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Ortega Falls

4.0 (60 reviews)
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1/31/21: just a pond
Fionna L.

Visited the falls on 1/31/21 after hiking the more family-friendly San Juan Loop Trail. There are several informal trails squirreling their steep way down into the canyon. Scrambling up and down boulders got our hearts pumping! Distance: 0.2 mi Duration: 20 mins (out and back) Terrain: Extremely steep and rocky, some bouldering Parking: roadside on Ortega Hwy Was the waterfall running!? : unfortunately, no. Just a little pond despite "2 years' worth of rain" that past week. Worth it? short and fun but would not go again unless in the area after heavy rains. Notes: Graffiti somewhat marred the bare rocks but gave the area an interesting urban nature feeling. If you're lucky, you'll arrive not long after the Warriors Society, a volunteer group of cyclists, runners and hikers, has cleaned off the markings. First time seeing the bamboo-like "giant reed", or the invasive pest Arundo donax, choking the creek bed. Lots of wide flat rocks perfect for a quiet, contemplative sit. You need an Adventure Pass to park! Purchase a daily pass at the Ortega Candy Store or online at https://www.recreation.gov/sitepass/74407?q=Cleveland%20National%20Forest%20Digital%20Pass

Jeffrey H.

Just completed this hike this past weekend. It was a great workout, but sadly there was no waterfall at the end. I wouldn't recommend this hike to beginners as there isn't a clear path, so it's easy to get lost. The path is mostly sandy and rocks and there's also a lot of steep climbing, so it helps to have shoes with good traction. I had a lot of fun on the hike. The views were incredible. I just wish the waterfall was there still because it really would've looked epic. There's also some cool graffiti/artwork there. Please don't litter. I don't think the hike/area is really maintained. To get to the hike, just take the Ortega Highway 74 and you'll see a small parking lot along the way. The entrance is on the Northwest side. There are no marked signs. Have fun!

Entry point
Marcus F.

With no flowing water, Ortega Falls is nothing more than a nice family friendly hike where you can see some interesting graffiti. Even after a large rain storm this waterfall was bone dry. Tip - Look for the Graffiti Finger pointing to the secret area on top of the Waterfall. Up there you'll find some small pools of water with more exploring opportunities. - Plenty of parking on both sides of Ortega - I wouldn't let small kids on top of the waterfall. - Apparently a popular place for "canoodling". Best to stay on-trail..

6/2019
Jen S.

If you visit this location, please bring your own trash bags. Please do NOT litter. Do not ruin it for other visitors. Be aware of poison oak all along the trails and the stream. The rocks disguise some of the clusters. I was so surprised there is still running water in the stream and the waterfall is still flowing. I came today (June 24, 2019) for an easy after work excursion. Picked up my Adventure Pass (daily parking pass) at Big 5 on my way to Ortega Hwy. if you're coming from the OC side, you can grab a pass if the Ortega candy store is open I believe. An annual Adventure Pass is $30. https://www.fs.usda.gov/detailfull/r5/passes-permits/recreation?cid=stelprdb5282717&width=full Many people do not know this, but a parking pass is enforced. They do random inspections. The first time I didn't know about this and I was issued a citation to log online and get a daily pass, even after the day was ended. If parking pass citations are not paid, they do accumulate. Fines start at $100. We accomplished the hike and waterfall excursion in two hours. The hike involves rocks and sandy trails. Be careful. It's steep at a few points, but nothing too difficult in my opinion. Once at the water though, I found it easier to follow the stream. We even went splashing and swimming a bit at one of the smaller waterfalls. We began our hike around 2 pm. We were one of three cars. Drove from the Lake Elsinore side. Hiked from the Ortega Hwy Turnout just past Hells Kitchen, and I didn't realize it, but the far left trails led us towards the bottom of the waterfalls. Wear good hiking shoes that you don't mind getting wet. I found the hike easier if I followed the stream. That entails getting into some puddles here and there. So glad I left earlier because by the time we got back to our car around 4 to leave, there was no parking available. There had to have been at least 15 cars between both sides of the road. Most without passes visible. If they're not needed during the weekday, please let me know. BIG 5 said I needed it. Overall, a fun and easy afternoon hike. To avoid the crowds, I suggest weekday before noon. The main waterfall is definitely a quarter of its volume from my March visit, but it was the perfect temperature to swim and cool off. Enjoyed the visit very much. If you'd like to watch my video of the excursion, you're welcomed to check it out via YouTube~ https://youtu.be/meJWuMWtK8k

Nikki O.

