The North Etiwanda Preserve was established as a multi-species habitat conservation plan area to protect the endangered Riverside fairy shrimp.
The trail follows the historical path of the Etiwanda-Lytle Creek line, an old water conveyance system.
The preserve is part of a larger regional effort to maintain a biological corridor between the San Gabriel Mountains and the valley floor.
The trail elevation gain is approximately 800 feet from the trailhead to the waterfall.
The area is prone to high Santa Ana winds, which frequently result in temporary trail closures for public safety.
The waterfall is fed by runoff from the San Gabriel Mountains and may slow to a trickle during prolonged dry summer months.
Etiwanda Falls Trailhead serves as the primary entry point to a 3.4-mile round-trip hike leading to a seasonal waterfall in the North Etiwanda Preserve. The trail is a wide, gravel-surfaced fire road that climbs gradually through a rugged canyon landscape. The terrain features coastal sage scrub and chaparral ecosystems characteristic of the southern slopes of the San Gabriel Mountains. Visitors encounter geological formations and potential sightings of local wildlife, including lizards, birds of prey, and occasional deer. The path terminates at a multi-tiered waterfall that flows most consistently following winter rains. The trail is fully exposed to the sun with no canopy cover for the majority of the route. It is located at the northern terminus of Etiwanda Avenue in the foothills of Rancho Cucamonga.
The rock outcropping directly overlooking the main cascade at the top of the trail.
Carry at least two liters of water per person as there are no water stations or shade on the trail.
Check the official preserve website or social media channels for high-wind alerts before departing, as these cause immediate trail closures.
Wear sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat because the entire path is fully exposed to direct sunlight.
Attempting the hike during high-wind warnings or the heat of mid-summer days.
The trail is frequently closed during high-wind events; check local preserve status before arrival.
Stay on marked trails to protect sensitive habitat; dogs must be kept on a leash at all times; pack out all trash.
