Alder Creek Trailhead

Alder Creek Trailhead sits on Wawona Road just north of Fish Camp, marking the start of one of southern Yosemite's most overlooked hikes. While the trails near the Valley pull the crowds, this route into the Wawona backcountry stays quiet — a long, largely unmarked path through forest and meadow that rewards the effort with a waterfall few visitors ever see.

What to Expect

The out-and-back to Alder Creek Falls runs roughly 11.8 miles round trip with about 2,100 feet of elevation gain, making this a full-day, moderately strenuous hike rather than an afternoon stroll. Much of the route is unsigned and easy to lose in the trees, so a downloaded map or GPS track is essential — this isn't one to follow on cell signal alone.

The Falls and the Old Railroad Grade

Around 5,800 feet the trail picks up the graded bed of the long-abandoned Yosemite Lumber Company railroad, a trace of the logging history that once ran through this corner of the park. The route ends at Alder Creek Falls, which drops roughly 100 to 150 feet down a tiered rock face — a payoff that stays uncrowded even in peak season.

Before You Go

• Trailhead access is off Wawona Road (Highway 41), near a turnout by Fish Camp
• Expect unmarked, primitive sections — bring an offline map or GPS track
• Best suited to experienced hikers comfortable with route-finding