Illilouette Fall

Illilouette Fall is a waterfall in Yosemite National Park that drops from steep canyon walls and flows in sections down toward the valley floor. The water cascades over tan-colored rock and creates a white mist zone that is visible from several hiking routes.

The name comes from the language of the Ahwahneechee people who lived in this area before the park was established, though the exact meaning faded over time. The site was later documented as part of Yosemite's preservation efforts.

The waterfall is part of the natural landscape that defines Yosemite Valley and contributes to the park experience that draws visitors from around the world. Many people stop to watch and listen as the water crashes over the rocks and echoes through the canyon.

The best viewing point is reached along Panorama Trail, a hiking path that connects several waterfalls and takes several hours to complete. The trail is easier to walk during the dry season, but the water flow is most impressive in the months following snowmelt.

The narrow stream channel below the waterfall flows rapidly and turbulently during wet weather, with rapids making the terrain difficult to navigate. Many visitors only see the upper sections of the falls and miss the full power of this water system if they do not venture onto the longer trails.