Silver Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Silver Falls
Silver Falls sits in California's Eastern Sierra near the small towns of Walker, Coleville and Topaz, where a ribbon of water threads over rocky ledges into a scenic pool framed by mountain views. The falls are a favorite for nature lovers and photographers who appreciate a compact, photogenic cascade set against the high-desert and montane backdrop. The site lies on land managed by the Department of Defense (DOD) — land owner listed as DESG, Bridgeport land unit, with a MIL designation — so visitors should be aware they are recreating on military-managed ground. For overnight stays, Obsidian Campground is the closest developed camping option at about 9.8 km away, making Silver Falls a great day-trip destination from nearby campgrounds and towns.
The Setting
Silver Falls sits at 7,152 feet within Bridgeport, in the high mountains of California.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The access route to Silver Falls is an out-and-back trail roughly 2.4 miles long with about 350 feet of elevation gain. Rated moderate, the hike is short but includes sustained uphill sections that require a bit more effort than an easy stroll; the path is commonly described as well-marked and winds through forested and rocky terrain before opening to the waterfall. The trail is suitable for most moderately fit hikers looking for a compact, rewarding outing; pack water and sturdy footwear for the varied footing.
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 Silver Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Silver Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the waterfall is fed by snowmelt and is at its most vibrant. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter may bring icy conditions that could limit access.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Access roads and trails may close during winter due to snow.
Safety Information
Visitors should exercise caution near the waterfall, as rocks can be slippery. Be prepared for sudden weather changes, and avoid visiting during heavy rain or snowstorms.
Current Water Conditions
32 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 88 years of record
0.80 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge W WALKER RV BLW L WALKER RV NR COLEVILLE, CA (9 km away).
Today
Low
32 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Low
30 cfs
6/10Sun
Low
29 cfs
6/10Mon
Low
32 cfs
4/10Tue
Low
31 cfs
6/10Wed
Low
31 cfs
6/10Thu
Low
31 cfs
6/10Best window: Today — low flow, partly sunny (trip score 6/10).
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 Walker hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
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.
Through the falls the surface drops roughly 196 feet over a short, steep run of tiers. Elevation at the pin is about 7,158 feet.
The whole reach is steep: about 146 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 123 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face east and catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 7,158 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 196 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- East
- Catches soft morning light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading east).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Silver Falls is located approximately 11.6 miles from Walker, 13.4 miles from Coleville, and 16.0 miles from Topaz. The coordinates for the falls are 38.3438, -119.5466. Access is typically via Highway 395, followed by local roads leading to the trailhead or viewing area.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability may vary depending on the season and road conditions. Visitors should check local resources or recent reports for updates.
Elevation
7,152 feet above sea level
Coordinates
38.343803° N, -119.546558° W
Land Management
Managed by DOD
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may have uneven sections. Bring water and snacks, especially during warmer months. Check weather conditions before visiting, as the area can experience sudden changes.
This trail sits at 7,152 ft above sea level
Elevated TrailUV radiation is roughly 29% stronger at this elevation than at sea level, and the dry air accelerates dehydration. Extra sun protection and fluids go a long way.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
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.
Where to Stay
Silver Maple Inn
Ruby Inn Bridgeport
Redwood Motel
The Bodie Hotel
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
Obsidian Campground
6.1 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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Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include the towns of Walker, Coleville, and Topaz, as well as the scenic Highway 395 corridor and the Eastern Sierra region.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors should be cautious of potential encounters with bears or other larger animals.
Cities near Silver Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
Other waterfalls named Silver Falls
16 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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