10 Awesome Things to Do in Yosemite Valley on Your First Visit
Of all the many sections of Yosemite National Park, the valley is what gets the bulk of the attention of most visitors and for…
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products or services that I believe will add value to my readers.
Of all the areas of Yosemite National Park, the Valley is where the bulk of park visitors go and for good reason; it boasts some of the parks most famous attractions, such as Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, El Cap, Tunnel View, Happy Isles and much more.
This post doesn’t intend to tell you what the best sights are, as most other websites and blogs do. Being the “best” is up to each person’s interpretation. What I may consider the best, others might disagree. Additionally, there are so many equally beautiful things to see in Yosemite Valley that labeling any of them the “best” would devalue the others, in my humble opinion.
So instead, this post will use the word “awesome” to describe the sights I’m about to recommend. There are many others, but if anyone in my family or friend group were visiting Yosemite for the first time and asked for my recommendations, these are what I would start with in order for them to get a well-rounded first visit of the Valley. Let’s get into it.
Click or tap on ad to view offer
1) Tunnel View
No visit to the Valley would be complete without seeing the classic postcard view of Yosemite, so it’s only fitting we begin here. You can reach Tunnel View by following the signs to Glacier Road (Hwy 41). They’re dotted all along the main road on the valley floor. You’ll turn right at the sign pointing towards Glacier Point and head up 1.5 miles to the viewpoint’s parking lot.
From the viewpoint, you’ll get an unparalleled view of some of Yosemite’s most iconic landmarks; El Cap, Bridalveil Falls, Half Dome, Sentinel Dome, and more. The crowds get thick at Tunnel View, as this is a popular tour bus stop. The earlier you arrive, the better. For additional information on Tunnel View, read my post at the link below.
2) El Cap Meadow
Seeing El Capitan from Tunnel View is one thing, but seeing it up close and personal from the meadow below is a whole lot better. The best part? Due to its massive size, you can see it from just about anywhere in the meadow surrounding it.
Parking is plentiful on both sides of the road but in the busy summer months, it can be difficult to come by. If you can’t find a spot, just circle around. You’ll likely come across one eventually. The meadow makes for an excellent place to picnic and view El Cap climbers as they make their way up its face.
Pro tip: Be sure to bring binoculars. Seeing climbers with the naked eye is nearly impossible.
3) The Mist Trail
The Mist Trail is one of the premier hiking trails of not just the valley, but the entire park. Two beautiful waterfalls, Vernal & Nevada, are the main features of the trail, along with the infamous (and quad bursting) stone steps. The latter (Vernal) provides the mist that the trail is famous for in the spring and early summer months.
The trail is on the shorter side, coming in at 3 miles round-trip if just going to Vernal Fall. It’ll be 7 miles round-trip if moving on to Nevada Fall as well. Despite its relative shortness, the trail is steep and you will have to navigate hundreds of the slick, stone steps at both waterfalls. If you have the stamina, this hike is a must.
4) Yosemite Falls
Made up of three falls (upper, middle, & lower), Yosemite Falls stands at a commanding 2,435 feet and is one of the parks biggest (literally) attractions. Most people view the falls at the base from the viewpoint located just across the road from Yosemite Valley Lodge.
If you want to get up close and personal with it, though, hiking the Upper Yosemite Falls trail will take you to the top where epic views of the valley await you. The trail is strenuous and is about 7 miles, round-trip.
5) Half Dome
Not for the faint of heart, but worth every ounce of effort, Half Dome is the undisputed king of popular hikes in Yosemite. In order to partake in this one, you’ll need to apply for a permit. If you’re one of the lucky ones to get a permit, prepare yourself for a challenging, but rewarding experience.
You’ll make your way up the Mist Trail, get up and over Sub Dome and finally grab hold of the cables to hoist yourself 400 feet to the top. If you’re preparing to hike Half Dome or are considering it, read my post below for guidance.
READ ALSO: Half Dome: The Ultimate Guide To Yosemite’s Best Day Hike
6) Ansel Adams Gallery
Located in Yosemite Village, The Ansel Adams Gallery features many photographs from one of the most famous photographers in the world. If it’s in your budget, you can even purchase some of Ansel’s most iconic works for yourself.
Ansel Adams made a name for himself on his photographic art in not just the Valley, but the park as a whole and beyond. Seeing the park through his lens is something no visit to Yosemite would be complete without.
7) Indian Village
Indian Village is located within Yosemite Village, right behind the visitor center. It features several exhibits of dwellings, a sweat house, pounding rocks, Chief’s house, and a ceremonial roundhouse that were used by the Miwok Tribe. Additionally, there are examples of cabins used by early, non-native settlers.
It is a great place to take a leisurely stroll and at the same time, learn fascinating history about the people who not only originally discovered Yosemite before anyone else, but called it home for many years before it was stolen from them.
8) Glacier Point
Even though it’s outside the bounds of the valley, I’m still going to include it as the views from it are of the Valley. From the valley, follow signs to Highway 41and drive through Wawona Tunnel, following the road for about thirty miles. You’ll reach Glacier Point at the road’s terminus.
You’ll be at an elevation of 7,214 feet above sea level and 3,200 feet above the Valley itself. There’s a short trail that makes its way along the rim, a cool geology hut and a recently renovated visitor center, to name a few things. Many come here for the epic view of Half Dome, but Glacier Point has so much more to offer, so be sure to spend time looking around.
9) Bridalveil Fall
Likely the first waterfall you’ll see after entering Yosemite Valley, Bridalveil Fall plunges 620 feet to the Valley floor and is one of the parks main attractions. You can view the fall from Tunnel View or you can utilize the paved trail that goes from the parking lot to the base.
Bridalveil flows year round but is most impressive in spring and early summer. If you visit during these times and go to the base, you will likely get wet, so be sure to protect those cameras. Bridalveil Fall has recently reopened after a multi-year renovation project of its parking lot, restrooms and trail.
10) Cook’s Meadow Loop
Lastly, no visit to Yosemite Valley would be complete without a hike around Cook’s Meadow. It’s a short, one mile loop, but packs a punch when it comes to epic views.
Yosemite Falls, Half Dome, Sentinel Rock, Glacier Point, and the beautiful Merced River are all features found along this easy going trail. It is perfect for families or for those just wanting to take in the sights while taking it easy.
Click or tap ad to view offer
2024 McArthur-Burney Falls State Park Guide
Located within the Cascade Range and just outside the small town of Burney, McArthur-Burney Falls State Park features…
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products or services that I believe will add value to my readers.
2024 TRAVEL UPDATE: Park officials have announced that beginning in early April, all access to the waterfall and the fall’s pool area will close due to a reconstruction project of the main trail. This closure will remain in effect throughout the entire 2024 summer season. For more information, read my post about it here.
Located within the Cascade Range and outside the town of Burney, McArthur-Burney Falls State Park features quite possibly the most beautiful waterfall in the state; the eighth wonder of the world, Burney Falls.
Burney Falls is one of California’s many must-see natural attractions. It’s worth a trip all in itself as well as an easy add-on if you’re already in the Shasta region.
We have been to this park a few times and have amassed all the information we could find to put together a comprehensive guide to help you plan a successful visit.
Click/tap the ad to view offer
Quick Stats
Location: Burney, CA.
Fee/Permit: $10 per vehicle.
Open: Year round.
Parking: Medium sized paved lot.
Restroom: Yes. At the visitor center and campground.
EV Stations: None.
Drone Use: Not allowed.
Difficulty: Easy.
Popularity: High.
Time: One hour to a full day.
Milage: 0.3 - 2.5 miles (depending on the trail you take).
Trail Condition: Well maintained.
Main Feature(s): The 129-foot Burney Falls, scenic trails and Lake Britton.
Pets: Allowed in the campground but not on any park trails or at the fall’s pool.
Special Notes/Hazards: This is a bear-heavy area.
Our Visit(s): 2016, 2019, & 2022
Directions to Burney Falls
Getting to Burney Falls is easy and straightforward. There’s no off-roading or miles of hiking involved. Simply park your car at the visitor center and either view the falls from the upper deck or take the trail down to the pool.
To get there:
From Reno
Take US 395 North for 90 miles.
Turn right onto CA-44 West for 46 miles.
Turn right onto CA-89 North for 28 miles.
Turn left on Lake road.
Turn left into McArthur-Burney Falls State Park
Total drive time is around 3 hours.
From Sacramento
Take I-5 North for 161 miles towards Redding.
Merge onto CA-299 East for 59 miles.
Turn left onto CA-89 North for 6 miles.
Turn left onto Lake road.
Turn left into the park.
Total drive time is around 3.5 - 4 hours.
Burney Falls is close to many large cities. Keep in mind that if you decide to drive here during the winter months, road conditions can be rough. This region gets a healthy amount of snow annually.
Burney Falls Campground & Entry Fees
Camp Sites & Cabins
The Burney Falls Campground is open year round and features 102 campsites. Each holds a max of eight people and includes one vehicle. Each additional vehicle will incur a fee.
Fees for campsites begin at $35 per night and include a picnic table, fire ring, and food locker. Bathrooms and showers are located near the entrance of the campground with tap water spigots positioned throughout.
Seventeen of the sites are designated for tent camping only with the remaining accommodating tents, trailers, and RV’s (up to 32 feet in length).
Additionally, the Burney Falls campground features 24 cabins. There are two types of cabins, each with their own features and sizes:
18-foot: Can accommodate up to 4 people and comes with one bunk bed and two extra mattresses.
24-foot: Can accommodate up to 6 people and comes with two bunk beds and two extra mattresses.
Reservations
As stated above, the Burney Falls campground is open throughout the year, but how you go about securing a site varies depending on time of year:
Labor Day to mid-May: Campsites are available on a first come, first serve basis and are payable by cash at the kiosk at the entrance. The park is near empty during this time with sites being easy to come by.
Mid-May to mid-September: You must make a reservation through ReserveAmerica.com or by calling 1-800-444-7275. You can reserve a site up to 6-months in advance. It’s during this time where crowd levels soar and the park regularly fills to capacity.
All cabins come with a covered porch and room outside for tents and/or a campfire. They do NOT come with electricity or plumbing. The cabin is heated by propane (included) and you’ll have a bathroom with showers located nearby.
To make a campsite or cabin reservation, head over to reserveamerica.com or call 800-444-7275. (Cabins are NOT available between Labor Day and mid-May).
2024 Camping & Day-Use Fees
The following are fees you can expect to pay at the park in 2024:
Day Use Entry: $10 per vehicle.
Campsite: $35 per night, per site (one vehicle included).
Cabin: $85-$105 per night (depending on group size).
If you have a campsite or cabin reservation, then the day-use fee is included in your nightly rate. However, they do not allow early arrivals (before 2pm). If you arrive before then, you may be subject to the day-use fee.
If the booth at the entrance is unstaffed, use the electronic pay station near the picnic tables in the visitor center parking lot to pay your fees. If you’re paying cash, do so with exact change as it does not give back change.
Now, you’re able to pay day-use, camping, and boat launch fees via the pay station pictured above. It’s located outside, adjacent to the visitor center.
Simply make your selection, pay the fees (cash or credit/debit card), enter your license plate, and place your receipt on your dashboard.
Additional Lodging Options
Dusty Campground
Just thirteen miles away from the park, “Dusty Campground”, is located on the north shore of Lake Britton. The six available sites are available on a first come, first serve basis and include picnic tables. Bathrooms and coin operated showers are provided.
Hotels
Alternatively, the town of Burney is just ten miles away from the park and has multiple hotels. Our personal recommendation is Shasta Pines Motel & Suites.
We stayed there during our trip in 2022. It’s an older property, but the rooms were clean, the bed was comfortable, and the rate was reasonable.
Hiking Trails and Amenities
Inside the park, you’ll find a few trails to enjoy. All of them are on the shorter side, mostly flat, well maintained, and are perfect for families with little ones who don’t have a lot of hiking experience.
Burney Falls Scenic Loop
The Burney Falls Scenic Loop is a 1.2 mile loop that begins at the rim, loops around to a bridge that crosses Burney Creek upstream from the edge of the falls and concludes at the base of the falls.
