
Temescal Canyon Park
A beloved LA hiking spot with stunning ocean views, seasonal waterfalls, and shaded trails for a refreshing escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best chance for waterfalls

Temescal Canyon Park
Best Time
Best chance for waterfalls
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A beloved LA hiking spot with stunning ocean views, seasonal waterfalls, and shaded trails for a refreshing escape.
"One of the BEST places I've hiked so far. The view at the top made it all worth it."

🎯 Go Counterclockwise
For the best views on the loop, start by heading counterclockwise. :hiking_boot:
💧 Check Waterfall Status
Waterfalls are seasonal; best seen after rain. Don't expect them in summer. :droplet:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Ocean Views
Summit of the trails
Breathtaking vistas of the Santa Monica Bay and Catalina Island on clear days.

Scenic Waterfall
Along the trail
A charming waterfall, best seen after rainfall, adds to the trail's natural beauty.

Shaded Hiking Trails
South trailhead
Enjoy a mostly shaded hike, perfect for escaping the heat on warmer days.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Conditions & Reopening
Best Time for Views & Waterfalls
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Go Counterclockwise
For the best views on the loop, start by heading counterclockwise. :hiking_boot:
💧 Check Waterfall Status
Waterfalls are seasonal; best seen after rain. Don't expect them in summer. :droplet:
🚗 Parking Options
Street parking can be tough; paid parking is available for $10. :car:
🥾 Moderate Difficulty
Trails are generally moderate, with some steep sections for a good workout. :athletic_shoe:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Go Counterclockwise
For the best views on the loop, start by heading counterclockwise. :hiking_boot:
💧 Check Waterfall Status
Waterfalls are seasonal; best seen after rain. Don't expect them in summer. :droplet:
🚗 Parking Options
Street parking can be tough; paid parking is available for $10. :car:
🥾 Moderate Difficulty
Trails are generally moderate, with some steep sections for a good workout. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for stunning ocean vistas and golden hour light. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Temescal Canyon Park for its stunning ocean views and enjoyable hiking trails, often describing it as a peaceful escape. While the seasonal waterfall is a highlight, its appearance is dependent on rainfall. Some find the parking fee a drawback, and trail conditions can vary, especially after weather events.
"Looking forward to its reopening. Great hiking spot with ocean view. For more info and to checkout new hot spots follow us on instagram @gemislist"
NS R
"Love it up here on a clear day. Today was November 11, 2023, temperature at 80 and little wind. One benefit of this park on a hot day is there is shade if you stay on the south trail head. Plenty of shade through much of the ascent to one of the most spectacular full view of the Santa Monica Bay, bonus Catalina 🏝️."
Jeff McLean
"This is one of the BEST places I've hiked so far. Definitely challenging. I went up on the steep side and it really gets the wind out of you. Doing the loop and also going up to Skull rock was about 5 and half miles. The view at the top made it all worth it. Still more to explore so definitely will come back!!
Feb 21, 2023 it was beautiful to finally see a little waterfall here."
Lourdes Trejo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Temescal Canyon Park is accessible by car. Paid parking is available on-site for $10, though street parking can be challenging. Many visitors use ride-sharing services as well. The park is located near Santa Monica and Topanga.
Yes, the park is well-known for its hiking trails. Look for signs for Temescal Gateway Park.
While direct public transport options might be limited, you can often combine bus routes with a short walk or ride-share to reach the park from nearby areas like Santa Monica. Check local transit schedules for the most up-to-date information.
Many hikers recommend starting the main loop counterclockwise for the most rewarding views as you ascend.
The main entrance often leads to the most popular trailheads. The south trailhead is noted for offering more shade.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While the park itself is generally free to enter, there is a $10 fee for the dedicated parking lot. Street parking may be available but can be difficult to find.
Park hours can vary, but it's typically open from sunrise to sunset. It's always a good idea to check the official park website or local listings for the most current operating hours before your visit.
No, tickets are not typically required for entry into Temescal Canyon Park. Access is usually on a first-come, first-served basis for parking and trails.
During periods of high fire danger or after significant weather events, certain trails or the entire park may be temporarily closed. Always check for any advisories before heading out.
The park offers a range of trails from beginner to moderate. While some sections can be challenging, many parts are suitable for families, though younger children may need assistance on steeper parts.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Temescal Canyon Park features a variety of hiking trails, including moderate loops with significant elevation gain and stunning ocean views. Some trails offer more shade than others.
Yes, there is a waterfall, but it's seasonal. It's most likely to be flowing during the rainy season and may be dry from late spring through summer.
The hikes are generally considered moderate, with some steeper sections that can provide a good workout. A 3.2-mile loop is a popular option.
Absolutely! The summit offers spectacular panoramic views of the Santa Monica Bay and beyond. The 'golden hour' around sunset is particularly magical.
Crowd levels can vary, but it's often described as not overly crowded, especially if you visit during off-peak hours or weekdays.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit viewpoints offer incredible panoramic shots of the ocean and coastline. The waterfall area, when flowing, also makes for beautiful nature photography.
The 'golden hour' just before sunset provides stunning, warm light for landscape and portrait photography. Clear mornings can also offer beautiful light and fewer crowds.
Keep an eye out for the seasonal waterfall and the expansive ocean vistas from the higher points of the trails.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive ocean views. A tripod can be useful for low-light conditions during golden hour.
Drone usage is typically restricted in most Los Angeles County parks to ensure safety and preserve the natural environment. It's best to check the specific park regulations or local ordinances regarding drone operation.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Budget-Conscious Hikers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Trails
Key Considerations:
* Trail Conditions: Be aware that trails can be affected by weather and past events like fires. Always check for current conditions before your visit.
* Shade: While some trails are exposed, the south trailhead offers more shaded paths, which can be a welcome relief on sunny days.
* Elevation: Expect some uphill climbs, especially as you approach the summit viewpoints. This adds to the challenge and the reward of the views.
Seasonal Wonders: Waterfalls and Views
The park also features a waterfall, but its presence is highly dependent on rainfall. Visitors are advised that the waterfall is most likely to be seen during the rainy season (typically winter months) and may be dry from late spring through summer. If seeing the waterfall is a priority, plan your visit accordingly during or shortly after periods of significant rain.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit