Hike to Bassi Falls
Kyburz, California
Details
Distance
1.22 miles
Elevation Gain
194 ft
Route Type
Out-and-Back
Description
Added by Beth Young
Scenic views of a powerful waterfall, granite boulders and towering pines. Few crowds. Photographic possibilities abound, including the foliage and boulders at the base of the falls. 1.2 mile hike. 250 foot elevation gain.
109' tall Bassi Falls is located in the Crystal Basin area of the El Dorado National Forest. These gorgeous falls at peak Springtime flow crash over enormous boulders and the water sheets over huge, flat slabs of granite. It is located off a rural, pot-holed dirt road (high clearance vehicles recommended) . Afternoon is a preferable time to photograph here, since the light will be hitting the falls, and if you're lucky, you'll witness rainbows as well.
On Highway 50, east of Pollock Pines, head north on Ice House Road for approximately 15 miles, until you cross Big Silver Creek, east of Union Valley Reservoir. Turn right onto the first dirt road, heading left at the first fork. After approximately 1.5 miles, the dirt road terminates to a dead end parking area where the trail is clearly marked, and you will hear the powerful falls from the trailhead approximately 1/2 mile away!
There is also a steep climb to the top of the falls, to (carefully) witness Bassi Creek hurtling over the edge.
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Hike to Bassi Falls Reviews
A new favorite. Easy hike in, beautiful waterfall that was so full from the snowmelt. Got caught in a thunderstorm but it was an amazing experience with the lightning. Main trailhead was closed off but to the right of the parking lot there was another open, just stay on the upper path and it will get you there!
5.0
The hike to the falls follows the stream (right now that is a loose term, torrent may be better) so lots of sights along the way. Plenty of places to stick your feet in (or more if you dare).The Falls are worth the hike. There were quite a few people but we were there on Memorial Day and the number of people did not overwhelm. Note, NO FACILITIES so plan accordingly!
5.0
Bassi falls is a great place to just get away for the day. There are several mini swim holes going down the stream. I took my young adult children and the next thing I know, I’m hearing stories of them and their cousins And friends going there to get away. I got into the stream where water drips about 5’ between pools. The sound and power was intimidating but once I put my head into the mini fall it was exhilarating and stress relieving. Just awesome! A very nice place for a family outing. The hike is nothing for youth. It’s a tad bit harder for us grandparents.
4.0
I went to the Bassi Falls which was located in the El Dorado county.It was a great place to visit.Drove along the way,the scenery was wonderful.And it was a easy hike.It only took 15 minuets to get to the falls from the parking area.I climbed the rocks to the middle of the falls.I felt and saw the water splashed on my face;breathed the air over there,that was fantastic.I planed to get to the top of the falls,but began raining,so I decided to go home.However ,when I started to drive,the rain stopped.I should have gone to the top.I felt so regret about that.I might go camping here next time.
4.0
Short hike. Lots of room to find a private space. Opportunity to swim. Dog friendly. Beautiful.
5.0
All the snow is melting so the water is so abundant and powerful! It's so beautiful 10/10 recommend
5.0
Leave No Trace
Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
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