Three Sisters Falls is a popular hike buried deep within Cleveland National Forest, just southwest of Julian. The unmaintained trail is steep and rugged, and provides a variety of obstacles and technical challenges for the adventure seeking hiker who’s not afraid of bumps and scratches. When the water is flowing, the Three Sisters Falls are spectacular and offer a refreshing spot to cool off before setting out for the difficult hike back out of the valley.
Note: Avoid Three Sisters Falls during summer and fall months. Rescues resulting from dehydration and heat exhaustion are common when the temperature rises above 80 degrees.
Three Sisters Falls trail info.
- Distance: 4.0 miles (round trip)
- Hiking time: 3 hours
- Type: Out and back
- Elevation gain: 1000’
- Difficulty: 7/10 (elevation gain, scrambling)
- Usage: Hiking, Backpacking, Dogs allowed
- When to go: Spring, Winter
- Permits Required: Adventure pass, Backcountry camping
- Agency: Cleaveland National Forest
Map & directions for Three Sisters Falls
- Directions to trailhead (via Google Maps)
More trails near Three Sisters Falls
Related posts
- Three Sisters Falls – A Beautiful Waterfall Destination Hike with a Meanstreak
- Three Sisters Falls Hike – A Springtime Reunion
Additional links & resources
- Article: HiddenSanDiego.net
- Article: SanDiegoReader.com
- Trail report: SunkissedHiker.com
Photos of Three Sisters Falls
Robb Keele
Robb is a native San Diegan and avid hiker, backpacker, picture taker and 52 Hike Challenger. He created Getgo Outdoors with the goal of giving back to the outdoor community and inspiring others to get outdoors.
Latest posts by Robb Keele (see all)
- John Muir Trail Day 5 – Past Donahue Pass to Red’s Meadow. 19.5 mile lake tour hike. - March 7, 2017
- John Muir Trail Day 4 – Tuolomne Meadows over Donahue Pass. 16.4 mile shakedown hike. - March 2, 2017
- John Muir Trail Day 3 – Sunrise Lakes to Tuolomne Meadows. 10.1 mile hike for hunger. - December 28, 2016