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It's a decent hike and a good way to get out in nature, but good luck taking photos without graffiti in them. That's the most disappointing part of this hike. The waterfall is cool, but the area is completely tagged and dirty. The hike itself is only difficult because of the rocky terrain. Otherwise, it's not bad. A couple locations you have to work your way across the water but you can usually find something pretty easily. An adventure pass is needed for parking at the trailhead. I've seen bear scat here previous times, so be careful and alert out there!
Beautiful place to go hiking and spend time with family sometimes it does get dirty when people don't clean up after themselves!!! The scene is beautiful and the water is clear glass clean I love this place always and forever
It's a nice but rocky hike. Water usually all the time. You can hike in the sun or shade. Need to get a parking permit first though or you will get a ticket.
Loved coming to this water falls. My family and I fell in love with the clear water . I was happy about the parking space being so close and they also have bathrooms !!! Which is a big plus !!! Lake so clear and it was cold but very beautiful.
the falls are beautiful and the area is scenic. the creek is also gorgeous. the parking is small and requires an adventure parking pass (can get at big 5 for 5$). the trail itself is kinda confusing but once you get going there's graffiti arrows that point to the falls. very abundant in graffiti which may or may not be a turnoff to you. a big portion of the trail is very rocky and there's a solid amount of trash around so bring a bag to carry trash back if you're willing.
It's a nice hike and if you're camping at the Bonita ranch campgrounds it's much shorter hike then from the forest service parking lot. The hike is mild and the only part is that you're hiking over the creek bed full of rocks and then you do hike up into the Canyon and there are large boulders to scale but anyone pretty much can do it. The only sad part of this hike is that there is a ton of graffiti. It's sad that people have to deface the natural beauty of this trail with all their graffiti but being only 8 miles up from the 210 freeway access to this is pretty easy. The falls did have water even in early fall which I'm not sure where the source is but it does make for a nice hike.
not dog friendly! yes you can bring leashed dogs, but the 'trail' is basically all rocks, gravel and boulders. If your dogs aren't used to walking in these conditions, leave them at home or take a different better groomed hike. also the graffiti is out of control. the trailhead isn't marked and it looks like you have to go onto private property to access the trailhead.
This was a great hike. Depending on where you begin it could take about one hour each way. There are many people going to the waterfall that can guide you to the correct way. https://vm.tiktok.com/TTPdkcRNhu/
There is plenty of parking space within the road. The hike will depend how far you park. I parked closer towards the gps. Lytle Creek, CA 92358 United States What to expect: Some parking spaces on the street Bring good hiking shoes Bring some water Bring some mosquito repellent Bring sun screen Bring extra clothes if you expect to jump or get wet in the waterfalls Plenty of rocks. Beautiful scenery The hike will depend on the route you take, it can take up to 1.7 miles there and back or you can park where I parked at. The route I took was about 3 miles there and back. If you like what you see, please like and follow. We will be posting hiking adventures to waterfalls.
tl,dr: Beautiful waterfall! Crowded spot even at 10am. Dirty trail. I expected better. Tips: Parking coords: 6GM5+W6M Scotland, California (or 34.23485,-117.49194) Trailhead coords: 6GP3+M8V Scotland, California (or 34.23674,-117.49669) ^Enter them into G Maps. . Watch the YT hiking guides first. . GET A PARKING PASS. No joke. . Wear crocs for wading through the creek and frolicking at the waterfall. But also wear moisture-wicking socks throughout the hike. . If you plan to use G Maps, start navigation BEFORE arriving here. Cuz you won't get any signal to do so once you're here. Likes: + Invigorating cold waterfall on a hot Labor Day! + There are police and firefighters monitoring the road, so help is always near. + Still a nice short beginner-friendly hike. + There are graffiti arrows on the rocks pointing the way. + Plenty of shade 80% of the hike. Still need sunblock and ice water! Non-likes: - For a tedious $5 day parking pass, I expect all graffiti to be cleaned up, all trash gone, and porta-potties to have hand sanitizers, a thoroughly marked hiking trail, and no notorious vandalism or theft, and a spacious sidewalk to walk from where you parked your car to the trailhead. I mean there are free hikes with lots of these flaws covered. - People need to tone it down with the pompous musica noise pollution. - Lots of vandalism and theft mentioned about Bonita Trail on the AllTrails website. - Lot of rocks. Don't roll your ankles! - No service at all. Couldn't use Internet, text, or use GPS. yikes.
