Hiking to Chilnualna Falls should be on everyone’s Yosemite National Park itinerary! This 8-mile out-and-back hike takes you to one of Yosemite’s hidden gems. The trail climbs steadily, with the first part being a particularly steep section that rewards you with panoramic views of the valley below. Along the trail, you’ll encounter the dramatic multi-tiered falls, which are at their most powerful in spring and early summer.
What makes the Chilnualna Falls Trail so great is how it blends solitude with stunning views. Unlike other Yosemite waterfall hikes, this one is more peaceful, giving you a chance to really connect with nature. If you enjoy challenging waterfall hikes with fewer people, Chilnualna Falls is the perfect hike for you!
Chilnualna Falls: Overview
Trailhead Location: Located within Wawona at the end of Chilnualna Falls Road with the parking area being on the right side of the road.
Length: 8.2 miles
Elevation Gain: 2,400 feet
Difficulty: Challenging
Hiking Time: 4 to 6 hours
Route Type: Out-and-back
Pet-friendly? No
Hike Features: Chilnualna Falls (five cascades) and incredible views along the trail
Yosemite Entrance Fee
Entrance to Yosemite National Park costs $35 per vehicle for a 7-day pass. However, if you have the America the Beautiful Annual Pass, your entry is free! For those who love exploring national parks, investing in the Annual Pass is a smart choice. At just $80, it grants you access to over 2,000 federal recreation sites across the country!
Reservations
A reservation is required to enter Yosemite National Park from 5 AM to 4 PM on some dates from April 13 through October 27, 2024.
- April 13 to June 30: weekends and holidays only
- July 1–August 16: daily
- August 17– October 27: weekends and holidays only
Directions and Parking
Chilnualna Falls is located north of Wawona in Yosemite National Park.
The Chilnualna Falls Trailhead parking area will be to the right off Chilnualna Falls Road. There will be a sign so you don’t accidentally pass it (like we did lol).
The parking lot is fairly small, so even though this hike is not as popular as others, I would still try to get there early to secure a parking spot.
There are bathrooms at the trailhead parking area along with a trail map and more information about the hike.
Best Time to Hike Chilnualna Falls
Late spring to early summer is the perfect time to experience Yosemite’s waterfalls at their best! From May to June, the snowmelt from the winter season brings the falls to their peak flow, creating awe-inspiring displays of natural beauty.
For the best waterfall experience, visit Yosemite in May. The weather is warm but not hot, the crowds are still low, and the waterfalls are at their most spectacular. It’s the perfect time for a peaceful, stunning Yosemite adventure!
Fall (September to October) is also a good time to hike the Chilnualna Falls Trail. This time of year provides cooler weather and fewer crowds, though the waterfalls will be less intense.
⚠️ Always check the weather forecast and current conditions before your visit!
Tips for Hiking Chilnualna Falls
- Start Early: Beat the crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures by starting your hike early in the morning, especially during peak season.
- Bring Plenty of Water & Snacks: The hike involves significant elevation gain, so stay hydrated. Carry at least 2-3 liters of water. There are water sources along the trail (make sure you filter or treat the water). Also, bring high-energy snacks to refuel and help maintain your energy during those steep sections.
- Be Physically Prepared: With a 2,400-foot elevation gain, be ready for a challenging ascent. Take your time and pace yourself.
- Footwear and Gear: The trail is very rocky in some sections, so wear comfortable yet sturdy hiking shoes (or boots). Also, hiking poles may be beneficial on the steep, rocky parts. Make sure you wear proper clothing for the season and bring layers just in case.
- Watch for Wildlife: Keep a safe distance from any wildlife you encounter. Black bears, deer, mountain lions, and other animals live within the park. Remember to never feed wild animals!
- Leave No Trace: Stay on the trail, pack out all trash, and avoid picking plants or disturbing wildlife. Help keep Yosemite pristine for future hikers.
- Safety: Keep a safe distance from cliff edges and don’t swim upstream near a waterfall.
Trail Directions
Chilnualna Falls Trailhead
From the trailhead parking lot, walk up the Chilnualna Falls Road towards the trail.
There will be a junction in the trail with a trail sign indicating one way is for hikers and other way is for stock animals.
Veer right for the “hikers only” path and a much more scenic hike as compared to taking the “stock animal” path.
Lower Chilnualna Falls
The trail immediately ascends towards the first waterfall. In about 0.25 miles you will reach the lower portion of Chilnualna Falls.
Be prepared for several stream crossings along the way, especially during the peak run-off season. Usually, you can cross them safely by rock hopping or carefully balancing yourself over a few logs.
The trail continues to ascend in and out of the forest with views of Wawona and a magnificent granite dome, known as Wawona Dome.
Middle Chilnualna Falls (larger portion)
In about 2 miles you will begin to see the largest of the cascades dropping 240 feet over a granite cliff. Unfortunately, this is the best view you will have of the largest portion of Chilnualna Falls.
Once you reach the top of it, you will only be able to see Chilnualna Creek flowing over the cliff to form the waterfall.
Continue along the trail out of the forest and navigate up a few sets of stone steps to reach the top of the largest cascade known as the middle portion of Chilnualna Falls.
Please don’t attempt to look over the edge of the cliff for a better view of the waterfall. The rocks could be slippery, and falling over the edge could be deadly. Let’s be safe out there.
Either you can continue up the trail towards the uppermost portion of Chilnualna Falls or you can stop here for a much-needed rest break.
This is a great spot to rest and enjoy a little dip in the cool, refreshing water of Chilnualna Creek. Just don’t swim close to the drop-off of the waterfall, and make sure the current is not too strong.
Middle Chilnualna Falls (smaller portion)
Now, it’s time to finish the rest of the hike. You will follow alongside the creek and up a set of stone steps.
You will see another cascade which is also known as the middle portion of Chilnualna Falls but it’s much smaller than the other middle portion.
Upper Chilnualna Falls
To reach the upper cascade of Chilnualna Falls, you will have to cross another stream. It might be too difficult during peak-flow season, so use good judgement and be careful!
The upper portion of Chilnualna Falls is absolutely breathtaking! It’s my favorite of all the cascades.
Further up the trail is a junction with a trail sign which marks the end of this hike. From here you can turn around and retrace your steps back to the trailhead.
Congrats, you did it! 🥳
Conclusion
Chilnualna Falls is one of the most underrated waterfall hikes in Yosemite National Park! It offers a perfect mix of gorgeous scenery, a good workout, and peaceful vibes, making it a great choice if you’re looking for a quieter Yosemite hike. Between the stunning waterfall with its five cascades, the amazing views, and the serene atmosphere, this trail has a little bit of everything. I highly recommend adding Chilnualna Falls to your Yosemite bucket list!
If this guide inspires you to hike Chilnualna Falls, I’d love to hear about your adventure. Leave a comment and share your experience!
✨ NEXT ADVENTURE: Explore Hetch Hetchy in Yosemite
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