Chilnualna Falls Trail: 2025 Beginner’s Guide

Hiking the Chilnualna Falls Trail 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!

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Chilnualna Falls Trail Stats + Map

Chilnualna Falls Trail Stats

Chilnualna Falls Trail Map

Yosemite Entrance Fee and Reservations

Entrance to Yosemite National Park costs $35 per vehicle for a 3-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!

A reservation will be required to drive into or through Yosemite National Park on some days from May 24 through September 1, 2025:

• May 24 – May 26 (Memorial Day weekend) – A reservation is required from 6 AM to 2 PM on Saturday through Monday.
• May 27 – June 14 – A reservation is NOT required at any time.
• June 15 – August 15 – A reservation is required from 6 AM to 2 PM every day.
• August 16 – August 29 – A reservation is NOT required at any time.
• August 30 – September 1 (Labor Day weekend) – A reservation is required from 6 AM to 2 PM on Saturday through Monday.

You can purchase reservations on recreation.gov.

Chilnualna Falls Trailhead and Parking

Best Time to Hike Chilnualna Falls Trail

🌷 Late spring to early summer (May – June) is the perfect time to experience Yosemite’s waterfalls at their best!

The snowmelt from the winter season brings the falls to their peak flow, creating awe-inspiring displays of natural beauty.

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!

✨ READ THIS: Why You Should Visit Yosemite in May

🍂 Fall (September – November) 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!

Chilnualna Falls Trail Directions

Chilnualna Falls Trail

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, and it’s the reason this trail is one of my favorite Yosemite waterfall hikes!

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! 🥳

Tips for Hiking Chilnualna Falls Trail

1. Start Early: Avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures by starting your hike early in the morning, especially during peak season.

2. Be Physically Prepared: With a 2,400-foot elevation gain, be ready for a challenging ascent. Take your time and pace yourself.

✨ READ THIS: 10 Must-Do Easy Hikes in Yosemite

3. Safety: Keep a safe distance from cliff edges and don’t swim upstream near a waterfall.

4. Watch for Wildlife: Black bears are active within Yosemite. Follow these guidelines to avoid any negative interactions with a black bear.

🐻 Note: bear spray is illegal in Yosemite!

5. Respect Nature: Follow Leave No Trace principles – plan ahead, pack out all trash, avoid disturbing wildlife, be considerate of others, and respect the natural beauty of Yosemite National Park.

What to Bring

Must-haves for Yosemite

• Entrance Pass or America the Beautiful Pass
• Reservation (depending on time/day)
• A plan/itinerary with a backup plan in case things don’t go as planned
• Knowledge of the Leave No Trace principles
• Patience and kindness

Clothing and Gear

• Layers of clothing:
  • Poncho or raincoat (waterproof top layer)
  • Warm fleece or down jacket
  • Lightweight jacket or long-sleeve shirt (quick drying mid layer)
  • Long-sleeve or short-sleeve shirt/tank top (moisture wicking base layer)
    • A long-sleeve sun shirt helps reduce sun exposure and keeps bugs away!
• Comfortable hiking shoes or boots
• Moisture-wicking socks
• Hiking backpack
• Trekking poles

Pack the 10 Essentials

1. Navigation – A map, compass, or GPS device to help you stay on course and find your way in unfamiliar terrain.
2. Water – Sufficient water to stay hydrated, along with a filtration system or purification tablets if you plan to refill from natural sources.
3. Food – Energy-rich snacks or meals to keep your energy levels up during the hike.
4. First-Aid Kit – A basic first-aid kit with items like bandages, antiseptic, pain relievers, and any personal medications you may need.
5. Sun Protection – Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from harmful UV rays.
6. Insulation – Extra layers of clothing (such as a jacket or fleece) to stay warm in changing weather conditions.
7. Rain Gear and Emergency Shelter – A rain jacket or poncho and an emergency bivy sack or space blanket for shelter in case of sudden weather changes.
8. Fire – A lighter, matches, or fire starter to help you build a fire for warmth or signaling in case of emergency.
9. Multi-tool or Knife – A versatile tool or knife to handle any tasks, from preparing food to making repairs.
10. Headlamp/Flashlight – A reliable light source with extra batteries, in case you end up hiking in the dark or need it for emergency situations.

Conclusion

The Chilnualna Falls Trail 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 the Chilnualna Falls Trail, I’d love to hear about your adventure.

Leave a comment and share your experience!

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