Etiwanda Falls, Rancho Cucamonga

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It’s been years since we’ve done the Etiwanda Falls Trail in the North Etiwanda Preserve in Rancho Cucamonga, Ca. In fact, the last time we did it, we had 2 kids and one of them was still in the hiking carrier. So, adding two more was interesting because this is a hike. Not a hard hike, but it is relatively long coming in at 3.4 miles.

TRAIL-HEAD: Etiwanda Falls Trail (look on maps) North of the 210 fwy off Etiwanda Ave. DON’T PARK ON STREET!!! Watched a cop write about 100 tickets to cars on the street; pay attention to the “No-Parking” signs. There is a gravel lot at the trail head for parking; If the lot is full, park in the residential neighborhood south of the trail-head per police instructions.

3.4 MILES out and back

ELEVATION CHANGE: 747 ft

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

TIME: 1-2 hours

HOURS OPEN: Winter 6:30 am- 6 pm Summer 6:30 am- 8 pm Parking gates will lock promptly at 6 pm.

No dogs allowed. Not stroller or horse friendly. Good shoes recommended as it is very rocky and on dirt. No shade for majority of hike, pack water and a hat/sunscreen. No restrooms. Bring bug repellent.

The trail is pretty self explanatory. A small gate after the parking lot marks the start of a fun little adventure in the foothills of the San Bernardino National Forest in the Inland Empire. From there basically keep heading north. The trail divides and you will head north (towards the right) up the fire road.

The gate marking the start of the Etiwanda Falls hike at the end of the parking lot.

The hike up gives you great views of the mountains in front of you, and the city behind. While it’s a bit of a hike, it’s honestly not very bad. And I can vouch for that as my 3 year old did the entirety unassisted. It took us a little longer than some of the all adult groups walking near us, but we did it! The hardest part is walking on the rocks. The trail is very uneven so make sure to wear good walking/hiking shoes.

The trail headed north. Gives you great mountain views. But provides little/no shade.

Pack water, sunscreen and good shoes as you hike Etiwanda Falls in Rancho Cucamonga, Ca.

At the top you will find yourself at a decently sized waterfall (depending on the time of year you go) and East Etiwanda Creek. The small river/creek is wonderful to sit around, relax, eat snacks (please make sure to pack up all your trash) and take in and enjoy! The trees surrounding the water and large rocks make for a wonderful resting place and great ending to a fun hike. Don’t forget your bug repellent in the summertime when the bugs come out in full force.

The waterfall at Etiwanda Falls during January.

East Etiwanda Creek at the Etiwanda Falls hike.

The best news? The way down is all downhill! Makes the trek back much faster. The views are fabulous.

The hike going back down the trail provides fantastic views of the sprawling city below you.

And if you can plan it right go towards sunrise/sunset. The weather was phenomenal and the views out of this world. Plus, parking might be a little easier to get as well. The lot is small and as I mentioned above, you will get ticketed for parking on the street. Use the residential neighborhood for extra parking or get there early.

Taking a moment to enjoy the sunset on our way down.

This is a fabulous hike for families and beginners. Just remember it is close to 4 miles so it is a longer hike, so come prepared! Etiwanda Falls is a bit of nature serenity right in your backyard!

For more family friendly hikes see this post.

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