It is a well-maintained trail but throughout much of it, you won’t have a view of the falls. You’ll see it at the beginning and end, but you’ll only see it sporadically through the rest of it.
Regardless of the lack of view, it’s a serene trail. Along the way you’ll find interpretive signs detailing the history and development of Burney Falls. You’ll also enjoy an abundance of shade and seating along the way.
To get more details, check out trail guide about it here.
Burney Creek Loop
This trail is around the two mile mark. We started from our campsite, worked our way down to Lake Britton, to the base of the falls, then back up to our campsite.
If you’re not staying at the campground, you’ll begin at the Rim. You’ll either go right and through the campground or go left on the Rim Trail, cross the bridge, and go left towards Lake Britton.
You’ll follow the creek the entire way, passing a beautiful wooden bridge and non-stop serene beauty before reaching the lake. You’ll also see evidence of Burney’s volcanic past.
The Pool of Burney Falls
This is the trail most people utilize. It’s a third of a mile, beginning at the rim and terminating at the base of the falls.
The “trail” is paved and you’ll need to navigate a series of stairs near the beginning. Due to this, the trail is not handicap accessible.
The trail consists of three switchbacks on a fairly even decline. It’s easy going down but due to elevation, you’ll definitely feel it going back up (though it isn’t hard).
When you’re done looking at the falls, you can head back up to the rim or continue down the trail along Burney Creek.
Visitor Center and Pioneer Cemetery
The trail to the cemetery begins near the campground restrooms and is 2.5 miles, out and back. It’s well maintained, but the trail can be difficult to follow durning winter. The cemetery itself has a lot of overgrowth and isn’t overly impressive, but still worth checking out.
The visitor center is located to the right of the entrance as you drive in. It’s small, but it features a lot of informative displays explaining Burney Fall’s development and history.
It opens at 9am and closed at 5pm. It closes on major holidays and due to staffing issues, could close at random times.
If it’s open during your visit, we highly recommend stopping in. The staff inside are very knowledgable and can answer any questions you have.
Further down the road is the park general store. This is where you can pick up some last minute camping essentials, limited hot food, and souvenirs.
Best Time to Go
McArthur-Burney Falls State Park and its campground are open year round and thus, each time of year brings its own positives and negatives.
Spring (March - May): While snow is possible in March, it drops considerably from the month prior with April and May seeing virtually none. March is also the month with the most spring rainfall. Crowd levels begin to pick up in April, especially on weekends and holidays.
Summer (June - August): Hot and crowded sums it up. Rain is rare. Both the parking lot and campground fill quickly and crowds at the base of the falls have been known to be dense. If you must come during this time, mid-week and early morning is best.
Fall (September - November): It starts to cool down but not to the point where you’ll be freezing. Crowds have tapered off and you’ll be able to enjoy the falls without fighting for a spot. We camped here in October and it was fantastic! This is, in our opinion, is the best time to go.
Winter (December - February): Cold, icy, and no shortage of snow. However, there are virtually no crowds. You’ll probably have it to yourself, especially if you arrive on a weekday. If you can tolerate the cold and have the vehicle to navigate the snow and ice, this is the time for you.
Our first visit was in October 2016. Crowds were low and while it was chilly at night, the weather during the day was mild.
Our second visit in August 2019 was far different. Unbearably hot and there were people shoulder-to-shoulder at the falls.
Our third visit in 2022 was during the first week of May. While it rained on two of the days, the weather was otherwise perfect and we had the falls all to ourselves.
Additional Information
Dogs are permitted. You may bring your dog with you into the park and the campground. However, they are not allowed inside the visitor center or on any trails (except the cemetery trail).
Buy local wood. If you’re camping at Burney, the park sells wood bundles near the entrance (cash only). You can also buy wood in town. The reason for this is so people don’t unintentionally introduce diseases from outside the area.
Parking can be a pain. During the summer, it isn’t uncommon for the parking lot to fill quickly. Your best bet is to arrive early. If you try to park along the road outside the park you risk a fine and tow. If it fills, come back after 4pm and you should be fine.
No restaurants in the park. The nearest restaurants are located in the town of Burney 12 miles away. Each campsite features a grill, so your best bet is to bring your own food, charcoal, and lighter fluid.
You can swim in the pool. The pool below the falls is ok to swim in. In the fall and winter months, however, the water gets very cold.
There is wheelchair access. The main trail leading down to the falls is unfortunately NOT wheelchair accessible due to stairs and a steep decline in some places. However, the visitor center and observation decks are!
EV Charging is not available. This includes the park itself and the town of Burney. The closest charging stations are located in the towns of Dunsmuir (ChargePoint) and Shingletown (Tesla), respectively.
Drone use not permitted. As is the case in most parks of this nature, the use of Drones are not allowed.
Things To Do Nearby
While Burney Falls is the main attraction in the area, there are still plenty of other attractions to check out. You could easily spend a few days or more here.
Below, we’ll cover a handful of our favorites. Some are within a few minutes drive while others are further out, but still in the same vicinity.
McCloud River Falls
McCloud Falls is a series of three beautiful waterfalls (lower, middle, and upper) located about 45-minutes north from Burney right off Highway 89.
You can start at either the Lower Falls or Upper Falls and hike the 3.5-mile trail that connects all three. The trail is considered easy for most.
Alternatively, if you’re short on time, you can simply drive to each waterfall and take the short trails to view each one.
To get more information of these beautiful waterfalls, go here.
The ‘Stand By Me’ Bridge
If you’ve seen the classic 80’s movie, ‘Stand By Me’, you'll no doubt remember the scene where the boys had to run for their lives across the bridge.
Most don’t realize that you can visit the actual bridge where that scene was filmed. It’s is just a few short miles from Burney Falls.
Due to a death that occurred in 2021, the bridge is barricaded off and walking on it is no longer allowed. However, it’s still worth checking out. (you can read my post about it here.)
Subway Cave
You can put this one in the super cool, but a bit freaky column. Subway Cave is one of the largest, but easily accessible lava caves in the world.
You’ll need to bring a flashlight with you as there are no natural or artificial light sources inside the cave. It’s literally pitch black.
You can explore the cave at your leisure or take part in one of the free, guided tours that take place during the summer months.
To get further details on Subway Cave, check out our article here.
Junk Art Sculptures
Located about 15-minutes from Burney in Cassel, you’ll find one of the coolest roadside attractions you’ll ever see.
There’s about a dozen or so giant sculptures made from old vehicle parts and other pieces of metal. There’s a couple tin mans, a dog, a spider, and more!
For some reason, Google has this listed as permanently closed but we decided to go anyway and found it to be 100% open. (you can read my post about this place here.)
Hedge Creek Falls
You’ll have to drive for about an hour to see this one as it’s located in Dunsmuir, but trust us when we say it’s worth it.
The parking lot and trailhead can be found right off Interstate-5 and it’s an easy, third of a mile hike down to the falls.
The coolest feature to this one (aside from the waterfall itself), is that you’re able to walk behind it along the basalt rock walls.
Click or tap ad to view offer
5 Incredible Lake Tahoe Waterfalls You Need To See
Waterfalls are a huge attraction to nature enthusiasts. No matter the size or accompanying surroundings, people flock…
2 minute read | may contain affiliate links
Waterfalls are a huge attraction to nature enthusiasts. No matter the size or accompanying surroundings, people flock to these nature-made wonders.
Lake Tahoe has many waterfalls. Some you drive up to while others require a bit of effort. The effort to see the waterfalls on this list is minimal, making it possible to see each one in a single day.
The best time of year to see waterfalls in Lake Tahoe is spring or early summer, due to them being fed by snowmelt in the mountains. So plan accordingly.
So which Lake Tahoe waterfalls made the list? Read on to find out.
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting us!
1) Glen Alpine Falls
Glen Alpine Falls is a beautiful 65-foot waterfall with multiple layered drops. It’s located at the southern end of famed Fallen Leaf Lake at the end of a narrow, bumpy road.
Thankfully, driving to the falls in the hardest part as it’s just a stones throw away from the parking area. Check out my article on Glen Alpine Falls for more details.
2) Lower Eagle Falls
Most people see the upper section of Eagle Falls (which we’ll get to in a moment) but many don’t realize that you can see the lower section as well.
To see it, you’ll need to hike the steep(ish) one mile trail into Emerald Bay State Park, as the trailhead for the falls is behind the visitor center.
3) Upper Eagle Falls
Just because it’s popular and requires some logistical planning to find a place to park, doesn’t mean you shouldn’t make the effort.
When you are able to find a spot, seeing the upper section requires minimal effort as it’s only a quarter-mile hike from the parking lot.
While you’re at it, continue another mile or so up a moderately easy trail to the picturesque, Eagle Lake. To read about that, check out my post below.
4) Horsetail Falls
If you’ve driven into (or out of) Lake Tahoe on highway 50, you’ve undoubtedly took notice of the 800-foot tall, Horsetail Falls. Technically, it’s located in the tiny town of Twin Bridges, but it’s only a few miles from Lake Tahoe, proper.
It’s height makes it the tallest waterfall in the Tahoe region and while you can see it from the highway, you’ll need to hike it to truly appreciate it.
The trail is steep, sun exposed, and difficult to follow. If you decide to do this, take your time. You’ll gain roughly 1,300 feet in two miles.
5) Cascade Falls
Cascade Falls can be found at the end of a one-mile trail. I would rate the trail as easy, as there’s little elevation gain/loss, but the last half is incredibly rocky.
To see it in its full glory, definitely make it a point to go in the spring. If you get there later in the season, though, you’ll be treated to dozens of mini-waterfalls.
At the crest of the falls, you’ll be treated to a fantastic view of Cascade Lake in the foreground and the indelible Lake Tahoe in the background.
I hope you’ll consider visiting these waterfalls during your Lake Tahoe trip. It’s definitely possible to see them all in one day but to truly enjoy yourself, try to spread them out over at least two days.
To save you from scrolling up again, here are the links to the waterfalls mentioned in this list:
Also, if you’re planning a trip to Lake Tahoe, check out our list of 25 lake and beach day essentials!
Please support this website by subscribing to the newsletter below.
Thank you for reading.
How To Hike To Lower Eagle Falls In Lake Tahoe
Nestled within the captivating natural beauty of the iconic Emerald Bay State Park, the trail to Lower Eagle Falls offers…
2 minute read | contains affiliate links
Nestled within the captivating natural beauty of the iconic Emerald Bay State Park, the trail to Lower Eagle Falls offers an awe-inspiring experience for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Most are aware of the upper section of Eagle Falls just outside the park and how you can traverse the crest of lower falls across the highway.
If you want to see Lower Eagle Falls straight on, though, you’ll need to hike down into Emerald Bay via the short, but steep, one mile trail.
In this guide, we’ll discuss the parking situation, fees, what to expect on the trail and more. Let’s get into it!
Trail Stats
Location: Emerald Bay State Park, Lake Tahoe
Fee: $3 - $10 parking fee
Permit: None
Open: Seasonally
For: Hikers
Restroom: At the trailhead and in Emerald Bay
Parking: Medium sized paved lot
EV Stations: None
Difficulty: Easy going in, moderate going out
Popularity: Mega High
Mileage: About 2.5 miles total, RT
Time: 2-3 hours
Condition: Maintained, easy to follow
Features: Waterfall, Island, Visitor Center, Beach
Best Time: Spring/early summer
Pets: Not allowed
Drones: Not allowed
Hazards: Trail is steep going back out. Can be difficult for some
Our Visit(s): August 2022 & July 2023
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting us!
Emerald Bay Parking Lot
Your trip to Lower Eagle Falls begins and ends in the Emerald Bay parking lot. To avoid the hassle of having to wait for a spot to open, you should arrive as early as possible as it’s known to fill up quickly.
There are pay stations near the trailhead that accept credit or debit cards. The parking fees are:
$3.00 for one hour (select this option if all you want to do is go to the viewing deck)
$10.00 for day use
To begin your hike, head towards the wooden booth past the pay station. To your right, there’s a viewing deck that provides a great view of Emerald Bay and your destination, Lower Eagle Falls.
