Jawbone Falls

California

Stanislaus National Forest NF · US Forest Service

Photo Credits (1)

Jenni Reynolds-Kebler CC BY-SA 2.0 · Flickr

Difficulty

Moderate

Trail Length

2.4 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

Elevation Gain

350 ft

About Jawbone Falls

Jawbone Falls is a seasonal cascade tucked into the Jawbone Canyon area of Kern County, California, and managed by the U.S. Forest Service within the Stanislaus National Forest. The falls are at their most impressive after heavy rains or spring snowmelt, framed by rugged canyon walls and the scrubby, open terrain common to the region. Because the flow is intermittent, timing your visit for the wet season rewards you with flowing water and the best photo opportunities. Access to the falls follows a USFS-managed route — CHERRY LK NO OHV-ATV (Trail #18EV272) — and the commonly hiked route is about 2.4 miles round-trip with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain (rated moderate). The USFS mapping records a 1.16-mile segment for the trail corridor; most visitors treat the route as an out-and-back, and Cherry Valley Campground sits about 5.43 km away for those looking to camp nearby. Check current Forest Service conditions before you go, bring plenty of water, and plan your visit for spring or immediately after rainfall to see the falls flowing.

USFS Trail

CHERRY LK NO OHV-ATV #18EV272

Trail Class

Moderately Developed

Surface

Native Material

Avg Grade

+12-20%

USFS Segment

1.16 mi

Trail Description

USFS trail CHERRY LK NO OHV-ATV (Trail #18EV272) provides the primary approach to Jawbone Falls. The route is an out-and-back of about 2.4 miles total with approximately 350 feet of elevation gain and a moderate difficulty rating. The tread is native material with typical grades of +12–20%, and the trail is classified as Class 2 — mostly walking with occasional easy scrambling over rocks and uneven surfaces. Expect an unimproved, natural surface rather than a paved or gravel path; wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for loose rock and short steep pitches along the way.

What to Expect

Jawbone Falls is a seasonal waterfall, so water flow is not guaranteed. The surrounding area features desert landscapes, rock formations, and sparse vegetation. The falls are most likely to flow after heavy rains or during the spring.

Accessibility

The trail is not wheelchair accessible due to uneven terrain and lack of defined paths.

Seasonal Closures

The area is generally open year-round, but access may be limited during or after heavy rains due to road conditions.

Safety Information

Be cautious of loose rocks and uneven terrain. Carry plenty of water and be prepared for high temperatures. Avoid visiting during or after heavy rains due to potential flash flooding.

Location & Access

Getting There

Jawbone Falls is located off Jawbone Canyon Road, accessible via Highway 14. The area is remote, and a high-clearance vehicle is recommended for navigating the unpaved roads leading to the falls.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

Parking is available in informal pullouts along Jawbone Canyon Road. There is no designated parking lot.

Elevation

5568 feet above sea level

Coordinates

38.008254° N, -119.971849° W

Land Management

Stanislaus National Forest NF

Managed by USFS

Visitor Tips & Gear

Visit after recent rainfall for the best chance of seeing the waterfall flowing. Bring plenty of water, as the area is arid and temperatures can be high. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended for accessing the area.

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With 2.4 miles and 350 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

Hotels & Lodges Booking.com

Find hotels, lodges, and B&Bs near the trailhead

Cabins & Rentals VRBO

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

CHERRY VALLEY

3.4 miles away · 45 sites

Reservable

Overview Situated in the central Sierra Nevada, camping at Cherry Valley campground offers many beautiful sights. It is located in a forest of mixed conifers about 1.5 miles northeast of Cherry Valley Dam, 1 hour east of Tuolumne City, 1 hour northeast of Groveland, and 2.5 hours from the northwestern border of Yosemite National Park. Lake access is available via a hiking trail. The road to the campground is a winding mountain road and must be taken slowly.Recreation There are unlimited opportuni

Book on Recreation.gov