Salmon Creek Falls Hike

Route Description for Salmon Creek Falls Hike

Indulge in the beauty of the natural oasis hidden off the highway on the Salmon Creek Falls Hike. This lovely nature walk travels through mixed-forestlands, and high brush adorned with granite outcrops up to the cascades. Note the path is bound with poison oak, so mind your footing and consider wearing long pants. Additionally, though tempting, the pool at the foot of the falls is potentially contaminated with algae, so do not fill or filter water or let dogs drink or swim here. The beauty and convenience of this route attract plenty of spontaneous adventurers, so expect to share the trail—notably on weekends.

There is something about waterfalls that we can’t quite put our finger on. Avid explorers, novice hikers, and everyone in between can appreciate the grandeur and beauty of a cascade– and the Salmon Creek Falls is no exception, beckoning exploration year-round. Maybe it's the mesmerizing sights of the surging water or the soothing sounds—either way, we aren’t complaining. Though open and accessible year-round, this route is best ventured in the spring and summer. As to not leave you disappointed, it is important to note that the drier seasons often warrant a parched valley.

Setting out from the Salmon Creek Trailhead, your journey to the Salmon Creek Falls follows the Salmon Creek Trail eastwardly. The initial segment of the hike will guide you along the highway before diverting into the forestlands. Not long after your departure from the trailhead will you reach a junction; keep left here along Salmon Creek. Hiking through chaparral scrubs and pockets of redwoods, the sounds of traffic will gradually become replaced by the soothing sounds of the running creek. As you near the waterfalls, the terrain will become increasingly rocky, so take your time and mind your footing.

When the cascades surge, you will be granted the magical ambiance of the mist dancing in the sunbeams, coating the encompassing vegetation and boulders in shimmering dew. If you choose to get a closer look at the creek or choose to explore the profile of the falls, please be careful on the slippery rocks. Soon the path will open to the hypnotize scene of the 120ft cascades billowing through the rocky canyon. Admire the beauty of the falls and relax for a few minutes on one of the flanking boulders. When you are set to return, retrace your footing along the path back to your vehicle.

Trail Highlights

Salmon Creek Falls

The Salmon Creek Falls is a beautiful waterfall in the Silver Peak Wilderness of the Los Padres National Forest in California. Located off California State Route 1, this popular route attracts thousands of adventurers eager to indulge in the mesmerizing cascade. Plunging over 120 feet, the double chute boasts an unrivaled scene and is arguably one of the most picturesque waterfalls in the state.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Salmon Creek Falls Trail open?

The Salmon Creek Falls Trail is open year-round, though the best time to visit is in the spring and summer.

How long is the Salmon Creek Falls Trail?

The Salmon Creek Falls Trail is a 0.8 km out-and-back hike in the Los Padres National Forest.