Santa Ynez Canyon Falls

This is a year round hike, but if you enjoy your waterfall with water in it, the best time to go is in the spring after several large rainstorms. The photos included in this post are from winter. The trail starts just before the gate for a gated community. After walking down a set of steps, you quickly enter a forested area. There are many places where you cross the stream bed, though most of them were dry. The first section of trail was clearly marked and easy to follow, including a short side trip to a shallow cave. At the first turnoff (clearly marked), the trail starts to deteriorate and become overgrown. There is also a sign advising the end of trail maintenance. The trail itself is still fairly easy to follow at this point. When you encounter the next trail sign, the trail completely disappears and you will follow the creek bed. This requires more navigation skills over rocks and obstacles. I found it easier to stay in the creek bed (especially carrying my 3 year old), but this may not be possible with high water. After about 5-6 creek crossings, you will encounter the waterfall. It was a bit underwhelming in low water (it’s maybe 7 feet tall), but I’m sure much better during high water. If you have older kids or are feeling more adventurous, you can climb above the first waterfall into a slot canyon-like area with more climbing and bigger falls. Unfortunately we weren’t able to venture further since I didn’t have another adult to help my daughter navigate the climbing. Beware of poison oak along the trail.