The Trail To Emerald Bay
Going into Emerald Bay, the trail is all downhill and easy going. Just prepare yourself for the way out because it’s fairly steep and can be difficult for some. So come prepared.
It’s slightly less than a mile along a wider than usual dirt path. Near the bottom you’ll arrive at a junction. Head right to continue to the waterfall.
After this junction, you’ll officially be in Emerald Bay State Park. Continue straight as you pass the restroom, beach access and the Vikingsholm Castle.
Keep straight on the trail until you reach the visitor center. The incredibly short trail to Lower Eagle Falls begins just behind it.
Lower Eagle Falls
Facing the visitor center, the tail to the waterfall begins on the right. It starts out as gravel but as you get closer the falls, it’ll turn to dirt and stone.
When the trail aligns with the water, your first glimpse will be off two mini-waterfalls split between rocks and brush.
Further up, you’ll work your way up several granite rock steps before arriving at the Rubicon trail footbridge.
Go ahead and take in the views of the creek from the bridge, but don’t cross it to the other side as that’ll take you along the Rubicon Trail.
To continue towards Lower Eagle Falls, head up the trail for another 2/10’s of a mile while keeping the creek to your left.
You’ll encounter several more flights of granite steps just before reaching the falls. When you reach the top of those steps, the viewing deck and waterfall come into view.
The viewing deck is split in two by a tree and provides a straight-on view of Lower Eagle. There’s a fair amount of room but it doesn’t take many people to feel cramped.
There’s no access to Highway 89 from here. The viewing deck is the literal dead end of the trail. So when you’re finished taking it in, simply head back the same way you came.
I hope you’ll consider checking out Lower Eagle Falls. It’s a beautiful waterfall and worth the effort to see. If you’re interested in other sites nearby, check out our articles below.
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting us!
Please support this website by subscribing to the newsletter below.
Thank you for reading.
Glen Alpine Falls: A Beautiful Lake Tahoe Waterfall
In Lake Tahoe, not too far from Emerald Bay and located on the southern end of Fallen Leaf Lake is a somewhat-hidden…
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products or services that I believe will add value to my readers.
In Lake Tahoe, not too far from Emerald Bay and located on the southern end of Fallen Leaf Lake is a somewhat-hidden waterfall named Glen Alpine Falls.
Glen Alpine Falls is about 80-feet and cascades over multiple rocks and outcroppings. Additionally, there’s no hiking involved to see it. Simply exit your car and walk a few feet.
So how do you get there? What should you expect? I answer all these question (and more) in the guide below. Let’s get into it.
Click or tap to view offer
Quick Stats
Location: South Lake Tahoe at the sound end of Fallen Leaf Lake
Fee: None
Permit: None
Open: Seasonally (Fallen Leaf Lake road is closed in winter)
Best Time of Year: Spring through early summer
Restroom: None at the falls
Parking: Multiple pull-out style lots around the falls
EV Stations: None
Difficulty: Easy
Popularity: High
Time: One hour or less
Pets: Allowed
Drones: No signage stating you can’t
Hazards: Watch your footing around the falls
Our Visit(s): 2023
Getting There & Parking
The parking lot for Glen Alpine Falls can be found at the terminus of Fallen Leaf Lake road, itself being located off Highway 89, south of Emerald Bay State Park.
From the turn-off to the falls, it’s about four miles along a narrow, bumpy road with several tire-busting potholes. The recent record snowfall did a number on this road.
Most of the road cannot accommodate two vehicles passing each other without one pulling over to the side. If you’re driving an RV - forget it.
Fallen Leaf Lake road runs parallel to the namesake lake between many gorgeous cabins. It would be amazing to rent one of these for a weekend.
After passing the lake, you’ll come to fork in the road with the Fallen Leaf Lake Fire Station in front of you. Turn left and you’ll arrive at the falls after a quarter of a mile or so.
There’s no proper parking lot. Just multiple pull-out style lots of varying sizes. Some can accommodate half a dozen vehicles while others can only fit one or two.
You should have Glen Alpine Falls in sight after exiting your vehicle (or hear it, at minimum). Simply walk towards to the main viewing point located just off the parking area.
Glen Alpine Falls
Glen Alpine Falls is large and wide so no matter where you’re viewing it from, you’ll get a great view. The main viewing area is on a large, rocky outcropping perfect for viewing the falls straight on.
You can also do a little scrambling down some boulders to get an even closer view of the falls or the river it feeds. It was easy doing so as I was able to do it while holding a camera and tripod.
Additionally, you can easily reach and see the falls along its crest. Just walk a little further up the road and turn right towards the waterfall.
The best time to see Glen Alpine Falls is in the spring as it ebbs and flows with the snowpack melt. The waterfall reduces to a trickle as summer progresses.
Plan to visit by the end of May to see it at peak flow. All in all, it’s awesome to be able to get so close to a waterfall like this with no effort required. It’s definitely worth a stop.
If you’re interested, check out my guides below to see three other beautiful waterfalls nearby…
Hike The Waterfall Trail In Grover Hot Springs State Park
Nestled within a quiet corner of the eastern Sierra Nevada mountains lies an underrated, little-known gem in the…
3 minute read | contains affiliate links
Nestled within a quiet corner of the eastern Sierra Nevada mountains lies an underrated, little-known gem in the California state park system; Grover Hot Springs.
Grover doesn’t have the same notoriety as Yosemite or even nearby Lake Tahoe, but that’s where it gets its charm. It isn’t dense in crowds, so it’s incredibly easy to spend a serene day (or two) in its pristine setting.
In 2021, the park was shuttered due to damage sustained by the Tamarack Fire. Many trees and other shrubbery were charred, in addition to the parks infrastructure (including the hot springs complex).
Thanks to the efforts of park staff, the park’s campground and hiking trails reopened in time for the 2022 summer season. The hot springs, unfortunately, did not reopen and remain closed at the time of this writing.
In June 2023, I returned to the park to hike the Waterfall Trail. It’s a short and sweet hike terminating at an incredible 50-foot waterfall with multiple cascades.
The trail is perfect for families as there’s little elevation gain, it’s easy to follow and you’re treated to an amazing award with little effort required. Additionally, your furry, four-legged kids can join you.
So how do you get there? How many miles are involved? Is parking available? I answer all these questions and more below. Let’s get into it!
Exciting news for our readers!
We’re excited to introduce the all-new "Inked with Wanderlust" online store!
We're thrilled to bring you a fantastic collection of wanderlust-inspired merchandise. Celebrate your love for travel and exploration with our stylish apparel and accessories, designed to ignite your sense of adventure.
Discover a range of unique designs that capture the spirit of wanderlust, from cozy hiking-themed t-shirts to charming accessories that make your wanderlust spirit soar!
Visit our online store today and start your journey of style and adventure. Happy exploring!
Trail Stats
Location: Grover Hot Springs State Park. Markleeville, CA
Fee: $8 day-use fee
Payment Type: Cash only. No digital pay stations
Open: Seasonally
For: Hikers
Restroom: In the campground and near the hot springs complex
Parking: Small lot near the campground, large lot near the hot springs (currently inaccessible)
EV Stations: None
Difficulty: Easy
Popularity: Medium to low
Mileage: 1.5 miles, one way
Time: 45 minutes to one hour
Elevation Gain: 90 feet
Condition: Maintained, but damaged from the Tamarack Fire
Features: 50-foot water, alpine meadows, craggy peaks
Pets: Allowed on leash
Drones: Not allowed
Hazards: Soft soil, downed trees and trees with potential to fall are still present. Additionally, this area sees heavy bear activity
My Visit(s): 2017, 2018 and 2023
Getting to Grover Hot Springs SP
As stated above, Grover is located in the beautiful eastern pocket of the Sierra Nevada mountain range so no matter which route you take, the drive is going to be scenic.
There are multiple routes to take depending on which direction you’re coming from:
Lake Tahoe: You’ll simply go south on CA-89
Sacramento: Travel east on US-50 and then south on CA-89
Bridgeport: Go north on US-395 and then north on CA-89
Reno: Head south of US-395/US-88, before going south on CA-89
My recommendation, unless you’re coming the opposite side, is to choose a route that traverses over Monitor Pass (pictured above). It’s a jaw-dropping, beautiful drive and my personal favorite.
Even if you’re coming from the opposite side, try to build driving through Monitor Pass into your travel plans. Trust me, it’s worth it.
Once you’re in Markleeville proper (you’ll pass numerous shops and restaurants), turn onto Montgomery street and continue straight until it terminates at Grover Hot Springs.
Grover Hot Springs Parking & Fees
Presently, there is only one option for parking at the park; near the campground (or in it if you’re camping). Assuming you’re just hiking, you’ll park in a small dirt lot with enough room to accommodate a dozen or so vehicles.
Once the hot springs reopens there’s a much larger lot you could utilize there. The trail to the waterfall can be accessed from either, though, and neither one is any longer than the other.
To use the hiking trail, you’ll need to pay an $8 day-use fee. There are no digital pay stations, so fees must be paid in cash via the yellow envelopes. Be sure to keep the receipt on your dash.
If you purchase a pass to the hot springs once they reopen, that pass includes the park’s day-use fee, FYI.
Where Does The Waterfall Trail Begin?
The trail goes by a few names but for all intents and purposes, I’ll refer to it as the, “Waterfall Trail”, in this post as it is the main (and only) trail in the park proper.
There’s a trailhead near the day-use parking lot by the campground and another just past the hot springs complex. They both eventually intersect.
I have taken both routes but in order to present the most current information, this post will focus on the trailhead near the campground.
The Waterfall Trail
The trail begins along an accessible wooden boardwalk through a beautiful alpine meadow. It’s one of the few areas of the park that wasn’t heavily affected by the fire.
Along the boardwalk, there are numerous informational boards detailing the park’s history and development as well as benches to relax and take in the scenery on.
It’s quick, though, as you’ll soon reach a cluster of pine trees where the boardwalk ends and becomes a gravel/dirt path.
You’ll soon approach the only un-jumpable stream crossing of the trail. At worst, it’s ankle deep and will undoubtedly evaporate as snow-melt eases.
Shortly after this stream crossing, you’ll come to a slight fork. Coming from the direction of the campground, you’ll want to continue straight towards the charred trees.
This will be your first real example of the damage done by the Tamarack Fire. Many trees remain standing, but just as many were reduced to ash and/or had to be downed.
On the forest floor, you’ll see greenery sprouting through, trying to breathe new life into the area. You can also see trees shedding charred bark.
You’ll get an up-close-and-personal look at not only the ugly, destructive side of a fire, but the beauty and new life it brings about as well.
Soon, the trail will align with the creek on your left and that’ll continue throughout the rest of your hike until you reach the waterfall.
Shortly after aligning with the river, you’ll come to another fork. Continuing straight will take you to the falls while going right will take to Burnside Lake (5-miles).
From here, you’re only half-a-mile away from the falls. However, you’ll first have to negotiate the one and only “adventurous” section of this trail; the boulder field.
Initially, the trail appears to vanish, but fret not. Simply look to your right and you’ll notice a trail heading up and into the boulder field in front of you.
Negotiating it isn’t difficult and doesn’t require any rock climbing know-how. A little bit of boulder hopping and common sense will get you through just fine.
I’ve always found that keeping to the left side of the boulder field offers the path of least resistance. However, any route you decide to go with will get you there.
Once you get to the other side of the boulders, you’ll get your first glimpse of the waterfall ahead of you. Actually, you’ll likely hear it long before you see it.
Continue straight and you’ll soon reach the waterfall.
To view the falls from the base, you’ll need to break away from the trail proper and take a spur trail down. There isn’t a lot room down there so plan to arrive early if you want it to yourself.
If you continue further up the trail, you’ll get much closer the waterfall’s crest and have considerably more elbow room if you’re hear on a particularly busy day.
While this is the official conclusion of this portion of the trail, you can continue to explore further up and find more waterfalls.
If you’re not feeling up to it, though, spend as much time here as you please and when ready, go back the same way you came.
I hope you’ll consider hiking this trail. Whether solo, with a partner, or your family. I have no doubt you’ll love it as much as I do.
Travel safe, travel responsibly.
Check Out These Amazing Nearly Destinations!
