Santa Paula Canyon Trailhead (Punchbowls) — Attraction in Santa Paula

Intermediate - advanced trail. Especially in the summer months, it is important to plan and do your research.

Parking lot is small, maybe 10 spots. More street parking up the road that may add some distance to your hike. Get here early (8 am or earlier to secure parking)

NO RESTROOMS. This is considered a wilderness area. Please practice LEAVE NO TRACE (pack in wipes, pack out ALL TRASH) Sad to see sections with human waste and trash. Even if you don’t think you will need to use the restroom, always bring a potty kit just in case anytime you’re in a wilderness area.

Dogs allowed on trail, but recommend hiking booties to protect their paws if they are not accustomed to walking far and on rough terrain. Terrain ranges from sharp pebbles to hot gravel in the hot summer season. I saw many people carrying their dogs.

Depending on how far down the trail you go, your hike can either be 6-10 miles round trip. The hike to the first pools is about 3 miles in, go father and you will get to more pools. It is not easy mileage. There are river crossings and rock scrambles and steep inclines, so it takes much longer than you think it will. There are large portions of the trail that has no shade, you will be in full sun the majority of the hike. Wear sun protection and take rest in any shade you can, you will need it.

The main waterfall and pool with the ropes to cliff jump and the rock slide is the farthest we went. It is about 5 miles in.

Bring plenty of water. I saw people with no packs or maybe 1 water bottle. This is not enough. You will be hiking at least 4 hours in 80+ degrees. My husband and I brought 2 liter camelbak water packs and almost drank it all. Or at least bring a sawyer filter to use the River water for continued drinking water access.

This trail is pretty intermediate- advanced. There are pretty sketchy river crossings and rock scrambles. The trail past the first pools is overgrown and doesn’t have trail markings.

It seems like people take this hike from social media recommendations but don’t realize the difficulty, we walked past a group caring for a woman who I’m pretty sure was suffering from heat exhaustion.

Go early (8 am or earlier), take your time, and pack in food, plenty of water, and a waste kit (LEAVE NO TRACE)

For people ready for this hike, this was a fun one, and the pools are beautiful and well worth the trek. Have fun,...

This terrain hiking spot is certainly not for the faint-hearted. The trail starts with numerous river crossings, which can be challenging even before the actual hike begins. It's worth mentioning that the path crosses private property, and you'll need to hike for at least a mile to reach the first actual trail. The terrain is uneven, and the trail's condition has deteriorated over time. There is no shade and you're under the blazing hot sun so wear coverings and apply plenty of sunscreen. Despite the presence of diamond land markers, the addition of arrows and colored diamonds by others can be confusing and lead to following unintended trails. For experienced hikers with appropriate gear and knowledge of the area, the first swimming hole offers a refreshing reward. However, the hike back can be just as tough. The lack of clear landmarks and scenic views makes it a bit disappointing, as you'll mostly be focused on navigating the rough terrain. If you're an advanced hiker, have proper hiking shoes, and know the path well, this hike might be worth considering. But if you're unfamiliar with the area or not well-prepared, it's best to avoid it. Families with kids should also exercise caution, as the trail can be demanding and challenging to follow. The hike took over 2 hours to reach and over 2 hours to make back safely. No parking fee, people took their dogs and kids but I don't recommend (I didn't see dogs and kids make it all the way up to the punch bowls), no restrooms, no birds, be weary of rattlesnakes and...

I loved the diversity offered in this hike. The trailhead appears to have been moved a few times based on signs in the area and parking is free and abundant roadside. Going up the trail keep an eye out for arrows along the rocks which help direct you where to go. Here you will find 3 separate waterfalls with the last (3rd) being the hardest and most dangerous to get to. Plan for a hot day under the sun but the stream is nice to cool off in. There are so many types of plant life in the area it was like going through a jungle then palm trees would pop up and then a desert area portion of the trail.

Unfortunately we didn't make it all the way cuz we traveled too late in the day and have a kid with us but this trail is definitely kid friendly and wilderness approved. It was a great...