Is swimming allowed at Silver Strand Falls?

No, swimming is not allowed at Silver Strand Falls.

Live Conditions · 2,040 ft³/s · About average

Silver Strand Falls

Q: Are dogs allowed at Silver Strand Falls?

No, dogs are not allowed at Silver Strand Falls.

California • Yosemite National Park • 574 ft

By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026

Yosemite National Park NP · National Park Service

Photo Credits (5)

James St. John CC BY 2.0 · Flickr

A Camera Story CC BY-NC-ND 2.0 · Flickr

UGArdener CC BY-NC 2.0 · Flickr

dangerismycat CC BY-NC-ND 2.0 · Flickr

Difficulty

Moderate

Trail Length

2.4 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

Elevation Gain

350 ft

About Silver Strand Falls

Silver Strand Falls is a seasonal waterfall located in Yosemite National Park, California. It cascades down a granite cliff near the entrance to Yosemite Valley, offering a stunning view during the spring and early summer when snowmelt is at its peak. The waterfall is visible from the road, making it an accessible and picturesque stop for visitors.

The Setting

Silver Strand Falls sits at 6,437 feet within Yosemite National Park, in the high mountains of California. At 574 feet, it is among the taller waterfalls in California.

Height: 574 feet

Nearby Falls Worth Visiting

Sentinel Fall (1920 ft) lies 4.2 miles to the east. Also nearby: Ribbon Fall (1612 ft, 2.5 mi) and Bridalveil Fall (620 ft, 1.5 mi).

Sentinel Fall Ribbon Fall Bridalveil Fall

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

No hiking is required to view Silver Strand Falls, as it is visible from the road. Visitors can stop at nearby pullouts to enjoy the view and take photographs.

What to Expect

The falls plunge a dramatic 574 feet.

Accessibility

The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.

Frequently Asked Questions

🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Silver Strand Falls?

❌ Dogs are not allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🤑 Fee: $35.00

🏊 Is There Swimming at Silver Strand Falls?

❌ Swimming is not allowed

When to Visit

spring summer fall winter

Spring is the best time to visit Silver Strand Falls, as the snowmelt ensures a strong flow. Early summer can also be a good time, but the waterfall may dry up later in the season.

Seasonal Access

The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter. Check with Yosemite National Park for current conditions.

Safety Information

Be cautious when stopping along the road to view the falls, as traffic can be heavy. Always park in designated areas and stay aware of your surroundings.

Current Water Conditions

Updated about 1 hour ago Strong

2,040 ft³/s

Current discharge — how much water is flowing

About average for this time of year

Very Low Low Normal High Very High

965 1.4k 3.1k 4.1k

Based on 109 years of record

5.90 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

MERCED R A POHONO BRIDGE NR YOSEMITE CA

USGS 11266500

0.8 mi from waterfall

Drainage: 321 sq mi

Altitude: 3,865 ft

Know when to go.

Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Foresta hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.

Weather Forecast

Location & Access

Getting There

Silver Strand Falls is located near the entrance to Yosemite Valley, along Highway 41 (Wawona Road). It is visible from the road, just before entering the valley.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

Parking is available at nearby pullouts along Wawona Road. Visitors should ensure they park in designated areas to avoid obstructing traffic.

Elevation

6437 feet above sea level

Coordinates

37.704372° N, -119.669334° W

Land Management

Yosemite National Park NP

Managed by NPS

Visitor Tips & Gear

Visit in the spring for the best flow. Bring a camera to capture the stunning views. Be cautious when parking along the road, as traffic can be heavy during peak seasons.

This trail sits at 6,437 ft above sea level

Elevated Trail

UV radiation is roughly 26% 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.

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. Icy conditions are common in winter — traction cleats are a smart addition.

America the Beautiful Annual Pass

Covers entrance fees at 2,000+ federal recreation sites — required at most National Parks.

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.

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

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

Bridalveil Creek Campground

4.0 miles away · 110 sites

Reservable

Overview Bridalveil Creek Campground is closed for the 2025 season.Staying at Bridalveil Creek Campground requires reservations. There are no first come, first served sites available.Bridalveil Creek is located in breathtaking Yosemite National Park in Central California's rugged Sierra Nevada Mountain Range. The site is situated on Glacier Point Road at an elevation of 7,200 feet, 26 miles from Yosemite Valley. Within Yosemite, visitors can gaze upon waterfalls, sheer granite cliffs, deep valley

Book on Recreation.gov