Chilnualna Fall

Summary | Parking/Trailhead | Trail Description | Supplies | Itinerary

Above Chilnualna Fall	Above Chilnualna Fall	Above Chilnualna Fall
Chilnualna Trail	Chilnualna Trail	S. Fork Merced River

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) or a panoramic view of the Wawona area far below.

Parking/Trailhead

Get to 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 starts off very steep from the road as it closely borders the South Fork of the Merced River. If you're hiking during the Spring you will most likely be enthralled by the utterly beautiful cascades in this area of the river. 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 trail that heads off to the left away from the river. But not to worry, the extra diversion of going straight (just a few yards) and following the trail is well worth the time as it will take your right 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 for your inspection. You will also find that there are many places where you can leave the trail and explore near the side of river. I encourage to do as much as this on the way up as your heart desires. There's 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 kickback and enjoy the roar of the water. Travel a bit further up the trail and you find the trail signs and the campground. The camp sites are not easily seen as they are scattered in different locations hidden from view. In the vicinity of the trail signs you find 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 for this.

Supplies

Use the standard Day Hike Checklist for this hike.

Itinerary

The following times are estimated only and are overestimated at that.

(Back to Top)