Bassi Falls is a stunning seasonal 110 foot waterfall located in the Crystal Basin region of the El Dorado National Forest. This California waterfall requires some planning and preparation to truly maximize a visit. However, if you put in the prep work, your visit will be a memorable one.
Quick Facts About Bassi Falls
- Location: El Dorado National Forest (Crystal Basin), California
- Trail Length: 1-4 miles round trip (depending on parking)
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Elevation Gain: Minimal
- Waterfall Height: ~110 feet
- Best Time to Visit: April–June (peak flow)
- Waterfall Type: Seasonal
- Dog Friendly: Yes (leash recommended)
- Family Friendly: Yes, with supervision near cliffs
- Road Access: Rough dirt road (high clearance recommended)
- Permit Required: No (check current forest conditions)
Best Time to Visit Bassi Falls
Bassi Falls is entirely dependent on snowmelt, meaning timing determines whether you’ll see a roaring waterfall — or barely any water.
Month-by-month conditions:
- March: Early runoff begins (unpredictable)
- April – May: Peak flow (best time to visit)
- June: Flow begins to decline
- July – Fall: Often reduced to a trickle or dry
If you visit in late summer, the waterfall is often labeled as a trickle.
Lower portion of Bassi Falls
How Did Bassi Falls Get Its Name?
Giosue Bassi was born to Antonio and Orsula Bassi in Valle, Switzerland, circa May 18, 1840. Growing up in a household of meek income and herding cattle, Bassi had lofty aspirations. So, at the age of 18, Giosue left for the riches and dreams of California. With little education or money, Bassi arrived in San Francisco on January 29, 1859, according to The History of El Dorado County, California by P. Sioli.
Giosue would spend the next few years working in the mines and on dairy ranches. He bounced around towns from Dutch Flat, Forest Hill and Garden Valley. One source states that Bassi even opened up a store in Greenwood.
By the mid-1860’s, Bassi set out to Nevada where things looked more promising with the Comstock mining opportunities. Eventually, he returned around 1870, and purchased a dairy farm/ranch on the banks of the South Fork of the American River. His land size grew to over a few hundred acres and he also had many dairy cows. In the summers he would head to “big Silver Creek” to enjoy the beautiful scenery.
On January 6, 1878, Giosue married Virgina Forni who was the daughter of Samuel Forni an early settler of Georgetown. They would go on to have three kids: Daniel (1/2/1879), Josephine (8/19/1890) and Angelina (3/9/1882).
Bassi was about 20 years older than his wife who was born December 29, 1860. Sadly she also died at the young age of 24 with one source saying her death was during childbirth. Afterwards, Giosue sent his young children to live with relatives in the Bay Area. He never remarried. Daniel Bassi returned as a young adult to help his father.
Bassi went on to be a prominent resident of El Dorado County where some of his descendants still live at today. He was also a member and held offices with the Masons and at the Sutter’s Mill Grange.
Giosue died on January 14, 1919, and is buried at the Georgetown Pioneer Cemetery alongside his wife.
Bassi Falls is in close proximity to where Giosue and his family used to spend their summers. As of this article, I’m unclear as to when the waterfall took on his name.
How To Get To Bassi Falls
Getting to Bassi Falls can be quite the adventure. The trailhead is roughly 20 miles away from the Ice House Rd. exit on Highway 50, which is about 10 to 15 minutes east of Pollock Pines. If heading east on Highway 50 from Sacramento, Ice House Rd. will be on the left side.
This road winds around the hills and reaches maximum speeds of about 45 mph. However, there are many twists and turns that require speeds of 15mph. Also, there are no guard rails, so it’s imperative to drive safely.
Step-by-step directions:
- From Placerville, take Highway 50 East to Ice House Road
- Left on IHR and head down about 16.6 miles to Union Valley Reservoir
- Turn right onto unmarked dirt road (12N32A) – just after crossing Big Silver Creek bridge (opposite of Big Silver group camp)
- Should be a Sign that says Bassi falls
- Drive 0.2 miles to a junction and turn left (at the forest gate)
- Should be a sign for Bassi Falls
- Drive 0.8 miles to another junction and turn right
- Drive 0.7 miles to the trailhead at the end of the road
Many people have a hard time finding the Bassi Falls trailhead because they miss a key turn off of Ice House Rd. After about 16 miles on Ice House Rd., cross the Big Silver bridge and make an immediate right. This is the street that most people miss. This turn is directly across the street from Big Silver campground which is on the left side of Ice House Rd.
