Lower Falls
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.0 miles
Trail Type
Loop
Elevation Gain
50 ft
About Lower Falls
Lower Falls is a striking 320-foot cascade tucked into Shasta National Forest and managed by the U.S. Forest Service. Though not a remote backcountry spectacle, the falls deliver a dramatic vertical drop and a close-up viewing experience that’s easy to fit into a half-day outing. The setting feels intimate — a quick stop that rewards visitors with clear sightlines to the torrent and surrounding forested slopes. Access to the main viewpoint is provided by the USFS LOWER FALLS VIEW trail (Trail #01E01D), a short paved loop that keeps the approach simple and welcoming. If you’re camping, FOWLERS CAMPGROUND sits just 0.36 km away, making this waterfall a convenient evening or morning destination for tent- or car-campers. The overall vibe is relaxed and family-friendly: brief, scenic, and well worth a short detour on a Shasta National Forest day trip.
Height: 320 feet
USFS Trail
LOWER FALLS VIEW #01E01D
Trail Class
Fully Developed
Surface
Avg Grade
USFS Segment
0.09 miTrail Description
Trail name/number: LOWER FALLS VIEW, Trail #01E01D (managed by the U.S. Forest Service, Shasta National Forest). Surface: ASPHALT. Typical grade: 0–5%. USFS trail class: 5. Mapped GIS segment: 0.09 miles; the commonly described loop distance is approximately 1.0 mile. Elevation gain: ~50 feet. Difficulty: easy. Trail type: loop. This is a short, paved loop with a gentle grade, making for a brief, straightforward walk to the primary viewpoints of the falls. The asphalt surface and low grade keep footing reliable and the route easy to follow; plan for a quick out-and-back or a relaxed loop that links conveniently with nearby FOWLERS CAMPGROUND (0.36 km).
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a short, easy walk with breathtaking views of Lower Yosemite Falls. The area may be crowded during peak seasons, and the waterfall flow is strongest in spring and early summer due to snowmelt.
Accessibility
The trail to Lower Falls is wheelchair accessible, with paved paths and minimal elevation gain.
Seasonal Closures
The trail is typically open year-round, but access may be restricted during severe weather or icy conditions in winter.
Safety Information
The area near the falls can be slippery due to mist. Stay on designated paths and avoid climbing on rocks near the waterfall. Be cautious of wildlife and follow park regulations.
Location & Access
Getting There
Lower Falls is easily accessible from Yosemite Valley. Visitors can park at Yosemite Village or nearby lots and follow signs to the Lower Yosemite Falls Trailhead.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at Yosemite Village and other designated lots in Yosemite Valley. During peak seasons, parking may be limited, and shuttle services are recommended.
Elevation
3241 feet above sea level
Coordinates
41.242103° N, -122.025556° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Arrive early in the day to avoid crowds, especially during spring and summer. Wear sturdy shoes as the area near the falls can be slippery. Bring a rain jacket or poncho if visiting during high flow, as mist from the falls can drench visitors.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
This easy 1.0 miles hike is straightforward — comfortable trail shoes and plenty of water should do. Icy conditions are common in winter — traction cleats are a smart addition.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
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.
Kahtoola MICROspikes
Cult-favorite traction cleats that grip ice and wet rock — essential for winter waterfall hikes.
JOBY GorillaPod Starter Kit
Wraps around railings and rocks for long-exposure waterfall shots — no flat surface needed.
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
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Nearby Campground
FOWLERS CAMPGROUND
0.2 miles away · 36 sites
Overview Fowlers Campground is located on the Upper McCloud River five miles east of McCloud, California. The campground is nestled in a mixed conifer and oak woodland. The campground offers paved parking spurs, running water and vault restrooms.Recreation A river-side trail from the campground provides access to the falls. It is approximately three miles round trip to see all three. Swimming and fishing are other popular activities. This section of river has no special restrictions for fishing.
Book on Recreation.govNearby Hot Springs
Hot springs near McCloud, California
Hunt Hot Spring
Hunt Hot Spring produces 136-degree water from the forested slopes near McCloud in Siskiyou County at just 1,712 feet elevation...
Big Bend Hot Springs
Big Bend Hot Springs surges at a scalding 180 degrees Fahrenheit from volcanic terrain at just 1,644 feet elevation, creating o...
Hot Spring, Fumaroles
Hot Spring with fumaroles on Mount Shasta at 14,000 feet elevation represents one of California's highest thermal features, wit...
Big Bend, California
Big Bend sits along a dramatic curve of the Pit River in Shasta County at 1,720 feet elevation, occupying territory historicall...
Little Hot Spring
Little Hot Spring discharges at 169°F in the volcanic terrain south of Lassen, where superheated water rises 117 degrees above ...
Hot Spot
Hot Spot delivers water at 191°F, the hottest spring in this dataset section, creating a temperature differential of 150°F abov...
Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near McCloud, California on SoakingSprings.
Explore California springsFrequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Lower Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $35.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Lower 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. However, the falls may still flow during other seasons, depending on rainfall and snowpack.
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Yosemite Village, Upper Yosemite Falls, and Sentinel Meadow.
Wildlife
Visitors may spot deer, squirrels, and various bird species. Bears are also present in Yosemite, so proper food storage is essential.
