Santa Paula Punch Bowls — Attraction in Santa Paula

The only hike I look forward to because hikers are rewarded with a swim in the ice-cold refreshing waterfall at the top. A must-do bucket-list activity, especially if you live in So. Cal. Went on a Saturday alone, but ended up making new friends along the way. There were many people relaxing at the Punch Bowls when we arrived, which turned into a relaxing few hours of everybody cheering crazy flips, laughing, and basking in the refreshing Santa Paula sun. Apparently there are 3 Punch Bowls on the hike, but I barely made it to the 1st Punch Bowl, which is typically the busiest and most popular, since most people are satisfied with the hike and are ready to jump in the water. I started the hike at 10 AM, arrived to the 1st Punch Bowl around 12 Noon, relaxed for 2 hours and returned to car by 4 PM.

For families looking for a hike, this is a moderate level hike, but may not be preferred for small kids under 5. (And of course you can bring them along, but the pace of hike will be slower). On the hike, I passed a father who had his younger son on his shoulder (prbly b/c son was tired), but I slowed down to assist, b/c there were some parts on the hike where I assisted to lift his son over the boulders. There are a few rocks and boulders to climb and you will cross the river several times along the way while jumping on rocks or logs to stay dry.

IMPORTANT: Bring sufficient water and snacks to replenish energy. Wear good...

The path is primarily composed of rocks and boulders and you’re constantly having to cross through the water. We kept asking people how much further and even though 30 minutes had passed then 40 everyone kept saying about another hour and thirty minutes. It felt like an eternity. It was hot. You need to have at least a water backpack filled and snacks. Also, we ran into a rattlesnake. There’s so much moss in the water right now. It was not a fun or pleasant experience for me. It was exhausting at least 2.5 miles there and 2.5 back. Its an all day thing. Don’t go past 3pm because you may be caught in the dark coming back. I personally wouldn’t do it again. If you decide to go. Go with someone who knows the current trail. Stay to the right immediately entering the fence, cross right away to the right side, up that trail, and get on that path. If you stay on the left you will do much work climbing and walking through rocky terrain, tiring yourself out unnecessarily, and you’ll run into an oil spill. Good luck, tell someone where you’re going, and go with someone! Take really comfy shoes, one’s you can walk in even when they’re wet for long periods, or...

Beautiful hike with a tiny bit of shade so be sure to bring your hat and sunscreen. Bring clothes to swim and also water shoes, as you will be doing river crossings. Make sure to wear long pants unless you don’t mind walking next to bushes. You will also be waking through the river / river bed and will be going through a lot of rocks so pay attention not to fall or twist your ankle.There is a campsite before you get there called “Big Cone”. I’m not sure if you need a reservation, but you’re able to put up hammocks and it also has fire pits. Be sure to check the website for fire pit information and if you need a reservation. There is a small parking lot at the trail entrance. It’s free but if you can’t find parking, you can always park on the highway. Just be sure to follow the parking signs. There are areas that it says you cannot park there and that’s because it’s part of a residential property. The hike is moderate and has about 900 to 1000 feet in elevation gain so be ready to get a small workout. Bring plenty of water and food and there is no restrooms so use it before. And remember “LEAVE NO TRACE”. Have an...