Upper Zuma Falls: The Secret Shortcut

Ocean views, a wooded path and three waterfalls along a winding creek make Upper Zuma Falls a beautiful destination any time of year but especially now, after a rainy spring and before the debilitating triple digit temperatures arrive.

To get there, one has to journey the Backbone Trail, which traverses hundreds of miles through the Santa Monica Mountains, leading outdoor revelers up crests and into the secrets nestled within its sun-scorched Chaparral skin.

Even well-traveled hikers may be surprised at the waterfalls just a few miles from the entrance to the trail system nearby the T-1 tunnel on Kanan-Dume Road. From the 101 Freeway, take Kanan-Dume Road toward the ocean and in less than two miles past Mulholland Highway, turn left into the parking lot just before the third tunnel—T-1.

A flowing creek, multiple drops and boulders presenting an enjoyable obstacle course make this spot a fun destination for family members who are able to undertake the five-mile, two-and-a-half-hour round trip down to the falls and back. Pack a picnic or at least a camera and enjoy the journey.

The way down is easy-going and starts off out of the sun on a packed-dirt path shrouded in the shadows of a canopy of foliage that keeps the temperatures nice and cool.

Even in the sun amidst the changing flora, which includes the more desert-native plants like sage and “cowboy cologne”—both emitting their pleasant aromas into the breeze—the surrounding greenery of the area has a distinctly tropical feel.

On hotter days it would be wise to bring a hat, sunglasses and plenty of water. Winding down into the gorge, the sound of falling water becomes apparent beckoning one to come closer to the source.

A half-mile into the hike, take a left at the fork to descend down to the creek and the base of a 20-foot waterfall. The Backbone Trail continues to the right, so you will have to retrace your steps after visiting the falls.  

Moving down the trail, look for a second split heading to the left after a rocky area shaded by a large oak. At the bottom of the hill, take a left again and be careful while scrambling over the wet rocks. Once near the creek, take time to explore the 20-foot waterfall.

To get to the top of the falls, follow the creek and scramble past the moss-covered boulders and a dazzling display of yellow, pink and orange flowers. Watch your step because this part of the journey does get treacherous.

Follow the creek until the final drop into the canyon gorge, the last and largest waterfall of the journey.

Enjoy the view from on top of the Upper Zuma Falls before retracing your steps back to the trail to continue on the Backbone Trail or back to the parking lot.