Cedar Creek (Upper)

This route explores the less known part of Cedar Creek. While the lower section offers an awesome rappel (now closed to this activity), the upper section offers moderate bush whacking that rewards with a pristine creek. Beautiful, deep, clear pools are sure to be a delight during the summer. Two substantial waterfalls that can be bypassed without rope but some may choose to rappel for safety or fun.

This trip will require a shuttle, both vehicles will be parked along Boulder Creek Road. Please refer to map for coordinates of each parking spot. You begin right outside of the Inaja Reservation where the road makes a sharp 90° turn. Immediately north west of this turn, there is an overgrown gully you need to look for. Keep an eye out for poison oak as soon as you see or hear water. It will be throughout the route. Initially you will follow a network of cattle trails, but do not veer too much from your objective north of you. Mind the boundaries of the reservation, there's a fence intertwined with the vegetation. Once at the gully, follow it until it meets Cedar Creek.

The descent does not require rope, but it would be wise to carry at least 100' of rope. The longest fall is about 40' that we chose to down climb RDC. Since we did not know what we were getting into or what lay ahead, we always opted for the most efficient method. Take time to enjoy the pools and scenery. While quite overgrown, it is pristine and beautiful. There are two substantial falls, several pools and small falls to negotiate.

The creek will meet a service road and you will make a left onto it and follow it south to your exit vehicle at Boulder Creek Road. Do not underestimate the exit. While the gain isn't much, you lose and gain throughout.