Please support this website by subscribing to the newsletter below.
Thank you for reading.
How To Hike To The Base Of Middle McCloud Fall
Middle McCloud Fall is just one of three beautiful waterfalls, collectively known as McCloud Falls, along the McCloud…
3 minute read | contains affiliate links
Middle McCloud Fall is just one of three beautiful waterfalls, collectively known as McCloud Falls, along the McCloud River about 45 minutes from the town of Burney.
Being that there’s two more waterfalls, you may be wondering why i’m only writing about the middle fall in this post. There reason is simple…it’s my favorite.
I have a post dedicated to the three falls as a whole. If you’re interested in reading that one, you can do so here.
In that post, I state near the end of article that if you only have time to visit just one of these, make it the middle fall.
On top of that, of the three, the middle fall is the only one that requires any real effort to reach the base (you can drive to all three but the middle one requires a small hike to reach it).
So in this post, i’m going to cover where to find parking, what to expect along the trail and what it’s like at the base of the fall. Let’s get into it!
Quick Stats
Location: McCloud, CA (45 minutes from Burney Falls)
Fee: None
Permit: None
Open: Spring, summer & fall
For: Hikers, swimmers, sightseers
Restroom: At the trailhead
Parking: Large, paved lot
EV Stations: None
Difficulty: Easy
Popularity: Medium to high
Mileage: 0.8-mile, out-and-back
Time: 1-3 hours (depending how much you spend at the fall)
Elevation Gain: 157-feet
Condition: Maintained & easy to follow
Features: Waterfall and great swimming hole
Pets: Allowed on leash
Drones: No signage stating you can’t use them
Hazards: Boulder field near the base and submerged boulders in the swimming hole
Our Visit(s): September 2019 and May 2022
Getting There and Parking
Middle McCloud Fall is fairy easy to get to. If you’re coming from the town of Burney:
Drive north on highway 89 for about 40-miles
Turn left onto Fowler Public Camp road
Continue for about a half-mile
Then turn left onto an unnamed, paved service road (you’ll see signage indicating the way)
If you’re coming from the Dunsmuir:
Drive south on highway 89 for about 22-miles
Turn right onto Fowler Public Camp road for a half-mile
Turn left onto the same unnamed service road.
Each of the three falls have their own paved parking lots but the middle one is the largest. It could easily fit dozens of vehicles plus some RV’s and buses.
You’ll find the trailhead directly adjacent to the bathrooms.
Trail To The Vista
For those who don’t want to make the trek down to the bottom, the middle fall can be viewed from above at the vista.
The trail to the vista is paved and is able to accommodate wheelchairs and strollers. There are two of them to choose from.
For most people, this is as far as they’ll go. The view of the falls from up there is nice but to get the true experience, you’ll want to hike down to the base.
Trail To The Base
Finding the beginning of the trail to the base can be a bit tricky. Especially if you aren’t paying attention (like me during our first visit).
The dirt path to the base spurs off from the paved trail that leads to the second vista. Right as the paved path elbows, look to your right (pictured above).
The dead giveaway are the rocks lining the right side of the trial, forming a path. How I missed that the first time I’ll never know.
*Side Note: There is no sign pointing the way. So keep an eye out for those rocks you see in the photo above.
From there, it’s only 0.4-mile down to the bottom. Accounting for a few stops to take pictures, it shouldn’t take more than 10 minutes or so.
Shortly after finding the trail, you’ll encounter a set of wooden stairs. After this, the trail continues its descent via a series of switchbacks.
The trail, while a bit rocky in some spots, is well maintained and easy to follow. There are no steep points as the switchbacks are gradual.
When you reach the bottom, you'll come to a junction. Going right will take you down to Lower McCloud Falls (about a mile out).
To continue to the middle fall, head left (you should have the waterfall in your line of sight as this point).
At the end of the trail, you’ll see a large boulder field in front of you. If you want to swim near the waterfall, you’ll need to negotiate it.
Most of the boulders are positioned fairly close to one another, so getting through it isn’t too difficult. Young children may have a tough time, though.
Once on the other side, you’ll have unobstructed views of Middle McCloud Fall and its pool. I was fortunate enough to have it all too myself.
The scenery is amazing. Huge, towering alpines surround you while the water pours over the crest and down the large basalt rock wall into the pool below.
If you plan to swim, I do caution you to watch for the submerged boulders and to wear water shoes as there’s tons of debris in the water.
When you’re done, simply head back up the same way you came. While you’ll definitely notice the incline going out, it’s still an easy trek.
I stand firm that the middle fall is the best of the three and if you only have time for one, to make it this one. You won’t regret it.
If you want to make it a point to see all three waterfalls and hike the trail connecting them, check out our post, “McCloud River Falls: Three Fantastic Waterfalls In One Hike”
Your Thoughts…
What do you think of Middle McCloud Falls? Does this seem like a waterfall/hiking trail you and your family would enjoy?
Let us know in the comments below! We love to hear from our readers.
Please support our website by subscribing to our newsletter below.
Thank you for reading.
Check Out These Other Amazing Destinations!
Hiking To Cascade Falls In South Lake Tahoe
Cascade Falls is a beautiful series of waterfalls just outside of the boundaries of Emerald Bay State Park in Lake Tahoe…
5 minute read | contains affiliate links
Cascade Falls is a beautiful series of waterfalls just outside the boundaries of Emerald Bay State Park in Lake Tahoe.
To get the full experience, you’ll need to see it in spring or early summer. Unfortunately, when we came, it was early August. So the run-off was lite.
However, the lack of run-off created dozens of tiny waterfalls scattered throughout (instead of one big cascading waterfall). So it was still a great experience.
In this guide, we’re going to cover all the information you’ll need to visit it for yourself. Topics such as directions, parking information, what to expect and more will be covered.
Let’s get into it.
Quick Stats
Location: West side of Lake Tahoe
Fee/Permit: $10 per vehicle parking fee
Open: Year round, but difficult to access in winter
For: Hikers
Parking: Semi-large parking area
Restroom: In the parking lot
EV Stations: None
Drone Use: Not allowed
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Popularity: High
Time: 2-3 hours
Milage: 2-miles, round trip
Elevation Gain: 255-feet
Trail Condition: Maintained, but very rocky
Main Feature(s): Cascading waterfall / views of the lake
Pets: Allowed on leash
Special Notes/Hazards: Trail is very rocky. Broken ankles aren’t uncommon on this trail
Our Visit(s): August 2022
Directions, Parking & Trailhead
Getting to the trailhead for Cascade Falls is easy and straight forward. Simply plug Bayview Campground into your GPS and follow the directions.
Shortly after entering Emerald Bay State Park, you’ll see a sign for Bayview Campground on the side of the road. Turn into this lot.
If there’s space available, a parking attendant will approach you to collect the parking fee. It is $10 per vehicle, payable by cash or check.
*Note: Credit/debit cards are not accepted as of 2022
Bayview is a former campground that was re-purposed into a parking for this popular trail. The former camp sites have been repurposed into parking spaces.
If there isn’t space available, you’ll be directed to find a spot along the side of the road. While you won’t have to pay for a spot here, you may have to circle around a couple times and it will add another half-mile to your overall hike.
Cascade Falls Trail
The trailhead is located at the back-end of the parking lot, across from the restrooms. This trailhead is also for the trail to Granite Lake and Maggie’s Peaks.
If you’re only going to Cascade Falls, a Desolation Wilderness permit isn’t required. If you’re going to Granite Lake or Maggie’s Peaks, then you will need to fill one out.
To go to Cascade Falls, head left at the trailhead. This section of the trail takes you under a plethora of shade from the pine trees and is relatively flat.
As you approach Cascade Lake, you’ll hit your first set of steps along this trail. At the top, you’ll get a partial view of Cascade Lake on your left. Keep going to get the full view.
As you reach the top, you’ll continue to follow the dirt/rock trail for another third-of-a-mile. Cascade Lake will remain on your left throughout its entirety.
As you get closer to Cascade Falls, you’ll see a small sign of an arrow pointing left posted on a tree. Heed these directions.
From here, the trail moves over solid granite rock and can be hard to follow. Simply use common sense and head in the direction of the waterfall.
Cascade Falls
As stated earlier in this post, if you’re here in spring or very early summer, you’ll be fortunate enough to experience the falls at peak flow.
We were here in early August, so the run-off was down to a trickle. If you happen to be here during this timeframe, fret not, you’ll be treated to dozens of mini waterfalls.
The best ones we found were closer to the bottom where the edge of the falls is, but there are others literally all over the place. You just have to find them.
If you’re a photographer (or aspiring one) be sure to bring a tripod and ND filter with you to help you get creative with your photos.
To get to the edge of Cascade Falls, you’ll need to scramble down some boulders but don’t worry, it’s nothing difficult.
From there, you’ll have a commanding view of Cascade Lake with Tahoe out in the distance. We’re not certain how accessible this spot is during peak flow, though.
From here, you can continue further up the trail to other desolation lakes. Keep in mind, though, that if you intend to do so you’ll need to have had filled out the permit at the trailhead.
If you’ve gotten your fill, simply head back in the same direction you came. You’ll be on an incline on your way out so make sure you’re prepared with plenty of water.
Your Thoughts…
Have you hiked to Cascade Falls before? Were you fortunate enough to see it at peak flow? Let us know in the comments below. We love hearing from our readers!
Please support our website by sharing it with your family and friends.
Thank you for reading.
Hike To Eagle Falls and Eagle Lake In Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe is filled to the brim with hiking trails of varying lengths. Some can be done in a matter of hours while some will…
6 minute read | contains affiliate links
Lake Tahoe is filled to the brim with hiking trails of varying lengths. Some can be done in a matter of hours while some will take a day or two to complete.
If you’re new to hiking - or you’re a family with children in tow - you may be wondering which Tahoe trails would be best for you. Enter, Eagle Lake.
It’s a short, albeit rocky trail that begins at a beautiful waterfall (Eagle Falls) and concludes at the equally beautiful sub-alpine lake surrounded by rocky granite mountains.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you’ll need to know about this trail, including; how to get there, what to expect, pictures and more! Let’s get into it!
Here’s some great hiking equipment we recommend…
Quick Stats
Location: Emerald Bay State Park, Lake Tahoe
Fee/Permit: $10 per vehicle parking fee
Open: Year round (though the road to Emerald Bay does close in the winter if conditions are bad
For: Hikers
Parking: Small, paved lot at the trailhead and another (even smaller) lot along the road
Restroom: Yes. At the trailhead
EV Stations: None
Drone Use: Not allowed
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Popularity: High
Time: 2-3 hours
Milage: 1.9-miles, round-trip
Elevation Gain: 459-feet
Trail Condition: Maintained and clearly signed
Main Feature(s): Waterfall and lake
Pets: Allowed on leash
Special Notes/Hazards: This trail is VERY rocky.
Our Visit(s): 2016, 2018, & 2022
Location & Parking
While not contained within Emerald Bay State Park proper, the parking lot and trailhead can be found just outside its bounderies across the road.
From South Lake Tahoe:
Head south on Lake Tahoe blvd for 2.5 to 3-miles (depending on where you are in South Lake).
Turn right onto CA-89 north/Emerald Bay road.
You’ll soon hit a series of switchbacks and before long, you’ll arrive in Emerald Bay.
Don’t turn right in the lot when you see the sign for Emerald Bay. That’s for the campground.
Instead, continue straight until you see the sign for Eagle Falls (pictured above) and turn left into the parking lot.
From North Lake Tahoe:
Make your way to CA-89 south and stay on it for about 18-miles.
You’ll pass D.L. Bliss State Park before arriving.
After entering Emerald Bay, turn right into the parking lot at the Eagle Falls sign.
Parking is going to be the hardest part of this whole experience. For starters, the lot fills QUICKLY during the spring and summer months.
If you arrive before 9am, you’ll probably be ok. Any time after that, though, and you’ll have a rough time. It may be necessary to circle around a couple of times.
If the lot at the trailhead is full, there’s a small pull-out style lot along the road you can use. Every time we’ve gone, this was where we ended up parking.
