Are there fees or permits required for Linda Falls?

No, there are no fees required to visit Linda Falls.

Is swimming allowed at Linda Falls?

No, swimming is not allowed at Linda Falls.

Live Conditions · 0 ft³/s · About average

Linda Falls

Q: Are dogs allowed at Linda Falls?

Yes, dogs are allowed at Linda Falls.

California

By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026

LiDAR & 3D terrain

Linda Falls Preserve PCON · NGO

Photo Credits (5)

outdoorPDK CC BY-NC-SA 2.0 · Flickr

bato93 CC BY-SA 2.0 · Flickr

goingslo CC BY-NC-ND 2.0 · Flickr

BrianSmith.Photos CC BY-NC-ND 2.0 · Flickr

Difficulty

Easy

Trail Length

1.0 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

About Linda Falls

Linda Falls is a picturesque cascade tucked into the Napa Valley region of California, offering a peaceful spot for photographers and anyone looking for a quiet woodland escape. The falls sit within the Linda Falls Preserve, a PCON-designated land unit owned and managed by an NGO, and the setting feels intentionally protected and low-key — mature trees frame the water and create a cool, shaded approach. Reaching the viewing area requires a short, moderately paced hike: the out-and-back route covers about 2.4 miles round trip with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain. There are no developed campgrounds immediately adjacent to the preserve; the closest day-use area is Oak Shores Day Use Area, about 18 km away, so plan for a daytime visit and bring water and snacks for the trail.

The Setting

Linda Falls sits at 1,371 feet within Linda Falls Preserve, in the foothills of California.

Trail & Hike Details

Trail Description

Out-and-back, 2.4 miles round trip with about 350 feet of cumulative elevation gain; rated moderate. The trail follows a well-maintained dirt and forest-floor path through shaded woodlands with occasional moderate grades, making for a steady but accessible hike for most fit walkers. The route leads directly to a clear viewing area at the falls; footing can be natural and uneven in places, so sturdy shoes are recommended.

What to Expect

Dogs are welcome.

Accessibility

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

Frequently Asked Questions

🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Linda Falls?

✅ Dogs are allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🆖 No fees required

🏊 Is There Swimming at Linda Falls?

❌ Swimming is not allowed

When to Visit

spring fall

Spring is the best time to visit Linda Falls, as the water flow is strongest after the winter rains. Fall is also a good time to visit for cooler weather and fewer crowds.

Seasonal Access

The best time to visit is Spring and Fall. Winter access may be limited.

Safety Information

Be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall, especially after rain. Stay on designated trails to avoid damaging the environment and for your safety.

Current Water Conditions

Updated about 2 hours ago

0 ft³/s

Current discharge — how much water is flowing

About average for this time of year

Very Low Low Normal High Very High

Based on 84 years of record

0.47 ft

Water depth at gauge

What does this mean for your visit?

Flow is about average for this time of year.

About This Gauge

NAPA R NR ST HELENA CA

USGS 11456000

3.2 miles from waterfall

Drainage: 79 sq mi

Altitude: 191 ft

7-Day Flow Outlook

Based on the USGS gauge NAPA R NR ST HELENA CA (5 km away).

High confidence

Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early January to early April, peaking in February.

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 Angwin 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 measures about 163 feet of descent through Linda Falls, a steep tiered drop rather than a single free fall. The brink sits at about 1,388 feet above sea level.

Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 70 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 112 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing southwest, the falls sit in full sun for most of the day, best photographed early or late.

Aerial photo of the same ground around Linda Falls near Angwin, California, for comparison with the lidar view

LiDAR bare-earth terrain around Linda Falls near Angwin, California, showing about 163 feet of drop, a steep tiered drop, facing southwest

Aerial LiDAR bare earth

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

Ground elevation: 1,388 feet; Measured by 1-meter lidar
Drop at the falls: About 163 feet; Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
Faces: Southwest; 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 southwest).

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

Location & Access

Getting There

Linda Falls is located near Angwin, California, and is accessible via the Linda Falls Preserve, managed by the Land Trust of Napa County. The trailhead is located off Howell Mountain Road.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

Limited parking is available near the trailhead. Visitors are advised to arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a spot.

Elevation

1,371 feet above sea level

Coordinates

38.555739° N, -122.442292° W

Land Management

Linda Falls Preserve PCON

Managed by NGO

Visitor Tips & Gear

Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may be muddy after rain. Arrive early to avoid crowds and secure parking. Bring water and snacks, as there are no facilities nearby.

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

OAK SHORES DAY USE AREA (CA)

11.2 miles away · 6 sites

Reservable

Overview Nestled between Blue Ridge and Cedar Roughs east of Napa Valley, Lake Berryessa provides ample public recreation opportunities. Popular activities on and around the large, yet uncrowded lake include fishing, boating, water skiing, wake boarding, jet skiing, sailing, swimming, kayaking, canoeing, wildlife viewing, hiking, biking and picnicking. The Dufer Point Visitor Center offers year-round interpretive events and exhibits highlighting natural and cultural resources. Lake Berryessa is a

Book on Recreation.gov