Pacific Crest Trail - Kitchen Creek Falls
Pacific Crest Trail - Kitchen Creek PCT South to Kitchen Creek Falls
Elevation Gain |
750 |
Distance |
3.6 miles roundtrip |
Pets Allowed |
Yes |
Fees |
None |
Hike/Ride Time |
2 to 3 hours |
Difficulty |
Easy to Moderate |
Best Seasons |
Fall, Spring, Winter - Not recommended for Summer |
Location |
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Ranger District |
Descanso Ranger District - (619) 445-6235 |
This short and easy trail is a great start for beginners or those new to the PCT. With 3.6 miles and total elevation gain of 750, this trail is relatively flat with only moderate incline. Hiking south from the Kitchen Creek parking area, the trail takes travelers to the top of the falls for great views of the valley before descending down a social trail to the bottom. This trail is well-groomed and well marked, taking place almost entirely on maintained grounds unless heading down to the falls. If hikers are looking for a good camping spot, many prefer to setup camp at the bottom. Though this 3 mile round trip is marked as fairly easy, hiking during the summer months is not recommended as this are can get extremely hot. It is recommended that hikers bring enough water (roughly 2 to 3 liters per person) as heat-related rescues are common in this area and deaths have occurred.
For a list of other PCT hikes, please see our designated Pacific Crest Trail page. For a list of other hikes in your area, please see our Recreation Trail Guide.
Link to Map: https://goo.gl/maps/H7sQheioK7n
At a Glance
Current Conditions: | This year's storms have increased water flow in streams, causing water levels to rise with faster-moving currents. Use caution when crossing through or entering waterways. |
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Fees: | No Fee |
Operated By: | Forest Service |