The biggest advantage to parking here is you don’t have to pay the parking fee. If you park in the main lot, then you’ll need to pay the $10 per vehicle fee.
Lower Eagle Falls
One aspect of this hike people tend to miss is the lower section of Eagle Falls. To get to it, you’ll need to (safely) cross the road from the parking lot.
You won’t get the traditional, straight-on view of the falls, but you will have the opportunity to get close to it. Especially when the run-off starts to slow down.
From the lower falls, you’ll also get an awesome view of Emerald Bay and Fannette Island. You’ll be contending with trees slightly obstructing your view, though.
When you’re done taking in the views, simply head back up to the road and cross it to get back over to the Eagle Falls trailhead.
If you’re facing the lot, use the boardwalk style walkway on your left. This is a much safer route to the trailhead versus walking through the lot and dodging vehicles.
Upper Eagle Falls
The tail to Eagle Lake officially begins near the upper portion of Eagle Falls. From the trailhead to the bridge at the upper falls, it’s about a quarter-mile.
The trail immediately begins to climb from the trailhead up wide steps made from rock and wooden pillars. You’ll get a temporary reprieve at the top.
As the trail levels out, you’ll come to a junction. Going right will take you to an elevated viewing area for Eagle Falls. Going straight will take you to the bridge.
Shortly after the junction, the bridge will come into view. To the right of it, there’s a bench you can use to rest if needed.
To the left of the bench you’ll find a small viewing area that provides a full view of the upper falls with the bridge in the backdrop.
You will need to scramble down to it and it’s a bit sketchy. Taking small children down there probably wouldn’t be the best idea.
After crossing the bridge, you’ll see a small opening on your right between a few boulders and bushes. If you go through it, it’ll take you to the pond above Eagle Falls.
There wasn’t any signage stating to keep out but I would advise against against it considering it’s literally RIGHT above the crest of the falls.
To continue onto Eagle Lake, simply get back onto the trail and head up. From here, the trail gets even rockier. So watch your footing.
Trail To Eagle Lake
From this point forward, you’ll be in Tahoe’s Desolation Wilderness. In order to pass this point, you will have needed to fill out a permit at the trailhead.
The permit doesn’t cost anything. This is just their way of keeping track of how many people are in Desolation and in case anyone goes missing, they’ll have an idea where you are.
Simply fill out the permit at the trailhead and drop it into the iron ranger. This rule was suspended during the 2022 season but it’ll probably kick back up again in 2023.
From here, the trail gets even rockier than how it was before. It’s literally carved out of rock in most places. Being mindful of your footing is paramount. Many of the rocks are slick.
You’ll continue this incline for another quarter-mile or so before it flattens out up top for a temporary reprieve. From here, you’ll be treated to an epic view of Emerald Bay and the lake.
This middle section of the trail crosses over straight granite, making the trail a bit easy to lose at times. Follow the rocks lining the path and keep to the left.
If you want to see the view of Lake Tahoe as pictured above, you will need to leave the official trail a bit to see it.
Also coming into view throughout this section are the craggy peaks surrounding Eagle Falls and Eagle Lake. The scenery is simply stunning.
Before long, the trail will begin to ascend again as you make the final push to Eagle Lake. The sounds of the creek in the ravine below signals how close you’re getting.
The incline levels out a bit as the peak above Eagle Lake comes into view. You’ll pass another junction at this point. Keep straight.
Soon after this junction, you’ll come to Eagle Lake. Most people stop at the rocky beach near the outlet of the lake. For more privacy, continue straight to other spots.
Eagle Lake
As stated above, this small rocky beach is where most people stop. The outlet is right there and is lined with stepping stones to afford you access to the other side.
You can continue straight for other beaches with less crowds, but these aren’t very well maintained. So you’ll be fighting fallen branches and other hazards.
Eagle Lake sits at around 6,000-feet and is surrounded by rocky, granite peaks. It gets its water from snow melt run-off in the mountains.
The lake itself, while cold, is perfect for swimming or wading. We would recommend keeping kids away from the outlet of the lake, though.
From here, you have a couple choices. The first is you just head back the same way you came to the trailhead.
If you have enough energy, though, you can continue up the trail to more alpine lakes including Granite Lake, Dick’s Lake and Velma Lake.
This short-but-sweet hike to Eagle Falls and Eagle Lake is nothing short of spectacular. It packs a lot of punch with little effort required.
Your Thoughts…
Does this seems like a trail you and your family would enjoy? Tell us about it in the comment section below. We love hearing from our readers!
Please support our website by sharing it with your family and friends.
Thank you for reading.
How To Hike The Burney Falls Scenic Loop Trail
Burney Falls is one of the most visit state parks in all of California. Prior to covid, the park would see an average of 4,000…
3 minute read | contains affiliate links
Burney Falls is one of the most visited state parks in all of California. Prior to covid, the park would see an average of 4,000 daily visitors. Since covid, that number has more than tripled to an average of 13,000.
It’s no wonder, either. Burney Falls is a spectacular waterfall. On top of that, it’s one of the most easily accessible waterfalls as it can viewed from an accessible viewing deck just steps away from the parking lot or by taking a short, paved trail to the base.
Many people are completely unaware of the hiking trails contained within the park. So we’ve decided to write a post about the most popular one, the Burney Falls Scenic Loop. It’s a beautiful trail that begins at the rim of the falls and concludes at the base.
If you’ve never been there, you should check out our comprehensive guide on Burney Falls. In it, we cover a lot of information such as directions, camping, hiking trails, best time to visit and more! So if you’re looking for that information, you should definitely read that one and come back here.
Let’s get into it.
Quick Stats
Location: McArthur-Burney Falls State Park
Fee/Permit: $10 per vehicle to enter the park
Open: Year round
For: All visitors/hikers
Parking: Semi-large, paved lot
Restroom: At the visitor center
EV Stations: None
Drone Use: Not allowed
Difficulty: Easy
Popularity: Highly trafficked
Time: 1 hour or more
Milage: 1.2-miles
Elevation Gain: 167-feet
Trail Condition: Well maintained
Main Feature(s): Burney Falls
Pets: Not allowed
Special Notes/Hazards: Though it’s a beautiful trail, Burney Falls will be out-of-view for the majority of the hike
Our Visit(s): October 2016, August 2019, & May 2022
Trailhead, Parking & Direction
The trailhead for the Burney Falls loop trail is directly across the road from the park’s visitor center and parking lot. You’ll see a sign up ahead indicating as such (pictured above).
The parking lot is fairly large, probably closer to medium sized, actually. As we covered in our guide to Burney Falls, this lot tends to fill quickly in the summer months. So if you go during that time, we highly advise that you plan for an early arrival.
Once you’ve parked and paid your entry fee ($10), cross the street and head towards the rim of the falls to begin your hike. There’s a viewing deck where you can get a from above view of the falls.
Burney Falls Loop Trail
If all you want to do is go to the base of falls and leave, bear right towards the stairwell. It’ll only take a few minutes to get down there as it’s only a third-of-a-mile along a well-maintained path.
If you’re dead-set on the loop trail (as you should be) you’ll want to bear left along the dirt path. This trail also takes you to the base, just not as quickly.
Unfortunately, Burney Falls won’t be visible for much of the trail. In fact, you’ll only get the full view once you’ve circled down to the base. Shortly after the beginning of the trail, you’ll get one final look at it through some trees.
After a short time, you’ll arrive at the serene, ‘Fisherman’s Bridge’, crossing Burney Creek just upstream from the top of the falls. If you’re an angler, there are great spots here along the creek to fish for Rainbow Trout.
Be sure to stop near the middle of the bridge to take in the views. You won’t be able to see the crest of Burney Falls from here, but you’ll get a great view looking upstream of the creek.
After the bridge, turn right and you’ll enter a heavily forested portion of the trail filled with Douglas Firs and Oaks. Also along this stretch are a number of benches. Feel free to rest your feet for a moment and take in the sights around you.
The trail will begin to descend slightly along a series of gentle switchbacks. Before hitting the descent, you’ll pass a junction to the Pacific Crest Trail and a series of rocky steps built into the trail. No need to worry as the steps are easily navigable.
Near the halfway mark down the switchbacks you’ll get your first glimpse of Burney Falls since the start of the trail. Again, it’s through a collection of trees but it’s a gorgeous view nonetheless.
Rainbow Bridge Junction
At the bottom of the switchbacks you’ll come to another footbridge crossing over Burney Creek. This one is named, “Rainbow Bridge”. Much like the first one, stopping here to take in the views of the creek would be worth your while.
From here, you have two directions in which you could go. Going left from Rainbow Bridge will take you on a detour to Lake Britton. This is a solid option as the picturesque lake provides many recreational activities.
*Note: The detour to Lake Britton from this junction is closed for the 2022 season due to heavy storm damage to the trail. No word on when it’ll open. To reach Lake Britton, you’ll need to utilize the trail leaving from the rim of the falls and through the campground.
To keep to the loop trail and continue on to the falls, however, you’ll want to bear right as you’re walking off of the bridge. Along this stretch, you’ll pass a huge boulder field on your left. Showcasing evidence of the area’s volcanic past.
Soon, you’ll begin to hear the sounds of Burney Falls crashing into the pool below it and before long, it’ll come into view. There are many spots along this stretch of the creek to get an excellent side view of the falls. You’ll need to scramble a bit but trust us, it’s worth it.
The Base of Burney Falls
This is the main viewing area of Burney Falls and is where you would’ve ended up had you gone right at the trailhead instead of left. This area is defined by a perimeter made of rocks and is a somewhat small area (considering the crowds this park sees).
For a closer look - or to go for a swim in the pool below the falls - you’ll need to scramble down a rock field. The constant mist from the falls makes most of these rocks very slick. So be sure to watch your footing.
If you’re here on a particularly busy day (pretty much any day during the summer season) expect to find many, many people to be here. It doesn’t take long before that viewing area - and even the rock field - becomes a shoulder-to-shoulder situation.
We’ve never been here during winter, but we feel spring is the best time to go, crowds wise. Our most recent visit was the first week of May, 2022, and we practically had the falls all to ourselves. A few people came and went but that was it.
Once you’ve gotten your fill of the views, continue on the trail by heading up the paved switchbacks back to the rim (where you first began). Along the way, you’ll encounter several interpretive signs detailing the development and history of Burney Falls and the area.
It may be a persistent climb back to the rim but fret not, it isn’t that bad. The switchbacks are gentle and towards the end, there’s a couple sets of stairs to help with the final push.
Once you’re back at the rim and satisfied with your visit to the park, simply cross the road to get back to the parking lot. Or better yet, stop by the visitor center before leaving. They have many interesting/informative exhibits.
Which Direction Should You Go?
That’s entirely up to you, but we wrote this trail guide in the clockwise direction as that was the direction we went and feel it’s the way to go. The reason is because of the epic payoff at the end (Burney Falls).
However, there’s nothing that says you can’t go counter-clockwise. If you do, you’ll arrive at the falls after just a third-of-a-mile. To continue past that, head down the paved trail along the creek.
When you reach Rainbow Bridge, simply cross it and head up the dirt switchbacks and onward to Fisherman’s Bridge. There’s no right or wrong. Either direction will provide the same great views and experience.
*Tip: Be sure to read our comprehensive guide about Burney Falls State Park. It’ll help you plan your visit with information on weather, camping, amenities, directions and more!
Your Thoughts…
Does this sound a trail you and your family would enjoy hiking together? Have you been to Burney Falls or have you been dying to go? Tell us about it in the comments below. We love love hearing from our readers!
Please support our website by sharing it with your family and friends.
Thank you for reading.
Hedge Creek Falls: A Short Hike To An Incredible Waterfall
While not a grand sight or a long hike deep into the wilderness, Hedge Creek Falls still packs a punch as a highly scenic…
3 minute read | Contains affiliate links
While not a grand sight or a long, deep hike into the wilderness, Hedge Creek Falls still packs a punch as a highly scenic, simple trail terminating at the 35-foot waterfall spilling over a hanging wall of basalt.
The trail’s unique feature, aside from the waterfall itself, gives hikers the rare chance of going behind the waterfall via a large cleft in the rock.
