Are there fees or permits required for Hidden Heart Falls?

No, there are no fees required to visit Hidden Heart Falls.

Is swimming allowed at Hidden Heart Falls?

No, swimming is not allowed at Hidden Heart Falls.

Live Conditions · 0 ft³/s · Higher than usual

Hidden Heart Falls

Q: Are dogs allowed at Hidden Heart Falls?

No, dogs are not allowed at Hidden Heart Falls.

California

By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026

LiDAR & 3D terrain

San Bernardino National Forest NF · US Forest Service

Photo Credits (5)

John William Hammond CC BY-SA 2.0 · Flickr

ww_whist CC BY-NC-SA 2.0 · Flickr

Art4TheGlryOfGod by Sharon CC BY-ND 2.0 · Flickr

Harold Litwiler, Poppy CC BY-ND 2.0 · Flickr

M 3311610 sw 11 060 20220506.tif Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

Difficulty

Moderate

Trail Length

2.0 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

Elevation Gain

300 ft

About Hidden Heart Falls

Hidden Heart Falls is a quiet, lesser-known cascade tucked into the trees of the San Bernardino National Forest, managed by the U.S. Forest Service. The falls sit amid lush vegetation and offer a peaceful, photogenic setting for hikers and nature lovers seeking solitude away from busier park attractions. Because it’s on USFS land, the spot retains a backcountry feel that rewards those who take the short trek. Access to Hidden Heart Falls is most commonly via a moderate out-and-back hike of about 2.0 miles with roughly 300 feet of elevation gain, so it’s a great half-day option for day hikers with some experience. For campers, Boulder Basin campground lies about 9.27 km (roughly 5.8 miles) away, making overnight trips possible for those who want to explore the area over multiple days.

The Setting

Hidden Heart Falls sits at 2,267 feet within San Bernardino National Forest, in the hills of California.

Trail & Hike Details

2.0 mi distance 300 ft climbed

The Approach

The moderate 2.0-mile out-and-back trail gains 300 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.

Trail Description

The trail to Hidden Heart Falls is an approximately 2.0-mile out-and-back route on USFS-managed land in San Bernardino National Forest. Expect about 300 feet of cumulative elevation gain and a moderate difficulty rating; the tread winds through forested sections and includes occasional rocky or uneven stretches, so sturdy footwear is recommended. The route is suitable for hikers with some experience and rewards with a secluded waterfall destination—plan for a half-day outing and consider nearby Boulder Basin campground (≈9.27 km away) if you want to camp nearby.

What to Expect

Visitors can expect a tranquil waterfall surrounded by greenery. The area is relatively secluded, providing a peaceful atmosphere. The trail may have some muddy or slippery sections, especially after rainfall.

Accessibility

The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.

Frequently Asked Questions

🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Hidden Heart Falls?

❌ Dogs are not allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🆖 No fees required

🏊 Is There Swimming at Hidden Heart Falls?

❌ Swimming is not allowed

When to Visit

spring summer fall

Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the waterfall flow is typically strongest during these seasons due to snowmelt and rainfall.

Seasonal Access

The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with San Bernardino National Forest for seasonal road closures.

Safety Information

Visitors should be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall and along the trail, especially after rain. Carry a map or GPS device, as cell service may be limited in the area.

Current Water Conditions

Updated 16 minutes ago Strong

0 ft³/s

Current discharge — how much water is flowing

Higher than usual for this time of year

Very Low Low Normal High Very High

Based on 100 years of record

2.72 ft

Water depth at gauge

7-Day Discharge Trend

What does this mean for your visit?

The water is flowing higher than usual for this time of year.

About This Gauge

SAN JACINTO R NR SAN JACINTO

USGS 11069500

3.2 miles from waterfall

Drainage: 142 sq mi

Altitude: 1,925 ft

7-Day Flow Outlook

Based on the USGS gauge SAN JACINTO R NR SAN JACINTO (5 km away).

High confidence

Low right now

0 cfs

↓ Falling

Today

Low

0 cfs

5/10

Tomorrow

Low

0 cfs

6/10

Tue

Low

0 cfs

6/10

Wed

Low

0 cfs

6/10

Thu

Low

0 cfs

6/10

Fri

Low

0 cfs

6/10

Sat

Low

0 cfs

6/10

Best window: Tomorrow — low flow, sunny (trip score 6/10).

Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early March to mid 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 Valle Vista 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 Hidden Heart Falls dropping about 326 feet in a single sheer step. The brink sits at about 2,269 feet above sea level.

The whole reach is steep: about 242 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 97 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face south and sit in full sun for most of the day, best photographed early or late.

Aerial photo of the same ground around Hidden Heart Falls near Valle Vista, California, for comparison with the lidar view

LiDAR bare-earth terrain around Hidden Heart Falls near Valle Vista, California, showing about 326 feet of drop, a single sheer drop, facing south

Aerial LiDAR bare earth

Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.

Ground elevation: 2,269 feet; Measured by 1-meter lidar
Drop at the falls: About 326 feet; Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
Faces: South; Sunlit most of the day. Go early or late for softer light.

Ground profile through the falls

A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading south).

Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.

Location & Access

Getting There

The exact location of Hidden Heart Falls is not widely publicized, but it is typically accessed via a trail in a forested area. Visitors should consult local hiking resources or guides for precise directions.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

Parking availability may vary depending on the trailhead used to access the falls. It is recommended to arrive early, especially during weekends or peak seasons, to secure a spot.

Elevation

2,267 feet above sea level

Coordinates

33.784426° N, -116.840627° W

Land Management

San Bernardino National Forest NF

Managed by USFS

Visitor Tips & Gear

Wear sturdy hiking shoes, bring plenty of water, and consider using trekking poles for added stability. Check weather conditions before heading out, as the trail can become slippery after rain. Arrive early to avoid crowds and secure parking.

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With 2.0 miles and 300 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.

Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)

Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.

Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket

Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.

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.

Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof

Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.

TrailBuddy Trekking Poles

Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.

Where to Stay

Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby

Glamping Hipcamp

Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses

RV Rentals Outdoorsy

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

BOULDER BASIN

5.8 miles away · 37 sites

Reservable

Overview Black Mountain Road is is poor condition at this time. A four-wheel drive (4WD) vehicle is recommended with a minimum ground clearance of 6 inches. Drive at your own risk. The San Bernardino National Forest is submitting a proposal to increase fees at various sites across the Forest and is seeking public input. Please visit the https://www.fs.usda.gov/sbnf for more information and to submit comments regarding this proposal.Boulder Basin Campground offers solitude and primitive camping in

Book on Recreation.gov