Falls on Alder Creek

Falls on Alder Creek – 12.1mi / 19.4km

A pleasant waterfall awaits at the end of this quiet hike that requires a bit of effort for the reward. For the first 3.1mi/5km, the trail climbs 1,400ft/420m through a forest of oak, then fir and pine. Along the way, you’ll get views of the surrounding wooded ridges. Much of this section is along a south-facing slope and can be very hot, so bring plenty of water.

The hiking becomes easier and cooler as it joins an old, dirt road and passes a few seasonal streams through a denser forest. The trail eventually pops out of the trees at the falls, which wonderfully drop 60ft/20m, and serves as the turnaround spot.

Trailhead: Turn off Wawona Road onto Chilnualna Falls Road and follow it for approximately 0.5mi/0.8km to a signed parking area for Alder Creek on the south side of the road. The trail begins on the north side of the road.

Elevation Gain: 2,000ft / 600m – Elevation Loss: 2,000ft / 600m

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