blue lotus adventures

Trillium Falls trail is a nice little hike through a second growth and old growth redwood forest. The trail is lined with sweet smelling ferns. This trail offers plenty of shade which would be good for a midday hike. The trail starts from the Elk Meadows Day Use parking area. Start from behind the restrooms and walk down the paved bike path. Soon you will see a sign directing you to Trillium Falls Trail. The trail is well worn but not marked except for an occasional wood post and arrow pointing the direction.  The trail is a little less than 3 miles and has an elevation gain of just over 500 feet. I hiked this in late afternoon and didn’t see a single person. The highlight of this hike was the solitude and the small Trillium Falls. An enjoyable hike I would do again.

About one third of the way into the Trillium Falls Trail (if you start the loop counter clockwise) you will reach Trillium Falls. It is not very big at all but it is a nice cascading fall set back in a moss and fern gully. There is a bridge directly in front which give a great location to view. It is also a nice platform for a tripod. The falls is in a location with tall trees and lots of fern. Not much light get back. I was here very late afternoon and there wasn’t much light. Fortunately I had a small tripod for my camera and it worked out well.