Waterfall Hikes Near San Jose, CA
within 50 miles
San Jose sits on the floor of the Santa Clara Valley where the urban plain gives way to the Santa Cruz Mountains and Diablo Range, producing a mix of rolling foothills, redwood canyons, steep ravines and sun‑exposed ridgelines. Nearby waterfall hikes are predominantly moderate and feature shaded, often second‑growth forest trails, short canyon scrambles and seasonal roadside cascades; the area is distinct for its close juxtaposition of coastal forest canyons and accessible ridge viewpoints.
Map of Waterfalls Near San Jose
Today's Conditions
Live data from USGS gauges & National Weather Service
Water Flow
15 waterfalls near San Jose have live flow data today
Updated about 1 hour ago via USGS
Best Day to Hike
Thursday
Sunny · 80°F
Find waterfalls to hike near San Jose
Have your own travel site? Embed these waterfalls for free.
🚗 Easy Waterfall Hikes Near San Jose (2 waterfalls)
Easy access waterfalls are drive-up or short-walk friendly. Perfect for families, casual visitors, or anyone who loves waterfalls but is "so-so" about hiking.
🐕 Dog-Friendly Waterfall Hikes Around San Jose (5 waterfalls)
Bring your four-legged friend along! These waterfalls welcome dogs on their trails.
All 15 Waterfalls Near San Jose
Frequently Asked Questions About Waterfalls Near San Jose
Are there free waterfalls near San Jose?
There are 4 free waterfalls near San Jose, including Golden Falls.
Are there easy waterfall hikes near San Jose?
There are 2 easy waterfall hikes near San Jose, including Castle Rock Falls.
Are there dog friendly waterfalls in San Jose?
There are 5 dog-friendly waterfalls near San Jose, including Golden Falls.
Are there kid-friendly waterfalls near San Jose?
There are 8 kid-friendly waterfalls near San Jose, including Berry Creek Falls.
What is the shortest waterfall hike near San Jose?
The shortest waterfall hike near San Jose is Basin Falls at 1.2 miles round trip.
How tall are the waterfalls near San Jose?
The tallest waterfall near San Jose is Castle Rock Falls at 80 feet.
Do any waterfalls near San Jose require permits?
Yes, 1 waterfall near San Jose requires a permit. Check individual trail pages for current permit details.
Can I camp near the waterfalls around San Jose?
Yes, 2 waterfalls near San Jose have nearby campgrounds.
What is the closest waterfall to San Jose?
The closest waterfall to San Jose is Basin Falls, approximately 12.6 miles away.
Pin This Guide
Save this San Jose waterfall guide to your Pinterest board for your next adventure.
Pin It🏙️ Other Cities Near San Jose With Waterfalls
Nearby Hot Springs
Hot springs near San Jose, California
Mineral Springs
Mineral Springs flows at 84°F near East Foothills in the Santa Clara Valley foothills, creating a modest 25-degree temperature ...
Alameda Warm Springs
Alameda Warm Springs flows at 80°F (27°C) in Mission Peak Regional Preserve near Milpitas, a modest thermal seep just 20 degree...
Crohare Spring
Crohare Spring emerges at 70°F from protected conservation lands near Livermore, flowing barely 9 degrees above ambient tempera...
Gilroy Hot Springs
Gilroy Hot Springs flows at 106 degrees Fahrenheit within Henry W. Coe State Park, a California Historical Landmark and Nationa...
Salt Grass Springs
Salt Grass Springs emerges at 73°F in the rolling foothills of Stanislaus County near Patterson, providing modest thermal warmt...
Sargent Estate Warm Spring
Sargent Estate Warm Spring flows at 77°F in the hills east of Gilroy in the Diablo Range. The modest 19-degree temperature rise...
Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near San Jose, California on SoakingSprings.
Explore California springsWhere to Stay
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.