Hedge Creek Falls is perfect for families with small children, pets, or anyone who happens to be driving by and wants to stretch their legs. Both the parking lot and trailhead are conveniently located right off Interstate-5.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you’ll need or want to know about hiking to Hedge Creek Falls. Let’s get into it.
Quick Stats
Location: Dunsmuir, CA
Fee/Permit: None
Open: All year
For: Hikers
Parking: Small dirt lot across the street from the trailhead
Restroom: Port-O-Potty in the parking lot
EV Stations: None
Drone Use: No signs stating you can’t
Difficulty: Easy
Popularity: Moderate
Time: Less than an hour
Milage: 0.7-miles, out and back
Elevation Gain: 200 feet
Trail Condition: Well maintained
Main Feature(s): 35 foot waterfall, views of Mount Shasta, and views of the Sacramento River
Pets: Allowed on leash
Special Notes/Hazards: Vehicle break-ins are common in the trail’s parking lot
Our Visit(s): May 2022
*Please practice leave no trace principles and keep to the trail
Trailhead and Parking
The Hedge Creek Falls trail is probably one of the easiest trailheads on earth to find. Both it and the parking lot are located directly off Interstate-5 on Dunsmuir Ave.
Whether you’re traveling south or north on I-5S, you will see signs for Hedge Creek as you get close. From either direction, take exit #732 and go right on Dunsmuir Ave and it’ll be right there.
If you’re coming from Burney Falls, simply travel north on CA-89 for about 56-miles before jumping on Interstate-5 south for a short time. From there, follow the same directions above.
The parking lot is of the dirt variety and small. It fills rather quickly in the summer so the sooner you can arrive, the better. To find the trailhead, simply cross the street.
The Trail
The trail begins just past the water fountain on the left. It’s a well maintained, packed dirt trail with very little tripping hazards (rocks, branches, etc).
You’ll descend down to the falls under the cover of trees, providing plenty of shade even on the sunniest of days. After just a few minutes, you’ll take note of the sounds of Hedge Creek.
After just ten minutes or so, you’ll arrive at the waterfall. The time of year you’re visiting will determine how heavy the flow is. We were here in May and it wasn’t flowing very heavily.
As you approach the falls, the trail temporarily gets rockier (and slick during the winter) due to how close you’re able to get to both the falls and the creek.
Here, you’ll have the rare opportunity to walk directly behind a waterfall. There’s a large cleft cut into the columnar basalt wall for you to walk through.
You’ll also take notice of the dozens of handprints all over the walls of the hanging rock. These were left by visitors who used the mud in the cleft to leave those prints.
From here, the trail continues for another tenth of a mile to a spectacular view of the Sacramento River and an ‘ok’ view of the summit of Mount Shasta (the rest is obstructed by trees).
Onward to Mossbrea Falls
Now, there’s (almost) nowhere left to go. Most will simply turn around and go back their car. Others could cross the river (if it’s safe) and continue on to an even more beautiful waterfall, “Mossbrea Falls”.
Currently, there’s only an unofficial trail to Mossbrea that requires hikers to commit the crime of trespassing on more than one occasion. So the only other way is to cross the river.
The Mount Shasta Trail Association has been making efforts to finally construct an official trail. Essentially, the plan is to connect Mossbrea Falls to the Hedge Creek Falls trail via a bridge over the river.
Unfortunately, there hasn’t been much progress as the last update given by the MSTA was back in July of 2020. If you want to keep tabs on this project, go here.
Hopefully this project will pick up steam soon because Mossbrea Falls is amazing and it’s criminal that it can’t be accessed without risking a misdemeanor charge.
Have you been to Hedge Creek Falls? Or are you a local and have heard any rumors about the trail to Mossbrea or what the hold up’s about? Lets us know about it in the comments below!
Please support our website by sharing this article with your family and friends.
Thanks for reading.
McCloud River Falls: Three Fantastic Waterfalls in One Hike
Just a short distance between two popular Northern California towns; Burney and Dunsmuir, McCloud Falls is a series of three…
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products or services that I believe will add value to my readers.
Just a short distance between two popular Northern California towns; Burney and Dunsmuir, McCloud Falls is a series of three beautiful waterfalls along the McCloud River.
Lower, Middle, and Upper McCloud Falls are easily accessible by foot via a 3.9-mile (out-and-back) hiking trail or by driving to each one via the paved road connecting the three. Additionally, each fall has its own parking lot with picnic tables, signage, restrooms and a campground nearby.
In this guide, we’ll cover a few things you’ll need to know about each of the falls like where to find them, how to access them once you’re there, etc. Let’s get into it.
Quick Stats
Location: McCloud, CA (in between Burney and Dunsmuir)
Fee/Permit: None
Open: Year round, but can be difficult to access in winter
Parking: Large, paved lots at each waterfall
Restroom: Three (one at each waterfall)
EV Stations: None
Drone Use: Allowed (UAV must be registered and follow applicable laws)
Difficulty: Easy by vehicle / Easy to moderate by foot
Popularity: Popular
When: Weekdays and early is best for lower crowds
Time: 2-3 hours
Milage: 3.9 miles, out and back via the trail
Elevation Gain: 337-feet
Trail Condition: Well maintained and easy to follow
Main Feature(s): Three waterfalls of varying heights
Campground: Fowler’s Campground (located near the lower falls)
Pets: Allowed on leash
Special Notes/Hazards: Each waterfall can either be hiked or driven to. No specific dangers aside from usual wilderness hazards.
Our Visit(s): August 2019 & May 2022
Directions To McCloud Falls
If you already happen to be at Burney Falls (or will be), making McCloud Falls part of your itinerary is easy as it’s just under fifty miles away. Even better, if you’re coming from Interstate-5, it’s only thirty(ish) miles away.
McCloud Falls is a well known destination, so simply plugging that into your GPS of choice will get you there without issue. If you’re not a tech person, here’s the simple directions:
From Burney: Go north on Highway 89 for 35-40 miles, then take a left onto Fowler Public Camp road and follow the directions.
From Dunsmuir: Go north on Interstate-5 and take the exit for Highway 89 south. Follow this for about 20-25 miles and take a right onto Fowler Public Camp road.
The road leading to the falls is paved and well maintained. You just need to decide whether you’re going to hike to all three or simply drive.
The falls are handicap accessible and feature viewing decks straight off of the parking lots. For those who wish to, you have the option to walk down to the base of each one for a closer look.
Because we stopped here between our visits to Dunsmuir and Burney, we decided to drive to each waterfall and walk down to their bases to save time. While I recommend hiking the trail connecting the three, you can save a significant amount of time by doing what we did.
Lower McCloud Falls
The lower falls is a great place to begin your visit. The parking lot is paved and decently large. The viewing deck is just off the parking lot, past the restrooms.
If you’re able, I highly recommend going down the stone steps to get a closer view of this 15-foot waterfall. These stone steps is also where the official beginning (or end) of the hiking trail is. I have seen pictures of people swimming in the emerald green plunge pool, so I assume it’s allowed.
In fact, while you’re there, look for metal hooks embedded into the rock. According to a local I spoke with, those are the remains of what used to be a ladder swimmers used to climb out.
From here, you can either start hiking up the trail to the middle falls or head back to your car and drive up. If you drive, simply take a right up the road and look out of the waterfall sign.
Middle McCloud Falls
The middle falls was our favorite and arguably the most impressive of the three. If you only have time for one, I recommend this one. If you’re hiking here from the lower falls, the trail will take you straight to the base. If you drive, you’ll need to hike down or simply view it from above.
To get to the base, you’ll need to hike the short, quarter-mile(ish) trail to the bottom. It’s easy to miss and there isn’t any signage indicating where to go (at least none that we saw). What you’ll look out for is a dirt path, lined with rocks, spurring off to the right from the paved one going to the viewing deck.
The trail consists of packed dirt and while a bit rocky in some spots, overall it’s a well-maintained, easy to-follow trail. You’ll take a short series of graded switchbacks before reaching the bottom.
When the trail flattens out at the bottom, keep left to the falls and you’ll eventually reach a rest area. Between you and the falls is a boulder field that you’ll need to scramble over if you want a closer view. The pool in front of the falls is perfect for swimming and while we don’t how deep it is, we have seen videos of people cliff jumping into it, indicating it’s decently deep.
Out of the three, the middle fall is where we spent the majority of our time. I wrote an extensive post highlighting the middle falls and its trail if you’d like to read more about it.
Upper McCloud Falls
The upper falls is the one with second tallest plunge at 30-feet. Similar to the lower fall, it’s narrow and dumps into a small pool but unlike the lower fall, it’s carved out an opening between the basalt rock walls, rather than just spilling over it.
There’s a plethora of viewing space up top but unfortunately, none of them provided an impressive view of the waterfall (in my opinion, anyway). To get a better view, you’ll need to rough it a bit.
Just past the last viewing deck, where the dirt trail begins, you’ll see a spur trail on your left going straight down to the waterline. Watch your footing and take your time. It’s short, but steep with nothing but loose dirt and rocks. Taking a spill here wouldn’t feel good.
There isn’t a lot of space at the water’s edge. Most of it consists of awkwardly spaced boulders that you’ll need to sit or stand on to view the waterfall.
When you’re done, head back up and go a little further upstream to see the cascades feeding the waterfall or read about the development of these falls on the informational signs near the trailhead.
Hike or Drive?
That all depends on personal preference, physical limitations, how much time you have, etc. Both have their advantages and disadvantages.
Hiking the trail: You’ll need to ensure you have the proper equipment with you such as trekking poles (see my recommendation here), hiking boots/shoes, water, sun protection, etc. Each waterfall is less than one mile from the next and the only real “challenging” part is the uphill slog out of the middle fall. Aside from that, it’s a fairly simple trail.
Driving to each fall: For those short on time or with physical limitations, this would be the best option. Each fall has its own parking lot and all of the upper viewing decks are wheelchair accessible. If you’re able, you can still get a close view of each waterfall (which is really the main point, anyway).
As far as where to start, that’s also your personal preference. If you’re hiking with a group with multiple vehicles, our recommendation would be to leave a vehicle at the lower fall, take another up to the upper fall, and start the hike there.
This strategy is two-fold as:
You’re hiking down to the lower falls, bypassing having to work your way up and out of the middle falls.
Saves you time by cutting the hike in half.
If you’re driving, it doesn’t really matter where you start. If you only have time for one waterfall, we recommend the middle falls as it’s the largest, most scenic/photogenic, and has the best swimming hole.
The Mist Trail: Hike One Of Yosemite's Most Beautiful Trails
Yosemite National Park is filled to the brim with many popular and beautiful natural attractions and trails. However, there are a select handful that are…
5 minute read | Contains affiliate links
Yosemite is filled to the brim with many popular and beautiful natural attractions and trails. However, there are a select handful that are insanely popular in the park.
We have been blessed to have hiked many Yosemite trails and while they are all amazing in their own right, there are two that stand out from the pack; Half Dome and The Mist Trail.
We’ve covered Half Dome in a previous article that details my experience and gives you a good idea of what to expect.
While The Mist Trail is partially covered in that one (The Mist Trail is where most hikers begin), we felt it to be deserving of its own detailed, dedicated post.
Quick Stats
Location: Yosemite National Park (Valley)
Red Tape: None for the trail, but you’ll need to pay the park entrance fee
Open: Spring through Fall
For: Hikers only
Parking: Large dirt lot a quarter mile from the trailhead
Restroom: Two. One at the Vernal footbridge and another at the top of Nevada Fall
EV Stations: None
Drone Use: Not allowed
Difficulty: Moderate to hard
Time: Two to four hours
Milage: Three miles (RT) to Vernal Fall / Seven miles (RT) to Nevada Fall
Elevation Gain: 1,925 feet
Trail Condition: Well maintained and marked
Main Feature(s): Vernal Fall & Nevada Fall
Pets: Not allowed
Special Notes/Hazards: The stone steps along the trail are slick, some are steep, and they can be dangerous. Watch your footing
Our Visit(s): September 2017 & June 2020
The Mist Trail
Parking can be somewhat complicated for this trail (Yosemite as a whole, really). This trail is one of, if not the, most popular in the park. So the lot fills quickly.
