Chilnualna Falls
Summary
The hike to Chilnualna Fall is a moderate 8.1-mile roundtrip day hike. This is what I call a kickback hike because it's relatively easy (compared to Yosemite Falls or Half Dome) and it's short enough to where you can really take your time on the way up. There are plenty of places to stop where you can capture a fantastic view of the cascades (especially in spring). You will even be able to see a panoramic view of the Wawona area far below.
Parking/Trailhead
Find the trailhead by passing through Wawona (4 miles inside the Yosemite South Gate on Highway 41), cross over the South Fork of the Merced River, and take a right on Chilnualna road. Follow Chilnualna road (staying to the right) until you see signs pointing to parking for Chilnualna Fall.
Trail Description
The trail begins very steep from the road as it closely borders the South Fork of the Merced River. If you're hiking during the spring, the utterly beautiful cascades in the area will most likely enthrall you. While you're trying to watch the cascades and following the narrow and slippery trail at the same time, you will most likely miss the main path that heads off to the left away from the river. However, not to worry, the extra diversion of going straight (just a few yards) and following the trail is well worth the time. The diversion will lead your back to the brink of the cascades. As you backtrack (assuming you did go forward), you will easily spot the trail that now heads off to your right (North).
Switchbacks will be your friends as you start to start to leave the valley floor. Just about the time you're really pooped and ready for a break, the trail presents a panoramic view of the Wawona valley. You will also find many places where you can leave the trail and explore near the side of the river. I encourage you to do as much as this on the way up as your heart desires. There are two reasons to do this. One, you have plenty of time and this is a kickback hike. Second, you probably won't be interested in looking as much on the way down.
When you reach the top of the fall, you'll find a wonderful place to just kick back and enjoy the roar of the water. Travel a bit further up the trail and you find the trail signs and the campground. The campsites are not easy to see as they are scattered in different locations hidden from view. The area near the trail signs is a wonderful area to simply explore and relax in. There are shade trees by the cascades, rocks in the sun, and a creek running over the granite table. Don't forget to bring your camera!
Supplies
Use the standard Day Hike Checklist for this hike.
Itinerary
The following times are estimated only and are overestimated at that.
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Time
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Location
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5:00 am
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Leave Fresno Area
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6:00 am
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Quick Breakfast in Oakhurst at McDonalds
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7:00 am
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Chilnualna Fall Trailhead
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Chilnualna Creek
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View of Wawona Point / Dome
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12:00 pm
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Campgrounds above Chilnualna Fall
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2:00 pm
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Start Back the Same Way
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3:30 pm
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Chilnualna Fall Trailhead
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5:30 pm
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Return to Fresno Area
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