Thing to Do

Tokopah Falls

A visitor sitting at the base of a large cascading waterfall.
Tokopah Falls flows in later spring and early summer.

Tokopah Falls is a tall, 1,200-foot waterfall that flows mainly in the spring and early summer snowmelt. Like Yosemite Valley, Tokopah Valley was shaped by a glacier. The trail to the falls features scenic river views, granite canyon walls, and wildlife like marmots, deer, and bears. The trail doesn’t have any sequoias, but it’s the easiest way to get a little glimpse of the park’s scenic high country. This trail is 3.4 miles roundtrip with 600 feet of elevation change. It takes about 2 hours to complete.

Lodgepole Campground closes in winter, during which time Tokopah Falls will be inaccessible.

Safety

  • Please use caution around the water, especially in spring and early summer. Powerful undercurrents have swept visitors downstream and snowmelt can cause hypothermia.Elevation changes will be more difficult at higher altitude. Take breaks and drink plenty of water. Allow plenty of time to complete the hike before your tour begins.

Location

  • The trail to Tokopah Falls starts just beyond the Marble Fork Bridge in Lodgepole Campground. Turn into the Lodgepole area and drive past the Lodgepole Market. Drive into the campground and proceed to a large parking area on the right-hand side.

Parking

  • There is a large parking lot by the campground entrance for day use and additional campground parking. From the parking area, visitors can walk to the trailhead near the Marble Fork Bridge.
Details
Activity
Hiking
Pets Allowed
No
Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.
Reservations
No
Accessibility Information
The trail to Tokopah Falls is unpaved with numerous bridges and staircases. There is a 600-foot elevation change over gradual slops. This trail is not considered wheelchair accessible.

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Last updated: August 30, 2025