Black Star Canyon Orange County
A challenging 7-mile hike in Orange County leading to a beautiful seasonal waterfall, known for its rock scrambling and haunted legends.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Waterfall is flowing
Black Star Canyon Orange County
Best Time
Waterfall is flowing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A challenging 7-mile hike in Orange County leading to a beautiful seasonal waterfall, known for its rock scrambling and haunted legends.
"Challenging but rewarding hike with a beautiful waterfall reward."
👟 Sturdy Hiking Boots Needed
Essential for grip on slippery rocks and ankle support during the scramble.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated on this challenging hike; there are no water sources along the trail.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Black Star Canyon Falls
End of the trail
A stunning seasonal waterfall, the reward after a challenging scramble through the canyon.
Creek Bed Scramble
Last mile of the trail
Navigate boulders and water crossings in this adventurous section leading to the falls.
Shaded Canyon Path
Within the canyon
Enjoy cooler temperatures and natural beauty as you trek through the shaded canyon.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for a Challenging Hike
Timing is Everything
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Hiking Boots Needed
Essential for grip on slippery rocks and ankle support during the scramble.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated on this challenging hike; there are no water sources along the trail.
🌿 Watch for Poison Ivy
Wear long sleeves and pants to protect yourself from poison ivy and scratches.
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking is free but limited; arrive early to secure a spot.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Hiking Boots Needed
Essential for grip on slippery rocks and ankle support during the scramble.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated on this challenging hike; there are no water sources along the trail.
🌿 Watch for Poison Ivy
Wear long sleeves and pants to protect yourself from poison ivy and scratches.
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking is free but limited; arrive early to secure a spot.
🚫 No Restrooms Available
Plan accordingly as there are no facilities at the trailhead or along the trail.
🤝 Hike with a Group
Makes the challenging parts more enjoyable and safer.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Black Star Canyon Falls is a highly rewarding hike, praised for its stunning waterfall and challenging, adventurous terrain. While the initial part is an easy dirt road, the latter half demands significant rock scrambling and creek crossings, making it a strenuous but ultimately fulfilling experience for those prepared. Some visitors note the trail can be misleadingly described as easy, and caution is advised regarding slippery rocks and poison ivy.
"Unexpectedly fun. Initial 1.5 mile is easy and the rest 1.5 mile is hard for many as it involves a lot of climbing and rocks are slippery.
Please plan to take water, bug spray and sun screen and definitely some food for fuel.
We saw a lot of people with their dogs.
Do it with a group to have the best experience."
krv bhargav
"Incredible hike! Try and go a couple times every year after the snow melts. The last couple years the falls have been flowing but nothing like it was a couple years ago. The first part is a dirt trail for about 2.5 miles and is not too tiring for an avg person. The 2nd part is about 2 to 2.5 miles also. However, you will be following a creekbed and will need basic bouldering skills. I usually walk in from the creek and walk out above the falls. Fastest I've done there and back was just under 4 hrs at a steady pace. People who say it's easy are misleading. It is easily moderate to hard simply from the bouldering aspect for the avg person. If you are someone who hikes often then it's prob easy to moderate difficulty. There is zero chance you can make it to the falls and back within 2 hrs so plan on a minimum of 4 to 6 hrs depending on your pace and conditioning."
Ryan
"A difficult hike if you're not use to hiking, can take anywhere between 3 hours to 6 hours depending on your pace. There are no restrooms at all. Would recommend jeans vs shorts, but saw some people with shorts anyways. Definitely bring water and maybe some snacks. Lastly bring good hiking shoes with grip. Very beautiful trail, Definitely recommend, however I don't recommend bringing your pets."
Luz Abrego
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The trailhead is located at 13333 Black Star Canyon Rd, Silverado, CA 92676. It's a drive into a more remote area. Many visitors recommend arriving early to find parking, as it can get quite busy.
Yes, parking is available at the trailhead and is free. However, it fills up quickly, especially on weekends and after rain. Arriving early is highly recommended.
While GPS can guide you to the general area, cell service can be spotty. It's advisable to download offline maps or have a general understanding of the route beforehand.
Driving is the most common and practical way to reach Black Star Canyon. Public transportation options are very limited for this remote location.
Unfortunately, Black Star Canyon is not easily accessible by public transportation due to its remote location. A personal vehicle is generally required.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets required to enter Black Star Canyon or hike to the falls. The parking and access are free.
Black Star Canyon does not have official operating hours as it's an open natural area. However, it's best to hike during daylight hours for safety.
There is no entrance fee for Black Star Canyon. Access to the trailhead and hiking trails is free for all visitors.
While technically accessible, hiking Black Star Canyon at night is not recommended due to safety concerns, lack of lighting, and potential for getting lost. 
