Waterfall Hike @ Escondido Waterfall (Malibu, CA)

Note: be prepared to get wet— we will likely have to cross through some small streams— bring shoes you don’t mind getting wet. Bring a pair of rain boots to cross through any flowing water.

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Meeting Time: 10:30AM Meeting Point: Winding Way Trailhead (Escondido Falls)

After Party Location: Malibu Seafood (25653 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu)

**Please join our group chat here: https://chat.whatsapp.com/CqIwEuuIJSm7IV7yzU7joD -- feel free to use this to coordinate carpooling or to ask any questions.

*****IMPORTANT: Per recent reviews of the trail, there are up to five ankle to knee-deep water crossings, some of which do not have a log or elevated means for crossing. This means we are going to get muddy and wet. We strongly recommend bringing the following:

1. A change of clothes, and a couple pairs of socks, a change of shoes even

2. Waterproof shoes or rain boots, or at the very least, shoes you don't mind completely getting drenched

3. If you don't plan to cross the waterways barefoot, it would be useful to have a pair or clamp-ons like this: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07H4H7MKR?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details&th=1&psc=1

4. Hiking poles/walking sticks like this: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07JF1YM86?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details&th=1

If it's too late to get delivery through Amazon, I would recommend swinging by a local sporting goods store like Big 5.

I know that previously we said dogs are allowed, they are technically, but given the conditions I would say to leave the fur-babies at home unless you are completely comfortable/confident that they will be able to cross through the water, or that you can effectively carry them.

Given all of the above, we would classify this an intermediate level hike. Safety is our top priority. If we ever feel the conditions are too dangerous for the group, we will turn back. Hopefully by Saturday some of the water subsides... we are taking a "hope for the best, prepare for the worst" approach given all of the recent rainfall.

Don't forget to join the group chat. Otherwise we will see you at 10:30AM on Saturday!

Check out this 3.70 mile, out and back trail near Malibu, California. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 1 h 51 min to complete. This is a very popular area for hiking, mountain biking, and trail running, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash.

The Escondido Falls Trail in Escondido Canyon Park is a dog-friendly easy hike not far from Los Angeles. The upper falls are located on private property and are not open to the public. It is recommended not to climb the falls to preserve the fragile habitat and to avoid the risk of serious fall injuries. For more information, visit https://mrca.ca.gov/parks/park-listing/escondido-canyon-park/ The parking area is right off the Pacific Coast Highway and the trailhead is just across from Escondido Beach. The scenery is typical of Southern California with pretty ocean views, dry landscape, and dry falls. There is a paved road leading to the parking lot and a $12 fee to park in the small lot. This is one of the most popular hiking trails near Malibu. It is possible to park along the sides of PCH, just please pay attention to signage.

This is an easy hike up until reaching the second waterfall -- Recommend wearing good pair of shoes or hiking boots especially if you want to complete harder portion to second falls.