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Details

Distance

1.75 miles

Elevation Gain

449 ft

Route Type

Loop

Description

Added by Derek Mathewson

Hike just under two miles to a beautiful two tiered sandstone waterfall, La Jolla Canyon Falls. Just walking distance away from the parking lot to the beach.

...I think out of all the State Parks in the Santa Monica Mountains, Point Mugu State Park is without a doubt the best one. Maybe it has something to do with its proximity to the beach, or the endless trails and epic views, but the energy and diversity here is just so much more wild. With the park having two waterfalls, (Sycamore Canyon and La Jolla Canyon Falls), La Jolla Canyon Falls is something truly special to witness when in flow.

Coming from Malibu, head West on the PCH for about 22 miles, then make a right on the La Jolla Canyon Trailhead parking area. A $2 day-use fee is charged per vehicle at the Ray Miller trailhead. Before starting your hike, pick up a map of the Santa Monica Mountains at the kiosk near the start of the trailhead. There are 2 trails at the Ray Miller Trailhead, so make sure to take the trail to the left passing a metal gate. You'll stay on the trail for 0.8 miles. On the hike you'll notice the beautiful lush greenery in the mountains and the colorful wildflowers in bloom. Once you arrive at the 45-ft double tiered fall, soak it up and shoot away! Although the La Jolla Creek runs most of the year, the falls are especially exciting to see during early spring or after a recent rainstorm.

In all the years that I've hiked La Jolla Canyon Falls while living in Ventura County, I'd never seen it flowing at such a rapid capacity! It was such a treat to see for sure, all thanks to the recent rainstorm we had been getting in SoCal. When you're done, head back the same way you came. Remember: Pick up your trash and leave no trace. Happy trails!

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Features

Chillin
Photography
Hiking
Beach
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
River
Scenic
Waterfall

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Leave No Trace

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Nearby

La Jolla Valley Walk-In Camps

Camp at Thornhill Broome State Beach

Camp at Point Mugu State Park's Thornhill Broome Campground

Scenic Trail

Camp at Point Mugu's Sycamore Canyon Campground

Hike Mugu Peak Loop via Chumash Trail