Mountain Training Series — Endurance Block: Tenaja Falls (16.7 Miles)

As part of our ongoing Mountain Training progression, this Endurance Block focuses on sustained time on feet, pacing discipline, and durability under cumulative fatigue — key foundations for higher-elevation objectives such as the Southern California Six Peak Challenge, San Jacinto, San Gorgonio, and Mount Whitney–style efforts.

We’ll hike to Tenaja Falls via the Morgan and Tenaja Falls trails in the San Mateo Canyon Wilderness (Cleveland National Forest). Starting from the Bear Canyon Trailhead near Ortega Oaks, the route follows the Morgan Trail’s rolling terrain before transitioning onto the Tenaja Falls trail toward Tenaja Falls — a 150-foot cascading waterfall that drops into the canyon below (flow dependent on recent rainfall). We’ll return the same way; small creek crossings near the falls are possible, so appropriate footwear is recommended.

This 16.7-mile conditioning route emphasizes continuous forward movement over steep summit pushes and reinforces endurance and movement efficiency across sustained distance.

Who This Hike Is Best Suited For:

• Hikers comfortable with 15+ mile routes
• Ability to maintain a steady 3.3–3.6 mph moving pace (~16:30–17:30 per mile) on rolling terrain
• Ability to maintain steady movement for 5–6 hours
• Experience fueling and hydrating on longer efforts

Group Size & Expectations: Group size will be intentionally limited to keep the hike organized on a long, sustained route. There will be no designated sweep or backup leads. Please be comfortable maintaining the stated pace and navigating independently if you fall behind. We’ll regroup at major junctions or logical stopping points.

All hikers will initially be placed on the waitlist. Admissions are curated based on pace compatibility and prior participation in our Mountain Training Series or comparable hikes with us.

Details:
Location: 34040 Ortega Hwy, Lake Elsinore, CA
Trailhead: Bear Canyon Trailhead (near Ortega Oaks Candy Store)
Distance / Elevation: ~16.7 miles with ~2,500 ft cumulative gain
Duration: ~5–6 hours
Route Style: Out-and-back
Parking: Park along Ortega Highway (Hwy 74). The main trailhead lot is currently closed. A Forest Adventure Pass is required and should be purchased in advance to avoid citations.

Route Map (AllTrails):
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/tenaja-falls-from-ortega-oaks?u=i&sh=pxabuh

Additional Resources: Tenaja Falls Trail Guide

Essentials:
• Traction hiking shoes
• Water (2-3L; electrolytes recommended)
• Light snacks
• Hat, sunscreen, sunglasses
• Hiking poles (if you normally use them)

Note on Punctuality & RSVP: Please be on time — we’ll wait up to 5 minutes past the start. If you’re running late, you can post your ETA in the event discussion, but the group may still begin without you. If your plans change, please update your RSVP — it helps us know who to expect on the trail.
Disclaimer & Safety Notice: Not So Casual Hikes are challenging outings designed for hikers in strong shape who know their limits and show up prepared. Organizers are volunteers—not guides—and cannot be responsible for your pace, navigation, or safety. We hike at a steady pace and the group may spread out. Please be prepared to navigate independently if you fall behind, though we’ll aim to check in at major junctions when possible. By signing up, you accept full responsibility for your fitness, gear, hydration, and navigation, and agree to hold harmless the Organizer, Co-Organizer, Assistant Organizers, and fellow participants for any incidents or injuries. Participation also means you agree to Meetup’s Terms of Service. Hiking carries inherent risks, including trip/fall injuries, bee stings, poison oak, ticks, snakes, coyotes, or mountain lions. Be prepared for sun exposure, heat, or marine layer conditions depending on the day.