Chilnualna Creek tumbles over the north shoulder of forested Wawona Dome in an almost continuous series of cascades. The largest and most impressive of these, Chilnualna Falls thunders into a deep, narrow chasm. Unlike its Valley counterparts, this fall is not free-leaping, but its soothing, whitewater rush makes it an attractive day hike without lots of company. Carry lots of water or a filter, as the route can be hot. The top is a nice picnic spot. Like all Yosemite waterfalls, Chilnualna Falls is best between April and June when streams are at their fullest. July and August are often too hot for an afternoon hike, and by September the fall is limited by low water.
The Chilnualna Falls Trailhead is at the eastern end of Chilnualna Falls Rd. Follow Hwy 41 (Wawona Rd) a quarter-mile north of the Wawona Hotel and store, and take a right just over the bridge on Chilnualna Falls Rd; follow it for 1.7 miles. The parking area is on the right, and the trailhead is marked.
The hike is 8.6 miles round-trip and takes four to five hours (not counting relaxation time at the top).
