Frazier Falls

Frazier Falls is the ultimate family hike. Because the paved trail is only a mile long round trip, this trail is open to nearly anyone. Because of its relativly easy access and family friendly nature, this trail can get busy during the summer months.

To reach Frazier Falls from the town of Graeagle, Ca, head south on Highway 89 for about a mile and a half until you reach the turnoff for Gold Lake Highway. Take a right on Gold Lake Highway and continue up the scenic road for roughly another one and a half miles. The turnoff for the road towards that falls is on the left and is marked with a small sign indicating Frazier Falls Trail. The paved road to the falls is four miles long and although it is paved, it is relatively narrow so drive cautiously and watch for drivers coming in the other direction. Once you reach the trail head for the falls, you will see many picnic tables and a no flush restroom.

The trail itself has almost no elevation gain or loss as in winds its way through the forest towards the falls. A quarter of a mile into the hike, you reach a bridge over Frazier creek shortly before the creek plummets over the falls. From the bridge you can see where the creek ends and the falls begin. Keep an eye on small children and avoid getting near the creek as anyone that falls in will be swept over the falls. After crossing the creek, the trail continues for another quarter mile until it dead ends in to the overlook almost directly across form the falls. The overlook provides a perfect view of the falls and makes for a great photo opportunity. The entire 176 foot cascade can be seen from here and is quite powerful in the spring as the creek is fed by snow melt. The falls lose much of their flow in the late summer so for the most spectacular view, plan to do this hike in the spring or early summer. To get back to the trail head, simply retrace your steps for a half mile to your car. This hike is very short so it makes a great picnic spot or quick side trip if you are in the area.