3 Sisters Falls San Diego

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The 3 Sisters Falls San Diego was one hike that I had been wanting to do for quite some time. We finally had a free Saturday to put this hike into motion, but my husband was dealing with a back injury, and I was a bit worried about doing this hike with just my kids. Luckily, a friend and her boys were down to join us, so off we went.

A parking permit is not required for the 3 Sisters Falls hike

There are a couple of things you should know before you take off. First, there is a lot of mixed information about whether or not you need an Adventure Pass to park. Currently, in May 2026, it is not required even though many websites I saw said it was. Check with the US Forest Service website to verify this information before you go.

Second, the 3 sisters falls hike is downhill to the falls, but this 6-mile round-trip strenuous hike means the return is about 1,000 feet of climbing back up, so plan accordingly. The trail is steep, exposed, and has no shade, so this is not an easy hike. Early morning is best, and you should avoid the hottest part of the day. Skip this hike in summer because of the heat. Winter or right after rain is usually the best time to go, and spring can bring wildflowers along the trail. Bring at least 1 gallon of enough water per person and take time to rest, because heat stroke is a real risk if you do not stay hydrated.

Finally, even though I saw posts that said there are porta-potties in the parking lot, there weren’t any when we were there, nor were there any along the trail or at the falls. Again, plan accordingly.

The Road to the Trailhead

The drive to the 3 sisters falls San Diego is very straightforward. I was worried the dirt road would be easy to miss, but the paved road literally just turns into dirt. You’re on this dirt section for the last eight miles of the drive. We made it to the parking lot around 10:15 on a Saturday morning. The lot was already full, but there is additional roadside parking just up the hill from the lot. Be sure not to park where the street markers say No Parking.

What to Expect

The Cha’chaany Hamuk Trailhead (newly renamed from 3 Sisters Falls trailhead) sits in Cleveland National Forest in San Diego County, Southern California. The hike starts at the back of the parking lot. Once you’re on the trail, it’s very straightforward. There’s a sign at the junction that points you to the falls about a quarter mile in, and you’ll turn left there. Not long after, you’ll begin hearing water (assuming the falls are flowing when you visit), and then you’ll turn a corner and have an amazing view of the 3 falls in the distance.

The canyon and mountain scenery around Boulder Creek and Sheep Camp Creek are beautiful. The kids were so excited when they saw the falls, and they couldn’t believe those were the falls we were hiking to.

The Waterfalls at Three Sisters Falls

When you arrive at the three sisters falls, you’re at the level of the middle pool. The middle pool and lower pool are easy to access. If you want to go up to the top fall, though, you’ll need to cross the second pool and traverse some granite rocks. As much as I wanted to, I knew this wouldn’t be the best idea to do with six kids, so we did not. But eventually, we will!

Note: there were multiple deaths at these falls this past year. Please, please use caution if you choose to visit. The terrain around Boulder Creek can be hazardous, especially if you jump. Deaths at the 3 sisters falls San Diego were caused by slipping and falling, as well as from jumping in and not ever coming back up.

We found a spot near the bottom pool and enjoyed our lunch while we relax there and take photos, watching people slide down the fall into the pool. The kids went partially into the water, but definitely noted that it was cold. If you plan to get in, bring a bathing suit and towel. It was a beautiful sunny day when we went, but was only about 64 degrees. Perfect hiking weather!

I was literally blown away that somewhere so beautiful is right here in San Diego. I feel like this hike is one I’d see in Hawaii or Yosemite.

The Hike Out

After spending about an hour at the falls, we decided we should start the trek back. I was prepared to take lots of breaks for the kids on the way back, but they were like energized bunnies, running ahead and somehow never slowing down. They do all play sports and they run at running club before school everyday, so they are active, but even still, they’re 7 and 9 year olds! I was beyond impressed.

Plan Ahead for the 3 Sisters Falls Hike in San Diego

We started this hike around 10:30am and we were back at the car by 1:30pm. The kids definitely could have played at the falls longer, but I knew we had the hike back plus the long drive home. We will most definitely be doing this hike again! My husband can’t wait to join us when his back is better.

If you are thinking of doing this hike, check out the Amazon store for my hiking essentials recommendations, including good hiking shoes with grips, high-SPF sunscreen for the sun, and high-calorie snacks like sandwiches or power bars. And if you’re going with kids, check out these kids boots and hiking gear

Looking for more good San Diego hikes? Check out:

• Kitchen Creek Falls Hike
• Cedar Creek falls Hike
• Mission Trails 5 Peak Challenge Hikes
• Kwaay Paay Peak Trail

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