Hikes/United States/California/San Bernardino National Forest

Difficulty

Moderate

Elevation

102 m

Distance

2.4 km

Duration

0.5-1h

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Bonita Falls Trail

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The Bonita Falls Trail is a short hiking route in the San Bernardino National Forest of California that will take you out to a viewpoint overlooking a waterfall. While out on the trail, you will hike the rocky terrain along the banks of Lytle Creek, before entering into the tree cover to view the cascading waters of Bonita Falls. Don’t forget to stop off at the ranger station to purchase a daily parking pass for $5.

Route Description for Bonita Falls Trail

The main downsides to the Bonita Falls Trail are its short overall length and its popularity. Be sure to arrive early to secure a parking space and make sure to purchase a valid adventure pass before your hike. Additionally, there is a bit of rocky terrain along this trail, so try to wear some good hiking shoes to have the best footing on your hike.

While the Bonita Falls Trail is certainly a popular hiking route, it is absolutely warranted, as the viewpoint looking onto Bonita Falls is stunning. After a quick hike across Lytle Creek, you will stand in awe of the waterfall that cascades 59 m to meet up with the creek. Although you can’t really see the upper two tiers of the falls, the view that you do get is spectacular enough to make for a fun afternoon outdoors.

Setting out from the parking area, you will make your way to the southwest and cross over the Middle Fork of Lytle Creek, as well as the South Fork. From here, you will follow along the edge of the creek to the southwest for roughly 0.6 km, taking care with your footing as there are plenty of loose rocks scattered about.

At this point, you will turn to the south and begin climbing uphill slightly to arrive at the viewpoint looking onto Bonita Falls. Take some time here to appreciate the majesty of the cascading water and the natural beauty of your surroundings, before heading back along the trail. Here, you will simply retrace your footsteps on the way back into the parking area where you started your journey along the Bonita Falls Trail.

Trail Highlights

Bonita Falls

Situated in San Bernardino National Forest, the Bonita Falls are a series of 3 waterfalls along Bonita Creek. When the upper two drops are taken into consideration, the total height of the waterfall is 151 m. In the lower canyon where the falls meet Lytle Creek, the waterfall consists of a 59 m cascade.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you swim at Bonita Falls?

As the water at the base of Bonita Falls is fairly shallow, swimming is not really a possibility.

How tall is Bonita Falls?

Taking into consideration the upper two drops, the entire height of Bonita Falls is 151 m.

Insider Hints for Bonita Falls Trail

You will need to purchase an adventure pass from the ranger station in order to access this trail.
Wear proper hiking boots and bring hiking poles for stability on the rocky terrain.
Arrive early to secure parking.

Getting to the Bonita Falls Trail Trailhead

The Bonita Falls Trailhead can be found at the parking area along Lytle Creek Road, just 9.5 km northwest of the junction with I-15.

Route Information

Backcountry Campground:
Bonita Ranch Campground
When to do:
March-October
Pets allowed:
Yes - On Leash
Family friendly:
Yes
Route Signage:
Average
Crowd Levels:
High
Route Type:
Out and back