Is swimming allowed at Maidenhair Falls?

No, swimming is not allowed at Maidenhair Falls.

Maidenhair Falls

Q: Are dogs allowed at Maidenhair Falls?

No, dogs are not allowed at Maidenhair Falls.

California

By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026

LiDAR & 3D terrain

Also For 2 other waterfalls also named Maidenhair Falls, see below

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park SP · SPR

Photo Credits (5)

RuggyBearLA CC BY 2.0 · Flickr

Chris Hunkeler CC BY-SA 2.0 · Flickr

RuggyBearLA CC BY 2.0 · Flickr

Difficulty

Moderate

Trail Length

6.0 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

Elevation Gain

900 ft

About Maidenhair Falls

Maidenhair Falls is a seasonal waterfall located in the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park in California. It is known for its lush greenery, including maidenhair ferns, which thrive in the oasis-like environment created by the waterfall. The falls are typically active after seasonal rains.

The Setting

Maidenhair Falls sits at 1,732 feet within Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, in the hills of California.

Trail & Hike Details

6.0 mi distance 900 ft climbed

The Approach

The moderate 6.0-mile out-and-back trail gains 900 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.

Trail Description

The trail to Maidenhair Falls begins at the Hellhole Canyon Trailhead and traverses a desert landscape with rocky terrain and sandy washes. As you approach the falls, the environment becomes greener, with palm trees and ferns marking the oasis. The trail involves some scrambling over rocks and boulders, especially near the waterfall.

What to Expect

Expect a moderately challenging hike with some rocky sections and potential scrambling near the falls. The waterfall is seasonal and may not flow during dry periods. The area around the falls is lush and shaded, providing a stark contrast to the surrounding desert.

Accessibility

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

Frequently Asked Questions

🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Maidenhair Falls?

❌ Dogs are not allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🤑 Fee: $10.00

🏊 Is There Swimming at Maidenhair Falls?

❌ Swimming is not allowed

When to Visit

spring fall winter

The best time to visit Maidenhair Falls is in the cooler months, typically from late fall to early spring, especially after seasonal rains when the waterfall is most likely to be flowing.

Seasonal Access

The best time to visit is Spring, Fall, and Winter.

Safety Information

Be prepared for desert conditions, including high temperatures and limited shade. Carry sufficient water and be aware of your surroundings to avoid getting lost. Watch for loose rocks and slippery surfaces near the falls.

Current Water Conditions

Updated about 3 hours ago

These readings come from the USGS gauge on Borrego Palm C, 3 miles away, not on Maidenhair Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.

6.15 ft

Water depth at gauge

About This Gauge

BORREGO PALM C NR BORREGO SPRINGS CA

USGS 10255810

3 miles from waterfall

Drainage: 22 sq mi

Altitude: 1,172 ft

7-Day Flow Outlook

Based on the USGS gauge BORREGO PALM C NR BORREGO SPRINGS CA (5 km away).

High confidence

Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early February to mid March, 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 Borrego Springs 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 243 feet of descent through Maidenhair Falls, a steep tiered drop rather than a single free fall. The brink sits at about 1,727 feet above sea level.

The whole reach is steep: about 321 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 164 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face southeast and catch soft morning light.

Aerial photo of the same ground around Maidenhair Falls near Borrego Springs, California, for comparison with the lidar view

LiDAR bare-earth terrain around Maidenhair Falls near Borrego Springs, California, showing about 243 feet of drop, a steep tiered drop, facing southeast

Aerial LiDAR bare earth

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

Ground elevation: 1,727 feet; Measured by 1-meter lidar
Drop at the falls: About 243 feet; Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
Faces: Southeast; Catches soft morning light.

Ground profile through the falls

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

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

Location & Access

Getting There

Maidenhair Falls is accessed via the Hellhole Canyon Trail in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. The trailhead is located near Borrego Springs, California, and can be reached by driving to the Hellhole Canyon parking area.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

Parking is available at the Hellhole Canyon Trailhead. It is recommended to arrive early, especially during peak seasons, as parking may be limited.

Elevation

1,732 feet above sea level

Coordinates

33.236834° N, -116.440846° W

Land Management

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park SP

Managed by SPR

Visitor Tips & Gear

Start your hike early to avoid the midday heat, especially in warmer months. Bring plenty of water, as the desert environment can be dehydrating. Wear sturdy hiking shoes for the rocky terrain, and consider bringing a map or GPS device as the trail may not always be well-marked.

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

With 6.0 miles and 900 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. 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.

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.

Kahtoola MICROspikes

Cult-favorite traction cleats that grip ice and wet rock — essential for winter waterfall hikes.

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

Indian Flats Campground

14.8 miles away · 0 sites

17 sites. Pacific Crest Trail Access. No Water. The nearest water can be found at the Warner Springs Gas Station. Indian Flats will be temporarily closed for Arroyo Toad protection during breeding season beginning April 1st through at least May 31st.

Book on Recreation.gov