After turning right, go about 2 tenths of a mile and make a left. There’s a sign that points to Bassi Falls. This is the dirt road that takes you to the trailhead and is about 1.7 miles long. This road is best suited for trucks and SUVs. There are many bumps, dips, rocks and other obstacles that impede the route. Eventually, the road comes to the trailhead. Swing around the trailhead and park along the road facing the direction of entrance.
Road Conditions (2WD vs AWD)
The final stretch to Bassi Falls is often the biggest uncertainty.
- 2WD vehicles: Usually possible in dry conditions, but drive slowly
- Low-clearance cars: Not recommended due to rocks and holes, but still doable at a slow drive.
- SUVs/trucks: Ideal for parking at the trailhead.
- Spring conditions: Mud, ruts, or snow patches may still be present.
If you’re unsure, then park at the larger parking lot off of Ice House Road beyond the bridge.
What to Expect on the Hike To Bassi Falls
- Short hike: roughly 1 mile round trip, if parked at the trailhead.
- Long hike: 4.1 miles round trip if parked off of Ice House Road
- Lightly defined sections of trail in various places
- Mix of dirt path and exposed granite
- Open views as you approach the falls
Portion of the trail where it disappears
Reaching The Waterfall
During peak season, the waterfall is roaring. It’s not a straight 100 foot drop either. The water tends to zig and zag all the way down. Additionally, it looks like the boulders are bathing in the water during peak flow. Keep in mind that this waterfall is in the middle of the El Dorado National Forest. The forest adds to the overall beauty of this scenic location.
There are two ways to get to the top of the waterfall. One way is to take the steep path which is directly along the waterfall. This is only recommended for experienced hikers. The second way is a trail that is a few hundred feet to the left of the waterfall. However, it’s easy for adults and kids to hike up the trail.
Hiking To The Top Of Bassi Falls And Beyond
One of the benefits of visiting Bassi Falls during its peak flow is that the stream up top adds to the overall adventure. In the summer, this stream is virtually dried up. However, in the spring, and on my visit, it’s a flowing river that had some dangerous spots where the water was very aggressive. It’s highly advised not to swim in the water during peak flow.
If you hike to the top of the falls and up the stream, you can extend your adventure another few miles and enjoy the landscape, rock climbing and boulder hopping. Additionally, there’s a spot up the creek more where a small waterfall can be seen during peak flow.
Up stream from top of Bassi Falls
Bassi Falls Safety Tips
- Rocks near the waterfall can be extremely slippery
- The top of the falls has steep drop-offs with no barriers
- Use caution when exploring granite surfaces
- Bring water
- Some areas have limited shade
Common Mistakes to Avoid at Bassi Falls
- Missing the turn after Big Silver Creek Bridge
- Visiting too late in the season
- Driving too fast on the dirt road
- Wearing poor footwear for granite terrain
- Swimming in the water during peak flow
Is Bassi Falls Worth It?
Yes, but it really comes down to when you visit the waterfall. Most of my trips to Bassi Falls have come during peak season. The one time I went in August, the water was nothing more than a trickle.
It’s worth it if:
- You visit in April through early June
- You want a short, scenic hike
- You go on less crowded days (weekdays)
It may not be worth it if:
- You visit in late summer or fall
- You expect a large, year-round waterfall
- You’re not comfortable with rough road access
- You don’t like crowds
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the hike?
About 1–4 miles round trip depending on where you park.
When does Bassi Falls have water?
April through late June.
Can you swim at Bassi Falls?
Sometimes, but use caution due the water temperature and flow.
Is Bassi Falls dog-friendly?
Yes, but dogs should be kept on a leash, especially near cliffs.
Is the hike crowded?
It can get busy during peak spring weekends.
Do you need a permit?
Generally no for day use, but always check current forest regulations.
Sources
US Forest Service – El Dorado National Forest
Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bassi_Falls
