LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Fiver Finger Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainAbout Fiver Finger Falls
Fiver Finger Falls is a small, picturesque cascade tucked inside The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park, a state park managed by SPR (Designation: SP). The falls split into multiple narrow streams that tumble over mossy rock ledges, creating the “fingered” appearance that draws photographers and day hikers alike. Its sheltered location makes for a peaceful woodland setting and a rewarding destination after a short hike. Access is straightforward from park trails, and the route to the falls sits on public lands overseen by SPR, so current conditions, closures, and official directions are best confirmed with park staff before you go. The falls are a satisfying half-day outing for visitors looking to pair an easy waterfall visit with more exploring in the park’s trail network.
The Setting
Fiver Finger Falls sits at 807 feet within The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park, in the foothills of California.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Official USFS/US trail surface, grade, and technical class data are not provided for this route; hikers should expect typical state-park trail conditions and variable footing. Check with SPR (the park manager) for the latest trail conditions, seasonal issues, and parking information before setting out.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a serene natural setting with cascading streams resembling fingers. The area may feature dense vegetation and a tranquil atmosphere.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not available. The trail may not be suitable for individuals with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Fiver Finger Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Fiver Finger Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are typically the best times to visit, as the waterfall may have higher flow due to snowmelt and seasonal rains.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Trail conditions may vary, and the area may have uneven terrain or slippery rocks near the waterfall. Visitors should exercise caution and avoid visiting during heavy rains or storms.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on Aptos C, 4.1 miles away, not on Fiver Finger Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
1 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 16 years of record
3.23 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
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge APTOS C NR APTOS CA (7 km away).
Today
Strong
1 cfs
10/10Tomorrow
Roaring
1 cfs
6/10Tue
Roaring
1 cfs
6/10Wed
Strong
2 cfs
10/10Thu
Roaring
2 cfs
6/10Fri
Roaring
2 cfs
6/10Sat
Strong
1 cfs
10/10Best window: Today — strong flow, mostly sunny (trip score 10/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early February to late April, peaking in March.
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 Day Valley hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Is Fiver Finger Falls Frozen?
Updated about 17 hours agoNot frozen highs above freezing lately
Fiver Finger Falls is not frozen right now; highs have been above freezing. Yesterday ran 59°F to 51°F.
- Days below freezing
- 0 of the last 14
- Current cold streak
- 0 days
- Freezing days ahead
- 0 of the next 7
- Flow
- 5 ft³/s
Winter safety. Frozen falls are the one waterfall trip with a documented injury pattern: falling ice, and ice-glazed rock and trail. Wear microspikes, keep well back from the base and from overhangs, and never walk out on ice over moving water.
Estimate from Open-Meteo daily temperatures at the falls, the LiDAR-measured facing direction, and the nearest stream gauge. It is a likelihood, not a report from the trail.
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 230 feet over a short, steep run of tiers. Elevation at the pin is about 803 feet.
The ground changes about 94 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 25 feet in the 500 feet below. 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
- 803 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 230 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
The exact location of Five Finger Falls is not widely documented. It is recommended to consult local hiking guides or park services for directions.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear. Visitors should check with local resources or plan for limited parking options near trailheads.
Elevation
807 feet above sea level
Coordinates
37.049393° N, -121.861900° W
Land Management
Managed by SPR
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring sturdy footwear and plenty of water. Check weather conditions and trail reports before visiting. Cell service may be limited in the area.
Where to Stay
Seacliff Inn Aptos, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
Royal Villa - Ocean View - Heated Pools - SEASCAPE'S BEST 1 BEDROOM - 3 BEDS - End Unit
Quality Inn & Suites Capitola By the Sea
Casablanca Inn on The Beach
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions are not well-documented. Visitors may explore other natural sites in the surrounding area.
Wildlife
The area may feature typical California wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Be cautious of potential encounters with snakes or other wildlife.
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