LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Tehan Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainAbout Tehan Falls
Tehan Falls is a tucked-away waterfall set within Pleasanton Ridge Regional Park, offering a quiet reward for hikers who explore this lesser-known corner of the park. Managed by the regional parks unit (REG), the falls sit amid the park’s rolling hills and oak-studded ridgelines, giving visitors a peaceful spot to pause and enjoy the surroundings. Specifics like the waterfall’s exact height aren’t well documented, which adds to its off-the-beaten-path appeal. The approach to Tehan Falls feels more like a pleasant park ramble than a strenuous outing, making it a good choice for hikers seeking a moderate, scenic escape rather than a technical climb. Because the site is inside Pleasanton Ridge Regional Park, expect trail signage and stewardship consistent with park management rather than federal forest service markings.
The Setting
Tehan Falls sits at 860 feet within Pleasanton Ridge Regional Park, in the foothills of California.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Trail to Tehan Falls: a moderate 2.4-mile out-and-back managed within Pleasanton Ridge Regional Park (REG). The route gains about 350 feet in elevation and is commonly described as moderate in difficulty, suitable for most hikers with basic fitness. Trail type: out-and-back, length: 2.4 miles, elevation gain: ~350 ft, difficulty: moderate. No USFS trail name or number was provided in the available data, and specific USFS surface/grade/class information is not available for this route. Hikers should be prepared for typical park trails—well-marked paths and dirt surfaces—and check Pleasanton Ridge Regional Park resources before heading out for current trail conditions.
What to Expect
Tehan Falls offers a peaceful and natural setting. Visitors may encounter a quiet, less crowded experience, but should be prepared for limited amenities and unclear trail conditions.
Accessibility
Accessibility information for Tehan Falls is not available. The trail may not be suitable for individuals with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Tehan Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Tehan Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer may be the best times to visit, as water flow is typically higher during these seasons.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
Safety Information
Trail conditions may be unmarked or rugged. Visitors should exercise caution, especially during wet or slippery conditions. Always inform someone of your plans before visiting remote areas.
Current Water Conditions
5 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 3 years of record
5.15 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 ARROYO DE LA LAGUNA A CORTE MADRID NR PLEASANTON (3 km away).
Today
Low
5 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Low
4 cfs
6/10Mon
Low
4 cfs
6/10Tue
Low
3 cfs
6/10Wed
Low
4 cfs
6/10Thu
Low
5 cfs
6/10Fri
Low
4 cfs
6/10Best window: Today — low flow, sunny (trip score 6/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late February to mid March, 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 Pleasanton 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 286 feet of descent through Tehan Falls, a steep tiered drop rather than a single free fall. The brink sits at about 866 feet above sea level.
The whole reach is steep: about 90 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 163 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face northeast and stay mostly shaded, with soft, even light all day.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 866 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 286 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northeast
- Mostly shaded, so the light stays soft and even all day.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading northeast).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
The exact directions to Tehan Falls are not widely documented. Visitors are advised to research local maps or consult with nearby park services for guidance.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability near Tehan Falls is unclear. Visitors should prepare for limited or informal parking options.
Elevation
860 feet above sea level
Coordinates
37.673264° N, -121.939959° W
Land Management
Managed by REG
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring a detailed map or GPS device as trail markings may be sparse. Wear sturdy footwear and carry sufficient water.
Where to Stay
Four Points by Sheraton Pleasanton
Residence Inn Pleasanton
Best Western Plus Pleasanton Inn
La Quinta by Wyndham Dublin - Pleasanton
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.
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Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions are not well-documented. Visitors may explore other natural areas in the region.
Wildlife
The area may host typical California wildlife, including birds, small mammals, and insects. Be cautious of potential encounters with snakes or other wildlife.
Cities near Tehan Falls
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