Hike to Bassi Falls

Kyburz, California

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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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Features

Photography

Hiking

Dog Friendly

Forest

River

Scenic

Waterfall

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