This is a pretty cool hike. It was a little challenge because you go uphill and have to climb down narrow rock walkways along a cliff. It definitely got me winded but it was all worth it. At the end, the view is amazing and the water was flowing which made it better. You can walk down the rocks to get closer to the falls which makes for a good means of cooling down and wading in the water. It's sad that people tag all over the rocks especially because this is nature. Shame on you!

Lis K.

Feb 17, 2020 - ended up here almost exactly a year later. A lot less rainfall made for some pros and cons, no recent reviews so I wasn't sure what to expect. Just like my last update, It's nature, it doesn't always stay the same, don't blame the reviewers lol. Cons: obviously a lot less water We went down the dirt trail slightly to the right on the parked cars: 2 adults, 3 kids 15, 13, 9 On our way down we crossed paths with three adults that had 3 or 4 Littles with them that started around 3 years to maybe 5 or 6 years. The said there was water but they were going back up to try and get higher. We decided to keep going and found some mini pools and mini falls as reported then chose to follow the boulders upstream until we finally hit the larger fall. Last year there was so much water running we weren't able to make it all the way upstream. Since the bed was drier there were plenty of spots to cross. Lots of new colorful graffiti tagged 2019... nature respect fail. Good cardio, medium challenge bouldering. My kids were fine although I had to overthink a few spots bc I gotta pay the bills. Aim for the farthest right to get closer to the trail head although the most worn trails will land you further downstream.

Yesenia G.

I absolutely loved this water fall! the hike was not bad, only about 10 minutes. It was an easy hike for my kids (6 and 11). Both turnouts were completely packed with vehicles and people waiting on the highway for a space to park... the rains brought alot of water and it was very busy (it is definitely a good time to visit Ortega falls). I saw many families with dogs and small children and noticed that the toddlers seem to be fine with the parents help, small dogs had to be carried and large dogs were fine on their own. But, the babies...if they can't walk I probably wouldn't take a baby; I did see alot of parents having trouble with this and honestly it was nerve wracking to see. You do have to hike up rocks and boulders, also the trail gets steep.

A bit confused how to get there but just follow the sound of flowing water
jenny t.

A very surprised hike to find waterfalls in our own backyard. The water was welcoming and so cool on this warm day. The way down was a bit rough but very doable for those in good health. We had to leave a man behind because he just had surgery and you would need the use of 2 hands to keep yourself balanced. Heard from other hikers that they heard a rattle snake. Fortunately, only saw lizards. We did give a family with few young kids a long stick, just in case. Just follow the sound of water and keep to the right. We still didn't pay attention and took a wrong turn. No matter the direction, can't get lost following the sound of water. On our first attempt, reached the bottom of the falls and the finger drawn into the rock indicated "wrong way". Come with change of shoes and clothing because it's hard to resist jumping to the water after the hot hike.

Monique T.

WARNING! Our car was broken into within minutes from parking in the dirt parking turn out to enter the Ortega falls. Thieves prey on newer model cars that use electronic "clickers" to lock their car, they have a device to collect your clickers info/transmission and then use their device (clicker) to UNLOCK your car. I chose to take a backpack of waters and sunscreen and food but left my purse under the back seat. My car was virtually untouched but scumbags had unlocked the car, and stollen cash and 5 debit/credit cards from my wallet. Took off and racked up over $1000 at a Rite Aid in 5 separate ~$240 transactions over 5 different cards. Beware of your surrounding cars/people who might be casing your car/property. A wonderful day spent with family turned into hours of reporting fraud and canceling credit cards, and filing a police report. I've heard from several people it's happened to others in the same location. Otherwise the falls were pretty. But I did end up filling a trash bag with (2) poopy diapers discarded in the rocks and too many drinking bottles to count. It's sad and such a disgrace to nature. The tagging on the rocks wasn't too serene either. Needless to say we won't be back.

