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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
378 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
15.3 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
3.5-5.5h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
Be the first to add a review!
Directions to Trailhead

Matilija Falls Trail

Matilija Falls Trail
Measurement:

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Table of contents

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.

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.

Getting to the Matilija Falls Trail Trailhead

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

Route Information

  • 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

Weather Forecast

Check Area Weather

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