Those who are hiking Half Dome utilize this trail and parking lot as well and they get an early start. So the lot may be already partially full by the time the sun rises.
Usually, if you get here before 9am, you’ll likely score yourself a spot. If it’s full, signs will be posted alerting you to that.
Your options in this case would be to park at Curry Village (an additional half a mile away) or park elsewhere in the park and take the free shuttle.
Private vehicles are not allowed on the road going to the trailhead. So either way, you’re going to have to walk to get there.
Simply follow the road to the trailhead. It’ll be to your right after the bridge. After a short distance, you’ll see a gate and trail signage on your left. This is the official starting point.
Vernal Falls
The first feature on this trail is the beautiful Vernal Fall. Not counting the distance from the parking lot, it’s 1.5 miles from the trailhead to the top of Vernal.
Don’t let the short distance fool you. This trail is anything but easy. It’s a relentless, uphill slog nearly the entire way. Not to mention the slick, stone steps.
After a mile, you’ll arrive at the Vernal Fall footbridge. Here, you’ll get your first and only opportunity at filtered water via the fountain. You’ll also have access to the first of two restrooms.
Both are located just past the bridge. This is the point where a lot of visitors decide to call it a day and head back (you do get a slight view of the falls from the bridge).
You’ll also have a fork in the trail here. If you don’t want to deal with the slick stone steps, you can take the John Muir Trail.
This trail is on a far more even grade, but it will not take you to the base of Vernal and it will add a bit more time to your hike. To experience the mist, continue left on the trail proper.
The trail begins to climb again as you get closer to Vernal. Soon, you’ll approach the beginning of the stone steps and get your first glimpse of this magnificent waterfall.
I’ve never counted them, but according to my research, there are 500-600 of these steps. Again, these steps are SLICK. Be mindful of your footing.
As you make your way up the steps, it’ll soon dawn on you where this trail’s namesake comes from. Though the amount of mist you experience will depend on the time of year.
If you’re here in the fall, you’ll experience little, if any. This is due to the falls not flowing as heavily as they do in the spring.
That said, come during spring or early summer and you’ll definitely find out why it’s called the Mist Trail. You WILL get wet. Soaked, even.
We caution anyone with a camera that isn’t properly weather sealed to stow it away before proceeding. Also, If you’re against getting wet, a poncho would be advisable.
Once you’ve reached the mid-way point between the steps (you’ll know you’re there when you’re on a flat-ish area at eye level with the waterfall), you’ll be mostly out of the reach of the mist.
You’ll also have a decent amount of tree cover to help you escape the sun for a bit with various rocks to site on, if needed.
From here, you’ll have an epic view of the gorge that Vernal dumps into and the river, which has been cutting through here for many years. It’s an amazing, unbeatable sight.
If you’re lucky, the sun will hit the mist just right and present you with a rainbow (or two) to gaze at. At this point, you’re roughly one-mile into the hike.
From here, you’ll have a choice. This is the point where a lot of visitors decide to turn back. However there are more amazing views at the top of Vernal.
To do this, you must hike another half mile up a few hundred more stone steps. These steps are not usually as slick as the ones along the base, though.
Pictured above, you’ll see the last of the steps you’ll need to tackle before reaching the top. Once up there, you’ll see much more of the gorge leading into the valley and get up close to Vernal’s edge.
The river you see feeding the falls is the Merced River. The waters leading to the edge usually appear calm, but strong currents are always present.
At the edge, the Merced dumps millions of gallons of water 317-feet into the gorge below. The view up here is simply remarkable.
From here, you'll again have a choice to make. You can head back to your car or you can continue on for another 1.5 miles to Nevada Fall.
Nevada Falls
About a mile from Vernal, you’ll come to the Nevada Fall footbridge. The view of the Merced cutting through the granite boulders is an amazing sight.
From the bridge, you’ll have a great view of Liberty Cap. Many visitors mistake this for Half Dome (wishful thinking). From here, you’re close to the end of the trail (and another restroom).
While Nevada doesn’t produce nearly the amount of mist that Vernal does, the steps will still be slick. The good news is you won’t have as many to deal with as in between the steps are moments of compact dirt.
Once at the top, there’s rocks and log furniture to take a break on. There’s also the second opportunity for restroom use. This one is surprisingly well maintained.
If you’re a Half Dome permit holder, you’ll want to continue onward from here. For you Mist Trail day hikers, it’s time to head back. You’ll have two options on how to do this:
You can take the John Muir Trail down. This will add another mile to the hike, but its much smoother as you won’t have to negotiate the stone steps. Plus, you’ll get a unique view of Nevada Fall.
You can head back down the same way you came up. Keep in mind, going down those steps is worse than going up (especially if they’re slick). Going down the JMT may add an hour, but it wouldn’t necessarily add more time as it would more than likely take longer to deal with the steps.
On our 2017 visit, we opted to go back down the Mist Trail versus the JMT. Almost immediately, I regretted that decision. Seriously, consider the JMT.
Things to Remember
This is NOT an easy going trail. It may be fairly short, but don’t underestimate the potential dangers. More people have been killed or hurt on this trail than any other in the park. That includes Half Dome. It is sun exposed, has thousands of slick stone steps, and a powerful river running through it. Keep to the trail, watch your step, bring plenty of water/snacks, and don’t overdue it.
Swimming or wading is NOT allowed. Years ago, people were able to swim in the emerald pools up river from Vernal Fall. Unfortunately, those days are over. Far too many deaths have occurred from people getting swept over the edge.
The trailhead parking lot fills up early. The closest parking lot to the trailhead fills up quickly. Even if you do snag a spot, you’ll still have to walk a quarter-mile to the trailhead. So keep this in mind when planning your day and prepare for the possibility of having to park further away and taking the shuttle in.
Have a great time. Despite the potential dangers, this trail is one of the most breathtakingly beautiful trails you’ll ever hike. Pace yourself, take pictures, and be sure to pause and allow the beauty of Yosemite to consume you. If you only have time for one day hike during your visit, this is the one.
A quick note…
We’re often asked about the equipment we use to capture the photos on our website. Below, we’ve added Amazon links to those products and others that we recommend.
If you decide to purchase, Amazon will pay us a small commission. This helps us keep Inked with Wanderlust running and doesn’t cost you anything extra.
“Understanding Exposure” by Bryan Peterson (this book is a great resource for anyone starting out in photography)
Conclusion
It is our hope that this article was helpful to you in planning your next adventure. If so, please share it with your family and friends on Facebook or Pinterest.
You can further show support by subscribing to our newsletter below. In it, you’ll receive a once weekly newsletter containing announcements, new post alerts, news, and more!
If you have any questions, comments, or suggestions, please engage with us in the comment section below.
Thanks for reading and safe travels!
How to Visit Devil's Postpile and Rainbow Falls
Formed roughly 80,000 years ago, the up to 60 foot basalt columns of Devil’s Postpile National Monument are a sight to behold. The saying, “you won’t believe it until you see it”, holds
Formed roughly 80,000 years ago, the up to 60 foot basalt columns of Devil’s Postpile National Monument are a sight to behold. The saying, “you won’t believe it until you see it”, holds true in this case. Pictures do no justice to this natural masterpiece.
Read along to find out how you can see it for yourself and witness one of the best examples of how much of a role Volcanos played in shaping the Sierras as we know it today.
Mammoth Mountain
Mammoth Mountain Adventure Center.
Your journey to Devil’s Postpile begins at the base of Mammoth Mountain in Mammoth Lakes, CA. With few exceptions, most visitors will be required to utilize the Monument’s shuttle that takes you down the access road to the valley.
The Shuttle
While the Monument itself is free, there is a fee to use this mandatory shuttle. Tickets can be purchased at the Adventure Center day of and as of 2019 it is $8.00 per person 15 and older, $4.00 per person between 3-15 years old, and free for those aged 2 and under (The shuttle rule was suspended in 2020 due to COVID-19).
As stated above, there are a few exceptions to this rule. They are:
Arrive before 7am or after 7pm
Have a handicap placard or plate
Are staying at either the valley campground or Red Meadow’s Resort.
You’re arriving after shuttle operating hours or season
You’re a hunter transporting game or weapons
You’re towing livestock and are using the livestock on valley trails
You have a cartop boat and are using it in valley lakes
READ ALSO: 7 Things You Will Love About Lee Vining
Shuttle line at Mammoth Mountain.
The shuttle runs on average every 45 minutes and usually takes 30 minutes or so to reach the valley. The line moves quickly due to plenty of seating on each shuttle along with some standing room (pro tip: If you’re standing, avoid locking your knees. Someone on the bus with me ate floor because of this).
Much like Yosemite’s east side, the Monument is seasonal and typically opens in mid June and closes in mid to late October. Be sure to keep this in mind when planning your trip.
Devil’s Postpile
Devils Postpile Monument.
The shuttle will make multiple stops along the access road. While you can reach the columns from Red’s Meadow, you’re going to want to get off at the Valley stop as this is the most direct and shortest route.
The valley is where you’ll find the campground, ranger station, bathrooms, and Soda Springs Meadow (which is where the trail to the columns begin). You can find the trailhead to the columns just beyond the Ranger Station.
Devils Postpile Monument.
It is just shy of .05 mile from the start of the trailhead to Devil’s Postpile. The trail is well maintained through Soda Springs Meadow but beyond this, you’ll start noticing thick tree roots and rocks getting in the way.
From here, it won’t be long before you get your first glimpse of Devil’s Postpile and when you do, you’ll be blown away. The columns formed around 80,000 years ago (give or take) after flowing lava cooled and cracked into what we see today.
Top of the Devils Postpile Monument.
Section of the San Joaquin River.
Just as you come upon it keep an eye out for a side trail to your left. This trail will take you to the top of the columns and allow you to touch their smooth, hexagon shaped surface. The trail is a bit steep but freight not, it’s short.
Take all the time you want to admire and photograph this amazing sight. The sun rises above the columns so the morning light tends to be harsh. I found the light much better on my way back out when the sun had time to move on. So if you want to get some good pictures, keep this mind.
Rainbow Falls
Rainbow Falls. Mammoth Lakes.
You now have two choices. You can either stop here and head back to the shuttle once you’ve spent enough time admiring the Postpile or you can press on and head out to the other natural feature of the Monument; Rainbow Falls.
From here, it is another two miles to the falls. While that isn’t a lot and the trail is mostly flat with the occasional dip, there isn’t much in the way of shade. You’ll have a few opportunities here and there but for the most part, it’s exposed. So if you’re going to continue on, be sure that you brought plenty of water with you.
Between the postpile and the falls you’ll have amazing views of the San Joaquin River as you follow along side of it. Eventually, you’ll come out into a vast clearing (where a massive fire tore through) and be able to see the beautiful Minerats out in the distance to your right.
Me at Rainbow Falls.
Soon enough, you’ll start to hear the roaring of the beautiful Rainbow Falls. Your first glimpse will come as you approach the main (and largest) concrete viewpoint.
If you’re looking for a better viewpoint with a more straight on angle of the falls, keep going down the path and you’ll eventually see it off to your right. When I was here, this one had far less people than the first one.
There are also stairs that lead down the base of this 101-foot beauty where you can get some amazing photos but unfortunately, these stairs were closed to the public for maintenance when I was there. More of a reason to go back, right?
Lower Falls
Lower Falls. California.
Located about a mile further down the trail from Rainbow Falls and outside the boundary of the Monument is Lower Falls. Lower Falls drops just 15 feet over smooth granite rocks and into the perfect swimming hole for overheated hikers.
My friend and I debated over whether or not to include this on our visit. Ultimately, we decided to do it and I was sure glad we did. Lower Falls is comparatively unknown to most visitors so we only had to share it with a few others (we were here in August). I highly recommend going for it.
Devils Postpile Monument.
Things to Know
Mileage will vary. If you only hike to the columns, you’re looking at just under a mile from the valley to the columns and back. If you go to Rainbow Falls, that’ll make it 5 miles round trip and if you include Lower Falls, it’s about 7 miles round trip.
The Monument is free, but the shuttle isn’t. If you manage to arrive outside the operating hours of the shuttle, you’re free to drive down to the valley. Otherwise, you must pay for and use the shuttle.
