Peñasquitos Canyon: East Trailhead to Peñasquitos Waterfall
About This Trail
The East trailhead to the Peñasquitos waterfall is a six mile round trip hike, but the trail is very flat and wide. The Peñasquitos waterfall should have water year round but it is worth it to go in spring when the water is really flowing. You can climb along the rocks at the falls but watch your step because they can be slippery. Follow signs to the waterfall. This trail is also a great bike trail! Keep an eye out for poison oak along the trail.
The trailhead is toward the back left of the parking lot. If you go under Black Mountain Road you are going the wrong way. There will be many trail intersections along the way, but keep going straight on the fire road. The creek should be on your right the entire way. You will eventually see signs for Carson’s Crossing, that is a good sign you are going the right way but keep going straight. If you are getting tired or need a snack, the bridges and shaded area here are a great place to stop. From there continue on for a little less than a mile until you reach signs for the Penasquitos Waterfall. Once you are ready to go home, head back the way you came. If at any time you accidentally get on the wrong trail which is easy to do, it’s ok. Keep heading in the right direction and eventually you will find a connecting trail.
Restroom: Unsure
Trail Features
Seasons | Fall, Spring, Summer, and Winter |
---|---|
Surface type | Dirt |
Stroller friendly | Yes |
ADA accessible | No |
Water fountains | No |
Bathrooms | No |
Cell reception | Excellent |
Pet friendly | Yes |
Nearby convenience store | Yes |
Camping Nearby | No |
Emergency support within 5 miles |
Yes |
Trail highlights
Long but easy hike to a small waterfall.
Other Trails in Peñasquitos Canyon
Fee & Parking Details
Park in the trailhead parking lot.
Trail Contributor

Hike it Baby member since spring 2016. Current HiB Asheville NC Branch Ambassador. Past HiB San Diego CA and Orange County CA Branch Ambassador, and past National Team volunteer for Community Values, HiB30 Challenge Prizes, Mentor, and Ambassador Continued Education teams.