The hike to Marble Falls in Sequoia National Park is a fantastic outdoor adventure! As you hit the trail, you’ll be surrounded by towering trees and the soothing sounds of the Marble Fork of the Kaweah River. The path is well-marked, winding through vibrant meadows and rocky outcrops, especially beautiful in late spring and early summer when wildflowers are in bloom.
When you reach Marble Falls, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the water cascading over the rocks surrounded by marble. While the main falls are visible only from Admiration Point, the falls you see along the way are breathtaking in their own right. Planning to visit Sequoia National Park? Add Marble Falls to your itinerary!
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Marble Falls: Stunning Waterfall in Sequoia NP
According to the World Waterfall Database, Marble Falls is a series of cascades along the Marble Fork of the Kaweah River. The primary section of the falls features seven distinct tiers, culminating in a breathtaking drop of about 600 feet. Marble Falls has also been known as Seven Falls.
After doing more research about this trail, I can proudly say… I am confused. Apparently, you cannot see the main cataract of Marble Falls from Marble Falls Trail. It can only be seen from Admiration Point. We saw two portions of Marble Falls (unsure what their “labels” are – lower, middle, upper, etc.), but either way what we did see was beautiful!
Know Before You Go
Sequoia National Park Entrance Pass
Entrance into Sequoia National Park is $35 per vehicle for a 7-day pass. If you have the America the Beautiful Pass then you get in for free. If you don’t have an America the Beautiful Pass and you visit National Parks frequently, we highly recommend making the purchase! It costs $80 for one whole year.
Best Time to Go
The best time to hike the Marble Falls Trail is typically spring (April to May) or fall (September to November). During these two seasons, the weather is generally mild, and the trail is usually clear of snow, making it more accessible.
Late spring and early summer offer the chance to see vibrant wildflowers along the trail and the waterfall will be at its peak flow. Be aware that high waterflow may cause dangerous conditions. Use your best judgement and always check for updates about the trail conditions. Early fall can provide stunning autumn foliage and nice, cool weather. However, the waterflow will be very low.
In winter, the trail will be less crowded with a unique and beautiful winter landscape. However, snowy and icy conditions will add an extra challenge to this hike. Make sure you are properly prepared with the right gear if tackling Marble Falls in winter!
Mid to late summer might possibly be the worst time to hike to Marble Falls. The trail is exposed to the sun most of the time, and high temperatures on top of a difficult hike can put anyone at risk for dehydration and heat exhaustion (or worse). My husband and I did this hike in July 2023 and the temperatures were in the high 80s which isn’t too bad, but the constant sun exposure was intense! Make sure you are physically prepared for this hike (especially if hiking in the heat) and bring lots of water and snacks to replenish your energy, electrolytes, and stay hydrated.
Be Aware Of:
- Black bears
- Rattlesnakes
- Poison oak
- Overgrowth and unmaintained conditions
- Mosquitoes and ticks in the summer
Leave No Trace
Before you go, please make sure you understand the Leave No Trace principles. These seven principles help reduce our environmental impact from outdoor recreational activities. Nature is meant to be enjoyed and respected. 🌱
- Plan ahead and prepare
- Travel and camp on durable surfaces
- Dispose of waste properly
- Leave what you find
- Minimize campfire impacts
- Respect wildlife
- Be considerate of others
About the Trail
Location: Marble Falls Trail is located near Potwisha Campground in Sequoia National Park in California.
Length & Elevation Gain: It’s about 7 miles with an elevation gain of 1,600 feet.
Hiking Time: It takes an average of 4 to 6 hours to complete this hike.
Route Type: This is an out-and-back hike.
Difficulty Rating: Hard depending on fitness level.
Terrain: This trail consists of dirt, gravel/rocky, switchbacks, and creek crossings.
Pet-friendly? No, pets are not allowed.
How to Get to the Trailhead
The Marble Falls Trailhead is located at the Potwisha Campground. Park near site #14 at Potwisha Campground and follow the dirt road across the concrete ditch. The parking area is very small and can only hold a few vehicles. Get there early to snag a parking spot here!
If the main parking area if full, there is additional parking available across the Generals Highway in the Potwisha Overflow Parking Lot. If you are camping at Potwisha Campground, then just walk on over to the trailhead – lucky you!
Put this address in Google Maps: Potwisha Campground, California 93262
OR
Coordinates for the overflow parking lot: 36.51550, -118.8008
Trail Directions
Starting from the main trailhead, begin hiking along the service road beside the Marble Fork Kaweah River and a canal.
You will soon reach an intersection. Take a right onto Marble Falls Trail.
The trail starts out steep with switchbacks along the way. Follow the Marble Falls Trail as you ascend towards the waterfall.
Be prepared for a few creek crossings. The creek may or may not be full depending on the season.
There will be an outcrop where you can see mountain peaks in the far distance. Beautiful, right!?
You will also be treated to amazing views of the Kaweah River Canyon as you continue following the Marble Falls Trail.
You will eventually reach an overlook of a portion of Marble Falls and possibly the most beautiful! We were able to see a faint rainbow when we were there.
Keep following the Marble Falls Trail. There’s more to see!
Soon you will reach, what I believe, was a cascade along the river. When we were there, it looked like a portion of Marble Falls because the waterflow was so strong. Notice all the marble around? I guess that’s where the waterfall gets its name!
The Marble Falls Trail ends here. BUT, if you want to see another portion of Marble Falls, continue walking towards a rock pile then scramble to the top.
Retrace your steps to return back to the parking area. Congrats, you did it! 🥳
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