Carlon Falls Trail

Overview

A mellow out-and-back along the South Fork of the Tuolumne River to a small, lovely waterfall with swimmable pools. It starts in Stanislaus National Forest and quickly slips through a narrow gate into Yosemite. Expect a mostly shaded walk with the river beside you almost the entire way—great for hot days and families who like frequent water stops.

• Distance: about 3.8 miles round trip (total)
• Elevation gain: roughly 200–280 feet overall
• Typical time: 1–2 hours

Trail Notes

The first miles are easy walking on mostly smooth dirt with occasional roots and rocks. Closer to the falls, the grade steepens briefly and the path narrows, with a short, steeper finish that can surprise beginners. After big wind events or early season, you may encounter downed trees or brushy sections. You’ll notice pockets of forest that still show Rim Fire effects, but the corridor along the river stays green with ferns and seasonal wildflowers.

The Falls and Pools

Carlon Falls is a "personal-sized" 20–30-foot cascade with a clear pool at the base and additional small falls and pools above and below. In late spring the flow can be pushy and cold; by summer the river settles into calm, swimmable pockets. If the main pool is busy, wander a bit upstream or downstream to find your own slab and eddy.

Best Time to Hike

Late May through September is the sweet spot: snowmelt has eased, water clarity is high, and the shaded approach keeps the hike cool. Summer weekends draw swimmers; for space and solitude, go early or late on a weekday. Winter and shoulder seasons can be peaceful—just expect colder water and occasional downed limbs after storms.

Safety and Etiquette

Rocks and riverbeds are slick year-round. In spring runoff, give the edges respect and skip the swim. Mosquitoes can be persistent near the water—pack repellent. Dogs are not allowed once you enter Yosemite a few minutes from the start, even though the trail begins outside the park; plan accordingly.

Logistics

Parking is limited: a small dirt pullout sits just past the bridge near the trailhead, with extra spaces and a pit toilet at the picnic/day-use area across the bridge. There are more developed restrooms a short drive away near the Big Oak Flat entrance and services up Evergreen Road. No permits or park entry fee are required when starting from this side.

Bottom Line

If you want a low-effort, high-reward river walk and a summer dip without the Yosemite Valley crush, Carlon delivers. It’s not a grand waterfall spectacle—more a relaxed, shady escape with just enough adventure at the end.