The tallest waterfall of the Santa Monica Mountains, Escondido Falls is located in Escondido Canyon Park, Malibu. The waterfall consists of three sections or tiers, however, just one of them is fully accessible. The lower section features a drop of 50 feet (15 m), while the upper section has a much more impressive drop of 150 feet (46 m).
How to get to Escondido Falls
The trail to Escondido Falls is one of the easiest and most beautiful Malibu hikes. The Edward Albert Trail is just 4.2 miles (6 km) both ways and could be accessed from Pacific Coast Highway, south of Kanan Road in Malibu. The Edward Albert Trail can be used for walking, biking, or horseback riding.
The trail winds through Escondido Canyon Natural Area featuring oak and riparian woodland and sage scrub. After some walking, you will reach the base of the waterfall with a view of its lower tier. There is also a beautiful grotto located behind the falls. Two upper sections can be reached by a narrow steep path, but keep in mind that they are located on private property and are not accessible to the general public.
When is the best time to visit Escondido Falls
The Escondido Canyon Park is open for visitors year-round. However, the waterfall is dependent on the weather. Escondido Falls looks at its best during the winter months, especially when there is plenty of rainfall. Its flow is reduced to a minimum during the hot and dry periods. Escondido Creek usually goes dry in the summer and is easy to cross. If you go for a hike during the rainy period, the trail could be muddy, so beware of the possible difficulties in crossing the creek.
Where to stay at Escondido Falls
Escondido Falls Park doesn't have a campground. The nearest campgrounds are Malibu Creek State Park Campground in Santa Monica Mountains, Leo Carrillo State Park Campground, and Sycamore Canyon Campground at Point Mugu State Park.
Practical info
How many tiers does the Escondido Falls have?
The waterfall features three tiers. Nonetheless, only one of those three tiers of the waterfall is easily accessible by the public. Both upper sections are closed to the public, and located on private land. The lower section of the fall is the most impressive drop at 50 feet high. Show more
Is a permit required to visit Escondido Falls?
No, visitors do not require a permit to visit Escondido Falls. The Edward Albert Trail is free and open year-round to the public. However, parking by the Pacific Coast Highway has a fee. A designated parking site exists in Winding Way for anyone to park their vehicle and access the trailhead, which is a one-mile walk. Show more
Is the Edward Albert Trail suitable for biking and horse riding as well?
The Edward Albert Trail is suitable for hiking, biking, as well as horseback riding. At 4.2 miles round trip, the trail is mainly flat, making it comfortable for most people. The trail highlights astounding views of Escondido Canyon Natural area's sage scrub, oak, and riparian woodland. During the rainy period, people should ensure to have appropriate shoes since it could be muddy. Show more
Does the Escondido Falls go dry during summers?
Yes, during the summertime, the Escondido Falls goes dry. The amount of rainfall significantly impacts the flow of the waterfall, making winter the best time to enjoy it. During dry and hot seasons, the waterfall could shrink to a trickle. The easiest time to cross Escondido creek is in the summer months when the creek is dry. Show more
What are the nearby campgrounds to Escondido Falls?
Escondido Falls itself does not have a campground. However, there are campsites available, including Malibu Creek State Park Campground in Santa Monica Mountains, Leo Carrillo State Park Campground, and Sycamore Canyon Campground at Point Mugu State Park. These campsites, which provide RV and tent camping, are within ten miles of Escondido Falls and offer various enjoyable outdoor activities like hiking, bike riding, and horseback riding. Show more
