Kitchen Creek Falls

San Diego County, California

Your visit at a glance

Waterfall height: Not recorded
Location: San Diego County, California
Access status: Published PCT route with use-trail finish; Adventure Pass required
The walk: About 4.7 miles return (source figure)
Ground & access: PCT tread with steady climb and a drop-off on one side. The final use trail is narrow and overgrown in spots; reaching the creek involves boulder scrambling.

Hiking San Diego County: Kitchen Creek Falls

From the unmarked parking area on Old Highway 80 just before Boulder Oaks Campground, cross the road and follow the Pacific Crest Trail signs north, under I-8 and up the hillside. A little beyond 2.1 miles, just past a PCT marker where the trail bends sharply right, take the narrow use trail on the left toward Kitchen Creek gorge. The falls are viewed from the gorge edge and below. Return the same way.

Plan your visit

Old Highway 80 parking near Boulder Oaks, north on the Pacific Crest Trail, then a use trail to Kitchen Creek Falls

Hiking San Diego County lists 4.7 miles total with 912 feet of ascent. The use-trail turnoff is a little beyond mile 2.1.

PCT tread with steady climb and a drop-off on one side. The final use trail is narrow and overgrown in spots; reaching the creek involves boulder scrambling.

Where to start

Unmarked parking area on the right side of Old Highway 80, shortly before Boulder Oaks Campground. No facilities at the trailhead.

Timing & water

Seasonal; best in winter and spring after rain.

Before you go

Adventure Pass required to park, per the source.

Visitor information

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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