Leavitt Falls
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.4 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
75 ft
About Leavitt Falls
Leavitt Falls is a dramatic 200-foot (61 m), multi-tiered cascade tucked into the Sierra Nevada of Mono County, where Leavitt Creek plunges off a hanging valley into Leavitt Meadow. The falls and meadow are visible from a roadside turnout on Sonora Pass (Highway 108), offering sweeping views of the drop and the surrounding high-country basin. Because the creek is a tributary of the West Walker River and the falls descend into a steep, narrow box canyon, the waterfall itself sits below the rim and cannot be safely reached by trail. The land around Leavitt Falls lies within the Bridgeport military land unit and is managed by the U.S. Department of Defense, so visitors should enjoy the scene from the designated highway overlook rather than attempting cross-country approaches. The turnout at Highway 108 makes Leavitt Falls an easy, highly rewarding stop for photographers and travelers exploring the Eastern Sierra, combining big mountain scenery with a very accessible roadside viewpoint.
Trail Description
From the Highway 108 turnout, a short 0.4-mile out-and-back walk (about 0.4 mi round trip listed; verify signage) gains roughly 75 feet and is rated easy. There is no maintained trail that descends into the canyon to the base of the falls—the safest and most reliable view is from the highway overlook. Trail type: out-and-back; length: 0.4 miles; elevation gain: ~75 ft; difficulty: easy. Note: the falls lie in a steep, narrow box canyon and are not accessible by trail.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a short, easy walk to a scenic overlook with breathtaking views of Leavitt Falls. The waterfall is most impressive in spring and early summer when snowmelt increases the water flow. The area is surrounded by rugged mountain scenery and offers excellent photo opportunities.
Accessibility
The trail to the viewing platform is relatively short and easy, but it may not be fully wheelchair accessible due to uneven terrain.
Seasonal Closures
Highway 108 (Sonora Pass) is typically closed during winter months due to snow, which limits access to Leavitt Falls.
Safety Information
Be cautious near the edge of the viewing platform and stay on designated trails. Weather can change quickly in the mountains, so be prepared for sudden temperature drops or storms.
Location & Access
Getting There
Leavitt Falls is located off Highway 108 (Sonora Pass) in Mono County, California. The falls can be accessed via a short walk from the Leavitt Falls Vista Point parking area.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a designated parking area at the Leavitt Falls Vista Point, which is free of charge. Parking is limited and may fill up during peak seasons.
Elevation
7769 feet above sea level
Coordinates
38.319262° N, -119.562938° W
Land Management
Managed by DOD
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography. Bring binoculars or a camera with a zoom lens to get a closer view of the falls. Be prepared for cooler temperatures, especially at higher elevations.
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For this easy 0.4 miles trail, lightweight trail shoes and a water bottle are usually sufficient. 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
Find hotels, lodges, and B&Bs near the trailhead
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
Obsidian Campground
6.3 miles away · 0 sites
Obsidian Campground offers opportunity to get away from crowds amidst shade of aspens and pines. Campground is close to Molybdenite Creek and Little Walker River. The river is stocked with trout. Area trailheads offer several interesting hikes. The trail from Molybdenite Creek trailhead splits, with one branch heading south into the Hoover Wilderness, and one looping north along Wheeler Creek to connect with the trail along the Little Walker River. This can be hiked as a loop from Burt Canyon tra
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Explore California springsFrequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Leavitt Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Leavitt Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
Best Seasons to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the waterfall is at its fullest due to snowmelt. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while summer provides warm weather and clear skies.
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Sonora Pass, Leavitt Lake, and the Hoover Wilderness, which offer additional hiking and scenic opportunities.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, marmots, and birds of prey. Keep an eye out for these animals during your visit.
