Carlon Falls

Overview

Carlon Falls is a small, photogenic waterfall tucked along the South Fork of the Tuolumne River. It’s the kind of place you come to cool off: shaded forest, a mellow riverside path, and clear pools that beg for a summer plunge. It sits inside the park boundary, but the trailhead starts just outside the entrance—so you get a classic Yosemite experience without going through a gate or paying a fee for day hiking.

The Hike

Expect an easy-to-moderate, out-and-back walk of roughly 3–4 miles round trip with about 170–280 feet of gain. The trail follows the river on mostly gentle terrain until the last quarter mile, where it ramps up with rocky, steeper steps. The payoff is a 20–30 foot "personal-sized" waterfall with a pool at its base and additional cascades and pools downstream.

What Makes It Special

Compared to Yosemite Valley, this trail is often quieter, especially on weekdays. You’ll wander through cool, green corridors along the river, with wildflowers in spring and lush ferns and Indian rhubarb as summer rolls in. If you’re up for a little exploring past the main falls, you’ll find more pools and mini-cascades—though the path gets rougher and less defined.

Swimming and Safety

This is a beloved summer swim spot. Bring shoes with good grip for wet rock, and expect slick boulders near the water. Early season (spring) flows are cold and swift—great for drama, not for swimming. By late May through September, water levels typically calm down and pools become more inviting.

Facilities and Access

Parking is a small pullout right by the trailhead with space for just a handful of cars; there’s additional parking and a pit toilet at the picnic/day-use area across the bridge. Day hiking here doesn’t require permits or entrance fees since you start outside the gate and walk into the park. Cell service is spotty; download maps before you go.

Rules and Practicalities

Dogs are allowed up to the park boundary only (which you cross shortly after starting). Expect occasional downed trees or light overgrowth; the trail can be dusty in dry spells. Standard bear safety applies—store food properly and pack out all trash. If you’re angling along the river near the trailhead, know that trout are present and you’ll need to follow regs.

Wildlife

Keep an eye out for small river denizens like garter snakes, and remember that bears are possible anywhere in the region. Give wildlife space and never leave food unattended.

Best Time to Visit

For swimming, late May through September is the sweet spot once runoff subsides. To beat crowds and secure parking, aim for early morning or late afternoon on weekdays. Spring brings lively flows and wildflowers (great for photos, less great for swimming), while fall can still see steady water and thinner crowds.