Little Falls

Nevada

Toiyabe National Forest NF · US Forest Service

Photo Credits (5)

Ken Lund CC BY-SA 2.0 · Flickr

Difficulty

Easy

Trail Length

0.7 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

Elevation Gain

200 ft

About Little Falls

Little Falls is a small, picturesque cascade tucked into the Spring Mountains just outside Las Vegas. Nestled within the Toiyabe National Forest and managed by the U.S. Forest Service, the falls are best enjoyed in spring and early summer when snowmelt and seasonal rains feed the stream. The waterfall sits in a narrow canyon rimmed by rugged high-desert and pine‑covered slopes, offering a surprisingly peaceful escape from the city. The short approach makes Little Falls a popular spot for quick hikes and family outings. Many visitors reach it via USFS Trail Canyon (Trail #25147), and nearby Cathedral Rock Picnic Area provides convenient camping and day-use facilities only about 1.13 km from the falls, making it easy to turn a visit into an overnight trip under the pines.

USFS Trail

TRAIL CANYON #25147

Trail Class

Developed

Surface

Native Material

Avg Grade

+12-20%

USFS Segment

0.01 mi

Trail Description

Trail Canyon (USFS Trail #25147) is an out-and-back route of approximately 0.7 miles with about 200 feet of elevation gain and an overall "easy" difficulty rating. The tread is native material and the typical grade ranges from +12–20%. The USFS class is listed as Class 3. The route begins from the Cathedral Rock Picnic Area and follows a forested corridor with some rocky sections; the mapped spur to the waterfall is very short (GIS ~0.01 miles). Expect a mostly natural surface, moderate pitching on short sections, and a quick, scenic hike to the falls.

What to Expect

Visitors can expect a peaceful hike with scenic views of the surrounding mountains and forest. The waterfall may be a trickle or dry during late summer and fall, so visiting in spring or early summer is recommended for the best experience.

Accessibility

The trail is not wheelchair accessible due to uneven terrain and rocky sections.

Seasonal Closures

The trail may be inaccessible during winter months due to snow and ice.

Safety Information

Be cautious of loose rocks and uneven terrain on the trail. Check weather conditions before visiting, as flash floods can occur during heavy rain. Carry plenty of water to stay hydrated.

Location & Access

Getting There

Little Falls is located in the Spring Mountains National Recreation Area, also known as Mount Charleston. The trailhead can be accessed from the Cathedral Rock Picnic Area, which is about a 45-minute drive from Las Vegas. Follow signs for the Cathedral Rock Trail, and the Little Falls Trail branches off from there.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

Parking is available at the Cathedral Rock Picnic Area. A parking fee may be required, so check with the Spring Mountains National Recreation Area for current information.

Elevation

8287 feet above sea level

Coordinates

36.255217° N, -115.656352° W

Land Management

Toiyabe National Forest NF

Managed by USFS

Visitor Tips & Gear

Arrive early to secure parking, especially on weekends. Bring plenty of water, as the desert climate can be dry and hot. Wear sturdy shoes, as the trail has some rocky sections.

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For this easy 0.7 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

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

CATHEDRAL ROCK PICNIC AREA

0.7 miles away · 82 sites

Walking distance Reservable

Overview Cathedral Rock Group Picnic Area is located at the top of beautiful Kyle Canyon in the Spring Mountains National Recreation Area, just 30 miles from Las Vegas. Visitors enjoy hiking, horseback riding and scenic driving in this forested desert oasis.Recreation No trails can be accessed through the Picnic Area at the present time. Trails may be found at the Forest Service Trailhead on the other end of Cathedral Rock Picnic Area. The new Spring Mountain Visitor Center is a 15 minute drive d

Book on Recreation.gov