Los Angeles waterfalls are seasonal. Most of the falls within reach of the city are fed by winter storms and snowmelt in the San Gabriel and San Bernardino Mountains, so they run best from about January through spring and can shrink to a damp rock face by late summer and fall. Plan a visit for the days after a good rain.
The closest is Sturtevant Falls in Big Santa Anita Canyon above Sierra Madre, about 17 miles from downtown in the Angeles National Forest. San Antonio Falls sits just off the road to Mount Baldy, and Bonita Falls is in Lytle Creek Canyon near the 15 freeway. Farther out, Big Falls in the San Bernardino Mountains, Rose Valley Falls above Ojai and Tahquitz Falls in Palm Springs each make a full day.
Mountain roads in these canyons can close after storms and fires, and forest parking areas may require a recreation pass. Check the managing agency's alerts before you drive.
By David F. · Published November 3, 2026 · Distances are straight-line miles from the center of Los Angeles.
Day-Trip Waterfalls at a Glance
| Waterfall | State | Distance | Google rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bonita Falls | CA | 44 mi east | 4.7 (428) |
| Tahquitz Falls | CA | 98 mi east | 4.7 (250) |
| Sturtevant Falls | CA | 17 mi northeast | 4.6 (196) |
| Big Falls | CA | 77 mi east | 4.7 (117) |
| Rose Valley Falls | CA | 63 mi northwest | 4.8 (102) |
| San Antonio Falls | CA | 38 mi northeast | 4.9 (37) |
| Hidden Heart Falls | CA | 83 mi east | Not rated |
