Hermit Falls
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Hermit Falls

4.4
·461 reviews·Monrovia, United States

A stunning waterfall with a swimming hole, accessed via a scenic 3-mile canyon trail, popular for cliff jumping.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Afternoon

More shade, easier parking

CrowdMedium
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Hermit Falls

Hermit Falls

Best Time

Afternoon

More shade, easier parking

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A stunning waterfall with a swimming hole, accessed via a scenic 3-mile canyon trail, popular for cliff jumping.

4.4
(461 reviews)

"Challenging trail with rewarding waterfall views and nice water for dipping in summer."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Parking Pass Needed

An Adventure Pass is often required for parking. Park in the upper dirt lot if you don't have one. :ticket:

🥾 Sturdy Shoes Essential

The trail has steep and rocky sections. Good hiking shoes are a must for a safe and enjoyable hike. :athletic_shoe:

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Hermit Falls

Hermit Falls

End of the main trail

A rewarding waterfall with a refreshing swimming hole, perfect for a summer dip.

Verdant Canyon Trail

Verdant Canyon Trail

Access trail

A beautiful 3-mile round trip hike through a lush canyon with rewarding views.

Cliff Jumping Spot

Cliff Jumping Spot

At the falls

For the adventurous, a popular spot for exhilarating cliff jumps into the cool water.

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Planning Your Visit

Trailhead & Parking Tips

Finding the trailhead can be tricky; look for the upper dirt lot for easier parking, especially in the afternoon. An Adventure Pass is often required for parking, so be prepared. The trail itself is about 3 miles round trip and can be challenging with steep sections.

Best Footwear & Water

Wear good, sturdy shoes as the trail has steep sections and can be rocky. The water at Hermit Falls is cool and crisp, perfect for a dip in summer, but the hike can be trying, so bring plenty of water.

Best Times

When
Afternoon
Why
More shade, easier parking
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer mornings
Why
Cool water for swimming
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Looking for an open wilderness area to explore that's about an hour from DTLA

🚗 Parking Pass Needed

An Adventure Pass is often required for parking. Park in the upper dirt lot if you don't have one. :ticket:

🥾 Sturdy Shoes Essential

The trail has steep and rocky sections. Good hiking shoes are a must for a safe and enjoyable hike. :athletic_shoe:

💧 Bring Plenty of Water

The hike can be challenging, especially in warmer weather. Stay hydrated on this 3-mile round trip trail. :droplet:

🗺️ Explore Multiple Trails

There are about 5 different trails. Don't overlook the main trailhead for a beautiful hike. :compass:

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Parking Pass Needed

An Adventure Pass is often required for parking. Park in the upper dirt lot if you don't have one. :ticket:

🥾 Sturdy Shoes Essential

The trail has steep and rocky sections. Good hiking shoes are a must for a safe and enjoyable hike. :athletic_shoe:

💧 Bring Plenty of Water

The hike can be challenging, especially in warmer weather. Stay hydrated on this 3-mile round trip trail. :droplet:

🗺️ Explore Multiple Trails

There are about 5 different trails. Don't overlook the main trailhead for a beautiful hike. :compass:

🏊‍♀️ Cool Off in the Falls

The water at Hermit Falls is crisp and refreshing, perfect for a dip on a hot day. :swimming_man:

What Travellers Say

4.4
(461 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the beautiful 3-mile hike to Hermit Falls, praising the rewarding waterfall and refreshing swimming hole. The trail's scenic canyon views and the opportunity for cliff jumping are major highlights. However, some find the hike challenging due to steep sections, and parking can require an Adventure Pass.

"Beautiful trail 👣 worth the hike. There are about 5 different trail that you can take. This one in the pictures is the Sturtevent falls trail worth the hike."

Evelyn Linares

"3 miles with beautiful views and clean trails until the hermit falls"

David J Márquez

"Challenging trail with rewarding waterfall views. Some steep sections, so wear good shoes. The water is nice for dipping in summer. Parking requires a pass. Definitely worth the effort"

Amy Andrade

What People Like

Beautiful waterfall
Refreshing swimming hole
Scenic canyon hike

What People Dislike

Challenging steep sections
Parking requires pass

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Hermit Falls is located in the Angeles National Forest, about an hour from Downtown LA. The trailhead is often overlooked, so look for the upper dirt parking lot. While specific directions can vary, it's generally accessed via the Sturtevant Falls trail, which is about 3 miles round trip. Reddit

Yes, parking is available, but an Adventure Pass is often required. The upper dirt lot is recommended for easier access and is often easier to find parking in the afternoon. Reddit

Many visitors suggest looking for the upper dirt lot for parking. The trail itself is well-marked once you find the entrance, but some people do overlook it. Reddit

The hike to Hermit Falls is approximately 3 miles round trip. It's considered a moderately challenging trail with some steep sections. Reddit

Public transportation options to Hermit Falls are very limited due to its remote location in the national forest. Driving is the most practical way to access the trailhead. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, an Adventure Pass is typically required for parking at trailheads in the Angeles National Forest, including near Hermit Falls. It's best to purchase one in advance. Reddit

