The Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne and Falls

While pushing up the trail, a stop now and then is in order to check out the view of Waterwheel Falls.

Waterwheel Falls

The Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne and Falls, June 2004

Slogging upward I came to a point above the falls for a very nice view of Waterwheel Falls, the canyon below and the open granite-paved area about the falls. The trail dropped down a sloping path to the falls head along perhaps a fracture joint, although there were signs of the blasting that help create the trail. The area was extremely picturesque with the acres of tree studded granite. We had finally at last reached the mixed conifer country and left the big oak country behind, now that we had reached about 6800 feet in elevation.

The trail actually climbs above the lip of the falls and drops down on Waterwheel Falls.

I expected the waterwheel of Waterwheel Falls to be bigger, and research says it does get a bit bigger, but I guess I was expecting more. Still, it was quite a sight that also sang with a canyon filling roar. The cartwheeling waters also threw up a fine spray that reminded me of the mists of Vernal Falls.

The brink area was a fine open smooth granite area more reminiscent of Yosemite Nevada Falls. There were plenty of places to explore or just sit and enjoy the views and sounds, and plenty of level spots with handy rocks to park packs while you check out the area. I probably should have spent more time there, but I was tired and not in the mood. It would have been a good idea to come back to the falls after dinner, but I did not.

The waterwheel of Waterwheel Falls. Perhaps when there is more water it is bigger.

Behind the falls was a fine pine forest, except most of it was across the river, and I was not going to cross it above the falls. Still, there seemed to be some poor camping in the area. I met Dave at the head of the falls and went over to the falls brink for the views before heading up the trail to look for a camp.