Nayelli M.

I went for the first time yesterday and had an amazing time! I originally did a lot of research for waterfalls that didn't have very long hikes. My research showed that this would be a short 0.3 mile hike, however I am pretty sure that the walk from the parking lot to at least any decent areas with pools or anywhere to wade in the water is 1 to 2 miles! If you're just going to the base, it is a short hike, but I would be careful bringing kids because there are quite a lot of boulders and things that can scratch you. I am an amateur at hiking and this was my first hike, so I'm sure that this is beginner friendly!!! I would just recommend being careful of slippery and rocky terrain but I had an amazing time and anyone that's complaining about the graffiti is just being pretentious and trying to keep people from having a good time. Yes there is a bit of graffiti but honestly if you are truly there to look at nature and have a good time and play in some clean, pretty, water then it's not going to bother you. The higher you go, the prettier and deeper the water will be. 12/10 recommend!!!!

Water
Anthony G.

Cool hike with many ways down and up. Cool crisp water and falls await. Yes some dummies are littering please clean up after yourselves. Hike is cool and most people are polite out there and helpful.

Michelle F.

Challenging hike, the going down and climbing up the mountain is definitely a work out, but worth it. Multiple falls/streams, theirs not only one fyi. Wear comfortable shoes thats you can get wet and dirty. Plenty of shades to rest, i saw people bring small dogs and also having picnics. Bring water its a must!

Ortega Falls first water fall
Tiffany N.

I had this trail bookmarked for quite sometime... I've heard that it's been dry since there hasn't been too much rain. So , I waited until we finally got some enough so I'd at least hike to capture the beauty of this trail & waterfalls (2). I wanted to catch the sunrise & these waterfalls. Location was pretty easy to find, the trail was average to intermediate level hiking . Just make sure you pack light & bring enough water and do wear shoes that have some grip on them. I do highly suggest in wearing hiking boots versus just tennis shoes that don't have the grip especially when you are hiking over loose dirt, gravel & sand , rocks and climbing over a slippery creek or huge bolder. The hike had tons of shade to get to the First waterfalls. It was absolutely beautiful only negative thing I'd have to say is for everyone to respect Mother Nature for all those liter pigs pick your CRAP up especially the empty beer cans and water bottles .. and trash and the graffiti was such an eye sore. Anyhow, on the water falls (2) keep climbing a few more holders and cross the creek you will reach the other amazing waterfalls. Definitely, was worth getting up early to catch the sunrise & this great trail . I'm pretty glad I had the opportunity to finally explore this trail . The hike back up wasn't too challenging it's a great hike for most . I wouldn't suggest small children .

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The waterfall is beautiful! The best time to go is January through April! Otherwise the waterfall is dried out!

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Ask the Community - Ortega Falls

About how far is it to the first waterfall and then how far to the second? Thank you!

Not sure if any water is flowing now having been so hot lately, best times to go is after rainfall until about May-mid June for waterfall. If you're hiking from Ortega Hwy 74 turnout parking, at about the center point of entry, then you're an easy… Read more

Are there restrooms open?

There are no restrooms there ... unfortunately if you need too pop a squat.. and bring some wipes .. and bag to throw it in .

So is ortega falls still open during these times? and will my car be safe wherever i park from being towed or ticketed?

It's still open it's pretty empty . I wouldn't put anything important in your car especially electronics etc. arrive early the hike is pretty easy to find keep going after you see the first waterfall go to the second it's absolutely awesome.

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Review Highlights - Ortega Falls

I say check it out if you are in Ortega hwy.

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Bear Canyon Trail

Bear Canyon Trail

4.5(8 reviews)
2.6 mi

A very nice trail, decent incline gains but nothing too crazy. This trail is great for beginners,…read moreand for more advanced hikers when you get to 4 corners you can take the trail up to Sitton Peak to make for a more challenging hike. The parking area for the trail is pretty big, and has a restroom and trash bins. Map directions to Ortega Oaks Candy shop & the parking area for Bear Canyon Trail will be right across the street. Don't forget to display your adventure pass. The start of the trail out to 4 corners is a little over 3 miles depending on what split you take around mile 2.

