Are there fees or permits required for Corlieu Falls?

No, there are no fees required to visit Corlieu Falls.

Is swimming allowed at Corlieu Falls?

No, swimming is not allowed at Corlieu Falls.

Corlieu Falls

Q: Are dogs allowed at Corlieu Falls?

Yes, dogs are allowed at Corlieu Falls.

California • 80 ft

By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026

Sierra National Forest NF · US Forest Service

Photo Credits (3)

www78 CC BY-NC 2.0 · Flickr

Scott Ableman CC BY-NC-ND 2.0 · Flickr

Difficulty

Easy

Trail Length

1.5 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

Elevation Gain

300 ft

About Corlieu Falls

Corlieu Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in the Sierra National Forest near Oakhurst, California. It is part of the Lewis Creek Trail and is known for its cascading waters surrounded by lush forest scenery.

The Setting

Corlieu Falls sits at 3,658 feet within Sierra National Forest, in the mountains of California. The falls drop 80 feet.

Height: 80 feet

Trail & Hike Details

The Approach

The easy hike follows Shady North (#21E228), a 1.5-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. Expect 300 feet of elevation gain with grades of 8-10%. The trail is moderately developed (Class 2).

USFS Trail

SHADY NORTH #21E228

Trail Class

Moderately Developed

Surface

Native Material

Avg Grade

8-10%

USFS Segment

0.06 mi

Trail Description

The trail to Corlieu Falls is a short and relatively easy hike through a forested area. The path is well-maintained, with some gentle inclines and a few rocky sections. The waterfall is visible from a viewing area near the trail.

What to Expect

The falls cascade 80 feet. 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 Corlieu Falls?

✅ Dogs are allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🆖 No fees required

🏊 Is There Swimming at Corlieu Falls?

❌ Swimming is not allowed

When to Visit

spring summer fall

Spring is the best time to visit Corlieu Falls, as the snowmelt ensures a strong flow. Summer and fall are also good times, but the flow may be reduced.

Seasonal Access

The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with Sierra National Forest for seasonal road closures.

Safety Information

Watch your footing on rocky sections of the trail, especially near the falls. Be cautious of slippery rocks and avoid getting too close to the edge.

Know when to go.

Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Oakhurst hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.

Weather Forecast

Location & Access

Getting There

Corlieu Falls is accessible via the Lewis Creek Trailhead, located off Highway 41, approximately 7 miles north of Oakhurst, California. The trailhead is well-marked and has a small parking area.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

There is a small parking lot at the trailhead, but it can fill up quickly during peak seasons. Arrive early to secure a spot.

Elevation

3658 feet above sea level

Coordinates

37.416052° N, -119.624595° W

Land Management

Sierra National Forest NF

Managed by USFS

Visitor Tips & Gear

Wear sturdy shoes as the trail can be uneven in places. Visit in the spring for the best water flow, but the falls are also beautiful in summer and fall. Arrive early to avoid crowds and secure parking.

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This easy 1.5 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.

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.

JOBY GorillaPod Starter Kit

Wraps around railings and rocks for long-exposure waterfall shots — no flat surface needed.

Osprey Daylite Daypack

Light, organized, and just the right size for a day hike — fits water, snacks, and layers.

Where to Stay

Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby

Glamping Hipcamp

Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses

RV Rentals Outdoorsy

Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip

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Nearby Campground

SOQUEL CAMPGROUND

3.4 miles away · 24 sites

Reservable

Overview Soquel Campground consists of two loops on the banks of Willow Creek. The primitive sites are well-shaded by pine and fir trees and can accommodate small trailers and tents. Reservations for this campground are now site-specific. Recreation Trails can be found off Highway 41 west of the campground, including the 3.7-mile Lewis Creek National Recreation Trail and the Miami Motorcycle Trails, a network of forest roads and trails for dirt bikes and off-road vehicles. The Shadow of the Gian

Book on Recreation.gov