Scenic Hike to Tokopah Falls in Sequoia National Park

Go on a breathtaking journey to Tokopah Falls, where the serene sounds of the Marble Fork of the Kaweah River and the majestic sight of a 1,200-foot waterfall await.

Last updated: Apr 2024

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Free trail access; National park entrance fees apply.
267 Miles from you
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Description

Discover the stunning Tokopah Falls on this scenic hike along the Marble Fork of the Kaweah River, perfect for nature lovers and families. Embark on a breathtaking journey to Tokopah Falls, where the serene sounds of the Marble Fork of the Kaweah River and the majestic sight of a 1,200-foot waterfall await. Begin your adventure at the Tokopah Falls Trailhead located in the Lodgepole area of Sequoia National Park. This easy-to-moderate 3.4-mile round trip hike invites you to walk alongside the Marble Fork of the Kaweah River, with gentle inclines leading up to one of the park's most splendid waterfalls. The trail is most captivating in early summer when the falls are at their peak. Along the way, enjoy the lush meadows, towering trees, and the possibility of wildlife sightings. This hike is not just a walk but an immersion into the vibrant ecosystem of Sequoia National Park.

Perfect for

For solo

For two

For groups

For families with kids

For parents and grownups

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Itinerary

Start at the Tokopah Falls Trailhead in Lodgepole Campground.
Follow the trail along the Marble Fork of the Kaweah River.
Enjoy the changing scenery as you approach Tokopah Falls.
Spend time at the falls before heading back the same way.

Location

Sequoia National Park, CA 93262

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Packing List

Comfortable walking or hiking shoes
Water and snacks
Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
Camera or smartphone for photos
A light jacket or layers (weather can change quickly)

4.9 ● Google reviews

this was our first hike ever in Sequoia and it was PERFECT! you walk along a beautiful river all the way up to the waterfall where it begins, and the walk back is all downhill! got to rest on some rocks and put our feet in the (freezing) water after hiking for a couple hours! loved it, i would highly recommend!

Amazing hike! Easy until the very end when it’s pretty rocky and uphill but you can hear the falls in the background so it’s very motivating. I wouldn’t take a kid under 6, our 4 year old had to be carried half the way.

Unfortunately we came on the Fourth of July weekend and there’s a heat warning. We did the trail on the afternoon and it was hot! It has a lot of shade but the last part toward the fall has no shade. It’s pretty busy but it’s also off the river so a lot of people take a bath in the river!

This hike is beautiful! The whole family went (15, 12, and 5 year old boys). My spouse who had recently recovered from an injury found the elevation change too much and had to stop about half way. The rest of us made it to the end, but it definitely was hard on my kids feet who aren't used to walking or hiking regularly.The last quarter mile is entirely rocks and the most difficult stretch of the trail (keep in mind you have to go over this twice as it is an out and back hike). This stretch also has no shade the day. I see other posts say that this is an easy hike. If you are someone who walks frequently or exercises a couple times a week, yes this is probably easy. For others, this is going to push you.