I was here on Saturday, May 13, 2023. I hiked Sitton Peak. I arrived at the parking lot at 6:30am…read more There were a few cars in the parking lot already but there were still empty spaces. The parking lot is easy to get to. There's restrooms in the parking lot. The adventure pass is required. This is an easy hike except the last .4 of a mile closer to the peak. It's really steep. Be careful. Trekking poles are helpful coming down in that section of the hike. There were several other people in the trail today. There was a group of kids who I think were boys scouts. There are a lot of bugs and I recommend you bring insect repellent. Overall, it was an awesome hike. Happy hiking! The 74 highway is under construction. I recommend you check the 74 Ortega Highway Widening website for future closures. They occasionally have 55hr full highway closures on the weekends. It's anticipated to be completed by Spring 2025.

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Bear Canyon Trail
Bear Canyon Trail
Bear Canyon Trail

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Tenaja Falls Trail Head

Tenaja Falls Trail Head

4.2(9 reviews)
5.7 mi

The waterfall is awesome. Getting there is not so awesome - be prepared to go down windy one lane…read moreroads for quite some time. After you get there, there's a short easy-to-moderate hike to the waterfall. If you are feeling brave, you can go down the first waterfall for a much closer view of the main waterfall. If you choose to do this (which I do not recommend), please be careful - one minor slip and you're falling dozens of feet onto rocks. Each time I have come here, I found a tick on myself - be warned that they are abundant in this area.

Great adventure for a sunny Saturday afternoon. The path to the top of the falls is more of a trek…read morethan a hike, due to the slow accent and being covered by trees and brush for most the journey you are not exposed to the hot sun making for a pleasant experience. For most the hike will take only a half an hour to reach the top, and about the same to descend. The path is not well marked, and hopefully you will encounter others along the way to keep you on the right trail. Now the drive to the base of the hike is another animal! Narrow, rough, uphill, downhill, washed-out paved road with some extremely deep potholes, and trenches making for a long slow drive of about 3.5 miles with opposing traffic that requires you to make way for passing very often, and blind curves to contend with. But....the pain was worth the pleasure we experienced once we reached Tenaja Falls. The view from the falls was breathtaking, and the water was cool and refreshing to sit beside and bathe my toes! I would assume that this is the best time to visit because the temperature is moderate, and the actual presence of rushing water to enjoy. Next visit I will pack a picnic lunch, and enjoy an extended stay. Highly recommend.

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Tenaja Falls Trail Head
Tenaja Falls Trail Head
Tenaja Falls Trail Head

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Lakepoint Park - Lake View

Lakepoint Park

4.8(4 reviews)
6.4 mi

Gorgeous park for dogs and their human families and solo hikersI…read more Love the giant trees most of all. There's a large playground area for kids with picnic tables. Believe me. This park is a jewel and really has everything; a view of the lake, a huge picturesque meandering path to do laps around, smiling people to greet and no high rise buildings to obstruct the view. The sky is radiant in the early mornings when the sun comes up and everything is glistening. The Canadian geese love this place as a stop over to rest. Afterwards, stop at the community Coffee shop on Main Street for a latte. My only concern are the lids and tabs from beverages which I pick up on my laps. It adds up. There are trash cans throughout. Let's keep our parks pristine.

The park itself isn't the biggest park. it has a loop walk, if you walked three loops it'd be a…read morelittle over a mile. it has a huge combination soccer/football field. it has exercise spots throughout the trail but some of its either under construction or broken. but the pull up bars are still functional. it has two playgrounds next to eachother. one for smaller children and one for bigger kids. my nieces enjoyed it! you can see the lake from the walkway and at one point there's no fence (far away from the playground) and you could walk down to it if you wanted to. there was also a sand volley ball court but the net was taken down for some reason, maybe renovation ? they had restrooms, didn't check them out though. overall, decent playground with nice views! lots of shades from big trees!

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Lakepoint Park - Play grounds

Play grounds

Lakepoint Park
Lakepoint Park

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Ortega Falls - hiking - Updated May 2026

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