Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
4.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
800 ft
About Horsetail Falls
Horsetail Falls is a picturesque cascade tucked into the Eastern Sierra near Crowley Lake, flowing over smooth granite slabs that shine after a fresh snowmelt. Nestled within Inyo National Forest and managed by the U.S. Forest Service, the falls are at their most dramatic in spring and early summer when runoff swells the creek, making for beautiful photo opportunities and the classic Eastern Sierra scenery. The most common approach follows the McGee Creek Trail and finishes on a very short USFS spur (McGee Creek Spur, Trail #2902B) that drops you right to the brink. The area is easily combined with a stay at nearby Crowley Lake Campground, which is about 6.35 km away, making this a great half-day outing for hikers who want a quick, scenic destination within the national forest.
The Setting
Horsetail Falls sits at 9,058 feet within Inyo National Forest, in the high alpine of California.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate hike follows Mcgee Creek Spur (#2902B), a 4.5-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. Expect 800 feet of elevation gain with grades of 5-8%. The trail is moderately developed (Class 2).
USFS Trail
MCGEE CREEK SPUR #2902B
Trail Class
Moderately Developed
Surface
Avg Grade
USFS Segment
0.02 miTrail Description
Access to Horsetail Falls is via the McGee Creek Trail with a final short approach on the USFS McGee Creek Spur (Trail #2902B). The spur to the falls is extremely short (approximately 0.02 miles) and is composed of native material. The full outing is roughly 4.5 miles round-trip (out-and-back) with about 800 feet of elevation gain and is rated moderate. Trail specifics from the USFS: Class 2 route on native-material surface with a typical grade of 5–8%. The route is generally well-marked but includes some rocky and uneven sections—expect typical Sierra trail tread rather than paved or heavily improved surfaces. Best flows occur in spring and early summer during peak snowmelt; the trail and falls sit within Inyo National Forest, managed by the U.S. Forest Service.
What to Expect
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 Horsetail Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Horsetail Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit Horsetail Falls is during late spring and early summer when the snowmelt creates a strong flow. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while summer provides warm weather for hiking.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Access roads and trails may close during winter due to snow. Check with Inyo National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
Be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall. Weather can change quickly in the mountains, so be prepared for sudden storms. Carry a map or GPS device as cell service may be limited.
Current Water Conditions
64 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 36 years of record
1.39 ft
Water depth at gauge
83°F
WarmVery comfortable
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year. The water is warm at 83 degrees F, very comfortable for swimming.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Crowley Lake hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Horsetail Falls is located near Crowley Lake, approximately 5 miles away. The trailhead can be accessed via McGee Creek Road, which is off Highway 395. Follow signs for McGee Creek Trailhead.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the McGee Creek Trailhead. Spaces may be limited during peak seasons, so arriving early is recommended.
Elevation
9058 feet above sea level
Coordinates
37.539379° N, -118.829571° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Start early to avoid crowds and ensure you have enough daylight for the hike. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring plenty of water, as the trail can be exposed to the sun in some sections. Check weather conditions before heading out.
This trail sits at 9,058 ft — the air is noticeably thinner
High AltitudeSome visitors experience headaches, fatigue, or shortness of breath at this elevation. Take it slow, stay hydrated, and consider supplemental oxygen if you're coming from a lower altitude.
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Coppertone Sport SPF 50 Sunscreen
UV intensity jumps ~4% per 1,000 ft — at this elevation you can burn in half the time.
Sun Bum SPF 30 Lip Balm (3-Pack)
Lips have almost no natural UV protection and burn fast in thin, dry mountain air.
Liquid I.V. Electrolyte Packets
You lose moisture ~2x faster at elevation — electrolytes help you absorb water efficiently.
ROCKNIGHT Polarized UV400 Sunglasses
High-altitude glare off rock and water is intense — UV400 lenses block 99%+ of UVA/UVB.
Boost Oxygen 10L Canister (2-Pack)
Portable supplemental oxygen for quick relief from headaches and shortness of breath.
Altitude Rx OxyBoost Complex
Antioxidant formula designed to support your body's natural altitude acclimation.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
With 4.5 miles and 800 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. 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.
Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof
Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.
Where to Stay
Austria Hof Lodge
Edelweiss Lodge
Timber Ridge Resort by 101 Great Escapes
Cinnamon Bear 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
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Nearby Campground
Crowley Lake Campground
3.9 miles away · 47 sites
Overview Crowley Lake Campground offers 47 RV/tent sites, maximum recommended RV length is 30 feet. All sites include a fire pit, picnic table and a lantern holder. No hook-up. Potable water is available. Dump station fee is $10.00, no passes accepted. Closest amenities are 2 miles south in Crowley, or 10 miles north in Mammoth Lakes. Recreation Popular activities include lake and stream fishing, boating, windsurfing, horseback riding, hiking, and wildlife viewing. Facilities Crowley Lake Campgro
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Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near Crowley Lake, California on SoakingSprings.
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Nearby Attractions
Crowley Lake, McGee Creek Hot Springs, Mammoth Lakes
Wildlife
The area is home to deer, marmots, and a variety of bird species. Be cautious of bears, especially during the summer and fall.
Cities near Horsetail Falls
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