Best waterfalls around Ahwahnee are found both in the immediate vicinity and within Yosemite National Park, a short distance away. The area features numerous cascades along local creeks like Willow Creek and Lewis Creek, which carve through rock formations and forests. These natural features offer diverse experiences, from gentle flows to more powerful plunges. Ahwahnee serves as a base for exploring these natural landmarks and the wider Yosemite region.
Last updated: May 11, 2026
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Popular around Ahwahnee
This trail leads up a relatively gentle incline to Red Rock Falls. As it climbs you'll see a change in the trees, from a wider-open canopy to smaller, brushier trees up the hill.
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This is a nice trail along the creek that passes a few waterfalls and has some shaded spots to get out of the sun. The water level is highest during the spring melt season, then the wildflowers pop out for some extra eye candy.
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Corlieu Falls is located along the Lewis Creek National Recreation Trail. The Lewis Creek was once used to transport milled lumber over more than 50 miles into the town of Madera. Along the trail, you can still see relics of this past.
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Corlieu Falls is located along the Lewis Creek National Recreation Trail. The Lewis Creek was once used to transport milled lumber over more than 50 miles into the town of Madera. Along the trail, you can still see relics of this past. If you hike further north, you will get to another waterfalls: Red Rocks Falls.
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The Lewis Creek cascades down into a narrow pool. The small waterfall is known as Red Rock Falls, one of two scenic falls along the Lewis Creek Trail. Corlieu Falls is located about 1.5 miles south of here.
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Angel Falls is one of two waterfalls in this area. The Willow Creek cascades over some slick rock, carving a little gorge into the rock. Another waterfall is Devil's Slide further north of here. Ultimately, Willow Creek flows into Bass Lake.
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In the immediate Ahwahnee area, you can visit Angel Falls on Willow Creek, known for its slick rock cascades. Along the Lewis Creek National Recreation Trail, you'll find Corlieu Falls and Red Rock Falls, both offering scenic views of Lewis Creek.
Yes, Ahwahnee is a great base for exploring Yosemite National Park's iconic waterfalls. Within Yosemite Valley, you can see the majestic Yosemite Falls, Bridalveil Fall (which flows year-round), Vernal Fall, and Nevada Fall. The Royal Arch Cascade, near the historic Ahwahnee Hotel, is also a notable sight.
The best time to visit is generally in the spring and early summer (April to June) when snowmelt feeds the creeks and rivers, resulting in powerful and spectacular flows. Yosemite Falls, for example, is most impressive during this period. Some cascades, like Royal Arch Cascade, typically dry up by June.
Yes, the Lewis Creek National Recreation Trail, which leads to Corlieu Falls and Red Rock Falls, is a popular choice for families. The trail offers a relatively gentle incline and scenic views. The Willow Creek Trail also passes several waterfalls and has shaded spots.
Yes, the Lewis Creek National Recreation Trail, which features Corlieu Falls and Red Rock Falls, was historically used to transport milled lumber. Along this trail, you can still observe relics from the area's past logging industry, adding a historical dimension to your visit.
The areas around Ahwahnee's waterfalls offer various outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking and running on trails like the Lewis Creek Trail. For more options, explore the hiking routes around Ahwahnee or the running trails in the region. Many trails offer views of the waterfalls and surrounding forest.
Yes, the Lewis Creek Trail offers easy to moderate sections, making it accessible for many. You can find several easy hikes around Ahwahnee that may include waterfall views or lead to them, such as the Red Rock Falls loop from Lewis Creek Trailhead.
Beyond the cascades, you'll encounter diverse natural features. Willow Creek carves a small gorge near Angel Falls, and the Lewis Creek Trail showcases changes in forest canopy. In spring, wildflowers add vibrant colors to the landscape, especially along the Willow Creek Trail.
Yes, the Lewis Creek National Recreation Trail is an excellent example. Hiking this trail allows you to visit both Corlieu Falls and Red Rock Falls, which are about 1.5 miles apart. The Willow Creek Trail also passes a few waterfalls.
Comfortable hiking shoes with good grip are recommended, especially if trails might be wet or uneven. Layers of clothing are advisable as temperatures can change, and a waterproof jacket can be useful, particularly in spring when waterfall spray is more prevalent, especially near powerful falls like those in Yosemite.
While the main waterfalls like Angel Falls, Corlieu Falls, and Red Rock Falls are well-known, the local creeks, such as Willow Creek, have other smaller, unnamed cascades. Devil's Slide, further north along Willow Creek from Angel Falls, is another picturesque but perhaps less-frequented spot within the local landscape.
Visitors appreciate the natural beauty and serene environment of the waterfalls. The opportunity to hike along scenic trails like the Lewis Creek Trail, discover historical relics, and experience the powerful flows, especially in spring, are frequently highlighted. The variety, from local cascades to the grand Yosemite falls, offers diverse experiences.


Happy to travel a little further afield? Then browse these guides for the best waterfalls around Ahwahnee: