Details
Features
About this place
A supremely scenic hike through wildflower meadows under mountain peaks, over river crossings, and through forest to a picturesque fan waterfall.
The hike to the falls begins near Stanley Lake in a clearly marked trailhead parking lot (GPS coordinates below). From the parking lot there is a short walk up a dirt road where the trail breaks off at a sign for Bridalveil Falls on Trail 640. You will stay on Trail 640 for the entirety of the hike.
The trail starts in wildflower meadows with excellent views of the 9860' McGown Peak directly above. The trees gradually become thicker and a slow incline begins as you enter the forest. About 2/3 of the way into the hike you have to cross Stanley Lake Creek. The water is shallow but the crossing is fairly wide and many hikers turn back here. The rest of the trail follows Stanley Lake Creek through the forest, and you must cross the creek one more time just before reaching the waterfall.
While most of the hike is very easy, the last 1/3 mile of the hike is a very steep ascent to the waterfall. There is not a clearly marked trail, and loose rock can make this part of the hike challenging and potentially dangerous. You will gain about 500' in elevation in this short portion of the trail.
The waterfall is a great reward for the challenging climb and you will be glad you brought your camera.
Trailhead Coordinates: 44.247284, -115.066049
Waterfall Coordinates: 44.211624, -115.107264
Leave No Trace
