Preston Falls
California • Yosemite National Park
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
8.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
800 ft
About Preston Falls
Preston Falls is a scenic waterfall located in the Stanislaus National Forest in California. It is a popular destination for hikers seeking a moderately challenging trail with rewarding views of the falls and surrounding wilderness. The waterfall is nestled along the Middle Fork of the Stanislaus River, offering a serene and picturesque setting.
The Setting
Preston Falls sits at 2,769 feet within Yosemite National Park, in the hills of California.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Tueeulala Falls (880 ft) lies 8.1 miles to the northeast.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate hike follows Preston Falls (#19E18), a 8.0-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. Expect 800 feet of elevation gain with grades of +12-20%. The trail is developed (Class 3).
USFS Trail
PRESTON FALLS #19E18
Trail Class
Developed
Surface
Avg Grade
USFS Segment
3.88 miTrail Description
The trail to Preston Falls is a moderately challenging out-and-back hike that follows the Middle Fork of the Stanislaus River. The path is well-marked but includes some rocky and uneven sections. Hikers will enjoy views of the river, forested landscapes, and eventually the waterfall itself, which cascades into a tranquil pool.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Preston Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Preston Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the waterfall flow is typically strongest due to snowmelt. Fall offers cooler temperatures and beautiful foliage, while summer provides warm weather but may have lower water flow.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with Yosemite National Park for current conditions.
Safety Information
Water temperature is currently 49°F — cold enough to cause numbness quickly. Avoid prolonged water contact and use caution near the falls.
Hikers should be prepared for changing weather conditions and carry sufficient water. Watch for slippery rocks near the waterfall and be cautious of wildlife. Cell service may be limited in the area.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on Tuolumne River, 3.6 miles away, not on Preston Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
57 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 55 years of record
12.27 ft
Water depth at gauge
49°F
Very coldExpect numbness within minutes
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year. Water temperature is very cold at 49 degrees F, expect numbness within minutes.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge TUOLUMNE R AB EARLY INTAKE NR MATHER CA (6 km away).
Today
Moderate
57 cfs
8/10Tomorrow
Moderate
61 cfs
5/10Tue
Moderate
61 cfs
8/10Wed
Moderate
66 cfs
5/10Thu
Moderate
66 cfs
6/10Fri
Moderate
63 cfs
6/10Sat
Moderate
60 cfs
6/10Best window: Today — moderate flow, partly sunny (trip score 8/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid April to mid July, peaking in June.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Pine Mountain Lake hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Is Preston Falls Frozen?
Updated about 10 hours agoNot frozen highs above freezing lately
Preston Falls is not frozen right now; highs have been above freezing. Yesterday ran 55°F to 40°F.
- Days below freezing
- 0 of the last 14
- Current cold streak
- 0 days
- Freezing days ahead
- 0 of the next 7
- Flow
- 58 ft³/s
Winter safety. Frozen falls are the one waterfall trip with a documented injury pattern: falling ice, and ice-glazed rock and trail. Wear microspikes, keep well back from the base and from overhangs, and never walk out on ice over moving water.
Estimate from Open-Meteo daily temperatures at the falls, the LiDAR-measured facing direction, and the nearest stream gauge. It is a likelihood, not a report from the trail.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
The bare-earth surface loses about 95 feet through the falls, but gradually, the profile of a cascade rather than a plunge. The ground at the falls is roughly 2,768 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 95 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 45 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing west, the falls glow in afternoon and evening light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 2,768 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 95 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- West
- Glows in afternoon and evening light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading west).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Preston Falls is accessed via the Preston Falls Trail, which begins near the Donnell Vista area off Highway 108. The trailhead is located in the Stanislaus National Forest, and visitors should follow signs for the trail.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available near the trailhead, but spaces may be limited during peak seasons. Visitors are advised to arrive early to secure a spot.
Elevation
2,769 feet above sea level
Coordinates
37.884368° N, -119.881291° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy hiking shoes as the trail can be rocky in places. Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months, and consider packing snacks for the hike. Arrive early to secure parking and avoid crowds. Check trail conditions before heading out, especially in winter or after heavy rains.
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With 8.0 miles and 800 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
Yosemite Westgate Lodge
Rush Creek Lodge at Yosemite
Yosemite View Lodge
Evergreen Lodge at Yosemite
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.
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Nearby Attractions
Donnell Vista Point, Pinecrest Lake, and Columns of the Giants are nearby attractions worth visiting.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, squirrels, and various bird species. Be cautious of snakes and other potentially hazardous animals.
Cities near Preston Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
Other waterfalls named Preston Falls
1 other waterfall shares this name across the U.S.
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