Wildcat Falls

California • Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park NP · National Park Service

Photo Credits (5)

Images by John 'K' CC BY-NC-ND 2.0 · Flickr

albategnius CC BY-SA 2.0 · Flickr

AlexiUeltzen CC BY-ND 2.0 · Flickr

Difficulty

Moderate

Trail Length

2.4 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

Elevation Gain

350 ft

About Wildcat Falls

Wildcat Falls is a delicate, multi-tiered cascade tucked into the western quarter of Yosemite National Park along Highway 140, about 2.8 miles inside the Arch Rock Entrance. The falls present as a relatively thin string of cascades totaling roughly 720 feet (some sources list 630 feet) across seven distinct drops—the longest plunge measures about 120 feet—creating a striking spring display when snowmelt is strong. Managed by the National Park Service, Wildcat Falls is seasonal and typically flows only through spring, tapering off by May or June. Because the falls sit alongside Highway 140, they make an accessible and rewarding stop while exploring Yosemite’s western corridor. The site pairs well with a short hike: an out-and-back route leads visitors closer to the cascades for photos and viewing. Plan your visit in spring for the fullest flow and check park conditions with the NPS before you go.

Trail Description

Out-and-back, 2.4 miles round trip with approximately 350 feet of elevation gain; rated moderate. The trail provides access from the Highway 140 corridor roughly 2.8 miles inside the Arch Rock Entrance to Yosemite National Park. Wildcat Falls is seasonal—flows are strongest during spring snowmelt and usually diminish by May–June—so timing your hike affects what you’ll see. Trail surface and technical class are not specified in the available park data; expect typical park footpaths with moderate grades corresponding to the stated elevation gain.

Location & Access

Elevation

4252 feet above sea level

Coordinates

37.723538° N, -119.717393° W

Land Management

Yosemite National Park NP

Managed by NPS

Visitor Tips & Gear

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With 2.4 miles and 350 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

Hotels & Lodges Booking.com

Find hotels, lodges, and B&Bs near the trailhead

Cabins & Rentals VRBO

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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

6.8 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