Tueeulala Falls
California • Yosemite National Park • 880 ft
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
5.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
200 ft
About Tueeulala Falls
Tueeulala Falls is a seasonal waterfall located in Yosemite National Park, California. It is situated in the Hetch Hetchy Valley and flows over granite cliffs, offering stunning views during the spring when snowmelt feeds the falls. The waterfall is known for its graceful, ribbon-like appearance.
The Setting
Tueeulala Falls sits at 5,092 feet within Yosemite National Park, in the high mountains of California. At 880 feet, it is among the taller waterfalls in California.
Height: 880 feet
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 5.0-mile out-and-back trail gains 200 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to Tueeulala Falls is part of the route to Wapama Falls. It is a well-maintained path that follows the shoreline of the Hetch Hetchy Reservoir, offering scenic views of the valley and surrounding granite cliffs. The trail is moderately challenging due to its length and some uneven terrain.
What to Expect
The falls plunge a dramatic 880 feet.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Tueeulala Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $35.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Tueeulala Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring is the best time to visit Tueeulala Falls, as the snowmelt ensures a strong flow. The falls may dry up by late summer or fall.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring. Access roads and trails may close during winter due to snow. Check with Yosemite National Park for current conditions.
Safety Information
Be cautious of slippery rocks near the falls, especially during or after rain. Carry plenty of water and be prepared for sun exposure. Watch for wildlife, including bears, and follow park guidelines for food storage.
Current Water Conditions
81 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 58 years of record
3.20 ft
Water depth at gauge
51°F
ColdBracing — limit time in water
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year. Water temperature is a bracing 51 degrees F, limit your time in the water.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge TUOLUMNE R NR HETCH HETCHY CA (4 km away).
Today
Roaring
81 cfs
9/10Tomorrow
Roaring
81 cfs
9/10Thu
Roaring
68 cfs
9/10Fri
Roaring
62 cfs
9/10Sat
Roaring
61 cfs
9/10Sun
Roaring
62 cfs
9/10Mon
Roaring
61 cfs
9/10Best window: Today — roaring flow, sunny (trip score 9/10).
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 Foresta 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.
1-meter lidar shows Tueeulala Falls dropping about 812 feet in a single sheer step. That agrees with the listed height of 880 feet. The brink sits at about 5,074 feet above sea level.
The whole reach is steep: about 116 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 944 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face south and sit in full sun for most of the day, best photographed early or late.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 5,074 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 812 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- South
- Sunlit most of the day. Go early or late for softer light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading south).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Tueeulala Falls is located in the Hetch Hetchy area of Yosemite National Park. Visitors can access the falls by driving to the Hetch Hetchy Entrance Station and then hiking along the trail that leads to Wapama Falls, passing Tueeulala Falls along the way.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available near the O'Shaughnessy Dam at the Hetch Hetchy trailhead. Space may be limited during peak seasons.
Elevation
5,092 feet above sea level
Coordinates
37.964167° N, -119.772778° W
Land Management
Managed by NPS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit in the spring for the best chance to see the falls flowing. Bring plenty of water, as the trail can be exposed to the sun. Arrive early to secure parking and avoid crowds. Be prepared for changing weather conditions.
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With 5.0 miles and 200 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail.
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.
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.
Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter
The backcountry standard — filters 99.9% of bacteria and weighs just 3 oz.
Where to Stay
Rush Creek Lodge at Yosemite
Yosemite Westgate Lodge
Evergreen Lodge at Yosemite
Yosemite Basecamp
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
Wapama Falls, Hetch Hetchy Reservoir, O'Shaughnessy Dam
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and occasionally bears. Always store food properly and be aware of your surroundings.
Cities near Tueeulala Falls
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