The waterfall is nice once you get up there! There are a ton of rocks at the beginning of this hike so just be prepared for how rocky it is. There aren't very many signs so it can be difficult to figure out the route of the trail if it is your first time here. It is a beautiful hike though!
I was pleasantly surprised when I arrived to this trail. It was a lot closer to get to than I thought making it a great local hike. I went on a weekday morning and the parking was available and easy to pay for thru the cell phone app. The trails are all very well maintained and clean. I did NOT to see a ton of graffiti. There was some but not enough to notice too much. This hike is a combination of river rock paths and flat paths so I will be investing in some hiking boots since I like to jog and walk. The greenery and flowers combined with the calming sounds of flowing water are amazing. I will definitely be coming back.
Ahhhh! We loved this one. Everyone talks about a pass or a ticket you buy at the gas station and umm we didn't bought no ticket and we were just fine, maybe we were lucky .. don't know. A tip though, don't go to far into the drive, park as soon as you find a spot and just walk. You have to walk around 15 minutes before finding the rocks. The road to the waterfall it's all rocks of different sizes so make sure to take the right shoes. The walk to the waterfall it's approximately 30-35 minutes. When you're close to the waterfall you will know because the road it's inclined. The waterfall it's stunning, although the water it's super super cold but it's fun to go in and you obvi get your shoes wet. It was fun! Definitely would go back . !
2 months ago
I'll give this place a strong 3.75 to 4.0 stars. And when compared to all other locations in the area, this would be easiest location for most people to discover, hike walk or jog and Enjoy. You must arrive early. As people are already taken up slots in the parking lot as early as 630am. Now, super easy to park on the side of the road, as there are many signs against it and many areas that are welcomed. By 8am, the streets were getting filled, as there are many outlets that lead to the river and many places where on can just the views, without the hike. So please get your 5 dollar windows taken for parking- the local 76 station is a place where you are able to. The hike is self explanatory, follow the people, which you will see many many hikers. And contrary to what people say, it is not an easy hike. You will need to be prepared for a 1.5 mile walk up and 1.5 miles back. It is a super rocky trail. Lots of loose rocks , once on the upper trail, boulders get bigger, the small cascades of water can make the area slippery. You will need to extend your limbs to reach up and pull yourself up. Not for small children and not for the elderly. The only thing here that I had a distaste for was the littering and the graffiti. Just the stupidity of humans not picking up their trash or painting moronic signs on rocks. Made it less intriguing... made it comical that people can be such idiots. The downhill trail becomes dangerous, as people can slip or fall and amid some cliffs that surround the area, being careful is at the most important danger. The area is accessible by various routes. The fantastic point here would be the river, which is wide, always tuburlant but not deep. Some area as 1ft ...other areas can reach 3 feet. The picnic area and the small rest stop are great stop points. The water is crystal clear, cold and just majestic. Bring appropriate foot wear, bring water and snacks and make sure you are physically fit. The waterfall is high...over 100ft. Standing under the falls can be refreshing, the cold waters offering an unexpected cold shiver, the light mist and the gaze of the falls can be spectacular. The river extends past the small pits top bonita falls bathroom and parking...next down the road is the picnic area...which is basically one or two tables for a get together, best to just visit the river and enjoy the stream... and finally the large parking lot..from here you can saddle the edge of the river, enjoy it, have a get together and from there, the Rover twist and turns to another southerner point where long lines of cars gather and can be accessed by the public and by foot. Gentle streams and relaxing moments. Over all, a good small hike with options for picnics and stream wading. Please, no graffiti and pick after yourself- let's keep nature clean! read more
7 months ago
We went for a hike yesterday and Bonita Falls was 22 minutes drive. The location was in Lytle Creek in San Bernardino National Forest. The weather was great. We parked in the designated area. It was around 2.8 miles round trip . Make sure bring water, sunscreen, good hiking shoes and hiking stick. The trail was very rocky and steep going to the waterfalls. The running stream was amazing. Water was cold but soothing to listen to the sound of the water. The waterfall was high , great to take pictures and can get to the waterfalls area. There were people doing rock climbing too. Great adventure. read more
2 months ago
Doable trail. My kids were able to do it but there are a few tricky spots. Lots of rocks and some pretty steep boulders to climb. Worth it though. Just ignore all the graffiti. That was the only downfall. Lots and lots of graffiti everywhere you look read more
1 year ago
