Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
300 ft
About Basin Falls
Basin Falls sits within Uvas Canyon County Park in California, a quiet county-managed pocket of woodland that rewards visitors with a peaceful, picture-postcard cascade. This lesser-known waterfall is a great option for hikers looking for a short outing away from busier state and national sites — the approach and setting feel intimate and shaded by the park’s forested hills. The falls are reached via a roughly 2.0-mile out-and-back trail managed by the county. Expect a moderate hike with about 300 feet of elevation gain; the route winds through forest and occasional rocky sections, making it an inviting choice for families and day hikers who want a short, scenic escape without a long commitment.
The Setting
Basin Falls sits at 1,893 feet within Uvas Canyon County Park, in the hills of California.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 2.0-mile out-and-back trail gains 300 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
Trail type: out-and-back; Distance: 2.0 miles; Elevation gain: ~300 ft; Difficulty: moderate. The path follows a forested route with occasional rocky sections and a modest, steady climb to the waterfall. The trail surface is typical park footpath (packed dirt with some exposed roots and rocks); no USFS trail number applies since this is on county-managed land in Uvas Canyon County Park.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a moderately challenging hike with some uneven terrain. The waterfall is a rewarding sight, especially during the spring and early summer when water flow is at its peak.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Basin Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Basin Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the waterfall is typically more active due to snowmelt and seasonal rains.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
The trail may have slippery sections, especially after rain. Visitors should exercise caution near the waterfall and avoid climbing on wet rocks. Cell service may be limited in the area.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge APTOS C NR APTOS CA (12 km away).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early February to late April, peaking in March.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Day Valley 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.
The laser survey finds one clean step here: roughly 320 feet of drop concentrated at the brink. Elevation at the pin is about 1,890 feet.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 178 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 144 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing north, the falls stay mostly shaded, with soft, even light all day.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 1,890 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 320 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- North
- Mostly shaded, so the light stays soft and even all day.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading north).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Basin Falls is located in a remote area of California. Access typically requires driving to a nearby trailhead, followed by a hike. Exact directions may vary depending on the starting point, so consulting a reliable map or GPS is recommended.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is limited and may be located near the trailhead. Visitors should arrive early to secure a spot, especially during peak seasons.
Elevation
1,893 feet above sea level
Coordinates
37.079722° N, -121.806111° W
Land Management
Managed by CNTY
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring plenty of water. Arrive early to avoid crowds and secure parking. Check weather conditions before heading out, as the trail may become slippery after rain.
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With 2.0 miles and 300 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
Royal Villa - Ocean View - Heated Pools - SEASCAPE'S BEST 1 BEDROOM - 3 BEDS - End Unit
Hampton Inn Morgan Hill
Casablanca Inn on The Beach
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites San Jose-Morgan Hill by IHG
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions may include other hiking trails and natural landmarks in the area. Research local guides for more details.
Wildlife
The area may be home to various wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors should remain aware of their surroundings and avoid disturbing animals.
Cities near Basin Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
Other waterfalls named Basin Falls
2 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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