Escondido Falls: Malibu's Hidden Gem
Discover Malibu's hidden waterfall: Hike through scenic Escondido Canyon to a lush oasis, a refreshing escape into nature just moments from the Pacific Coast Highway.
Escape the Malibu crowds and discover the natural beauty of Escondido Falls, a multi-tiered waterfall nestled in the Santa Monica Mountains. The adventure begins with a walk along a paved road, offering glimpses of luxurious Malibu estates, before transitioning to a scenic trail that meanders through Escondido Canyon. The reward is the stunning lower falls, a 50-foot cascade surrounded by lush greenery. While the upper falls are currently inaccessible to the public, the lower falls provide a tranquil and picturesque destination for hikers of all skill levels. Be sure to check water flow conditions, as the falls are most impressive after rainfall. With its blend of natural beauty and accessibility, Escondido Falls offers a refreshing outdoor experience just a short distance from the Pacific Coast Highway.
A brief summary to Escondido Falls
- Escondido Canyon Trail, Malibu, California, 90265, US
Local tips
- Visit after rainfall for the most impressive waterfall display; the falls can be minimal or non-existent during dry periods.
- Wear shoes suitable for stream crossings, as the trail involves navigating Escondido Creek.
- Be prepared for a 0.75-mile walk along a paved road through a residential area before reaching the actual trail.
- Parking is limited; arrive early, especially on weekends, or park carefully along the Pacific Coast Highway.
- Stay on designated trails and respect the closure of the upper falls to protect the fragile habitat and avoid potential fines.
Getting There
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Driving
From Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) in Malibu, turn inland onto Winding Way. The parking lot for Escondido Falls is located on Winding Way, a short distance from PCH. Parking costs $12, payable via cash or debit card at a self-pay kiosk in the lot. Note that parking is limited and the lot often fills up, especially on weekends. If the lot is full, carefully park along PCH, ensuring you are not in a 'no parking' zone. Be extremely cautious when crossing PCH due to heavy traffic.
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Walking
After parking in the Winding Way lot or along PCH, the final approach involves walking along Winding Way. From the parking lot, follow the dirt trail alongside the paved road uphill for approximately 0.75 miles. This initial section passes through a residential area before reaching the Escondido Canyon Trailhead. There are no additional costs involved in the final walking approach.
Discover more about Escondido Falls
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