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Cedar Creek Falls Trailhead
4.7 ★★★★★ 517 Google reviews · Running trail in Ramona, California · Open 24 hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Tree cover
- Access
- Open 24 hours
Confirmed from Cedar Creek Falls Trailhead's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Scenic hiking trail to a waterfall, plus swimming in a canyon.
What runners say about Cedar Creek Falls Trailhead
“In the last mile of the trail before you reach the beautiful falls, you’ll cross three creeks that are pretty deep (about knee level).”
“Most of the trail is not shaded, but there are a couple of wooden structures built for shade along the way.”
We went the day after Christmas. It had been raining the past few days, and we were blessed with beautiful weather. We went twice last year, and there was no waterfall. Finally, there is water flowing after the past few days’ rain 👏🏻. Felt accomplished hiking 6 miles. 😊.
Cedar Creek Falls Trailhead is an amazing hike and definitely a must-see at least once. The trail is very manageable on the way in, and reaching the waterfall around the 3-mile mark makes it totally worth it. The falls are beautiful and a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the view.
This waterfall is incredible! Great spot to cool off. The water is deep, perfect for jumping and swimming. The trail is long, but great for those who enjoy walking. It's 3 miles one way and 3 miles back. Be sure to prepare for sunny days. About 3 to 2.5 liters of water per person.
The trail is well marked, has very limited shade and there plenty of pretty wildflowers. I saw different types of lizard and two snakes crossing the trail. There water crossings are passable and fun. Coming back to the parking are steep. The falls is beautiful and flowing, it’s worth to hike!
Trail conditions & character
“In the last mile of the trail before you reach the beautiful falls, you’ll cross three creeks that are pretty deep (about knee level).”
“You need a $6 group permit before going, which you can get online, and there is free parking right next to the trailhead.”
“Most of the trail is not shaded, but there are a couple of wooden structures built for shade along the way.”
“Going down is the easy part, but 3 miles and <1,200' of elevation gain to get back is tough, even when it's not hot out.”
“Pack at least 1 gallon of water per person and enough for the dogs.”
“Parking is limited yet very nice, and there are restrooms at the trailhead.”
Plan your run at Cedar Creek Falls Trailhead
The practical stuff
- AccessOpen 24 hours — no gate to beat, so a 5am or a 10pm run both work
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeRunners describe real tree cover here — it makes a summer afternoon workable
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Websitefs.usda.gov
- Phone(760) 788-0250
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | Open 24 hours |
| Tuesday | Open 24 hours |
| Wednesday | Open 24 hours |
| Thursday | Open 24 hours |
| Friday | Open 24 hours |
| Saturday | Open 24 hours |
| Sunday | Open 24 hours |
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