Escondido Falls, Malibu

One of Southern California's largest waterfalls, this 150-foot cascade has two levels and is composed of limestone rocks coated in vivid green moss. The road will begin to descend after approximately a half-mile, and there will be a well defined route to the left. Be prepared for some major rock-hopping since this is the Escondido Canyon Trail, an extreme trek that spans streams.

The Lower Escondido Falls, one of the best Hiking Trails In L.A. With Waterfalls, are stunning on their own and at 50 feet. Everyone else should continue onward through a clear path to the right of the falls (they advise you to choose the official way; the alternative is undoubtedly risky! ), which will lead you to the Upper Escondido Falls after a long ascent. You can drag yourself along with the aid of a guiding rope, but be careful since the rocks are slick. Until you reach the main attraction, a spectacular tiered cascade that sweeps over moss-covered outcroppings, this route will lead you under a portion of the lower waterfall and over further stones. Wading into the pool on a hot day is the best reward—you'll probably see a few dogs already swimming about or simply let the cold spray of the waterfall on your skin while standing behind it.

Address: 27200 Winding Way
Trailhead: Park at the lot on Winding Way East a Pacific Coast Highway. The trailhead starts on Winding Way Road, take the clearly marked path.
Pets? Dogs allowed on leashes
Length: ~3.8 miles
Time: 2 hrs