If you thinking of a perfect place to have an overnight camp, a picnic, or simply a place to relax and enjoy, try the Tenaja Falls. Experience the fun of incredible roadside views while on your way and enjoy the beauty of the rushing waters, lush vegetations, beautiful rock formations, and breathtaking views at the top.
The Tenaja Falls is part of Cleveland National Forest in California and the most interesting natural feature of the San Mateo Canyon Wilderness. Tenaja Falls is 15 miles south of Ortega Highway. From Ortega Highway, you will pass through the city of Lake Elsinore and head south on I-15 then exit to Clinton Keith west into the Santa Ana Mountains. To your right, you will pass the Santa Rosa Plateau. Continue on Clinton Keith until you reach Tenaja Road, then turn right. Look for the Cleveland Forest Road. It’s a small right turn with a small white sign that can be easily missed, so pay attention. The road is very narrow but is paved. After a mile and a half on the Cleveland Forest Road, you will pass the trailhead for the South Tenaja Trail; the next trailhead you come to is the Tenaja Falls trailhead.
Upon reaching the trailhead, a pleasant half-hour hike will take you to Tenaja Falls; when the water is flowing, it is quite a dramatic sight. The best time to view the falls is on the spring when the water rushes over the rocks, especially if you want to go swimming, when wildflowers and birds are abundant. You may enjoy the view on the surrounding rocks or can even have picnic. Just a caution – poison oak is abundant year-round in the area. So if you are bringing kids with you, it is better to have a high leveled car. Always keep an eye on them also.
It is also fun climbing around the rocks viewing the beautiful San Mateo wilderness. Overnight camping is allowed in this area, a perfect place because the hike to the top is relatively easy. Just remember to be eco-friendly by keeping your trash and bringing it down with you on your way back home.
Tenaja Falls is more suited for friends’ hangout. It is relatively safe and reachable, plus the only real costs involved are gas. I know what you’re thinking but its not that bad. Good news is there are no permits and reservations necessary. You don’t need the presence of guides and gears; just pure fun. This is also an ideal place for dating couples. The views are fantastic and the seclusion of the place is quite romantic.
Author Resource:-
Joe Loiacano is an avid outdoors enthusiast who enjoys exploring all that nature has to offer. He combines his love of the great outdoors with writing to share with others natures hidden gems that so few even realize were right there under their nose all along.
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