Photo Credits (1)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
3.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
500 ft
About Angel Falls
Angel Falls is a picturesque waterfall located near Bass Lake in the Sierra National Forest, California. It is a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts, offering scenic views and a refreshing atmosphere.
The Setting
Angel Falls sits at 3,615 feet within Sierra National Forest, in the mountains of California.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate hike follows Willow Cove 2 (#22E13), a 3.0-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. Expect 500 feet of elevation gain with grades of 10-12%. The trail is moderately developed (Class 2).
USFS Trail
WILLOW COVE 2 #22E13
Trail Class
Moderately Developed
Surface
Avg Grade
USFS Segment
0.43 miTrail Description
The trail to Angel Falls follows the Willow Creek Trail, which features rocky terrain, moderate elevation gain, and scenic views of the creek. The trail can be slippery in sections, especially near the waterfall, so proper footwear is recommended.
What to Expect
Swimming is permitted. Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Angel Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Angel Falls?
✅ Swimming is allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit Angel Falls is in the spring or early summer when the waterfall is at its fullest due to snowmelt. Fall is also a good time to visit for cooler weather and fewer crowds.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with Sierra National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
The rocks near the waterfall can be slippery, so use caution when approaching. Be aware of changing water levels and currents, especially during spring runoff. Always stay on marked trails.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Bass Lake hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
Through the falls the surface drops roughly 147 feet over a short, steep run of tiers. Elevation at the pin is about 3,614 feet.
The ground changes about 192 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 26 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing southwest, the falls sit in full sun for most of the day, best photographed early or late.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 3,614 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 147 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southwest
- Sunlit most of the day. Go early or late for softer light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading southwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Angel Falls is located near Bass Lake, California. To reach the trailhead, visitors typically drive to the Willow Creek Trailhead, which is accessible via paved roads from the town of Oakhurst.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the Willow Creek Trailhead, but it may be limited during peak seasons. Arrive early to secure a spot.
Elevation
3,615 feet above sea level
Coordinates
37.337783° N, -119.570282° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Start your hike early to avoid crowds and secure parking. Bring plenty of water, as the trail can be exposed to the sun in some areas. Watch your footing near the waterfall, as rocks can be slippery.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
With 3.0 miles and 500 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof
Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.
Where to Stay
Immersed in Nature Manzanita Cabin with Hot Tub
River Falls Retreat
Quality Inn Yosemite Valley Gateway
Yosemite Southgate Hotel & Suites
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Nearby Campground
CRANE VALLEY
0.9 miles away · 7 sites
Overview Crane Valley will be closed the entire 2019 - 2028 camping season due to a massive hazard tree removal Crane Valley Group Campground is located adjacent to Bass Lake and can accommodate up to 7 groups with tents and RVs. The facility is shaded by a dense forest of oak, cedar and pine trees, and although none of the sites offer direct views of the lake, the campground offers convenient access to the many recreational activities and attractions in the area. Recreation Activities on Bass La
Book on Recreation.govNearby Hot Springs
Hot springs near Clovis, California
Unnamed Spring Mono County 1
High in the Sierra National Forest near Mammoth Lakes, this 95-degree thermal spring flows at 5,585 feet elevation, creating 46...
Mono Hot Springs
Mono Hot Springs emerges at 109°F in the High Sierra's alpine terrain, set at 6,561 feet where thermal water feeds a series of ...
Fish Creek Hot Springs
Fish Creek Hot Springs, also called Iva Bell Hot Springs, emerges at 110°F deep in Sierra National Forest's backcountry at 7,24...
Blaney Meadows Hot Springs
Blaney Meadows Hot Springs emerges at 109 degrees Fahrenheit from the Sierra National Forest at 7,676 feet elevation, deliverin...
Reds Meadow Hot Springs
Reds Meadow Hot Springs flows at an impressive 115°F high in the Eastern Sierra at 7,638 feet elevation, delivering water 72 de...
Fumaroles
Fumaroles vent superheated steam high in the Sierra at 8,167 feet, where the geothermal system expresses itself through mountai...
Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near Clovis, California on SoakingSprings.
Explore California springsAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Bass Lake, Yosemite National Park, and the Sierra National Forest offer additional recreational opportunities such as boating, fishing, and hiking.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, squirrels, and birds. Be cautious of snakes and other potentially hazardous animals.
Cities near Angel Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
CC
LiDAR
Other waterfalls named Angel Falls
3 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
Writing about Angel Falls? Embed this waterfall on your site for free.