The Trail
The trailhead to Tokopah Falls begins at Lodgepole Campground in Sequoia National Park, just after crossing over the Kaweah River Bridge towards the rear of the campground. There is ample parking in a large lot for this trail, and you will need to display a parks pass while in the park, which can be purchased at the visitors center. The rangers told me at the kiosk they don’t sell them there, and it is on the honor system to display your pass.
It is just 4.5 miles roundtrip (according to my recording), and is rated as easy to moderate. There is about 500 feet of gain heading to Tokopah Falls, and it is an out and back hike. The first section of trail is easy, and then it gets more incline. So it’s possible to just hike the first easy .5 mile or so, if your not looking for a long hike, and still enjoy this.
The path begins at this sign, close to where a much longer wilderness trail, The Lakes Trail, also begins. This trail leads you north to the base of Mount Silliman, and you can take it east, to the Watchtower, a popular overlook. Both hikes are advanced, and strenuous climbs. Tokopah Falls is one for all ages and abilities of hikers, evidenced by the number of families I noticed all hiking together.
The trail travels mostly over dirt, and rock, with occasional short water crossings over small streams. The views are beautiful all along the way, as you pass a series of meadows. There are plenty of places to stop and rest on top of large rocks.
What to Expect
Hiking all the way to Tokopah Falls rewards you with a beautiful cascading waterfall, views of pristine wilderness, surrounded by towering granite rock formations, amid a pine forest, dotted with sequoia trees.
The Gorge
The Kaweah River flows through a glacial carvec gorge, flanked by granite rock. This rock frequently succumbs to gravity, falling down the hillsides in the form of a rockfall. The giant scattered boulders along the trail are a testament to this.
Crowd Factor
In summer this popular trail can get very crowded, especially since it travels along a cool, inviting looking, but actually hazardous river. So if you’re looking to escape the crowds you may want to choose a less popular trail. If your not looking to drown, stay out of the river. The rangers suggest staying out of the water, evidenced by numerous signs.
Terrain
The terrain is rocky at times, with a steady incline. It is steep, jagged, and rocky in some sections, but also offers more gentle inclines and flat stretches.
You’ll encounter a variety of vegetation, hiking in a mostly alpine forest of conifers.
You may even notice some of these somewhat rare snowplants.
You may find yourself crossing a variety of small bridges along the way, and rock hopping over small creeks.
Scenery
As you hike alongside the Kaweah River, you will pass numerous spots to rest beside the river, and lots of large granite boulders to picnic on top of.
The main draw is of course the waterfall at the end. During years of heavy snow, the waterfall may be raging in early spring and summer as the snow melts.
Wildlife
Sequoia Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including bear, deer, coyotes, bobcats, marmots, chipmunks, and a wide variety of birds. Keep your eyes peeled for signs of wildlife as you hike.
Rating
This hike is rated moderate, with a total elevation gain of just over 500 feet. It is an advanced beginner hike due to some uneven sections, and rock steps you must climb.
Seasons
The scenery on the hike up to Tokopah Falls changes with the seasons. In the summer months of July and August, wildflowers bloom and the hillsides are green with new growth. In the fall, the air is crisp, and snow can fall as early as September.
Gear
You will need gear you typically take on a day hike. That includes water, snacks, a backpack, sturdy shoes, proper attire, shade, and possibly bug repellant. Trekking poles are recommended for stability on the rocky sections. Also be sure to download a map on alltrails. There was actually some cell service at Lodgepole Campground when I visited which was a big plus. But in the remainder of the park this was not the case.
What’s Nearby
There are lots of interesting other trails in Sequoia Park. The Lakes Trail takes you to The Watchtower, as well as Heather and Pear Lakes. The famous Congress Grove and General Sherman sequoia tree are hundreds of years old. People come for the trees, lakes, and also for the High Sierra Trail, which begins at Crescent Meadow. The Giant Forest museum is a great resource of information on the history of Sequoia National Park, and its giant trees.
Hazards
Maybe the largest draw here is the beautiful and swift flowing Kaweah River. Be cautious around this river especially when the flow rate is high, to avoid drowning. It is advised to stay out of the river, and avoid swimming, as there are no safe designated areas to do so. Be alert to the sound of falling rocks, and steer clear of rockfalls.
Overall
As always, getting outside, and having a chance to connect with nature, are more of the reasons I love hiking to places such as Tokopah Falls in Sequoia National Park. I especially enjoyed the abundant shade along the trail, which made hiking on a hot day much more pleasant. Be sure to check this one out, when you visit Sequoia National Park.
Leave No Trace
Just be sure to come prepared and follow Leave No Trace principles to keep the wilderness pristine for future hikers.
I hope you enjoyed reading this, and it is helpful in knowing what to expect, should you decide to visit here.
About me
I’m Serafina! I’m a writer and California girl who loves to go exploring. Hope you will get outside today, breathe some fresh air, and be happy!
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Disclaimer: The work on this blog is my opinion and my opinion alone and I am not responsible for the outcome if someone were to apply these thoughts to their own life. All text and photography copyright 2023 by Serafina, all rights reserved. Information and opinions provided are kept current to the best of the author’s ability. All readers’ usage of the ideas and opinions presented in the blog, are at their own risk. Be aware of the possible dangers of hiking, surfing, walking, cooking, and other activities, which may take place indoors or outdoors. By reading this, you agree not to hold the author or publisher of the content on this web site responsible for any injuries or inconveniences that may result from reading the blog, or partaking in any activity mentioned in the blog. Read the blog, and use its ideas, if you so desire, at your own risk.
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