Andreas Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.6 miles
Trail Type
Loop
Elevation Gain
100 ft
About Andreas Falls
Andreas Falls is a small, picturesque cascade tucked into Andreas Canyon in the Indian Canyons area near Palm Springs. The short approach drops you into a surprising desert oasis of California fan palms, rippling water, and sculpted rock walls—a cool, photogenic pocket of greenery set against the Sonoran/Colorado Desert backdrop. The site and trail are managed by the U.S. Forest Service within the San Bernardino National Forest, making it a pleasant, accessible example of the Forest Service’s low-elevation recreation in Southern California. The hike to the falls is an easy outing ideal for families, photographers, or anyone looking for a quick nature escape from Palm Springs. If you want to extend your trip, camping is available within about 9.0 km at the San Jacinto - Santa Rosa Mountains Recreation Area, offering a convenient base for exploring nearby canyons and trails managed by the USFS.
The Setting
Andreas Falls sits at 4,669 feet within San Bernardino National Forest, in the mountains of California.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 1.6-mile loop trail gains 100 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
This USFS-managed route is an easy 1.6-mile loop with roughly 100 feet of elevation gain, making it suitable for most ability levels and casual hikers. The loop follows the canyon bottom past stands of California fan palms and the intermittent stream that feeds the falls; the short distance and modest grade keep the outing relaxed and family-friendly. (Trail type: loop; length: 1.6 miles; elevation gain: ~100 ft; difficulty: easy.)
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a serene and scenic hike with plenty of opportunities for photography and relaxation. The area is rich in natural beauty, with a mix of desert and oasis landscapes. The waterfall may have reduced flow during the dry season.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Andreas Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $12.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Andreas Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit is during the cooler months of fall, winter, and early spring, as summer temperatures in the area can be extremely high.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter. Check with San Bernardino National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
Be prepared for high temperatures, especially in summer. Carry sufficient water and avoid hiking during the hottest parts of the day. Watch for slippery rocks near the waterfall.
Current Water Conditions
1 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 77 years of record
2.16 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge ANDREAS C NR PALM SPRINGS CA (6 km away).
Today
Moderate
1 cfs
8/10Tomorrow
Moderate
1 cfs
8/10Wed
Moderate
1 cfs
8/10Thu
Moderate
1 cfs
8/10Fri
Moderate
1 cfs
8/10Sat
Moderate
1 cfs
8/10Sun
Moderate
1 cfs
8/10Best window: Today — moderate flow, mostly sunny (trip score 8/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early January to late April, peaking in March.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Idyllwild-Pine Cove hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
1-meter lidar shows Andreas Falls dropping about 330 feet in a single sheer step. The brink sits at about 4,700 feet above sea level.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 167 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 181 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing east, the falls catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 4,700 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 330 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- East
- Catches soft morning light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading east).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Andreas Falls is located within the Indian Canyons, which is managed by the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. The entrance to Indian Canyons is accessible via South Palm Canyon Drive in Palm Springs. Follow signs to the Andreas Canyon parking area.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the Andreas Canyon trailhead, but it may require a fee as part of the Indian Canyons entrance fee.
Elevation
4,669 feet above sea level
Coordinates
33.758049° N, -116.617700° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially during weekends and peak seasons. Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat, as the desert environment can get very hot. Respect the natural environment and stay on designated trails.
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This easy 1.6 miles hike is straightforward — comfortable trail shoes and plenty of water should do. Icy conditions are common in winter — traction cleats are a smart addition.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Kahtoola MICROspikes
Cult-favorite traction cleats that grip ice and wet rock — essential for winter waterfall hikes.
JOBY GorillaPod Starter Kit
Wraps around railings and rocks for long-exposure waterfall shots — no flat surface needed.
Where to Stay
Hilton Vacation Club Palm Canyon Palm Springs
Villa Casa La Palmira
Fleur Noire Hotel - 21 and Over
The Dunes Hotel (Palm Springs)
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.
Nearby Campground
San Jacinto - Santa Rosa Mountains Recreation Area
5.6 miles away · 0 sites
Includes Idyllwild, Pine Cove, Garner Valley and San Jacinto and Santa Rosa Mountains.
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Nearby Attractions
Other areas within Indian Canyons, such as Palm Canyon and Murray Canyon, offer additional hiking opportunities and scenic views.
Wildlife
The area is home to various desert wildlife, including lizards, birds, and occasionally bighorn sheep. Be cautious of snakes, especially during warmer months.
Cities near Andreas Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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