Chilnualna Falls

Chilnualna Falls Trailhead
4.3
3 Reviews
Chilnualna Falls
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Details

Distance
7.81 miles
Elevation Gain
2277 ft
Route Type
Out-and-Back

Features

Waterfall
Romantic
Family Friendly
River
Forest
Wildlife
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About this place

Added by Josh Currie

A lesser traveled hike in Yosemite, Chilnualna Falls is an awesome day hike with beautiful views once you reach the summit. 

Many visitors to Yosemite head straight to the valley and don't often explore the other areas of the park. So if you are interested in staying away from the massive crowds and getting to enjoy the beauty of the park a little more quietly, the Wawona is a great option for a getaway. 

The Chilnualna Falls hike is about 4 miles each way and you gain approximately 2,300 feet of elevation. So though it is not the steepest waterfall hike in Yosemite, it isn't the easiest either.  I would definitely bring a decent amount of water and either a snack or lunch to enjoy at the top. 

The hike is tree-covered the majority of the way so there is decent shade but you pop out at times to breathtaking views of the surrounding valley and mountains. The trail also follows along the river where there are many opportunities to hop off the trail and venture down to the water to hang out. 

Once you get to the top there is a lot of open space to hang out, cool off in the water, and enjoy the view! 

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Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and be sure to follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly.
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Chloe Donlan
6/1/2017
Best trip
This was an amazing backpacking trip - great for beginners and experienced backpackers! Fresh water, amazing rainbows, lots of wildlife (bear, marmot, deer, rattlesnake). ...
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Alex Trudeau Viriato
5/19/2017
Great hike outside the more populated valley
I've done this hike two years in a row in late February and the trips were very different. In 2016 I made it ...
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Paloma Hamlett
8/29/2016
Backpack/camp Chilnualna Falls
Easy hike, great camp site, nice water, good views.
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