California Falls

Tuolumne Meadows to Glen Aulin, then downstream on the Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne trail to California Falls

California Through My Lens gives 7.5 miles return from Glen Aulin to Waterwheel Falls, and about 20 miles if you start outside Glen Aulin. California Falls is the first of the three falls on that route, so it is closer, but no exact figure is published.

Wilderness trail with granite sections and a steady descent; about 1,000 feet of climbing on the way back to Glen Aulin for the full Waterwheel Falls trip.

Where to start

Exact trailhead parking was not confirmed in the reviewed sources. The route starts from the Tuolumne Meadows area on Tioga Road.

Timing & water

Depends on Tioga Road being open, which is seasonal. Flow is strongest in late spring and early summer.

Before you go

Yosemite requires a wilderness permit for any overnight stay in the wilderness, including Glen Aulin backpacking. Day hikes do not need one.