Wapama Falls
Experience Yosemite's raw power at Wapama Falls, a stunning cascade accessible via a moderate hike through the less-crowded Hetch Hetchy area. [...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak waterfall flow & wildflowers
Wapama Falls
Best Time
Peak waterfall flow & wildflowers
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience Yosemite's raw power at Wapama Falls, a stunning cascade accessible via a moderate hike through the less-crowded Hetch Hetchy area.
"This hike was quite amazing! The views here did not disappoint and were equally majestic!"
🎒 Pack for the Mist!
Bring a raincoat or waterproof jacket; you WILL get wet crossing under Wapama Falls in spring!
💧 Hydration is Key
Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months, as the trail can get very hot.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Wapama Falls Cascade
End of the trail
Witness the thunderous power of this 1,080-foot waterfall as it plunges over the trail, drenching you in its mist.
O'Shaughnessy Dam
Trailhead
Start your hike by crossing this impressive dam, offering stunning views of the Hetch Hetchy Reservoir.
Granite Tunnel
On the trail
Pass through a historic granite tunnel carved into the mountainside, adding a unique element to your hike.
Hetch Hetchy Reservoir Views
Along the trail
Enjoy breathtaking vistas of the sparkling reservoir and surrounding granite cliffs throughout your journey.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Wapama Falls
Prepare to Get Wet!
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎒 Pack for the Mist!
Bring a raincoat or waterproof jacket; you WILL get wet crossing under Wapama Falls in spring!
💧 Hydration is Key
Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months, as the trail can get very hot.
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Hiking shoes are recommended for slippery rocks, especially during or after rain.
🐍 Snake Awareness
Be observant and watch your step; snakes have been spotted on the trail. +1
Tips
from all over the internet
🎒 Pack for the Mist!
Bring a raincoat or waterproof jacket; you WILL get wet crossing under Wapama Falls in spring!
💧 Hydration is Key
Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months, as the trail can get very hot.
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Hiking shoes are recommended for slippery rocks, especially during or after rain.
🐍 Snake Awareness
Be observant and watch your step; snakes have been spotted on the trail. +1
📸 Photography Ready
The views are magnificent, making it an amazing spot for photography.
⏰ Check Park Hours
Hetch Hetchy is typically open sunrise to sunset, but verify current hours.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Wapama Falls for its stunning, powerful cascades and the unique experience of hiking under the waterfall, especially in spring. The Hetch Hetchy area offers a less crowded alternative to Yosemite Valley, with beautiful reservoir views and a moderate, rewarding hike. Some visitors note the intense heat in summer and the need for preparedness for getting wet.
"Started this hike with the whole family, 6 of us, ages 62, 39, 37, 34, 9 and 6. It was extremely hot and we couldn’t get the 6 year old to drink water so she and the 39 and 37 year old turned around. It was good thing because the trail got hotter, less shade. The rest of us, after deliberation, crossed the first waterfall and continued to see the rest. It was so much fun and my nephew (9) said it was his favorite part of the trip! He did spot the rattlesnake but it only made his hike better! Be observant and take water!!"
Jessica Smith
"We did the hike to the falls yesterday after a couple of days at Yosemite valley and other popular Yosemite spots…but the views here did not disappoint and were equally majestic! From the sparkling clear water of the reservoir, the granite domes/rocks, multiple footbridges, the tunnel, the waterfall…this hike was quite amazing!
PS: I did spot a snake on the trail (see video attached), so pls be careful and keep an eye out just in case!"
Karan Sharma
"Visited this place on November/15/20 for the third times.
The drive is almost desolate but beautiful in its own way.
Right now the park opens from 8:00am to 5:00pm, I think the COVID-19 has something to do with that too.
7.5 miles out & back, 1,200 feet of elevation gain.
The hike began with a powerful view of the dam and extremely great views of tunnel.
Hetch Hetchy Reservoir itself is so outstanding.
I loved the idea of seeing where my drinking water originated.
It’s also not very crowded place such as the Yosemite Valley.
It is an amazing place for photography and the views are magnificent.
Highly recommend for those who want beautiful scenery and few people!"
