Matilija Falls Trail
Matilija Falls Trail

Matilija Falls Trail

Los Padres National Forest
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Matilija Falls Trail

Matilija Falls Trail

Distance: 9.5mi
Elevation: 1,240ft
Time: 3.5-5.5h

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The Matilija Falls Trail boasts an unparalleled experience, guiding intrepid adventurers through a rugged canyon demanding river crossings, scrambling, and careful navigation up to the most picturesque waterfall in the San Padres National Forest.

Matilija Falls Trail Map

Getting there

The Matilija Falls Trail departs from the parking lot off Matilija Canyon Road North.

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About

Backcountry Campground

No

When to do

Year-round

Pets allowed

Yes - On Leash

Family friendly

Older Children only

Route Signage

Poor

Crowd Levels

High

Route Type

Out and back


Matilija Falls Trail
Elevation Graph


Matilija Falls Trail Description

This trek is unlike no other, and we wouldn’t want it any other way. Explore the Matilija Canyon bound by unique walls of layered sediment up to the impressive cascades. The Matilija Falls Trail exhibits the area’s diversity of flora, fauna, and geology. Note this route is no walk in the park, demanding careful navigation, boulder hopping, and more along an unshaded route. Be sure to pack plenty of water, wear a sturdy pair of footwear and download the trail GPS before setting out.

Your journey along the Matilija Falls Trail begins from the Matilija Divide Trailhead at the end of the Matilija Canyon Road North. Using the trail GPS, this route meanders northwest, intersecting with several branches of the creek along a dirt route. Eventually, the path will transform, and the trail will become narrower and more primitive. Climbing through the valley, you will confront another junction; using the GPS, keep left here, climbing up above the canyon. The path will soon head back down into the valley, ultimately delivering you to the waterfall.

Marvel in the beauty of the waterfall plunging over the smooth cliffside of layered sediment. When you are through admiring the scene, retrace your footing back along the path, keeping left at the junction, and retracing your steps back to the trailhead.

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