Lehamite Falls
California • Yosemite National Park • 1180 ft
By Armen Suny · Last verified May 2026
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.4 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
350 ft
About Lehamite Falls
Lehamite Falls is a seasonal waterfall located in Yosemite National Park, California. It is fed by Lehamite Creek and cascades down the north wall of Yosemite Valley. The waterfall is most prominent during the spring and early summer when snowmelt is at its peak, but it may dry up later in the summer or during dry years.
The Setting
Lehamite Falls sits at 6,788 feet within Yosemite National Park, in the high mountains of California. At 1180 feet, it is among the taller waterfalls in California.
Height: 1180 feet
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Yosemite Falls, the tallest waterfall in California at 2425 feet, lies 0.9 miles to the west. Also nearby: Upper Yosemite Falls (1430 ft, 1.1 mi) and Lower Yosemite Fall (320 ft, 1.2 mi).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 2.4-mile out-and-back trail gains 350 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
There is no established trail leading directly to Lehamite Falls. Visitors typically view the falls from afar, such as from the Yosemite Valley floor or nearby trails. Reaching the base of the falls would require off-trail navigation through steep and rugged terrain, which is not recommended for safety reasons.
What to Expect
The falls plunge a dramatic 1180 feet.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Lehamite Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $35.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Lehamite Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer, when snowmelt feeds the waterfall.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring and Summer. Access roads and trails may close during winter due to snow. Check with Yosemite National Park for current conditions.
Safety Information
Off-trail hiking to Lehamite Falls is not recommended due to steep and rugged terrain. Always stay on designated trails and be cautious of wildlife. Carry plenty of water and be prepared for changing weather conditions.
Current Water Conditions
1,750 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Higher than usual for this time of year
Based on 110 years of record
5.47 ft
Water depth at gauge
50°F
WarmVery comfortable
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
The water is flowing higher than usual for this time of year. Water temperature is very cold at 50 degrees F, expect numbness within minutes.
About This Gauge
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Lehamite Falls is located in Yosemite National Park, near the eastern end of Yosemite Valley. It is visible from certain vantage points in the valley, but accessing it up close requires off-trail hiking, which is not recommended for most visitors due to the rugged terrain.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at various locations in Yosemite Valley, such as the Yosemite Village or Curry Village parking areas. From there, visitors can explore nearby trails or viewpoints.
Elevation
6788 feet above sea level
Coordinates
37.762425° N, -119.578776° W
Land Management
Managed by NPS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit in the spring or early summer for the best chance to see the waterfall flowing. Bring binoculars or a camera with a zoom lens for better views from a distance. Wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for variable weather conditions in Yosemite Valley.
This trail sits at 6,788 ft above sea level
Elevated TrailUV radiation is roughly 27% stronger at this elevation than at sea level, and the dry air accelerates dehydration. Extra sun protection and fluids go a long way.
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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.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
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.
America the Beautiful Annual Pass
Covers entrance fees at 2,000+ federal recreation sites — required at most National Parks.
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
Yosemite View Lodge
Rush Creek Lodge at Yosemite
Evergreen Lodge at Yosemite
Buck Meadows Lodge
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
Lower Pines Campground
1.6 miles away · 75 sites
Overview Lower Pines is closed for the winter season.Lower Pines campsites are available to reserve up to five months in advance on the 15th of each month at 7:00 a.m. PST. For example, on January 15, arrival dates for the period May 15 to June 14 become available to reserve, and therefore, the full arrival date window would be from the campground open date to June 14. Reservation tips! Campsites in Yosemite are extremely popular and typically sell out in minutes. Login to your account or create
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Nearby Attractions
Yosemite Falls, Half Dome, El Capitan, Mirror Lake, and the Mist Trail.
Wildlife
Visitors may encounter wildlife such as deer, squirrels, and various bird species in Yosemite Valley. Bears are also present in the park, so proper food storage is essential.
Cities near Lehamite Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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