Getting a good view of the falls requires a rather steep scramble towards the base of the falls. Even though the scramble is only 1/4-mile (each way) long, you'll have to take your time due to its steepness. Some parts can be slippery due to loose pebbles.

On the way down, you'll get satisfying profile views of the rounded granite surface over which the falls tumbles. But once you get to the bottom, you'll get nice direct views of this gem in the Sequoia National Forest.

The first time Julie and I were here (back in 2002), there weren't a whole lot of people. Just a handful of people above the falls at the Lower Peppermint Campground and even fewer people who managed to do the scramble to get to the base. The last time we were here with the parents in 2005, there were lots more people crowding the Lower Peppermint Campground (maybe because it was Memorial Day weekend) as well as chilling out at the very top of the falls. But at the bottom of the falls, we were still one of the few so it was nice and peaceful down there!