Chilnualna Falls

Chilnualna Falls is a series of five waterfalls that drop down separate rocky faces, creating a total vertical descent of about 690 feet. The water flows through the cascades from a creek, with each tier positioned at different elevations along the slope.

The waterfall formed through natural geological processes over thousands of years and became widely known after Yosemite National Park was established in 1890. Since then it has remained unchanged in character, continuing to shape the landscape through the flow of Chilnualna Creek.

The name comes from the Ahwahneechee people who lived here and held this place in spiritual regard. Visitors today continue to experience the water and landscape in a way that connects them to the region's past inhabitants.

The hike to reach the falls is steep and demanding, typically taking 4 to 6 hours for the round trip with significant elevation gain on rocky ground. Start early and bring plenty of water, as the trail becomes slippery after rain and offers little shade along the way.

The largest single drop between two tiers reaches about 240 feet, making it one of the longest free-falling sections in this region. This remarkable height creates varying patterns and force in the water flow that change with the seasons.

GPS coordinates: 37.56336,-119.61708

Latest update: December 10, 2025 20:02