Hike Cedar Falls to enjoy a romantic hike through the hills of Eastern San Diego. Be rewarded with waterfalls cascading into a pool below. Swim in the pool beneath the falls. The 100 foot high Cedar Falls is located southwest of Julian. You can make a day of it and stop for apple pie in Julian after your hike.
The best time to hike to Cedar Falls is in the spring or fall when the falls will be at their peak and it's not too hot. There is a swimming hole at the bottom of the falls where you can enjoy a swim, if you are a polar bear!
This can be a beautiful hike. Cedar Creek is a tributary of the San Diego River. There are a number of small falls in the area with Cedar Falls being the largest. Black oak, cedar, and cottonwood trees are common in the area. Bird watchers can spot local birds.
Directions from the town of Julian: Drive two miles west on Hwys. 78/79. Turn left on Pine Hills Road. Continue 1.5 miles. Bear right onto Eagle Peak Road. Continue 1.4 miles. Bear right to stay on Eagle Peak Road. Continue another 8.2 miles to the signed trailhead for the California Riding and Hiking Trail. This last 8 miles will be partly paved and partly dirt road. The trailhead is at the end of the road with a sign that says "Saddleback Trail".
You will need to get an Adventure Pass parking permit from the U.S. Forest Service because this hike is on National forest land.
Precautions: You do need to be in good shape for this trip. The hike to Cedar Falls is 4.5 miles roundtrip and takes approximately 2.5 hours to complete. Wear sunscreen, a hat, and bring plenty of water. 3 quarts of water per person is recommended during warm weather. The trip to the falls is downhill, which means the return trip is uphill. It is dangerous to climb on the rocks around the falls. Jumping or diving into the pools is prohibited.
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