Salmon Creek Falls
A breathtaking 120-foot cascade along Highway 1, offering a short, adventurous hike and a refreshing dip.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Lush greenery & strong flow
Salmon Creek Falls
Best Time
Lush greenery & strong flow
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking 120-foot cascade along Highway 1, offering a short, adventurous hike and a refreshing dip.
"Salmon Creek Falls is a short hike to a stunning waterfall, perfect for spring and easy access."
👟 Wear sturdy, waterproof shoes
The trail can be slippery and involves boulder climbing. Waterproof shoes are a must!
📸 Bring a waterproof camera
Capture amazing shots of the falls and the water. GoPros are perfect for this!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Main Cascade
Base of the trail
A stunning 120-foot waterfall plunging into a pool, surrounded by large boulders. Perfect for photos!
Boulder Scramble
Approaching the main falls
An adventurous climb over large rocks to get up close to the powerful waterfall. Fun for all ages!
Upper Falls
Further up Salmon Creek Trail
An extension for those seeking more elevation and a different perspective of the falls and surrounding forest.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Salmon Creek Falls
Trail Navigation & What to Bring
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear sturdy, waterproof shoes
The trail can be slippery and involves boulder climbing. Waterproof shoes are a must!
📸 Bring a waterproof camera
Capture amazing shots of the falls and the water. GoPros are perfect for this!
⚠️ Watch for poison oak
It's prevalent along the trail, so be aware of your surroundings.
💧 Water is chilly but refreshing
Perfect for a dip on a hot day, but be prepared for the cold!
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear sturdy, waterproof shoes
The trail can be slippery and involves boulder climbing. Waterproof shoes are a must!
📸 Bring a waterproof camera
Capture amazing shots of the falls and the water. GoPros are perfect for this!
⚠️ Watch for poison oak
It's prevalent along the trail, so be aware of your surroundings.
💧 Water is chilly but refreshing
Perfect for a dip on a hot day, but be prepared for the cold!
⬆️ Extend your hike
Follow the Salmon Creek Trail further for Upper Falls and more elevation.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Salmon Creek Falls for its stunning beauty and easy accessibility, calling it a must-see on the Big Sur coast. While the main trail is short, the boulder scramble to reach the waterfall adds an adventurous element. Some note the water is quite cold and poison oak is present, but overall, it's considered a highly rewarding stop.
"Salmon Creek Falls is just a short little hike to the falls, from Hwy 1 and well worth the walk. You can follow the Salmon Creek trail up further, for a good butt burning elevation hike and can go up to Upper Falls. The views are spectacular and trail is well worn. Gets a bit soggy and slippery, during rainy season, but such a great hike!"
Jaimal Hanson
"Easy to find parking. The trail is super short but you have to climb some boulders. Lots of friendly people all around. There’s a little cave and two separate sides to access the water.
Getting up to the big waterfall, you have to cross over first and climb a big boulder. If you’re short like me you might need help. That water was cool, perfect for a hot summer day."
Edi G
"Good trail until you get to the boulders. Then multiple trails and some climbing is needed. The falls are gorgeous! Poison oak everywhere"
Tana Harrison
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Salmon Creek Falls is easily accessible from Highway 1 in Big Sur, California. Look for the trailhead and parking area just off the highway. The drive itself offers breathtaking coastal views, about an hour north of Morro Bay. 
Yes, parking is available at the trailhead. It's often described as easy to find, though it can fill up during peak times.
Yes, you can drive directly to the vicinity of Salmon Creek Falls. The trailhead is located right off Highway 1, making it a convenient stop on a coastal road trip.
The drive along Highway 1 to Salmon Creek Falls is scenic but can be winding. It's generally considered manageable for most drivers, but always exercise caution.
The closest major cities are Monterey to the north and San Luis Obispo to the south. Salmon Creek Falls is situated between these two areas along the iconic Big Sur coastline.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission fee or ticket required to visit Salmon Creek Falls. It's a natural attraction accessible to the public.
Salmon Creek Falls is open year-round, 24 hours a day, as it's an outdoor natural attraction. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and visibility.
There is no entrance fee for Salmon Creek Falls. Access to the trail and waterfall is free for all visitors.