It's a decent hike and a good way to get out in nature, but good luck taking photos without graffiti in them. That's the most disappointing part of this hike. The waterfall is cool, but the area is completely tagged and dirty. The hike itself is only difficult because of the rocky terrain. Otherwise, it's not bad. A couple locations you have to work your way across the water but you can usually find something pretty easily. An adventure pass is needed for parking at the trailhead. I've seen bear scat here previous times, so be careful and alert out there! read more
7 months ago
Beautiful place to go hiking and spend time with family sometimes it does get dirty when people don't clean up after themselves!!! The scene is beautiful and the water is clear glass clean I love this place always and forever read more
7 months ago
It's a nice but rocky hike. Water usually all the time. You can hike in the sun or shade. Need to get a parking permit first though or you will get a ticket. read more
1 year ago
Loved coming to this water falls. My family and I fell in love with the clear water . I was happy about the parking space being so close and they also have bathrooms !!! Which is a big plus !!! Lake so clear and it was cold but very beautiful. read more
8 months ago
the falls are beautiful and the area is scenic. the creek is also gorgeous. the parking is small and requires an adventure parking pass (can get at big 5 for 5$). the trail itself is kinda confusing but once you get going there's graffiti arrows that point to the falls. very abundant in graffiti which may or may not be a turnoff to you. a big portion of the trail is very rocky and there's a solid amount of trash around so bring a bag to carry trash back if you're willing. read more
It's a nice hike and if you're camping at the Bonita ranch campgrounds it's much shorter hike then from the forest service parking lot. The hike is mild and the only part is that you're hiking over the creek bed full of rocks and then you do hike up into the Canyon and there are large boulders to scale but anyone pretty much can do it. The only sad part of this hike is that there is a ton of graffiti. It's sad that people have to deface the natural beauty of this trail with all their graffiti but being only 8 miles up from the 210 freeway access to this is pretty easy. The falls did have water even in early fall which I'm not sure where the source is but it does make for a nice hike. read more
1 year ago
not dog friendly! yes you can bring leashed dogs, but the 'trail' is basically all rocks, gravel and boulders. If your dogs aren't used to walking in these conditions, leave them at home or take a different better groomed hike. also the graffiti is out of control. the trailhead isn't marked and it looks like you have to go onto private property to access the trailhead. read more
3 years ago
There is plenty of parking space within the road. The hike will depend how far you park. I parked closer towards the gps. Lytle Creek, CA 92358 United States What to expect: Some parking spaces on the street Bring good hiking shoes Bring some water Bring some mosquito repellent Bring sun screen Bring extra clothes if you expect to jump or get wet in the waterfalls Plenty of rocks. Beautiful scenery The hike will depend on the route you take, it can take up to 1.7 miles there and back or you can park where I parked at. The route I took was about 3 miles there and back. If you like what you see, please like and follow. We will be posting hiking adventures to waterfalls. read more
tl,dr: Beautiful waterfall! Crowded spot even at 10am. Dirty trail. I expected better. Tips: Parking coords: 6GM5+W6M Scotland, California (or 34.23485,-117.49194) Trailhead coords: 6GP3+M8V Scotland, California (or 34.23674,-117.49669) ^Enter them into G Maps. . Watch the YT hiking guides first. . GET A PARKING PASS. No joke. . Wear crocs for wading through the creek and frolicking at the waterfall. But also wear moisture-wicking socks throughout the hike. . If you plan to use G Maps, start navigation BEFORE arriving here. Cuz you won't get any signal to do so once you're here. Likes: + Invigorating cold waterfall on a hot Labor Day! + There are police and firefighters monitoring the road, so help is always near. + Still a nice short beginner-friendly hike. + There are graffiti arrows on the rocks pointing the way. + Plenty of shade 80% of the hike. Still need sunblock and ice water! Non-likes: - For a tedious $5 day parking pass, I expect all graffiti to be cleaned up, all trash gone, and porta-potties to have hand sanitizers, a thoroughly marked hiking trail, and no notorious vandalism or theft, and a spacious sidewalk to walk from where you parked your car to the trailhead. I mean there are free hikes with lots of these flaws covered. - People need to tone it down with the pompous musica noise pollution. - Lots of vandalism and theft mentioned about Bonita Trail on the AllTrails website. - Lot of rocks. Don't roll your ankles! - No service at all. Couldn't use Internet, text, or use GPS. yikes. read more
3 years ago
The waterfall is nice once you get up there! There are a ton of rocks at the beginning of this hike so just be prepared for how rocky it is. There aren't very many signs so it can be difficult to figure out the route of the trail if it is your first time here. It is a beautiful hike though! read more
3 years ago
