Chilnualna Fall
California • Yosemite National Park
By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Hard
Trail Length
8.2 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
2 ft
About Chilnualna Fall
Chilnualna Fall is a stunning multi-tiered waterfall located in Yosemite National Park, California. It is less crowded than some of the park's more famous waterfalls, offering a serene and rewarding experience for hikers. The falls cascade down a series of granite steps, providing breathtaking views along the way.
The Setting
Chilnualna Fall sits at 6,385 feet within Yosemite National Park, in the high mountains of California.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Silver Strand Falls (574 ft) lies 10.2 miles to the north.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The hard 8.2-mile out-and-back trail gains 2 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to Chilnualna Fall is a challenging hike that begins with a steep climb through a forested area. As you ascend, you'll encounter several smaller cascades before reaching the main waterfall. The trail offers stunning views of the surrounding granite cliffs and the Wawona area. The path is well-maintained but can be rocky and steep in sections.
What to Expect
Expect a strenuous hike with significant elevation gain. The trail provides beautiful views of the cascading falls and the surrounding wilderness. The upper falls are particularly impressive, with water tumbling down a series of granite steps. Wildlife sightings, such as deer and birds, are common along the trail.
Accessibility
The trail involves steep, uneven terrain with significant elevation change and is not accessible to mobility devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Chilnualna Fall?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Pets aren't allowed on Yosemite trails or in wilderness, except the Bridalveil Fall, Lower Yosemite Fall, Cook's Meadow and Wawona Meadow Loop trails.
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $35.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Chilnualna Fall?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring is the best time to visit Chilnualna Fall, as the snowmelt ensures a strong flow of water. Summer and fall are also good times to visit, but the flow may be reduced. Winter access may be limited due to snow.
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
The trail is steep and can be slippery, especially near the falls. Wear appropriate footwear and exercise caution. Carry plenty of water to stay hydrated, and be aware of wildlife in the area. Avoid hiking alone and let someone know your plans.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on Merced River A Pohono Bridge, 10.9 miles away, not on Chilnualna Fall's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
16 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much higher than usual for this time of year
1.00 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
The water is flowing much higher than usual, expect an impressive display.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge MERCED R A POHONO BRIDGE NR YOSEMITE CA (18 km away).
Today
Roaring
18 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Roaring
19 cfs
6/10Sat
Roaring
17 cfs
9/10Sun
Roaring
17 cfs
9/10Mon
Roaring
17 cfs
9/10Tue
Roaring
17 cfs
9/10Wed
Roaring
17 cfs
9/10Best window: Sat — roaring flow, sunny (trip score 9/10).
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 Wawona 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 ground through the falls loses about 235 feet in steep steps rather than one leap. The ground at the falls is roughly 6,381 feet above sea level.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 151 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 134 feet in the 500 feet below it. 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
- 6,381 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 235 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
Chilnualna Fall is located near the Wawona area of Yosemite National Park. From the Wawona Hotel, drive to Chilnualna Falls Road and park at the trailhead. The trailhead is well-marked and easy to locate.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the trailhead, but it may be limited during peak seasons. Arrive early to secure a spot.
Elevation
6,385 feet above sea level
Coordinates
37.563824° N, -119.615156° W
Land Management
Managed by NPS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Start early in the day to avoid the heat and ensure you have enough time to complete the hike. Wear sturdy hiking boots and bring plenty of water, as the trail is steep and exposed in some areas. Check the weather forecast before your visit, as conditions can change quickly.
This trail sits at 6,385 ft above sea level
Elevated TrailUV radiation is roughly 26% stronger at this elevation than at sea level, and the dry air accelerates dehydration. Extra sun protection and fluids go a long way.
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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.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
This challenging 8.2 miles trail gains 2 ft in elevation — come prepared with proper hiking boots and trekking poles. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
America the Beautiful Annual Pass
Covers entrance fees at 2,000+ federal recreation sites — required at most National Parks.
Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter
The backcountry standard — filters 99.9% of bacteria and weighs just 3 oz.
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.
Where to Stay
Yosemite View Lodge
Big Creek Inn
Tenaya at Yosemite
Best Western Plus Yosemite Gateway Inn
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.
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Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include the Wawona Hotel, Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias, and the Pioneer Yosemite History Center.
Wildlife
Wildlife in the area includes deer, black bears, squirrels, and a variety of bird species. Be cautious and store food properly to avoid attracting bears.
Cities near Chilnualna Fall
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