Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
200 ft
About Whisky Falls
Whisky Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in the Sierra National Forest in California. It is a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts, offering a serene environment surrounded by lush forest. The waterfall is especially beautiful in the spring and early summer when water flow is at its peak.
The Setting
Whisky Falls sits at 5,909 feet within Sierra National Forest, in the high mountains of California.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy hike follows Rough (#23E290), a 1.5-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. Expect 200 feet of elevation gain with grades of 8-10%. The trail is moderately developed (Class 2).
USFS Trail
ROUGH #23E290
Trail Class
Moderately Developed
Surface
Avg Grade
USFS Segment
0.09 miTrail Description
The trail to Whisky Falls is a short and relatively easy hike through a forested area. It features a gentle incline and is well-marked, making it suitable for most visitors. The trail leads directly to the base of the waterfall, where visitors can enjoy the scenic views and the sound of cascading water.
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 Whisky Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Whisky Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit Whisky Falls is in the spring or early summer when the water flow is at its peak. Fall can also be a pleasant time to visit due to cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
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 Sierra National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
Visitors should exercise caution near the waterfall, as rocks can be slippery. Check weather and road conditions before visiting, and be prepared for sudden changes in weather.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near North Fork hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Whisky Falls is located off Whisky Falls Road (Forest Road 8S09) in the Sierra National Forest. The road to the trailhead may be rough and is typically accessible by high-clearance vehicles. Visitors should check road conditions before planning their trip.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small parking area near the trailhead, but space may be limited. Visitors should plan to arrive early, especially during weekends or peak seasons.
Elevation
5909 feet above sea level
Coordinates
37.288001° N, -119.440134° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Check road conditions before visiting, as the access road can be rough. Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months, and wear sturdy shoes suitable for hiking. Arrive early to secure parking and avoid crowds.
This trail sits at 5,909 ft above sea level
Elevated TrailUV radiation is roughly 24% stronger at this elevation than at sea level, and the dry air accelerates dehydration. Extra sun protection and fluids go a long way.
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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 easy 1.5 miles hike is straightforward — comfortable trail shoes and plenty of water should do. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
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.
JOBY GorillaPod Starter Kit
Wraps around railings and rocks for long-exposure waterfall shots — no flat surface needed.
Osprey Daylite Daypack
Light, organized, and just the right size for a day hike — fits water, snacks, and layers.
Where to Stay
Big Creek Inn
Best Western Plus Yosemite Gateway Inn
Yosemite Southgate Hotel & Suites
The Oakhurst Inn at Yosemite
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
SWEETWATER
7.2 miles away · 12 sites
Overview Sweetwater Campground remains closed due to the 2020 Creek Wildfire Sweetwater Campground is laid out in a single loop along Chiquito Creek, shaded by pine, oak and cedar trees. Most sites overlook the creek or a brook that also runs by the campground. Recreation The campground attracts visitors primarily for its fishing and swimming holes. Many recreational activities are available at Mammoth Pool, including boating, trout fishing, hiking and swimming.Facilities Each campsite contains a
Book on Recreation.govNearby Hot Springs
Hot springs near North Fork, California
Unnamed Spring Mono County 1
High in the Sierra National Forest near Mammoth Lakes, this 95-degree thermal spring flows at 5,585 feet elevation, creating 46...
Mono Hot Springs
Mono Hot Springs emerges at 109°F in the High Sierra's alpine terrain, set at 6,561 feet where thermal water feeds a series of ...
Blaney Meadows Hot Springs
Blaney Meadows Hot Springs emerges at 109 degrees Fahrenheit from the Sierra National Forest at 7,676 feet elevation, deliverin...
Fish Creek Hot Springs
Fish Creek Hot Springs, also called Iva Bell Hot Springs, emerges at 110°F deep in Sierra National Forest's backcountry at 7,24...
Reds Meadow Hot Springs
Reds Meadow Hot Springs flows at an impressive 115°F high in the Eastern Sierra at 7,638 feet elevation, delivering water 72 de...
Fumaroles
Fumaroles vent superheated steam high in the Sierra at 8,167 feet, where the geothermal system expresses itself through mountai...
Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near North Fork, California on SoakingSprings.
Explore California springsAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Bass Lake and other hiking trails in the Sierra National Forest.
Wildlife
The area is home to various wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Visitors should be cautious of bears and store food properly.
Cities near Whisky Falls
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