Tuolumne Falls
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
5.2 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
500 ft
About Tuolumne Falls
Tuolumne Falls is a picturesque waterfall located along the Tuolumne River in Yosemite National Park, California. It is a popular destination for hikers exploring the Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne and offers stunning views of cascading water surrounded by granite cliffs and lush forest.
Trail Description
The trail to Tuolumne Falls follows the Glen Aulin Trail, which is well-maintained and offers scenic views of the Tuolumne River, meadows, and surrounding granite peaks. The trail includes some rocky and uneven sections but is generally manageable for most hikers with moderate experience.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a serene hike through Yosemite's high country, with opportunities to see wildflowers in the spring and early summer. The waterfall itself is a beautiful cascade, especially during peak flow in late spring and early summer. Wildlife sightings, such as deer and birds, are common along the trail.
Accessibility
The trail to Tuolumne Falls is not wheelchair accessible due to uneven terrain and elevation changes.
Seasonal Closures
Tioga Road, which provides access to the trailhead, is typically closed from late fall to late spring due to snow. Check road conditions before planning your trip.
Safety Information
Be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall and stay on designated trails. Carry sufficient water and be prepared for changing weather conditions. Check for trail updates or closures before your visit.
Location & Access
Getting There
Tuolumne Falls is accessed via the Glen Aulin Trail, which begins at the Tuolumne Meadows trailhead in Yosemite National Park. The trailhead is located off Tioga Road (Highway 120).
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the Tuolumne Meadows trailhead, but spaces may be limited during peak seasons. Arrive early to secure a spot.
Elevation
8136 feet above sea level
Coordinates
37.905757° N, -119.417660° W
Land Management
Managed by NPS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Start your hike early in the day to avoid crowds and ensure you have enough time to return before dark. Bring plenty of water, as the trail can be exposed to the sun in some sections. Check the status of Tioga Road before planning your trip, as it is subject to seasonal closures.
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With 5.2 miles and 500 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.
America the Beautiful Annual Pass
Covers entrance fees at 2,000+ federal recreation sites — required at most National Parks.
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
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
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Nearby Campground
Saddlebag Lake Trailhead Group Camp
8.9 miles away · 1 sites
Overview Trailhead Group Campground is located in the eastern high Sierra Nevada Mountains of California at just over 10,000 feet in elevation. Also known as Saddlebag Lake Group Campground, the facility is adjacent to the scenic lake and provides a quiet mountain getaway for groups of up to 25 people. It is within a two-hour drive of Yosemite National Park and Mono Lake, and lies next to the Hoover Wilderness.Recreation Campers might like to relax and unwind by picnicking in the forested camping
Book on Recreation.govNearby Hot Springs
Hot springs near Yosemite Valley, California
Unnamed Spring Mono County 5
This 72-degree thermal spring near Bridgeport sits at 6,383 feet elevation, requiring a short 160-meter walk from the road in M...
Unnamed Spring Mono County 6
This 91-degree thermal spring near Mammoth Lakes delivers exceptional warmth, running 42 degrees above the cool ambient air whe...
Buckeye Hot Spring
Buckeye Hot Spring flows at 140°F from the eastern Sierra Nevada in Mono County at 6,963 feet elevation on US Forest Service la...
Unnamed Spring Mono County 7
This 97-degree thermal spring sits at 8,159 feet elevation within Inyo National Forest, running an extraordinary 56.7 degrees a...
Paoha Island Springs
Rising from the volcanic island of Paoha in Mono Lake, Paoha Island Springs reaches 181 degrees Fahrenheit—one of California's ...
Hot Spring
Hot Spring near Bridgeport emerges at 151°F just 130 feet from the road, making it perhaps the most accessible high-temperature...
Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near Yosemite Valley, California on SoakingSprings.
Explore California springsFrequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Tuolumne Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $35.00
Permit required
A wilderness permit is required for overnight stays in the backcountry. Day hikers do not need a permit, but reservations are required to enter Yosemite National Park during peak seasons.
🏊 Is There Swimming at Tuolumne Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
Best Seasons to Visit
The best time to visit Tuolumne Falls is in late spring or early summer when the waterfall is at its peak flow due to snowmelt. Fall offers cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, but water flow may be lower.
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Other nearby attractions include Glen Aulin, White Cascade, and Tuolumne Meadows. The area also offers access to the Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne for more adventurous hikers.
Wildlife
Wildlife in the area includes deer, marmots, birds, and occasionally black bears. Always store food properly to avoid attracting wildlife.
