Three Sisters Waterfalls

San Diego County, California

Your visit at a glance

Waterfall height: Not recorded
Location: San Diego County, California
The walk: 4½ miles round trip
Ground & access: About 1,000 feet of elevation change, with the climb on the return. Shade is limited.

Follow the rebuilt trail into Boulder Creek canyon to a viewpoint above the lowest pool. The return is a strenuous uphill hike.

Updated map record

The former single point was replaced by three mapped drops. This page covers the Three Sisters group and uses the middle drop for its map location. Individual drop heights are not added together.

Map correction source

Current map record · Map edit history

Plan your visit

Three Sisters Trail from Cha’chaany Hamuk

The Forest Service gives 4.5 miles round trip for Three Sisters Trail. Eagle Peak is a separate route. Allow 3–4 hours, with more time for stops.

About 1,000 feet of elevation change, with the climb on the return. Shade is limited.

Where to start

Start at Cha’chaany Hamuk Trailhead. The hardpack gravel lot accommodates standard cars; the county road approach has unpaved sections. Trailers are not recommended.

Timing & water

Winter and spring generally bring the most flow. The falls commonly dry up by mid-to-late summer; heat can trigger closures.

Before you go

Check the forest’s notices before travelling. Bring drinking water: none is available at the trailhead. Do not treat the map pin at the falls as the driving destination.

Visitor information

Current park notices

Visit sources

Forest Service: Cha’chaany Hamuk Trailhead

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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