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Hidden deep in Samuel P. Taylor State Park, Stairstep Falls is the kind of waterfall that keeps its magic for those who chase it:
Elusive…
Tranquil…
…and flowing only when the rains have been generous.
Filmed just after the big storms we had last week, this cascade reveals its full beauty only after decent rains, otherwise it’s a whisper in the woods.
Followers can comment “stairs” and I’ll send you the AllTrails link
📍 Stairstep Falls Trail Guide
Trailhead: Pullout on the south side of Sir Francis Drake Blvd, directly across from the Devil’s Gulch turnoff.
Distance & Terrain: • ~1.2 miles each way (easy to moderate forest path)
• Gentle climbs along Devil’s Gulch Creek, rich with redwoods, ferns, and mossy shaded banks.
The Route:
1. Cross the road and follow the narrow paved access road toward Devil’s Gulch Campground.
2. After ~0.2 mi, leave the pavement and hike alongside the creek on an old trail through lush forest.
3. Cross a footbridge and keep left at the split, winding upstream along the creek drainage. You’ll pass a very large redwood before the bridge
4. Continue through pockets of shade and unnamed waterfalls, with occasional an occasional bridge along the way.
5. Arrive at the overlook just before the waterfall: Stairstep Falls tumbles roughly 40 ft in stepped cascades, best seen right after heavy rain.
Timing & Tips: • Plan this after heavy rainfall this waterfall comes alive then, but is nearly dry in summer and low flow seasons.
• The trail can be brushy and scattered with fallen trees: solid shoes and a dose of explorer grit make all the difference.
• Quiet, rarely crowded, and perfect for forest vibes and slow nature scenes.
Why it’s a hidden gem: Stairstep Falls has long evaded the usual Bay Area waterfall lists thanks to trail closures and obscurity, which means you can capture something most people haven’t even seen.
Hit the trail while the water’s still running, this one’s a seasonal secret worth chasing.
#hiddencalifornia #californiawaterfalls #californiahiking #bayareahiking #californianature
Having hiked to Stairstep Falls myself shortly after a series of heavy rains, I can attest to the magical transformation this waterfall undergoes when the water is flowing full force. The trail offers a beautiful variety of natural scenery beyond just the falls—towering redwoods, lush ferns, and moss-covered banks create a calming forest atmosphere that's perfect for slow-paced exploration. One tip I learned the hard way is to wear sturdy hiking shoes. The trail, while considered easy to moderate, can be brushy and uneven in parts with fallen branches and slippery patches, especially after rain. A walking stick or trekking poles can add stability when crossing the footbridges and winding along the creek. The peacefulness of this trail really stands out. During my visit on a weekday morning, I encountered very few hikers, making it feel like a personal nature retreat. The sound of cascading water from the falls mixed with birdsong made for an incredibly relaxing experience. For those planning a trip, timing is crucial. The waterfalls often dwindle to a mere trickle during California’s dry summer and autumn months. Checking recent rainfall and streamflow reports before heading out can enhance your chance of seeing the falls in their full glory. Finally, the somewhat concealed location of Stairstep Falls adds to its unique appeal. It’s not on the typical Bay Area waterfall radar, partly due to past trail closures, which means you get to enjoy an off-the-beaten-path adventure. If you’re a waterfall chaser or nature lover looking for a quiet, verdant escape, Stairstep Falls is definitely worth the effort.
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