Escondido Falls
Santa Monica Mountains
Distance: 3.4 miles
Duration: 2 hours
Climbing Altitude: 500 feet
Difficulty: 2 (highest 5)
Season: all year round
Recommended rating: 4 (out of 5)
Outline
- Introduction
- What to Expect on the Trail
- When to Go
- Directions
- FAQs
- Links
Escondido Falls Hiking Trail Guide: A Hidden Gem in Malibu
Are you looking for a new hiking adventure near Los Angeles that offers stunning waterfalls and lush greenery? Look no further than the Escondido Falls hiking trail in Malibu. This hidden gem is perfect for hikers of all skill levels and offers breathtaking views of a unique waterfall.
In this hiking trail guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the Escondido Falls hiking trail, from what to expect on the path to how to get there. So, let’s get started!
What to Expect on the Trail
The Escondido Falls hiking trail is a moderate hike that spans about 3.8 miles round trip. The track is well-marked, making it easy to navigate even for beginner hikers. The trailhead is located at the end of Winding Way in Malibu, where you’ll find a small parking lot for hikers.
As you begin the hike, you’ll cross a stream and enter a dense forest filled with oak, sycamore, and willow trees. The trail meanders through the woods and crosses the creek several times before leading you to the hike’s highlight – the waterfall.
The waterfall at the end of the trail is a sight to behold. The unique style of the waterfall features countless streams of water falling along a wall about 200 feet high. Covered with green moss and flowing through the rock walls, the waterfall is reminiscent of the Amazon jungle seen in movies. The waterfall maintains its unique style of flowing multiple streams, except when the water level is abnormally high due to flooding.
In the vicinity of the waterfall, the shade of the trees is cool, and the clear stream flows, making it the perfect spot for a picnic or a refreshing dip in the water. Keep an eye out for cute salamanders living in the water under the waterfall, which can make for some unforgettable memories.
When to Go
The best time to hike the Escondido Falls trail is in the spring when the wildflowers are in full bloom, and the hiking trails are filled with green leaves providing adequate shade from the sun. This year will be a particularly great time to visit because of the Super Bloom expected this spring. The waterfall is a year-round attraction, but it’s best to avoid hiking the trail during the summer when the temperatures can get hot and the trail can be crowded.
Directions
Getting to the Escondido Falls hiking trail is easy. Take the 101 Fwy North from Los Angeles, turn left at Las Virgenes, and then turn right on Pacific Coast Hwy (PCH) to get to Winding Way. Alternatively, you can take Route 10 Fwy West – PCH – Winding Way. There is a parking lot at the junction of Winding Way about 4.5 miles west of Malibu Canyon Road, where Pepperdine University is located. Winding Way is private property, so curbside parking is prohibited. However, by marking the hiking trails along the road, we did not forget to be considerate of visitors looking for this place. Climbing about 0.8 miles between the houses on the hill, you will find a hiking trail into the valley, where it turns downhill.
FAQs
- Q: Is the hike to Escondido Falls suitable for families with children? A: Yes, the hike is suitable for families with children. However, remember that the trail can get slippery in some areas, so take precautions and keep an eye on children.
- Q: Can I bring my dog on the hike? A: Dogs are allowed on the trail but must always be kept on a leash.
- Q: Are there restrooms or water fountains along the trail? A: Unfortunately, there are no restrooms or water fountains along the trail, so make sure to bring enough water and plan accordingly.
- Q: Can I swim in the waterfall? A: Swimming in the waterfall is not recommended, as the water flow can be strong and dangerous, especially during high water levels. However, it is a beautiful sight to enjoy from a safe distance.
- Q: Is there an admission fee to access the hiking trail? A: There is no admission fee to access the hiking trail.
Links
For more information on the Escondido Falls hiking trail, please visit the following official sites:
- National Park Service: https://www.nps.gov/samo/planyourvisit/escondido-falls-trail.htm
- California State Parks: https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=614
