Hiking to the 3-Sisters Falls
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Added by Grant
Lots of elevation gain and scrambles to make it challenging. An amazing waterfall and views once you get there. Really cool cliff-jumping as well. Distance: 4 miles. Duration: 2-5hrs. depending on how long you stay.
Although this hike is not very long (in terms of distance) it will be a workout nonetheless...as possibly one of the harder hikes in all of San Diego. Start out earlier in the day for a less strenuous trip and be prepared to drink a LOT of water. The path is fairly well marked and at certain points, you will need to use ropes to climb up or down some natural obstacles (the ropes are already there). You will also be scrambling up and down some rock faces, lose dirt and sand, and generally using your whole body to maneuver in and around the trail. So good hiking shoes and the right clothing are paramount.
Once there, and depending on the time of year, you will be able see all 3 Sisters flowing and, at your own risk, you can climb up to the top and jump into the pools below. Again, depending on the time of year, this hike can get crowded and sometimes overrun with inexperienced hikers, but if you chose your day and time wisely you will be pleasantly rewarded. If the water isn't flowing, the views and the challenge are still worth the experience and the muscle fatigue you will feel the next day.
Photos: Steve, Dave Milsom, Andrew Jensen
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Trail change
The trail has been changed recently. The very steep scrambling section is no more. It is now a fairly easy walk all the way down to the falls. Went on a weekday afternoon in the winter and had it all to myself!
5.0
Water
Just make sure to have plenty of water (any time of year) it gets hot!
5.0
Exciting hike!
My friend and I went when there was still some snow, but the sun was out so the ground was softening up. The hike was beautiful! It was an easy two miles down and a challenging, but fun two miles back up. We couldn’t cross the river to get over to the right side of the waterfall because the water was high, from all of the rain months prior. It was still great to see and not as challenging as I thought it was going to be. Tips: Trail is narrow so watch your step Don’t drive after rainfall or snowfall if you don’t have 4 wheel dive, as the dirt road gets soft
5.0
The Best Hike!
The most difficult hike I’ve been on in San Diego.. be careful! People have died here and the day I went someone got air lifted out.. YT- Nick.G tv
5.0
Three Sisters Hike
Great hike. Definitely a challenge. Use your water wisely. Don't bring a dog. Falls are gorgeous!
5.0
Leave No Trace
Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on.
