About this spot
From San Juan Capistrano, travel east on Highway 74 (Ortega Highway) for 22 miles, or from Lake Elsinore, head west for 7 miles to reach Long Canyon Road (3S05). Turn west onto Long Canyon Road and continue for 3 miles until you reach Bluejay Campground. Drive straight through the campground to the final loop of campsites where the Falcon Trail trailhead begins. Follow this trail until you encounter a junction, then turn left to descend into upper hot springs canyon. If you reach Falcon Campground, you've passed the junction. Hike down the canyon for approximately 1.5 miles on an unmaintained, rough, and overgrown path—stay in the canyon bottom to maintain correct direction. The falls mark the summit point. Reaching the pool requires rock climbing; a rope is essential if you lack climbing experience. The basin measures roughly 15x20 feet and holds approximately 12 feet of water depth. The north side features the primary jumping locations: a solid 12-foot platform, a 30-foot ledge, and a prominent rock formation jutting at around 50 feet with a flat surface ideal for rope anchoring. An alternative 40-foot jump exists on the east side above the falls, though you must launch outward to avoid contact with the lower waterfall section. The primary limitation is seasonal water availability. In Southern California's typical weather pattern, flow diminishes significantly by late spring, often leaving only stagnant water or complete dryness by June. Plan visits for early season when high-elevation jumping areas remain snow-fed and cold.