I was pleasantly surprised when I arrived to this trail. It was a lot closer to get to than I thought making it a great local hike. I went on a weekday morning and the parking was available and easy to pay for thru the cell phone app. The trails are all very well maintained and clean. I did NOT to see a ton of graffiti. There was some but not enough to notice too much. This hike is a combination of river rock paths and flat paths so I will be investing in some hiking boots since I like to jog and walk. The greenery and flowers combined with the calming sounds of flowing water are amazing. I will definitely be coming back. read more
6 years ago
Ahhhh! We loved this one. Everyone talks about a pass or a ticket you buy at the gas station and umm we didn't bought no ticket and we were just fine, maybe we were lucky .. don't know. A tip though, don't go to far into the drive, park as soon as you find a spot and just walk. You have to walk around 15 minutes before finding the rocks. The road to the waterfall it's all rocks of different sizes so make sure to take the right shoes. The walk to the waterfall it's approximately 30-35 minutes. When you're close to the waterfall you will know because the road it's inclined. The waterfall it's stunning, although the water it's super super cold but it's fun to go in and you obvi get your shoes wet. It was fun! Definitely would go back . ! read more
2 years ago
The hike was pretty easy and the waterfall was so beautiful. The water was very cold but refreshing. read more
parking: you will see a row of cars parked on the left side w dumpsters and porta potties. most people walked up and crossed the creek near the parking lot/bridge and NOT at South Fork. Though there is a good amount of water flowing, we were able to hike to the waterfall barely getting wet. you do walk on lots of rocks and there are a few short moderate steep uphills. There is a great deal of graffiti. For more socal adventures: @grace.loves.adventures read more
3 years ago
Great easy short hike. No real trail, alot of videos showing the way on youtube. Waterfall was nice. Way too much graffiti along path. read more
3 years ago
Beautiful. It's worth the hike. It's a bit crowded on the weekends. Perfect escape from reality. read more
4 years ago
Beautiful place just make sure you don't go during the summer But over all the water was so fresh read more
1 year ago
2 years ago
6 years ago
FUN HIKE! Tons of spots for photo opportunities! If you're worried about being around large crowds, this may not be the hike for you to do, especially right now during COVID. We got there around 11am and we barely got a parking spot on the street. Not sure what people have been mentioning about day passes, but we literally just parked along the street for free, and we were fine. This is a very easy hike imo. The hardest part is actually getting to the very top of the waterfall- the most congested part of this hike ofc. Everyone wants to take photos in front of and/or in the waterfall! I did! The most annoying part of this hike was that there weren't any signs pointing us to where the trail began and where the waterfall would be. I had to ask a random camper for directions! For a walkthrough of the trail, check out my vlog on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Zpqxczw9Vs&t=35s read more
3 years ago
Beautiful place to go hiking . You will find a lot of water running down at Bonita Falls right now. 1.5 miles out-and-back trail. read more
6 years ago
Great for Family Hikes! Wasn't a difficult hike to reach to the falls. Make sure to not leave trash behind to keep the place beautiful! Tips: -Make sure to get your Adventure Pass on either AM PM or the Chevron Gas Station by the 15 freeway to avoid parking tickets! I much rather pay the $5 bucks. read more
6 years ago
4 years ago
Not a bad hike! It's about a mile or so. Make sure to watch out for glass! Parking at the campsite or along the street is pretty easy to find...then follow the arrows to Bonita falls! read more
6 years ago
The trail was open! There wasn't alot of ppl on the trail, which made it enjoyable. We parked on the side of the road and walked down to the stream that we had to cross to get to the other side (where the trail begins). The terrain is rocky and very uneven. Since we were traveling rather at a quick speed, it was challenging. The trail is lined with graffiti on the rocks. Stay to your left and climb. There's plenty of shade along the trail. Trail is about 1.5 miles round trip, but it's worth it once you reach the waterfall. It's tranquil and beautiful. read more
Adventure time hiking through flowing water and rocky terrain. Cool spot to hike with the family or anyone who's company makes you happy. Fun for all ages! Nice hike with many beautiful photo opportunities. Waterfalls are absolutely worth the hike. Great times.... read more
3 years ago
This is a fairly easy hike, but there is a lot of uneven ground. You'll be hiking across a lot of rocks so don't expect level trails. The first part of the hike includes crossing through a river by scaling fallen tree trunks and large rocks. The water is fairly shallow, but if you're going during this cold season chances are that you're not going to want to walk straight through the water. All in all, that is about the most difficult part of the hike. If you can, go with someone who has hiked the trail before. Especially, if you are attempting to find the waterfall. I was feeling a little under the weather so I stopped halfway. The person leading the group (the only other person to complete the hike before) stayed with me, while the rest of the group followed the graffiti to what they thought was the waterfall. The waterfall is huge, so if you find a small underwhelming waterfall, it is not the right one. Also, try your best to make it out before sunset. Finding your way back, and through the river can be a little difficult in the dark. read more
