Waterwheel Falls
California • Yosemite National Park
By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Hard
Trail Length
18.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
2 ft
About Waterwheel Falls
Waterwheel Falls is a stunning waterfall located in Yosemite National Park, California. It is known for its unique 'waterwheel' effect, where water cascades over rock formations, creating a spinning motion. The waterfall is part of the Tuolumne River and is a highlight of the Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne hike.
The Setting
Waterwheel Falls sits at 6,795 feet within Yosemite National Park, in the high mountains of California.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The hard 18.0-mile out-and-back trail gains 2 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to Waterwheel Falls is a challenging but rewarding hike through the Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne. Hikers will pass several other waterfalls, including Tuolumne Falls and White Cascade, before reaching Waterwheel Falls. The trail features steep descents, rocky terrain, and stunning views of the canyon.
What to Expect
Expect a strenuous hike with breathtaking scenery, including granite cliffs, lush meadows, and cascading waterfalls. Waterwheel Falls is particularly impressive in late spring and early summer when snowmelt increases the water flow.
Accessibility
The trail involves steep, uneven terrain with significant elevation change and is not accessible to mobility devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Waterwheel Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $35.00
Permit required
A wilderness permit is required for overnight trips in Yosemite National Park. Day hikers do not need a permit, but park entrance fees apply.
🏊 Is There Swimming at Waterwheel Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit Waterwheel Falls is late spring to early summer when the water flow is at its peak due to snowmelt. Fall can also be a good time to visit, but water levels may be lower.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Access roads and trails may close during winter due to snow. Check with Yosemite National Park for current conditions.
Safety Information
The trail includes steep descents and rocky terrain, which can be slippery, especially when wet. Be cautious near the waterfall, as the rocks can be slick, and the currents are strong. Always check trail conditions before starting your hike.
Current Water Conditions
305 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 19 years of record
9.15 ft
Water depth at gauge
60°F
WarmVery comfortable
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 60 degrees F, limit your time in the water. Mineral content is typical.
Water Quality
Conductance
Dissolved minerals in the water
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 TUOLUMNE R A GRAND CYN OF TUOLUMNE AB HETCH HETCHY (18 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
305 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
285 cfs
5/10Mon
Barely Flowing
290 cfs
5/10Tue
Barely Flowing
281 cfs
5/10Wed
Barely Flowing
251 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
234 cfs
5/10Fri
Barely Flowing
246 cfs
5/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late March to late June, peaking in May.
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 Yosemite Valley hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Waterwheel Falls is accessed via the Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne trail, which begins at the Tuolumne Meadows area in Yosemite National Park. The trailhead is typically reached by driving along Tioga Road, which is usually open from late spring to early fall, depending on snow conditions.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the Tuolumne Meadows trailhead. During peak seasons, parking may be limited, so arriving early is recommended.
Elevation
6,795 feet above sea level
Coordinates
37.926867° N, -119.458774° W
Land Management
Managed by NPS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Start early to avoid afternoon heat and ensure you have enough time to complete the hike. Bring plenty of water, snacks, and a map or GPS device. Be prepared for changing weather conditions and wear sturdy hiking boots.
This trail sits at 6,795 ft above sea level
Elevated TrailUV radiation is roughly 27% 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.
This challenging 18.0 miles trail gains 2 ft in elevation — come prepared with proper hiking boots and trekking poles. 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.
Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter
The backcountry standard — filters 99.9% of bacteria and weighs just 3 oz.
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.
Where to Stay
Rush Creek Lodge at Yosemite
Yosemite View Lodge
Evergreen Lodge at Yosemite
Timber Ridge Resort by 101 Great Escapes
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
Porcupine Flat Campground
10.1 miles away · 56 sites
Overview Porcupine Flat is closed for the winter.Staying at Porcupine Flat Campground requires reservations. No first come, first serve sites are available. The campground typically opens in late-June and closes mid-October. The opening date varies depending on the opening of the Tioga Road and related seasonal facility and road work.Porcupine Flat Campground is located off the Tioga Road about 30 minutes west of Tuolumne Meadows and over an hour from Yosemite Valley. RVs and Trailers are not rec
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Nearby Attractions
Other waterfalls along the Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne trail include Tuolumne Falls and White Cascade. Tuolumne Meadows and the High Sierra Camps are also nearby.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, black bears, and numerous bird species. Always practice proper food storage to avoid attracting wildlife.
Cities near Waterwheel Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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