Uploaded March 2023 | Updated September 2026, 1 week ago
Black Star Canyon Falls hike: local classic with creekside canyon scramble (challenging but doable) and a guide to reach the falls safely.
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Black Star Canyon Falls is a 7.8 mile out-and-back hike in Orange County with 1,100 feet of elevation gain. The route follows a fire road to the canyon, then turns into a technical creekside scramble over boulders and logs to reach the seasonal waterfall. This scramble section requires careful footwork and balance, especially when rocks are wet. The falls flow strongest after winter rains and typically dry up by late spring. No permit required, but parking is limited at the Hidden Ranch trailhead. Best hiked in cooler months when water is flowing and temps are manageable.
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*Disclaimer:*
Some of these links are affiliate links where I'll earn a small commission if you make a purchase at no additional cost to you. I only recommend gear I actually use and trust.
Black Star Canyon Falls hike: local classic with creekside canyon scramble (challenging but doable) and a guide to reach the falls safely.
*Gear I'm Using Now:*
* inReach: hkgy.co/inreach
* Hiking App: hkgy.co/app
* Watch: hkgy.co/watch
* Shoes: hkgy.co/shoes
* Pack: hkgy.co/backpack
* Rescue Insurance: hkgy.co/insurance
*Full Hiking Gear List (What I Use Now - Tested & Not Sponsored):*
hikingguy.com/gear
*More Hiking Content*
* Guide: hikingguy.com/hikes/black-star-canyon-falls
* Website: hikingguy.com
* Patreon: patreon.com/c/hikingguy
* Monthly Hiking News (free): patreon.com/c/hikingguy
* Subscribe: youtube.com/c/Hikingguy
Black Star Canyon Falls is a 7.8 mile out-and-back hike in Orange County with 1,100 feet of elevation gain. The route follows a fire road to the canyon, then turns into a technical creekside scramble over boulders and logs to reach the seasonal waterfall. This scramble section requires careful footwork and balance, especially when rocks are wet. The falls flow strongest after winter rains and typically dry up by late spring. No permit required, but parking is limited at the Hidden Ranch trailhead. Best hiked in cooler months when water is flowing and temps are manageable.
---
*Disclaimer:*
Some of these links are affiliate links where I'll earn a small commission if you make a purchase at no additional cost to you. I only recommend gear I actually use and trust.