4 years ago
Follow the arrows on the rocks and it'll lead you right to the correct path. Such a pretty place but the way there is definitely rocky. Literally. read more
5 years ago
Went with the family on this hike including our kids. I didn't know the trail was not a trail and not stroller friendly. During the hike you actually have a bit of an adventure which the kids loved. Only thing if you don't have hiking shoes the rockets can be a bit painful after a while. We made it to the top where the waterfall was. Straight up though props to my husband who ended up caring our 2 year old daughter the whole way. Will definitely do this again !! Beautiful, peaceful , worth every second. What a way to start your day read more
5 years ago
4 years ago
i've gone on this hike two times so far and it's been amazing. I'm not much of a hiking girl so I get really tired and I have a hard time going up the hills mostly but this one isn't so hard it only gets a little bit tough towards the end. of course it might be a lot tougher for some people but it is so worth it in the end . the waterfall is absolutely beautiful and it's just a different feeling to be there versus just seeing it in photos or videos. to smell it, to feel it, to actually go into the waterfall, it is invigorating! it is an experience that I believe everyone needs to experience at least once. of course this isn't the only or best waterfall in Los Angeles but it is very accessible since it's only about 1.5 hrs out and only about a 30 minute hike read more
7 years ago
Fairly easy hike! Only concern is that there is a lot of rocks and uneven/unstable walk ways for most of the trek. The waterfall is beautiful. The hike is about 2 miles round trip, it does not loop. Look for sign HIDDEN ACRES on the left. Pass the sign and a parking lot will appear on the left hand side as well. Purchase an ADVENTURE PASS for $5 at the gas station to avoid getting a ticket. read more
7 years ago
Bonita falls is a very fun and fairly easy hike! Took the whole fam including two 5 year olds and a 7 year old. We all had a blast. Note that you do have to cross the river, it was hard to find a dry way across, so we resulted in walking through it, shoes and all. If you are coming with children, please be careful to choose the shallowest part of the river to cross. I did not like to see all the trash left behind from other visitors, I won't dock a star for it because it's not the destinations fault. Oh and wear bug repellent, there are lots of bugs/mosquitos. When walking to the trail stay close to the mountain so you don't miss the entrance. I will post a picture of what the entrance looks like. There are no signs to guide you other then arrows marked on rocks. read more
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More info about Bonita Falls
Lytle Creek Rd
San Bernardino, CA 92401
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(909) 382-2851
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Ask the Community - Bonita Falls
If I park without an adventure pass do I get a ticket?
Yes, you will receive a Notice of Required Fee. You can purchase a Daily Adventure Pass at one of the local gas stations that you pass on the way there or at the Lytle Creek Watermelon Ranch or Melody's Place. %he cost is $5 per Daily Adventure Pass…
Is it dog friendly?
Yes, it is but you have to keep your dog on a leash at all times.
Do I need to buy an adventure pass if so where do I buy one?
No you don't, you only find a parking spot and dive right into it!
Hi! I was wondering if this trail was open? (': And do I have to make any reservations?
Hi! Trail it's open to public anytime, and no you don't need reservations, you just drive in , find a spot to park and then start your adventure:-)
Can we bring a grill of propane or charcoal?
The following will be effective on Tuesday, August 4, 2020, until winter conditions allow them to be lowered again: •Campfires are now prohibited at Yellow Post Sites and are…
Is this trail kids friendly? My kids are around 6-8 years old.
Yes, they should be able to manage. Keep in mind that it's currently open to the public & you need a Daily Adventure Pass ($5) but, Bonita Falls is NOT the Place to Be This Weekend!…
Do you need an adventure pass to visit this site ? If so, where do I buy one?
Yes, you do. You can purchase one at one of the gas stations, Watermelon Ranch or Melody's Place.
Is it toddler friendly? Would my toddler be able to hike this or need to be carried?
They would probably be able to hike some of it but if under 4 probably bring a carrier for sure
How long is the hike?
The trail is approximately 1.5 miles long and rated as moderate.
What's the biggest weight of trout, caught out of Lytle Creek?
None. There is no fishing in Lytle Creek. Please check out our River and Stream Fishing section of the San Bernardino National Forest website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/activity/sbnf/recreation/fishing/?recid=26225&actid=43
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