Okay, so finally, after procrastinating for way too many weeks, I finally went out and found the secluded watering hole that is Tenaja Falls. As it turns out, it is really easy to get to. It’s only about a six-mile drive from the I-15 and the roads taking you to the trailhead are all paved. This is especially convenient because the best time to go if you want to go swimming (and see the waterfall in action) is during or after it rains.

There was about two feet of water when I visited, but it looked like it had been stagnant for a while – not exactly skinny dipping material. But it was fun climbing around on the rocks and the views of the San Mateo wilderness are beautiful. Rugged hills covered with chaparral and costal sage dominate the landscape but the deep drainages with lush vegetation add variety to the already great views.

The hike to the top is an easy one (less then a mile) and I saw a sign that said overnight camping was allowed (with a forest adventure pass/tax). All of these factors make this a great date/picnic spot. This is definitely the type of place to keep Advertisement

[ Chatton and Associates ] a list of, guys, especially if you’re into not wasting a bunch of money on overpriced foofoo drinks and pretending that you enjoy rap music.

On that note, please save the trash for the nightclubs. It’s just wrong to get to these beautiful destinations and see water bottles and fast food wrappers laying around.

Directions

Take Clinton Keith west into the Santa Ana Mountains. You will pass the Santa Rosa Plateau to your right. Stay on Clinton Keith until you reach Tenaja Road, then turn right.

Keep your eyes peeled for Cleveland Forest Road; it’s a small right turn with a small white sign that you will easily miss if you’re not paying attention. The road is paved but is very narrow – if you encounter a truck coming the opposite direction you both will have to drive up the side of the embankments to get around each other or reverse to a pullout spot.

Stay on Cleveland Forest Road for about a mile and a half. You will pass the trailhead for the South Tenaja Trail; the next trailhead you come to is the Tenaja Falls trailhead. Please help keep this trail beautiful for everyone by disturbing the terrain as little as possible.