Overview: A visitor use permit is required to visit the Cedar Creek Falls Visitor Use Permit Area. Cedar Creek Falls is a spectacular waterfall plunging 80 feet into a large pool of water. The trails to Cedar Creek Falls lead hikers through the beautiful backcountry hills of eastern San Diego. The chaparral plant community provides habitat for bird watching. Water levels at the falls vary substantially throughout the year. The falls typically do not run during the summer months when the pool at the base of the falls is stagnant and filled with algae.