Tina Nguyen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Wapama Falls is located in the Hetch Hetchy area, about a 1.5-hour drive from Yosemite Valley. The entrance station is on Hetch Hetchy Road.
Yes, there is a large parking lot at the O'Shaughnessy Dam, which serves as the trailhead for Wapama Falls. It can get busy on weekends.
Generally, no reservation is required for the Hetch Hetchy entrance, unlike some other parts of Yosemite.
The drive to Hetch Hetchy is described as beautiful and somewhat desolate. Be prepared for winding roads.
While the area is generally accessible, it's always a good idea to check current road conditions and park alerts before your visit, especially during winter months.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Wapama Falls is located within Yosemite National Park, which has an entrance fee. However, some sources indicate no specific day-hike permit is needed for this trail.
Hetch Hetchy is typically open from sunrise to sunset. However, hours may be subject to change, and COVID-19 has impacted some operating times in the past.
Yes, typically no reservation is required for the Hetch Hetchy entrance, making it a less crowded option compared to Yosemite Valley.
During peak waterfall season, be prepared for trail closures or altered access due to high water flow. Always check park alerts.
While Hetch Hetchy itself doesn't require a separate reservation, you'll need to pay the Yosemite National Park entrance fee. Consider purchasing a park pass if you plan to visit multiple national parks.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike to Wapama Falls is approximately 5 to 5.5 miles round-trip, depending on the exact starting point and route.
The hike is generally considered moderate, with about 1,100-1,200 feet of elevation gain. It's manageable for most hikers with reasonable fitness.
Yes, especially in spring, the trail passes directly under the falls, and you will likely get drenched by the mist.
Wear comfortable hiking shoes, quick-drying clothing, and bring a waterproof jacket or poncho.
Restroom facilities are typically available near the O'Shaughnessy Dam trailhead. It's advisable to use them before starting your hike.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the dramatic cascade of Wapama Falls, the expansive Hetch Hetchy Reservoir, the historic dam, and the unique granite tunnel.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light and fewer crowds, enhancing your photographic experience.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the falls and reservoir. A polarizing filter can help manage reflections on the water. Consider a waterproof camera or protective casing for your gear.
The bridges crossing the creek near the falls offer dynamic perspectives. The dam itself provides a grand overview of the reservoir.
Drone usage is restricted in most National Parks, including Yosemite. Check the official NPS website for current drone regulations before your visit.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Bringing plenty of water and snacks is crucial, as there are no services along the trail. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Be sure to protect your gear from the waterfall mist, and consider a wide-angle lens to capture the grandeur of the landscape. 🚶♀️ Solo Adventurers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Escaping the Yosemite Valley Crowds
This area provides a different perspective on Yosemite's grandeur, featuring the vast Hetch Hetchy Reservoir, which is actually a water source for San Francisco. The hike to Wapama Falls is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in this unique landscape, offering stunning views of granite cliffs and the powerful cascade. It's a great alternative for those who have already explored the main attractions of Yosemite Valley or prefer a more tranquil encounter with nature.
The Wapama Falls Hike: What to Expect
+2 It begins at the O'Shaughnessy Dam, where you'll walk across the impressive structure, taking in panoramic views of the Hetch Hetchy Reservoir. As you progress, the trail winds along the reservoir, offering continuous scenic vistas. The highlight, of course, is reaching Wapama Falls itself. In spring, the water flow is immense, and the trail actually passes under the falls, meaning you'll get thoroughly soaked!
+1 This exhilarating experience is a major draw for many visitors. Be prepared for slippery bridges and rocks, and wear appropriate footwear. Best Times to Visit Wapama Falls
However, spring also means higher water flow, so be prepared to get wet! The bridges can be slippery, and the mist from the falls is significant.
+1 For those who prefer to avoid the drenching and potentially more crowded conditions, September and October offer a fantastic alternative. The weather is usually pleasant, the crowds thin out, and the scenery remains beautiful, though the waterfalls may be less voluminous. Summer months can be extremely hot in the Hetch Hetchy area, with limited shade on the trail. While the waterfalls might be less impressive, the reservoir views are still stunning. Visiting early in the morning is highly recommended during any season to avoid the midday heat and potential crowds.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit