Start early at Panther Peak for a spectacular sunrise. Drive north on CA‑198 and park at the Crescent Meadow pull‑out; the trailhead begins just beyond the picnic area. A moderate 2‑mile ascent takes you to the ridge, offering panoramic views of the High Sierra and a perfect photo op before the sun climbs.
After sunrise, drive east on CA‑180 to the Zumwalt Meadows trailhead near the “Zumwalt” parking area. The 1‑mile loop winds through a serene meadow perfect for a picnic, and the shallow pond offers a refreshing dip for hikers. From there, continue on CA‑180 and take the Tokopah Falls trailhead; the 4‑mile round‑trip hike passes lush forest and ends at the dramatic 100‑foot Tokopah Falls, where a natural pool invites a quick swim or a safe, low‑height cliff jump.
Wrap up the day by driving north on CA‑198 to the Roaring River Falls parking area for sunset. The short 0.5‑mile trail leads to a powerful cascade that creates a glowing mist as the sun dips behind the cliffs—ideal for a final photo and a peaceful evening. The trailhead is well‑marked, and a small rock ledge provides a safe spot for a quick dip or a brief, cautious cliff jump before heading back.
Find HotelsIf you have extra time, add a short detour to the Giant Forest for a quick stroll among the giant sequoias, which adds roughly an hour without significantly increasing costs. To shorten the itinerary, skip the swim at Zumwalt Meadows and head directly from Panther Peak to Tokopah Falls, reducing the total hiking time by about an hour.