Bunnell Cascade
California • Yosemite National Park
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
7.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Bunnell Cascade
Bunnell Cascade is a picturesque waterfall located in the Sierra Nevada region of California, within the Yosemite National Park. It is part of the Merced River watershed and is known for its serene beauty and cascading flow over granite rocks.
The Setting
Bunnell Cascade sits at 6,325 feet within Yosemite National Park, in the high mountains of California.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Nevada Fall (594 ft) lies 3.7 miles to the west. Also nearby: Vernal Fall (317 ft, 4.2 mi).
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to Bunnell Cascade is a scenic hike that follows the Merced River, offering stunning views of the surrounding granite cliffs and lush forest. The trail includes sections of moderate elevation gain and may have rocky or uneven terrain in places.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a peaceful and less crowded experience compared to Yosemite's more famous waterfalls. The cascade is a series of smaller drops rather than a single dramatic fall, but its tranquil setting makes it a worthwhile stop.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Bunnell Cascade?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $35.00
Permit required
A wilderness permit is required for overnight stays in Yosemite's backcountry, including areas near Bunnell Cascade. Day hikers do not need a permit, but reservations are required to enter Yosemite National Park during peak seasons.
🏊 Is There Swimming at Bunnell Cascade?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the cascade is fed by snowmelt and flows more vigorously during these seasons.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Access roads and trails may close during winter due to snow. Check with Yosemite National Park for current conditions.
Safety Information
Be cautious of slippery rocks near the cascade, especially during wet conditions. Carry enough water and be prepared for changing weather. Always stay on marked trails to avoid getting lost or damaging the environment.
Current Water Conditions
5 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 110 years of record
0.67 ft
Water depth at gauge
51°F
ColdBracing — limit time in water
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is lower than usual for this time of year. Water temperature is a bracing 51 degrees F, limit your time in the water.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge MERCED R A HAPPY ISLES BRIDGE NR YOSEMITE CA (8 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
5 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Low
6 cfs
3/10Tue
Barely Flowing
6 cfs
5/10Wed
Barely Flowing
5 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
5 cfs
5/10Fri
Barely Flowing
5 cfs
5/10Sat
Barely Flowing
5 cfs
5/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, mostly sunny then smoke (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early April to early July, peaking in May.
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 Yosemite 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.
1-meter lidar measures about 145 feet of descent through Bunnell Cascade, a steep tiered drop rather than a single free fall. The brink sits at about 6,315 feet above sea level.
Most of the action is upstream: the ground drops about 213 feet in the 500 feet above the pin and flattens beneath the falls. Facing west, the falls glow in afternoon and evening light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 6,315 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 145 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- West
- Glows in afternoon and evening light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading west).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Bunnell Cascade is accessible via the John Muir Trail or the Mist Trail, both of which are popular routes in Yosemite National Park. The cascade is located along the trail leading to Half Dome, making it a common stop for hikers heading to or from this iconic destination.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the Yosemite Valley trailheads, such as the Happy Isles Trailhead. However, parking can be limited, especially during peak seasons, so arriving early is recommended.
Elevation
6,325 feet above sea level
Coordinates
37.745204° N, -119.471825° W
Land Management
Managed by NPS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Start early to avoid crowds and ensure you have enough daylight for the hike. Bring plenty of water, as the trail can be strenuous, especially in warmer weather. Check trail conditions before heading out, as parts of the trail may be icy or slippery during spring or fall.
This trail sits at 6,325 ft above sea level
Elevated TrailUV radiation is roughly 25% stronger at this elevation than at sea level, and the dry air accelerates dehydration. Extra sun protection and fluids go a long way.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Coppertone Sport SPF 50 Sunscreen
UV intensity jumps ~4% per 1,000 ft — at this elevation you can burn in half the time.
Sun Bum SPF 30 Lip Balm (3-Pack)
Lips have almost no natural UV protection and burn fast in thin, dry mountain air.
Liquid I.V. Electrolyte Packets
You lose moisture ~2x faster at elevation — electrolytes help you absorb water efficiently.
ROCKNIGHT Polarized UV400 Sunglasses
High-altitude glare off rock and water is intense — UV400 lenses block 99%+ of UVA/UVB.
Where to Stay
Yosemite View Lodge
Big Creek Inn
Tenaya at Yosemite
Rush Creek Lodge at Yosemite
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
Lower Pines Campground
5.2 miles away · 75 sites
Overview Lower Pines is closed for the winter season.Lower Pines campsites are available to reserve up to five months in advance on the 15th of each month at 7:00 a.m. PST. For example, on January 15, arrival dates for the period May 15 to June 14 become available to reserve, and therefore, the full arrival date window would be from the campground open date to June 14. Reservation tips! Campsites in Yosemite are extremely popular and typically sell out in minutes. Login to your account or create
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Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Vernal Fall, Nevada Fall, and the iconic Half Dome. The Mist Trail and John Muir Trail also offer stunning views and access to other natural landmarks.
Wildlife
Wildlife in the area includes deer, black bears, squirrels, and a variety of bird species. Always practice safe wildlife viewing and store food properly to avoid attracting animals.
Cities near Bunnell Cascade
Nearby Waterfalls
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