About This Waterfall
Chinquapin Falls is visible from along Highway 140 in the town of El Portal immediately outside of the Arch Rock entrance to Yosemite National Park. The best area to view the falls is right around the Shell gas station in El Portal.Chinquapin Falls just barely falls within the west boundary of Yosemite National Park, but must be admired from outside of the park. Indian Creek drains from a small basin west of the Badger Pass Ski Area and drains into the Merced River just above El Portal. The falls mark the point where the creek enters the lower reach of Merced Gorge, veiling about 350 feet down a slabby cliff. Because of the small size of the drainage, the falls are seasonal in nature and don't flow beyond the end of June in most years.
Waterfall Details
Waterfall Form
Horsetail
Best Time to Visit
Runoff
Total Height
350ft
Tallest Drop
350ft
Number of Drops
1
Run
350ft
Avg Width
20ft
Max Width
30ft
Pitch
65°
Magnitude
16.53
High Flow
5cfs
Getting There
GPS Coordinates
37.666970, -119.755790
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Quick Facts
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Tips
Best photos during golden hour or after rain.
A hike may be required to reach the falls.
Parking available nearby.
Safety Info
Stay on marked trails. Rocks near waterfalls are extremely slippery.
Never swim at the top of a waterfall. Strong currents can be deceptive.
Respect the environment. Pack out everything you bring in.