Upper Salmon Creek Falls

Monterey County, California

Your visit at a glance

Waterfall height: Not recorded
Location: Monterey County, California
Access status: Published trail route to a distant trail view documented; Adventure Pass required
The walk: About 2.5 miles each way to the viewpoint
Ground & access: Steady, steep climb, especially in the first mile. Poison oak is common. The side path toward the falls looked washed out; it is not part of this route.

From the trailhead sign on the east side of Highway 1 just south of the bridge, climb the Salmon Creek Trail. At about 2.5 miles, look left for a view of Upper Salmon Creek Falls. Modern Hiker saw a path down that looked unsafe and washed out and viewed the falls from the trail. Return the same way.

Plan your visit

Salmon Creek Trailhead on Highway 1 by the Salmon Creek Trail to a distant view of Upper Salmon Creek Falls

Modern Hiker gives mile 2.5 for the view of the upper falls on the way to Estrella Camp at 3.1 miles. The return figure is about double; not separately measured.

Steady, steep climb, especially in the first mile. Poison oak is common. The side path toward the falls looked washed out; it is not part of this route.

Where to start

Pull-outs on Highway 1 at the Salmon Creek Trailhead, just south of the Salmon Creek Ranger Station, about 28 miles north of Cambria. Parking is limited.

Timing & water

Flow depends on rain. Highway 1 closures can affect access; check Caltrans before driving.

Before you go

Modern Hiker says that as of July 2024 parked vehicles must display a Forest Adventure Pass; Interagency Annual Passes are also honored.

Visitor information

Visit sources

More waterfalls nearby

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

Explore California

Waterfall location

Monterey County, California.

Open location map