Winding Way Trail to Escondido Falls

The Winding Way Hike is a very popular hike located at Winding Way and Pacific Coast Highway. If you are heading north on PCH, it is the 1st Winding Way—there is a 2nd about a half mile further. There is a small, free parking lot but we can almost guarantee on the weekend you will have to find street parking on PCH.

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Once you arrive at Winding Way don’t assume you’re at the wrong spot when you find yourself walking a long (3/4 mile) paved road through a beautiful Malibu neighborhood. Continue passed the homes until you reach the dirt path on the left towards Escondido Canyon Park. Follow the trail down the short hill and it will level out for the rest of the hike.

This hike was once known for its flowing creek and beautiful water all. The drought has really affected this Los Angeles staple and is almost entirely dry unless there has been a recent rain. Not to worry, if you are feeling particularly adventurous, this just makes it easier to climb up the mountain adjacent to the waterfall. If not, the area surrounding the waterfall is a great place to sit, relax and enjoy the nature.

The trail is 3.8 miles round trip and will take you1.25 hr to 2.5 hr depending on your pace and decision to take on the mountain climb at the end of the trail. A forewarning, there are no public restrooms. Happy hiking!