LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Codfish Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainDifficulty
Easy
Trail Length
3.1 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
200 ft
About Codfish Falls
Codfish Falls sits along the North Fork of the American River in the Sierra Nevada foothills, tucked inside the Auburn State Recreation Area. The site is on land owned by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation (USBR) and managed as a State Recreation Area (SREC) by SPR, so the setting combines easy river access with the protected feel of a recreation unit. The falls themselves tumble into a modest pool framed by rock and riparian vegetation, offering a peaceful reward at the end of a short hike. This is a popular outing for hikers looking for a quick, scenic trek rather than a long day on the trail. The approach follows the North Fork of the American River and is generally pleasant and shaded, making it a fine choice for warm-weather adventures or an easy afternoon escape. Because the area is managed within Auburn State Recreation Area, visitors should respect posted rules and seasonal access notes from the managing agency (SPR).
The Setting
Codfish Falls sits at 876 feet within Auburn State Recreation Area, fed by the Nf American R A North Fork Dam Ca, in the foothills of California.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 3.1-mile out-and-back trail gains 200 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
3.1-mile out-and-back with approximately 200 feet of elevation gain; rated easy. The trail follows the North Fork of the American River on a generally well-maintained natural footpath with gentle elevation changes and ample shade. The route is straightforward and suitable for most hikers seeking a short, scenic riverside hike to the waterfall; be prepared for typical trail surface (dirt and packed soil) and occasional rocky sections near the falls.
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 Codfish Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Codfish Falls?
✅ Swimming is allowed
When to Visit
Spring is the best time to visit Codfish Falls, as the waterfall is typically at its fullest due to snowmelt. Summer and fall are also good options, but the water flow may be reduced.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall. Poison oak is present along the trail, so stay on the path. During wet weather, the dirt road to the trailhead may become muddy and difficult to navigate.
Current Water Conditions
84 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much higher than usual for this time of year
Based on 84 years of record
0.45 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 NF AMERICAN R A NORTH FORK DAM CA (9 km away).
Today
Strong
84 cfs
10/10Tomorrow
Strong
84 cfs
10/10Sun
Strong
87 cfs
10/10Mon
Strong
80 cfs
10/10Tue
Strong
80 cfs
10/10Wed
Strong
84 cfs
10/10Thu
Strong
85 cfs
10/10Best window: Today — strong flow, sunny (trip score 10/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early March to early June, peaking in April.
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 Meadow Vista 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 210 feet over a short, steep run of tiers. Elevation at the pin is about 871 feet.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 187 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 110 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing south, 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
- 871 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 210 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- South
- 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 south).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Codfish Falls is accessed via the Codfish Falls Trailhead, which is located off Yankee Jims Road near Foresthill, California. The trailhead can be reached by driving on a dirt road, which may be rough in some sections. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended during wet conditions.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small parking area near the trailhead, but space is limited. Arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a spot.
Elevation
876 feet above sea level
Coordinates
38.997120° N, -120.954663° W
Land Management
Managed by SPR
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may have uneven sections. Bring plenty of water, especially during summer months. Arrive early to avoid crowds and secure parking. Be cautious of poison oak along the trail.
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This easy 3.1 miles hike is straightforward — comfortable trail shoes and plenty of water should do. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
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.
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.
Osprey Daylite Daypack
Light, organized, and just the right size for a day hike — fits water, snacks, and layers.
Where to Stay
Miner's Camp
Blissful Acres hilltop cottage
Bella Vista Bed and Breakfast
Foothills Motel
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
FORBES CREEK
13.1 miles away · 2 sites
Overview Forbes Creek Group Campground is located near the southeast shore of Sugar Pine Reservoir in the Tahoe National Forest. Visitors enjoy the area for its fishing, canoeing and hiking opportunities. This facility is operated and maintained by the Tahoe National Forest.Recreation Fishing, canoeing, swimming and boating are popular activities on the reservoir. A trail system for walking and non-motorized biking connects the two group sites at the campground, to the lake and nearby boat ramp.
Book on Recreation.govNearby Hot Springs
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Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near Folsom, California on SoakingSprings.
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Nearby Attractions
The Foresthill Bridge, the tallest bridge in California, is located nearby and offers stunning views of the American River Canyon.
Wildlife
The area is home to various wildlife, including deer, squirrels, and a variety of bird species. Be cautious of snakes, especially during warmer months.
Cities near Codfish Falls
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