Marble Falls

While much of Sequoia National Park is almost completely inaccessible to vehicles without chains in the winter, the Marble Falls Trail is a fantastic hike that is typically open year round for hikers who do not wish to traverse the twisty Generals Highway any higher than the lush Potwisha Campground. While there are none of the famous sequoia trees in the low elevations of the Sierra, seeing the polished marble rocks under the clear water of the Kaweah River is a special and secluded reward for those who choose to hike this trail.

This hike is ideal for those who are camping at Potwisha Campground; parking is extremely limited at the trailhead, and for those who are camping, there is no added drive. The trailhead is located between campsites 14 and 15, and it can be very easy to miss. Look for a gravel path that heads into the woods away from the campground. Follow this for a short while, and look on the right for a sign to Marble Falls Trail. If you head up the hill and across an aqueduct, you're on the right path. 

The falls themselves are a gratifying reward after the hike. This is an area worth exploring for those who can manage crossing the river; note that spring snowmelt can make currents a little treacherous. The most impressive tier of Marble Falls is best photographed on the side of the river opposite the trail and a little above the large marble boulders at the end of the trail.

Once you have enjoyed Marble Falls, return the way you came. Unlike most of the trails in Sequoia National Park, Marble Falls is a dead-end trail and does not have any connecting trails.