Escondido Falls Malibu
A scenic 3.7-mile hike through a shaded canyon to a stunning 150ft waterfall in Malibu.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best chance for flowing falls
Escondido Falls Malibu
Best Time
Best chance for flowing falls
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic 3.7-mile hike through a shaded canyon to a stunning 150ft waterfall in Malibu.
"Gorgeous hike with a great mix of canyon and ocean views. You’ll feel like you're walking through a peaceful little forest."
Wear Water-Friendly Shoes
You'll cross streams, so shoes that can get wet are a must! :athletic_shoe:
Check Waterfall Flow
Falls are best after rain; summer can mean very little water. :droplet:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Escondido Falls
End of the main trail
The majestic 150ft waterfall, especially stunning after rain. A perfect spot to cool off.
Shaded Canyon Trail
Main trail path
A peaceful, tree-lined path offering ample shade and a forest-like atmosphere.
Stream Crossings
Along the trail
Several small streams to navigate, adding a touch of adventure to the hike.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Conditions & Water Flow
Parking & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Water-Friendly Shoes
You'll cross streams, so shoes that can get wet are a must!
Check Waterfall Flow
Falls are best after rain; summer can mean very little water. :droplet:
Arrive Early for Parking
The small lot fills fast. Consider PCH parking, but be aware of tickets.
Bring Water & Snacks
It's a moderate hike, stay hydrated and fueled for the journey. :water_wave:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Water-Friendly Shoes
You'll cross streams, so shoes that can get wet are a must!
Check Waterfall Flow
Falls are best after rain; summer can mean very little water. :droplet:
Arrive Early for Parking
The small lot fills fast. Consider PCH parking, but be aware of tickets.
Bring Water & Snacks
It's a moderate hike, stay hydrated and fueled for the journey. :water_wave:
Dog-Friendly Trail
Leashed dogs are welcome on this scenic Malibu hike.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Escondido Falls for its beautiful, shaded canyon hike and the rewarding waterfall at the end. While the falls can be dry in summer, the journey through nature is consistently highlighted as a positive experience. Parking and the initial paved road are common minor drawbacks.
"The waterfall is barely there but it is still a beautiful hike! The first part of the hike is up the cement road, that will be the hardest part of the hike. When you make it to the top of that road, follow the path down the field that will lead you to the actual trail. Overall I would say this is an easy to moderate hike."
Anysia Seals
"This has actually reopened. We went there yesterday, July 2025.
Gorgeous hike with a great mix of canyon and ocean views. You’ll feel like you’re walking through a peaceful little forest—there’s plenty of shade thanks to the trees.
There’s a small parking lot with a $12 fee, but you can also try parking on PCH just before or after the trailhead (if you’re lucky). A porta potty is available at the start.
The first stretch goes through a residential area, but you’ll hit the actual trail soon after. Along the way, you’ll cross a few small streams, but it’s easy to stay dry with a bit of care.
The highlight is the waterfall about an hour in—a perfect stopping point. Don’t bother trying to go further; there’s no real trail beyond that, and nothing more to see.
Highly recommend for a light-to-moderate hike."
F T
"Truly beautiful hike! The waterfall naturally gets very dried up in the summer, but still worth a visit!"
Eliza Finskaya
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The trailhead is located at 27865 Winding Way, Malibu, CA 90265. It's about an hour from Los Angeles.
There's a small parking lot with a fee. Many visitors opt to park on the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) nearby, but be cautious as parking tickets are common.
Public transport options are limited for reaching trailheads in Malibu. Driving is the most common and convenient way to access Escondido Falls.
The drive from Los Angeles to Escondido Falls typically takes about an hour, depending on traffic conditions.
Yes, a porta potty is usually available at the start of the trail.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The small parking lot at the trailhead has a fee. Parking on PCH is free but carries the risk of a ticket.
No, advance ticket booking is not required for Escondido Falls. It's a public trail, and entry is generally free, with parking being the only potential cost.
Escondido Falls is generally accessible during daylight hours. As a natural park, there are no strict opening or closing times, but it's best to hike during safe daylight hours.
Yes, Escondido Falls is typically open year-round. However, trail conditions and waterfall flow can vary significantly with the seasons.
Yes, Escondido Falls is a dog-friendly trail, but your furry friends must be kept on a leash.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike is generally considered easy to moderate. The initial paved road section can be the most challenging part for some.
The out-and-back trail is approximately 3.7 miles, taking about 2-3 hours round trip, depending on your pace and time spent at the falls.
Wear comfortable hiking shoes that can get wet, as you'll be crossing small streams. Layers are also recommended as temperatures can change.
Yes, a significant portion of the trail, especially after the initial paved road, is shaded by trees, making it a pleasant hike even on warmer days.
The highlight is undoubtedly the waterfall itself, a beautiful cascade. The shaded canyon trail also offers a serene natural experience.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the cascading waterfall, the lush greenery of the canyon, and the unique textures of the stream crossings. Golden hour can offer beautiful light.
Yes, you can get relatively close to the base of the falls, but be mindful of slippery rocks and the spray.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the waterfall and the surrounding canyon. A tripod can help with long exposures if the water is flowing well.
Keep an eye out for interesting rock formations and the reflections in the water. The initial paved road section also offers a different perspective.
Morning light can be soft and beautiful, especially if you can catch the sun filtering through the trees. Midday can be harsh, but the shade helps.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The shaded canyon trail provides a pleasant environment, and the waterfall at the end is a great motivator. Remember to pack plenty of water and snacks, and keep an eye on your little ones near the water. 🚶 Solo Hikers & Beginners
🐶 Dog Owners
This allows for a shared outdoor adventure in the beautiful Malibu landscape. Remember to bring water for your dog and be mindful of the trail conditions, especially the stream crossings. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Waterfall Itself: Flow and Form
However, its appearance is highly seasonal. After significant rainfall, the falls are a powerful spectacle, with water cascading dramatically down the rock face. In contrast, during dry periods, particularly in the summer months, the waterfall can significantly diminish or even dry up completely, leaving behind a more subtle trickle or just damp rock. While the main waterfall is the primary draw, the hike itself offers varied scenery. The trail winds through a canyon, providing a sense of seclusion and immersion in nature.
Navigating the Trail and Parking
Parking is a frequent topic of discussion among visitors. The dedicated parking lot is small and often fills up quickly, especially on weekends.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit