Hiking to the 3-Sisters Falls
Descanso, California
Description
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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Reviews
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
Just make sure to have plenty of water (any time of year) it gets hot!
5.0
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 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
Great hike. Definitely a challenge. Use your water wisely. Don't bring a dog. Falls are gorgeous!
5.0
This is a great challenge with very steep slopes, a bit of climbing, and a lot to explore. Please wear appropriate shoes! I saw too many people hurt or almost hurt themselves wearing shoes that are not made for this. Also leave your pets behind for this one. I heard one man say he hikes this place a few times a year and lately the hike seemed more difficult do to erosion. Would be interested to know if others agreed. Go challenge yourself and hike this!
5.0
Awesome hike!!! If you like a challenge, I suggest you give this trail a try!!! PLEASE BRING A LOT OF WATER!!!! The waterfall is pretty amazing!! If you have gloves, bring those too. There's ropes to use in the very steep and loose dirt parts of the trail.
5.0
After some rains the falls have some heavy flow. Make sure to bring plenty of water for heavy flow into your mouth and keep some on ice in the car for when you get back. You'll thank yourself.
5.0
This is one of those hikes that people should consider carefully before jumping in (pun intended). The hike in is not nearly as tough as the hike out. You will need every drip of water you take with you, and probably a bit more. Avoid going in the summer. Not only because we are in a drought and you're likely to run into dry falls, as I did, there is no shade on the hike out, which means you're resting in the beating sun. Not fun! This hike is not recommended for people who are out of shape.
4.0
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