Chinquapin Falls
California • Yosemite National Park
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
About Chinquapin Falls
Chinquapin Falls is a lesser-known waterfall located in California, typically accessed through Yosemite National Park. It is a seasonal waterfall that flows most prominently during the spring and early summer when snowmelt is at its peak.
The Setting
Chinquapin Falls sits at 3,730 feet within Yosemite National Park, in the mountains of California.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Silver Strand Falls (574 ft) lies 5.4 miles to the northeast.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to Chinquapin Falls is not well-documented and may involve off-trail navigation or unmarked paths. Visitors should be prepared for potentially rugged terrain and consult with park rangers for guidance.
What to Expect
Chinquapin Falls is a seasonal waterfall, so its flow may vary significantly depending on the time of year. During spring and early summer, visitors can expect a more robust flow, while it may dry up in late summer or fall. The area is surrounded by typical Yosemite granite formations and forested landscapes.
Accessibility
The trail to Chinquapin Falls is not documented as accessible for individuals with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Chinquapin Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $35.00
Permit required
A reservation or permit is required to enter Yosemite National Park during peak seasons. Check the park's official website for details.
🏊 Is There Swimming at Chinquapin Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit Chinquapin Falls, as the snowmelt ensures a stronger flow.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with Yosemite National Park for current conditions.
Safety Information
Visitors should be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall and be prepared for potentially unmarked trails. Always carry sufficient water and inform someone of your plans before venturing off-trail.
Current Water Conditions
17 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 109 years of record
1.03 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is lower than usual for this time of year.
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 (10 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
17 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
17 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
17 cfs
5/10Fri
Barely Flowing
16 cfs
5/10Sat
Barely Flowing
16 cfs
5/10Sun
Barely Flowing
16 cfs
5/10Mon
Barely Flowing
15 cfs
5/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, sunny (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 Foresta 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 475 feet over a short, steep run of tiers. Elevation at the pin is about 3,765 feet.
The whole reach is steep: about 339 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 287 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face northwest and glow in afternoon and evening light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 3,765 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 475 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northwest
- Glows in afternoon and evening light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading northwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Chinquapin Falls is located near the Chinquapin area in Yosemite National Park. Visitors typically access the area via Wawona Road (Highway 41). Specific directions to the falls may require consulting local maps or park rangers, as it is not a heavily marked destination.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at designated areas near the Chinquapin region or along Wawona Road. Visitors should check with Yosemite National Park for the most up-to-date parking information.
Elevation
3,730 feet above sea level
Coordinates
37.666874° N, -119.756837° W
Land Management
Managed by NPS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Check with Yosemite National Park rangers for the most accurate and up-to-date information about trail conditions and access. Bring a detailed map or GPS device, as the route to the falls may not be well-marked.
Where to Stay
Yosemite View Lodge
Cedar Lodge
Rush Creek Lodge at Yosemite
Big Creek 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.
Nearby Campground
Bridalveil Creek Campground
7.5 miles away · 110 sites
Overview Bridalveil Creek Campground is closed for the 2025 season.Staying at Bridalveil Creek Campground requires reservations. There are no first come, first served sites available.Bridalveil Creek is located in breathtaking Yosemite National Park in Central California's rugged Sierra Nevada Mountain Range. The site is situated on Glacier Point Road at an elevation of 7,200 feet, 26 miles from Yosemite Valley. Within Yosemite, visitors can gaze upon waterfalls, sheer granite cliffs, deep valley
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Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Glacier Point, Wawona, and the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias.
Wildlife
The area is home to diverse wildlife, including deer, black bears, and various bird species. Visitors should follow park guidelines for wildlife safety.
Cities near Chinquapin Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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