Tokopah Falls

The hike to Tokopah Falls is about 3.4 miles round trip, moderate in difficulty, following the Marble Fork of the Kaweah upstream. Along the way the valley opens up, revealing the sheer granite walls of the Tokopah Valley and, at its head, the tall cascade of the falls.

Because the falls depend on snowmelt, they are most impressive in late spring and early summer, when the river is full, and can diminish considerably by late summer. Even then, the granite scenery and the walk along the river make the trail worthwhile.

The Tokopah Valley is prime marmot territory, and these large, whistling rodents are often seen sunning themselves on the boulders near the trail. Birds and other wildlife frequent the river corridor, and the forest and meadow scenery is classic high Sierra.

As with all wildlife, marmots should never be fed, and food should be kept secure. Starting from the developed Lodgepole area, the trail is a rewarding half-day outing that showcases a different, glacier-sculpted side of the park from its famous sequoia groves.

The closest Boutel™ stays, so you can turn this stop into an overnight. Each is a place we chose through independent editorial review, never a paid placement.

Tokopah Falls is a dramatic waterfall in Sequoia National Park, California, where the Marble Fork of the Kaweah River tumbles some 1,200 feet down a granite headwall at the head of the glacier-carved Tokopah Valley. Reached by a moderate riverside trail from the Lodgepole area, it is one of the park's finest waterfall hikes, set amid towering granite cliffs. The falls are most powerful in late spring and early summer, when snowmelt fills the river. The hike also offers good chances to spot marmots on the rocks, making it a rewarding outing that shows off the park's rugged, glacier-sculpted scenery.

The hike to Tokopah Falls is about 3.4 miles round trip and is rated moderate. It follows the Marble Fork of the Kaweah River upstream from the Lodgepole area through forest and meadow, gaining some elevation but without any extreme climbs, so it is within reach of most reasonably fit hikers. Allow a few hours at a relaxed pace, including time to enjoy the falls and watch for wildlife. Keep in mind that the trail is at high elevation, so the altitude can make it feel more tiring, and carry plenty of water. For the fullest falls, hike in late spring or early summer.

The best time to see Tokopah Falls at its most impressive is in late spring and early summer, when melting snow from the high country fills the Marble Fork of the Kaweah River and sends the falls roaring down the granite headwall. As summer wears on and the snowmelt slows, the falls diminish and can become much thinner by late season. So for the most dramatic water, aim for the spring or early-summer months, once the trail is clear of snow. Even later in the season, the hike remains scenic, with its granite canyon walls, river, and frequent marmot sightings making it worthwhile.

The Tokopah Falls trail begins near the Lodgepole area of Sequoia National Park, along the Generals Highway. The trailhead is close to the Lodgepole campground and visitor center, and the path follows the Marble Fork of the Kaweah River upstream to the falls. In the busy summer season, the park runs a shuttle that serves the Lodgepole area, which can help with limited parking. Because parking and shuttle service vary by season, it is a good idea to check current park information before your visit. Once at the trailhead, the moderate hike leads you up the valley to the falls.