Cedar Creek Falls

San Diego County, California

Your visit at a glance

Waterfall height: 80 ft (Forest Service)
Location: San Diego County, California
The walk: About 5½–6 miles round trip
Ground & access: Steep ground with little shade. The Forest Service lists 1,800 feet of ascent on the return.

Descend to Cedar Creek Falls, then make the strenuous uphill return. This exposed route requires a visitor permit for the falls area.

Updated map record

A new Cedar Creek Falls point replaced the older map object. Official visitor information confirms the waterfall and the San Diego River Gorge approach.

Map correction source

Current map record · Map edit history

Plan your visit

San Diego River Gorge Trail

The Forest Service trail page gives 5.5 miles round trip; Recreation.gov describes a 6-mile out-and-back. Allow up to 6 hours.

Steep ground with little shade. The Forest Service lists 1,800 feet of ascent on the return.

Where to start

Use the paved San Diego River Gorge trailhead lot off Thornbush Road in Ramona. Follow posted restrictions in the residential approach. Trailers are not recommended.

Timing & water

Choose cooler months and check heat closures. Flow can stop in summer.

Before you go

Reserve the falls-area permit through Recreation.gov before arriving. The permit does not guarantee parking. Cliff climbing, jumping and diving are prohibited.

Visitor information

Current park notices

Visit sources

More waterfalls nearby

Within 40 straight-line miles. Road and trail distances will differ.

Explore California

Waterfall location

San Diego County, California.

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