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About 10 minutes away from Yosemite Valley by car, picnic tables and grills are available at this scenic spot near the Cascades waterfall, Cascade Creek, and the Merced River. Mature canyon live oaks and ponderosa pines provide shade across the picnic area. The Cascades waterfall, situated just across the road, is a lesser-visited waterfall that is stunning in spring as winter's snow melts into the creek. Tips & Seasonal Information This picnic area is open year-round. A vault toilet is available at the parking area. Swift-moving, cold water is very dangerous and even deadly. Anytime the river and creeks are flowing strongly, such as in spring, stay away from the water. Wildlife Safety Keep your distance from animals, even if they approach you. Never feed wild animals. Dispose of trash in bear-proof trash cans or dumpsters. While enjoying your picnic, keep your food, trash, and other scented items within arm's reach. If a bear approaches, yell as loudly as possible to scare the bear away. Accessibility The Cascades Picnic Area features accessible picnic tables with extended tops, accessible restrooms, and grills that are accessible. Designated accessible parking spaces are available nearby. The pathway to the picnic area is on a slight incline and unpaved. The path may be uneven or slightly rocky in places.