Toutain canyon and waterfall is a short but moderately challenging hike to a beautiful waterfall in Toutain  Canyon (adjacent to Whitewater Canyon Preserve). We follow the stream bed, traversing river rubble at the mouth of the canyon, passing through shaded cottonwood and sycamore glens, and walking across mats of wild grapevines to reach the waterfall. Includes multiple stream crossings (one-stride wide) and some travel in damp stream bed (water level very shallow).

Toutain Canyon is a gem. There is no established trail, you have to cross a stream several times and even wade in the stream for about 100 yards (and walk on top of mats of wild grape vines) before you get to the waterfall--

• Distance: 2.2
• Elevation Gain/Loss:  400
• Difficulty Rating: Moderate challenging due to terrain conditions
• 12:00 pm Noon Meet at Palm Springs PetSmart, Ramon/Crossley   Map click here

Bring: Ten Essentials, water, sun protection, layered clothing, hiking poles may be helpful. Carry Emergency Contact Information (ICE). Sturdy hiking footwear with good tread and adequate drinking water are required.  No pets allowed.

Hiking Requirements - You will need to be in good physical condition for this hike. Click here for more information.

Carpooling is encouraged and may be available if offered by driver. You are responsible for arranging you own transportation or ride share. Arrive a few minutes early for briefing and carpooling. 

Weather forecast: Increasing clouds, with a high near 60. Northwest wind 5 to 10 mph becoming south in the morning.

Contact hike leader: Scott Connelly  Email click here

Cancel: If you cannot make a hike for which you have registered please cancel as others may be on the waitlist. You may cancel directly from your profile settings or notify the hike leader.

Weather Policy: Inclement weather cancels.

The canyon was named after Joe Toutain, who owned a ranch in the area until 1930 (when he sold it), and lived in Iron Canyon, a canyon on the north side of the Whitewater Canyon Road, between Bonnie Bell and the Whitewater Preserve Visitor Centre (the mouth of that canyon is visible from the road).

Joe Toutain is remembered as a Constable who was a member of the posse that tracked Willie Boy. You can find good information about the Willie Boy story at the following link:

https://www.ucr.edu/magazine/summer-2023/willie-boy

Health Problems/allergies:   Discuss any medical concerns with the hike leader that may affect your ability to complete this hike.