Big Falls

Big Falls

Location: Santa Lucia Wilderness, San Luis Obispo County, CA
Miles: 3 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 1.5 hours
Users: Hikers, dogs, and horses permitted. No mountain bikes. No wheelchair access.

Source: flickr

The Hike:

The head of the trail is found just off Highway 101 in the Arroyo Grande. There is a parking area located in the area of the road that comes to a dead end. To get to Big Falls you will take the trail located on the north side. You will need to hop across some rocks to cross Lopez Creek. The trail will then head north through a forest of sycamores and oaks. You will cross through Big Falls Creek several times along the way. 

Features:

Big Falls is located in the isolated area of the Santa Lucia Wilderness. The trail will turn left at which point you will cross a creek to get to a pool located at the bottom of the 40 ft. Lower Big Falls.

There is a rough path that leads up a hill side located on the right area of the falls. This path will lead to several rock pools. You will find wild rainbow trout and newts swimming in the pools along the way.

After you have finished exploring you can head back to the trail and continue up the stream. You will eventually meet up with the creek again.

Top 3 Adventure Hacks

1) Go on Spring

On a rainy season if you want to see actual waterfalls because not a lot of water in creeks and falls if you go in the summer or dry season.

2) Avoid poison oak!

Wear hiking pants that could protect you! Opt for something comfortable too.

3) Bring your dog

Your dog can accompany you to your hike. Nothing like a bonding moment for you two.