There are no specific entrance fees for Hermit Falls itself, but the required Adventure Pass for parking covers access to the area. Reddit

Hermit Falls is an outdoor natural attraction and is generally accessible during daylight hours. However, always check with the Angeles National Forest for any specific closures or restrictions. Reddit

No, Hermit Falls does not require advance ticket bookings. Access is typically on a first-come, first-served basis for parking and trail entry. Reddit

Adventure Passes can be purchased at many outdoor recreation stores, ranger stations, and some local businesses near national forests. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The trail to Hermit Falls is about 3 miles round trip and features beautiful canyon views. It includes some steep and rocky sections, so sturdy footwear is recommended. Reddit

The trail can be challenging with steep sections, so it might be difficult for very young children or those with mobility issues. However, some families enjoy the 'scramble through rocks' feel. Reddit

Yes, the waterfall has a swimming hole that is popular for cooling off, especially during the summer months. The water is described as cool and crisp. Reddit

Hermit Falls is a popular spot for cliff jumping. However, always exercise caution and be aware of the risks involved before attempting any jumps. Reddit

The hike offers beautiful views of a verdant canyon. The trail is mostly under the shadow, making it suitable for hiking even on warmer days. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography Tips

The afternoon can be great for photos as the trail is mostly in shadow, providing softer light. The waterfall itself is picturesque year-round, but water flow can vary. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the canyon and waterfall. Consider a polarizing filter to manage reflections on the water and enhance colors. Reddit

The main waterfall and the swimming hole are iconic spots. The trail itself offers scenic overlooks and interesting rock formations for varied shots. Reddit

Use a slower shutter speed to create a silky, blurred effect for the water. A tripod is essential for stability during longer exposures. Reddit

For cliff jumping, a faster shutter speed is needed to freeze the action. Be sure to maintain a safe distance and be aware of your surroundings. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Hermit Falls offers a beautiful natural escape, but families should be aware of the trail's challenges. The hike involves steep and rocky sections, which might be difficult for very young children or those with limited mobility.Reddit However, some families appreciate the 'scramble through rocks' aspect, which can add an element of adventure. Ensure children wear appropriate footwear and that you bring ample water. The swimming hole at the falls can be a great reward for older kids who can safely enjoy the water.Reddit

Consider the time of day for your visit; afternoons offer more shade, making the hike more comfortable. While the main trail is about 3 miles round trip, the 'scramble' nature might make it feel longer for little ones. It's a good destination for families with slightly older children who are comfortable with moderate hiking. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Hermit Falls is an excellent option for budget-conscious travelers as the primary cost is the Adventure Pass for parking, which is relatively inexpensive compared to other attractions.Reddit The hike itself is free, and the reward of a beautiful waterfall and swimming hole requires no additional fees. Pack your own picnic lunch and plenty of water to avoid purchasing expensive food and drinks nearby.Reddit

This destination offers a significant natural experience without the high price tag of commercial attractions. It's a great way to enjoy the outdoors and get some exercise while staying within a budget. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Hermit Falls Trail

The hike to Hermit Falls is a rewarding 3-mile round trip journey through a lush canyon. While the trail is generally well-trodden, it's important to be prepared for its challenging aspects. Several reviews mention steep sections and rocky terrain, emphasizing the need for sturdy hiking shoes.Reddit Some visitors enjoy the 'scramble through rocks' feel, suggesting it offers a more adventurous experience than paved paths.Reddit It's also noted that the trail is often under the shadow, making it a more comfortable hike even on warmer days, particularly in the afternoon.Reddit

Finding the trailhead can sometimes be a minor challenge, with some people overlooking it. The recommendation is to look for the upper dirt parking lot for easier access and potentially better parking availability, especially later in the day.Reddit While the primary trail leads to the falls, there are reportedly about 5 different trails in the area, offering opportunities for further exploration for those who wish to extend their outing.Reddit

Remember to bring plenty of water as the hike can be demanding. The combination of the scenic beauty and the physical exertion makes Hermit Falls a popular destination for those seeking an active outdoor experience near Los Angeles. Reddit

The Allure of Hermit Falls: Waterfall and Swimming

The main draw of Hermit Falls is undoubtedly the cascading waterfall and its inviting swimming hole. Visitors consistently praise the water as 'cool and crisp,' making it an ideal spot to refresh during the summer months.Reddit The waterfall itself provides a beautiful natural spectacle, and the surrounding environment adds to its charm.

For the more daring, Hermit Falls is a well-known cliff jumping destination. The height of the cliffs offers an exhilarating experience for those who enjoy adrenaline-pumping activities. However, as with any such activity, safety should be the top priority, and participants should assess the conditions and their own abilities carefully.Reddit

The combination of a scenic hike, a beautiful waterfall, and the opportunity for a refreshing swim or a thrilling jump makes Hermit Falls a multifaceted destination. It appeals to a range of visitors, from casual hikers to adventure seekers. Reddit

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