, and over rugged terrain. Along the way, you may also spot wildflowers, oak trees, and other plants that are native to the area. As you approach the falls, you’ll hear the sound of rushing water and be treated to stunning views of the 30-foot cascade, which tumbles down a series of rocks and into a serene pool below.
So what are you waiting for? There are so many waterfall hikes to choose from near LA, and they are all running full this season! Just be sure to do your trail research and be extra cautious if it has been raining recently.
See you on the trails soon!