The Monument is seasonal. Due to heavy snowfall, the Monument is only accessible from mid June to around mid to late October. So plan your visit accordingly.
Crowds get heavy. Devil’s Postpile is one of the most popular attractions in the Sierras. As such, crowds tend to be heavy. Your best bet for light crowds is in the morning because later in the day, lines for the shuttle will rival those of Space Mountain.
Your annual parks pass won’t waive the shuttle fee. Keep this in mind if you’re a pass holder. Everyone pays for the shuttle.
The trail to Devil’s Postpile is (kind of) wheelchair and stroller friendly. I know of people who have pushed strollers along this trail and others who have used a wheelchair, but they did struggle. As you approach the columns, there’s a ramp to help circumvent the rocky stairwell but you will encounter thick tree roots and rocks along the trail. Beyond the columns to the falls, wheelchairs and strollers won’t be possible.
Bring plenty of water. Seriously. I underestimated this trail due to it being short but didn’t realize how exposed the trail to Rainbow Falls is and was nearing dehydration. Learn from my screw up.
Conclusion
Whether you decide to just see the columns or include Rainbow and Lower Falls in your visit, you’re sure to enjoy the time you spend at Devil’s Postpile National Monument.
We hope this article has inspired you to want to visit this beautiful place. If so, please support us by sharing it with your family and friends on your favorite social media site.
Thanks for reading and safe travels!
Glen Aulin: A Glorious Hiking Trail in Yosemite
I’m often asked by Yosemite first timers (friends and friends of friends) about which hiking trails in Yosemite should they hike during their visit…
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products or services that I believe will add value to my readers.
I’m often asked by Yosemite first timers (friends and friends of friends) about which hiking trails in Yosemite should they hike during their visit. There are many beautiful hikes in Yosemite, but one of the few I recommend most often is the Glen Aulin trail, located in the Tuolumne Meadows area of the park.
Its not the easiest hike in Yosemite, nor is it the shortest, but it’s far from difficult and I’d say that as long as you and your family have hiked, a minimum, a few times, then you shouldn’t have any issue with Glen Aulin. It’s a straight shot and mostly level throughout, making it an ideal hike for families.
Before we get into it, you need to know that this trail is located in the high elevation area of Yosemite’s east side. This area of the park receives tons of snow in the winter, making it inaccessible during that time. If you want to hike the Glen Aulin trail, you’ll need to plan a summer or fall visit as the east gate typically opens in late May or early June.
However, even at those times, there could still be heavy snow pack along the trail. If you want to avoid snow and/or muddy conditions, I recommend visiting in late summer or in the fall when the weather is pleasant.
Now that that’s out of the way, let’s get into it!
Glen Aulin Trailhead Parking
The official trailhead for Glen Aulin begins just to the right of Parson’s Lodge and Soda Springs in the back-end Tuolumne Meadows. However, you must begin on the opposition side of the meadow, which adds some milage to your hike, but not a lot.
Unless you’re starting from the Lembert Dome area, there is no official parking lot for this hike. Some attempt to park on the side of the road, but you’re risking being cited and towed. I would play it safe and park in the visitor center parking lot across the street.
Glen Aulin Hiking Trail
Once you’ve secured a spot, make sure there isn’t anything with a smell in your car or trunk, as this area sees a lot of bear activity. This includes food, drink, deodorant, etc. There are bear lockers everywhere in the area free to use.
To start your hike, cross the street and look out for the trailhead sign that lists Soda Springs, Glen Aulin and Waterwheel Falls (pictured above). You’ll want to follow the dirt path to the opposite end of Tuolumne Meadows.
The first notable feature you’ll encounter is the picturesque bridge spanning over the Tuolumne River. If you arrive early, do yourself a favor and get your pictures in now because on your way out it’ll likely be littered with tourists.
After the bridge you’ll come across Parsons Lodge (slight left) and Soda Springs (slight right). Parson’s Lodge was built by the Sierra Club in 1915 as a memorial to Edward Taylor Parsons (club member and Yosemite advocate). Soda Springs is a mineral spring with a half cabin built around it.
Don’t spend too much time here, because you haven’t officially started the actual trail yet and still have a ways to go. Keep going past Soda Springs and the lodge and you’ll see signs pointing you toward Glen Aulin trail, proper.
Glen Aulin shares its trail with both the PCT and the JMT. So if you see signs for either or both, you’re going in the right direction.
The first half-ish is fairly flat and straightforward. It’s clearly marked and well-maintained so there’s no real risk of going off-track. At around the three mile mark, you’ll come out into a beautiful meadow and lake that rivals Tuolumne Meadows (in my opinion).
Shortly after this point is where the trial starts to get a bit rocky and less maintained. However, the views continue to get better and better. For the next couple miles, you’re zig-zagging along beautiful cascades and have jaw dropping views of the granite mountains out in the distance.
The closer you get to Glen Aulin, the more spectacular the cascades get. I hiked this late in the season and the river was going strong. I could only imagine how it looks earlier in the season.
Tuolumne Falls
Before reaching Glen Aulin, you’ll first find yourself at the beautiful Tuolumne Falls. This waterfall is simply breathtaking and worth spending some time at. Although no one was down there on my hike, I have heard of overheated hikers using the pool around the falls as a swimming hole. I would exercise caution if you decide to do so.
After soaking in the views and getting your pictures, continue down the trail. From here, you’re still another mile or so from your destination. This is where the drop in elevation will become more noticeable and trail becomes rockier than it was before. Watch your step and pace yourself, if needed.
White Cascades and Glen Aulin
This is one of those destinations that just sneak up on you. You’re wondering how much further you have to go and bam, you come off a slight descent and there it is, the beautiful Glen Aulin and White Cascade. The views in this area are simply stunning.
While there’s nothing wrong with enjoying the view from the initial side, you’ll want to keep going as the view is much better across the swimming hole. Head forward towards the bridge and cross it to get there.
Glen Aulin High Sierra Camp
As you’re coming off the bridge, take a right and head over to the Glen Aulin High Sierra Camp. Everyone and anyone is free to hang out around the camp and the swimming hole, but access to the tents and restrooms are only for registered guests.
The Glen Aulin High Sierra Camp is one of five camps scattered throughout some of Yosemite’s most popular locations. You can attain one by entering the annual lottery and crossing your fingers that you win one. Rates for the Glen Aulin Camp in 2024 are as follows:
$175 per night (Adults)
$90 per night (Children)
Rates include a stay in one of the tents, along with dinner and breakfast, with lunch available as an option for an additional charge. Bookings are available for stays from July 4 - September 7, 2024. You can get more information here. Keep in mind that each tent can fit four people and they will fill it. Depending on your party size, you may be sharing it with others.
The best part of the Glen Aulin High Sierra Camp is you’re camping directly next to the gorgeous White Cascades and swimming hole. Imagine waking up to that sight every morning and enjoying a prepared breakfast next to a fire. That beats any hotel I can think of.
Glen Aulin Hiking Tips
This trail gets crowded. For starters, the trailhead begins in Tuolumne Meadows, one of the most tourist-heavy areas of Yosemite. Additionally, it shares its trail with the PCT and JMT. The earlier you can get started, the better.
It’s a moderate level of difficulty. It’s not a difficult hike by any means, but it is on the longer side and rocky in the latter half. That said, it’s mostly level, straight forward, clearly marked and well-maintained. Just be prepared for the length of it and you’ll be fine.
This trail is seasonal. The Glen Aulin trail is located in Yosemite’s high elevation area and thus, receives a heavy amount of snow in the winter, making it inaccessible. The entire east side closes during this time. So plan a summer or fall visit if you want to hike Glen Aulin.
Bears do frequent this area. Bears are all over Yosemite. However, they tend to hang around Tuolumne Meadows and this trail quit a bit. I didn’t see any during my hike, but you might. If you do encounter a bear, make lots of noise to alert it of your presence, give the bear plenty of space and you’ll be fine.
Watch out for the pack horses! Supplies get down to Glen Aulin High Sierra Camp via pack horses. I encountered them 3 times on my hike. Keep an eye out for them and give them the right of way. You also may want to watch your footing after they pass, for obvious reasons.
Planning a trip to Yosemite? If it’s your first visit, be sure to read 10 Awesome Things to Do in Yosemite Valley on Your First Visit. Additionally, read Tunnel View: How to See the Most Iconic View in Yosemite for an epic view you won’t want to miss. Finally, if you’re thinking of hiking Half Dome, read How to Hike Half Dome: The Complete First Timers Guide.
IF YOU WANT TO SEE ALL OF YOSEMITE’S HIGHLIGHTS IN A DONE-FOR-YOU, HASSLE-FREE TOUR WITH KNOWLEDGEABLE GUIDES, GO HERE.
Our 5 Favorite Waterfalls in California
California is littered with beautiful waterfalls and as such, I found it difficult to narrow them down to just five. I haven’t seen every waterfall in the state, but I have been fortunate enough to see many of…
California is littered with beautiful waterfalls and as such, we found it difficult to narrow them down to just five. We haven’t seen every waterfall in the state, but we’ve been fortunate enough to see many of them and below is our list of five of our favorites (so far).
They are in no particular order and if there’s a link listed in the description of a waterfall, click or tap it to find out more detailed information about how you can see it for yourself.
1) Yosemite Falls
Yosemite Falls has a commanding presence in the park and is not only the highest waterfall in Yosemite, but it’s one of the highest in the country!
Upper Yosemite Falls is the highest at 1,430 feet, followed the middle cascades at 675 feet, and finishing with Lower Yosemite Falls at 320 feet. This gives this beast a total of 2,425 feet.
Yosemite Falls is easily seen from multiple points throughout the park but the most popular viewpoint is the short trail to Lower Yosemite Falls. You can also hike to the top via a 3.5 mile (one-way), strenuous trail.
READ ALSO: 10 Awesome Things To Do In Yosemite Valley
2) Burney Falls
This 129-foot tall behemoth is a sight to behold. Nestled within the Cascade Range and Modoc Plateau, Burney Falls can be found just outside the small town of Burney, CA and can be accessed via a short, quarter mile trail down to the bottom.
It’s so spectacular that Theodore Roosevelt himself referred to it as the, “eighth wonder of the world” (allegedly). Burney is a MUST see attraction in California.
READ ALSO: The Complete Guide To Visiting Burney Falls
3) Tuolumne Falls
This is the first waterfall on the list that requires quite a bit of effort to see. It can be accessed via the Glen Aulin trail in Yosemite. The trail is located on the east side of the park (closed during the winter).
Tuolumne Falls stands at around 50-feet and is located within a mile from Glen Aulin proper and about 6 miles into the trail. You can read more about this trail below.
READ ALSO: Glen Aulin: A Glorious Hike Through Yosemite’s Backcountry
4) Rainbow Falls
Rainbow Falls is located within Devil’s Postpile National Monument and gets its name from the multiple rainbows that appear near the base when the sun hits it just right. While not the largest waterfall on the list, it still stands at a respectable 101 feet.
5) Vernal Fall
You want to see a beautiful waterfall? Look no further than Vernal Falls in Yosemite National Park. Vernal is the third Yosemite waterfall on this list and for good reason; It is stunning!
Vernal Falls is one of two waterfalls along Yosemite’s Mist Trail (the other is Nevada Fall). It features a 317-foot drop and provides the “mist” that makes up the trail’s namesake.
The trail leading to Vernal may be short, but it’s steep and because of the mist, has hundreds of slick stone steps giving you plenty of opportunity for injury. Remember, slow and steady wins the race here.
READ ALSO: The Mist Trail: Yosemite’s Most Beautiful Hike
Jump: Back to Top
Conclusion
That’s it. Those were our five favorite California waterfalls. Did we leave one off the list that you thought should be included? Want to suggest one to us? Drop us a comment below!
We hope you’ve enjoyed this article. If so, please support us by sharing it with your friends and family on Facebook or Pinterest. You can further show support by staying on and reading one or more of the related articles above.
Thanks for reading and safe travels!
Editor’s Note: This post was originally published in October 2020 and has recently been updated for comprehensiveness and accuracy.