Generally, no permits are required for day hiking in Black Star Canyon. However, always check local regulations before your visit, especially for overnight stays or group events.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike to Black Star Canyon Falls is approximately 6.5 to 7 miles round trip. +1
It's considered a moderate to hard hike. The first 2-2.5 miles are a relatively easy dirt road, but the last 1-1.5 miles involve significant rock scrambling and creek crossings. +1
Wear sturdy hiking boots with good traction and ankle support. Long pants are recommended to protect against poison ivy and scratches.
There is limited shade on the initial dirt road section, but the canyon itself offers more shade, especially closer to the falls.
Yes, the pool at the base of the falls is often suitable for swimming, especially after rainfall when the water is flowing well. Be cautious of slippery rocks.
While some visitors have brought dogs, it's generally not recommended due to the challenging terrain and potential hazards for pets. Always check current park regulations.
Black Star Canyon has a reputation for being haunted due to its dark history, including legends of skirmishes and a school bus crash. Some visitors report eerie experiences.
🍽️ 🍎 Food & Dining
The closest dining options are in nearby Silverado or Irvine. Black Star Canyon itself is a natural area with no food services.
Picnicking is allowed in designated areas, but remember to pack out everything you pack in to keep the canyon clean.
Bring high-energy snacks like trail mix, energy bars, and fruit. Also, pack plenty of water, as it's a strenuous hike.
No, there are no food vendors or concessions available at Black Star Canyon. You must bring all your own food and drinks.
The town of Silverado has a few local eateries, or you can head to Irvine for a wider variety of restaurants and cafes.
📸 📸 Photography
The waterfall itself is a prime photo opportunity, especially after rain. The creek bed with its rock formations and the shaded canyon offer scenic shots.
The challenging terrain and creek crossings can make photography tricky. It's best to secure your camera or phone well and take photos during breaks.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the canyon's expanse and the waterfall. A waterproof bag or case is advisable due to creek crossings.
Drone usage may be restricted in national forest areas. Always check current regulations with the Cleveland National Forest before flying a drone.
The canyon's reputation for paranormal activity has led to some eerie photos, with reports of shadow figures.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If you do bring children, ensure they are older, experienced hikers who can navigate the terrain safely. Always supervise them closely, especially near water. Consider packing extra snacks and water, and be prepared for a longer hike than anticipated. The potential for encountering poison ivy also means extra vigilance is needed.
💰 Budget Travelers
This hike offers a full day of adventure without breaking the bank. The main advice is to be well-prepared with essentials like water, snacks, and appropriate gear to avoid needing to purchase anything last minute.
❤️ Couples & Adventurous Pairs
Consider visiting after a rainfall to witness the waterfall at its most impressive. The scenic beauty of the canyon and the thrill of the scramble can make for a memorable and bonding experience. Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst nature, but remember to leave no trace.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Hike to Black Star Canyon Falls
Due to the nature of the trail, sturdy hiking boots with excellent grip and ankle support are non-negotiable. Long pants are also highly recommended to protect against scratches from brush and potential encounters with poison ivy, which is prevalent in the area.
The total round trip distance is typically around 6.5 to 7 miles, and most people should budget between 4 to 6 hours to complete it comfortably, depending on their pace and conditioning. While the hike is demanding, the reward is the picturesque Black Star Canyon Falls. The waterfall is seasonal, meaning its flow is most impressive after significant rainfall. Visiting in late spring or after a good rainy season will offer the most spectacular views.
+1 Remember to pack ample water, snacks, and sun protection, as shade is limited on parts of the trail. Navigating the Terrain and Safety
This is where good footwear with superior traction becomes critical. Many hikers advise against wearing open-toed shoes or flimsy sneakers, as they can lead to slips and injuries. Beyond the physical demands, visitors should be aware of the natural environment. Poison ivy is common throughout the canyon, and wearing long sleeves and pants can significantly reduce the risk of contact.
Additionally, while the canyon offers some shade, it's still an outdoor environment, so sunblock and a hat are advisable, especially during warmer months. Safety is paramount. Hiking with a group is often recommended, as it can provide assistance during difficult sections and enhance the overall experience.
The Legends of Black Star Canyon
+1These historical events have fueled numerous ghost stories and alleged paranormal sightings. Visitors have reported experiencing strange phenomena, including the feeling of being watched, unexplained noises, and even visual apparitions. Some accounts mention seeing shadow figures or ghostly figures in photographs taken within the canyon.
While the hike itself is a significant draw for outdoor enthusiasts, the eerie atmosphere and local legends add another layer of intrigue for those interested in the supernatural. It's a place where natural beauty meets a dark and storied past, making it a unique destination for both hikers and those seeking a thrill.
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