Chiquito Falls—named after former ranger Kenneth Munhall’s horse—was once a rewarding spot to catch a seasonal waterfall in action. In recent years, though, the falls have mostly dried up. What remains is a challenging 9-mile out-and-back trail that offers rugged beauty, opportunities for rock climbing, and frequent sightings of Great Basin Fence Lizards. Even without the flowing water, the hike is still well worth it—for the scenery, solitude, and serious workout.
The Chiquito Falls trail is located in the expansive Cleveland National Forest near Lake Elsinore. Near the road’s summit lies the Ortega Country Cottage Candy Store, where over the years sightseers have breathlessly burst in to report accidents and sightings from the highway. The trailhead picks up in a large parking lot across the street from the candy store.
There are several trailheads in the area, but the one to take is the San Juan Loop Trail, located in the northeast corner of the parking lot. This 9-mile out-and-back trek packs in nearly 3,000 feet of elevation gain and offers a two-for-one waterfall experience. Along the way, you’ll pass the picturesque San Juan Falls before reaching the peaceful setting of Chiquito Falls at the turnaround point.
The hike kicks off alongside the highway, leading you quickly to San Juan Falls—likely the only flowing waterfall you’ll encounter. The falls spill into a dramatic gorge just a short walk from the trailhead, making for a stunning start. From there, the trail descends steeply for about a mile, following the river through a shady stretch filled with chaparral, coastal oaks, and glimpses of the inland desert landscape.
Make sure to take enough water as most of this hike is in the direct sun.
Wander Woman 