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Etiwanda Falls
4.7 ★★★★★ 394 Google reviews · Running trail in Rancho Cucamonga, California · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Mixed
- Loop distance
- 1.7 mi
- Shape
- Loop
- Shade
- Tree cover
- Access
- Not reported
Confirmed from Etiwanda Falls' 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.
Casual-paced, out-and-back trail featuring wildflowers, rocks, creeks and waterfalls.
What runners say about Etiwanda Falls
“Great place if you wanted to get in shape its like 30 min running or 1hr if youre walking to the big Rock, tiny water fall , great view”
“Definitely load up on the sunscreen in the summer months as there is no shade or covering until you make it all the way to the top where the waterfall is.”
“This is an easy hike with elevation gain of 240m over 2km.”
This is an easy hike with elevation gain of 240m over 2km. One stretch of path is strewn with small rocks so proper shoes is a must. The waterfall at the top is rewarding with its crystal clear, cool waters. At the trailhead, you have an option to take a longer loop (from your left) or the main trail going straight.
Hidden gem just outside L.A. – easy, sunny, and totally rewarding! Hiked to Etiwanda Falls on a beautiful sunny day and couldn’t believe how accessible this spot is. It’s the perfect escape if you’re in the LA area and craving some nature without a major road trip.
Beautiful views, a scented trail of native plant species. The hike is a steady but gradual incline on a mainly gravel path. The gravel plays a bigger roll on the way down...just be careful to not slip.waking stick and hiking boots help but not necessary. Very few plateaus.
Hike trails are present but are mostly rocks, bring appropriate shoes and water. The trail does goes up but worth it once you arrive. There isn't much shade along the trail. Also multiple trails connect from the main one. There is a small parking lot, arrived at 7am and was already full on a Friday morning. If you .
Trail conditions & character
“Definitely load up on the sunscreen in the summer months as there is no shade or covering until you make it all the way to the top where the waterfall is.”
“It’s not a difficult as it’s well maintained and the elevation is evenly distributed through the hike!”
“At the trailhead, you have an option to take a longer loop (from your left) or the main trail going straight.”
“Definitely load up on the sunscreen in the summer months as there is no shade or covering until you make it all the way to the top where the waterfall is.”
“The road is a bit challenging with bigger rocks and some loose gravel in places so be prepared.”
“At the trailhead, you have an option to take a longer loop (from your left) or the main trail going straight.”
Plan your run at Etiwanda Falls
The practical stuff
- AccessHours vary — hours are not posted for this trail, so check before an early or late run
- SurfaceMixed — more than one surface along the route, so check the segment you plan to run
- Loop distance1.7 mi back to where you parked
- ShadeRunners describe real tree cover here — it makes a summer afternoon workable
- At the trailheadparking — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
Running trails near Rancho Cucamonga
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Etiwanda Falls Trailhead
4.6 ★★★★★ 1,584 reviews
Waterfall, rock and trail area, with a peaceful ambience, a creek and views of the city.
North Etiwanda Preserve
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Relaxed hiking trails in a rugged landscape with waterfalls, streams and a variety of wildlife.
Foxborough Trails
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Day Creek Park
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Olive Grove Park
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Area for kite-flying, picnics and family outings, featuring a playground.
Coyote Canyon Park
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Well-kept park featuring baseball fields and picnic tables, plus a playground.