Cliff Jumping at Malibu Canyon in Hill City, South Dakota

About this spot

From Los Angeles, take the 405 north to the 101 west. Exit at Las Virgenes Road and head south until reaching Piuma Road. Park at the intersection where you'll find a complimentary dirt lot (an additional parking area a quarter mile further up requires payment). Hike two miles south on Las Virgenes, which becomes Malibu Canyon Road during this section. After approximately one mile, you'll pass through a tunnel. Continue another mile until you spot a large turnout with road marker 1.86—this marks the start of the trail. From the trailhead, descend a moderately steep section that leads to a boulder field. Navigate across these rocks down into the streambed. The dam becomes apparent and sits just a short distance south. After crossing the dam, continue on the path toward the reservoir. The entire trail portion covers roughly a quarter mile.

Safety first. Cliff jumping is inherently dangerous and can cause serious injury or death. Conditions — water depth, submerged hazards, and access — change constantly. CliffScout is community-sourced reference information, not a guarantee a spot is safe. Always assess the conditions yourself before jumping, and never jump where you're unsure. You assume all risk.

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