Matilija Falls Trail

Route Description for Matilija Falls Trail

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.