While there isn't designated camping directly at the falls, Salmon Creek Campground is nearby for those looking to stay overnight. [^SEO keyword: salmon creek falls camping]
No reservations are needed for Salmon Creek Falls. It's a first-come, first-served natural attraction.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main hike to Salmon Creek Falls is very short, often described as about 0.6 miles roundtrip and taking around 10-20 minutes. It's considered a family-friendly hike.
The initial trail is easy, but reaching the base of the main waterfall requires climbing over boulders, which can be challenging for some.
Yes, you can swim in the pool at the base of the waterfall. The water is clear and refreshing, though quite cold!
Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes with good grip, as the trail can be slippery and involves scrambling over rocks. Waterproof shoes are recommended.
Basic facilities like a trailhead sign and parking are available. There are no restrooms or extensive amenities directly at the falls.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Early mornings or late afternoons offer the best light for photography, avoiding harsh midday sun. Springtime also provides lush greenery for scenic shots.
A waterproof camera or a GoPro is highly recommended to capture the dynamic water and potential splashes.
Yes, the boulder scramble to the falls, the cave-like areas behind the water, and the sheer power of the cascade offer unique photographic subjects.
Experiment with low angles to emphasize the height of the waterfall and wide shots to capture the surrounding boulders and greenery.
Exercise caution when taking photos near the water, especially on slippery rocks. Ensure you have stable footing and consider using a tripod for sharper images.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Just be sure to keep a close eye on children, especially near the water and during the boulder climbing sections. The refreshing pool at the base is a great spot for kids to cool off on a hot day, but the water is quite cold! Bring snacks and water, as amenities are limited. The drive along Highway 1 is also incredibly scenic, making the journey part of the adventure. Remember to pack out everything you pack in to keep this beautiful spot pristine for everyone.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
+1Allow about an hour or two for the visit, including the drive from the highway and time to explore. The breathtaking views along the drive are an added bonus. Just be aware that parking can fill up, so arriving earlier in the day or later in the afternoon might be best.
📸 Photographers & Nature Lovers
Consider bringing a wide-angle lens and a waterproof camera for unique shots. Visiting during the golden hour will enhance the natural beauty. Nature lovers will appreciate the short hike through a beautiful natural setting. The chance to get close to the powerful waterfall and even take a dip in the cool water adds to the immersive experience. Keep an eye out for local flora and fauna, and remember to practice Leave No Trace principles.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Salmon Creek Trail Experience
+1For those who wish to extend their exploration, the Salmon Creek Trail continues beyond the main falls, leading to the Upper Falls. This extension offers a more strenuous hike with increased elevation gain, providing a different perspective of the natural beauty of the area. It's a great option for hikers looking for a bit more challenge and a deeper immersion into the Los Padres National Forest.
Remember to wear appropriate footwear, as the rocks can be slippery, especially after rain. The presence of poison oak is also common, so staying on the marked path and being aware of your surroundings is crucial for a safe and enjoyable visit to Salmon Creek Falls.
Capturing the Magic: Photography at Salmon Creek Falls
Consider visiting during the golden hour – shortly after sunrise or before sunset – for the most flattering light. This will help you avoid harsh shadows and bring out the rich colors of the moss-covered rocks and the lush greenery. The mist from the falls can create beautiful atmospheric effects, especially when backlit by the sun.
Don't overlook the smaller details: the textures of the wet rocks, the ferns clinging to the cliff face, and the clear water of the pool at the base. Experiment with different angles, including low perspectives from the boulder field, to add depth and drama to your shots. The Salmon Creek Falls trail itself, with its natural beauty, also offers plenty of opportunities for scenic photography.
Salmon Creek Falls: A Coastal Gem
+1The waterfall itself is a breathtaking sight, dropping approximately 120 feet. The surrounding area is characterized by large, moss-covered boulders, creating a dramatic and somewhat wild environment. The short hike to reach the falls is often described as family-friendly, though the final approach involves navigating over these impressive rocks, adding an element of adventure.
This Big Sur waterfall is more than just a visual spectacle; it's an experience. The cool, clear water at the base is inviting for a refreshing dip on a warm day, and the sheer power and beauty of the falls leave a lasting impression on visitors. It’s a perfect example of the unexpected natural wonders you can discover along the California coast.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit