Two years ago, my husband and I "happened" upon Nojoqui Falls Park. The drive to this place is worth the travel from Solvang. We came in April and the falls were full and flowing. We just recently returned and unfortunately, because of our state drought....the falls have dried up. The hike isn't too bad, but you need good walking shoes and have a sureness to your step at times. (the road can be rocky and very uneven).There are so many beautiful spots to take photos, and a lovely romantic hike (about 20 minutes).
We went here because we had heard it was pretty, the walk was kind of hard to do with a stroller and little kids since some parts aren't secured ands at the end there was no water! Don't go if it hasn't rained a lot!
We go here now and then, quite often for events group events. It is always worth going, even when there is no water at the falls.The falls are a really short hike from the parking area, but be warned, when it is raining it can be a little muddy.There are plenty of picnic areas and clean restrooms. A lot of open space for kids/animals to run.
If you are interested in the waterfall, you'll have to wait for a rain...storm. Currently, water is dripping down the fall, the area is dry. Also, the pond it drips into is quite small, I would think it was dangerous if flowing hard. However, there were two locals who briefed us. Due to the drought locals come with rain jackets only when there is a storm because that is the only time there is a water fall.I do recommend, if you still go, to bring an empty bottle. Apparently, when the water comes down the moss, the moss cleanses the water. I heard third hand from the local who was informed by his dad (Ph.d). I ventured out and tasted it in the palm of my hand...several times. It tasted so fresh. I was told it was the minerals. I'm still alive. Had I known previously, I would have dared to (slowly) fill up a bottle to go.
Beautiful drive from Solvang to the park. Have always seen wild turkeys in the pasture next to the park. Lots of shade and the walk to the waterfall isn't bad. Recommend using the other facilities at the park instead of the one closest to the falls since it is used heavily. Playground for small children. BBQ pits, grass, shade..... couldn't ask for more....
This is a charming little park a few miles from Solvang. It has an easy and manageable hike to a waterfall (when there is one), but it's ideal and easy for families and even older people like me! Solvang can be filled with tourists and activity at times so if you just want a quiet day or 1/2 day, this is a great alternative.
Nojoqui falls is easy to find if you are staying in Solvang; just travel south on Alisal Road. The hike to the falls is easy and very pleasant. We saw wild turkey and enjoyed hearing the chirping and singing of many birds including woodpeckers. The falls are dry but the site is very beautiful. The restrooms are clean and there are lots of picnic tables to enjoy a picnic lunch.
I got burned when I didn't check the parks website showing that the trail to the falls was closed because of mudslides. People were still crossing the markers set up that closed the trail. My wife and I knew that we would be the only people to get caught if we did it. We respected the boundary and didn't cross. Park is beautiful after the rain with moss and mushrooms. So rare to see with the current drought.Catch this place after a storm rolls through.
We hiked to the falls one early summer morning. It was a weekday, so we were all alone. When you live in Los Angeles, just getting away from all the people is a plus. This isn't a giant waterfall, but just a hidden gem.
Pick up a sandwich and some great salad, wine and cheese or, yes, stop at the bakery. Drive out of town on tree lines country roads dripping with Spanish Moss. Watch for deer along the way especially around the golf course. Pull into to the pare (free). Park to the back and take the short trail to the falls. Yes at times they are hardly running but the height on the fall it outstanding. But then just to sit there it a slick of peace in nature.