Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Hard
Trail Length
10.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
2 ft
About Garlic Falls
Garlic Falls is a remote and lesser-known waterfall located in the Sierra National Forest in California. It is situated along the Kings River and offers a secluded experience for adventurous hikers. The waterfall is surrounded by rugged terrain and dense forest, making it a hidden gem for those seeking solitude and natural beauty.
The Setting
Garlic Falls sits at 1,896 feet within Sierra National Forest, in the hills of California.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The hard hike follows Kings River Nrt (#27E40), a 10.0-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. Expect 2 feet of elevation gain with grades of 10-12%. The trail is developed (Class 3).
USFS Trail
KINGS RIVER NRT #27E40
Trail Class
Developed
Surface
Avg Grade
USFS Segment
2.99 miTrail Description
The trail to Garlic Falls is a challenging hike that follows the Kings River and traverses rugged terrain. Hikers will encounter steep sections, loose rocks, and potentially overgrown areas. The trail offers stunning views of the river and surrounding forest, culminating in the secluded Garlic Falls.
What to Expect
Expect a strenuous hike with significant elevation gain and remote conditions. The waterfall itself is a peaceful and scenic reward for those who make the trek. Wildlife sightings are possible, and the area is known for its natural beauty and tranquility.
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 Garlic Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Garlic Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit Garlic Falls, as the waterfall is typically at its fullest due to snowmelt. Fall can also be a good time, with cooler temperatures and fewer visitors.
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
Hikers should be prepared for remote conditions and carry adequate supplies. Cell phone service may be limited or unavailable. Watch for loose rocks and steep drop-offs along the trail. Check weather conditions before starting your hike, and avoid the trail during storms or high water levels.
Know when to go.
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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.
1-meter lidar shows Garlic Falls dropping about 413 feet in a single sheer step. The brink sits at about 1,893 feet above sea level.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 528 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 169 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
- 1,893 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 413 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
Garlic Falls is accessed via a trailhead near the Kings River in the Sierra National Forest. The trailhead is typically reached by driving along Forest Service roads, which may require a high-clearance vehicle depending on conditions. It is recommended to check with the Sierra National Forest office for the latest road and trail conditions.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available near the trailhead, but spaces may be limited. Visitors should ensure their vehicle is parked in designated areas to avoid fines or towing.
Elevation
1,896 feet above sea level
Coordinates
36.861304° N, -118.952076° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Start early to allow plenty of time for the hike and return. Bring plenty of water, as the trail can be hot and exposed in some sections. Wear sturdy hiking boots and consider trekking poles for stability on steep or uneven terrain.
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This challenging 10.0 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.
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
Cozy Cottage
Sequoia Resort
Fivespot Cabin
Willow Nest - Sequoia And Kings Canyon Villa - Luxury In Nature
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 Campground
Convict Flat Campground
7.2 miles away · 0 sites
Located in Kings Canyon, 19 miles NE of Grant Grove via Hwy 180. Family campground (5 units), vault tiolet and suitable for small - midsize trailers. Elevation 3,000 feet.
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Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include the Kings River, other hiking trails in the Sierra National Forest, and Kings Canyon National Park.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, black bears, and numerous bird species. Be prepared for potential wildlife encounters and store food securely.
Cities near Garlic Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
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