I'll give this place a strong 3.75 to 4.0 stars. And when compared to all other locations in the…read morearea, 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!