Wapama Falls from across the reservoir is a fine sight, but it’s not the same being there – and getting a bit wet.
Yosemite’s waterfalls are world famous, and rightly so. The eponymous Yosemite Falls, as well as Vernal, Nevada, Bridalveil, Ribbon and so many others all possess their own combination of grace, power and beauty. They are at their finest during spring snowmelt.
Installed in December 2024, the new bridge will make viewing Wapama Falls safer for park visitors. Photo: San Francisco PUC
Wapama Falls at Hetch Hetchy is no less special. Standing beneath Wapama, gazing upward evokes images of thickly braided hair continuously unfurling in a windstorm. It’s a sight to be experienced up close.
Visitors to Hetch Hetchy can see Wapama as they arrive. It beckons. To see the falls up close, hikers first cross over the top of O’Shaughnessy Dam then walk 2 plus miles. Wapama is suddenly right around the corner, but cannot really be seen without stepping out onto the westernmost of a series of footbridges. It’s a thrilling moment.
At left, a sign warns against crossing the bridge and viewing Wapama Falls. At right, The National Park Service transports Boy Scouts around the falls as they return from a backpacking trip.
There have been times, however, when visitors have arrived at the falls only to be confronted by a sign warning that crossing the bridge is not safe. Too much of Falls Creek is flowing over the bridge. Indeed hikers have been swept off the bridge to their deaths.
Fortunately, that bridge has been replaced. In December, the National Park Service installed a new, safer bridge, which should be passable at peak snowmelt in almost any year. San Francisco officials proudly note that the City paid for its cost.
We’re pleased as punch, and look forward to seeing Wapama and its new bridge in April.
But it is disappointing that it’s taken so long. After all, the project was approved by the Superintendent more than 5 years ago.
And is the funding for the bridge a result of San Francisco’s benevolence? Or is it an obligation under the Raker Act, which reads in part “this grant is upon the further condition that the grantee shall construct on the north side of the Hetch Hetchy Reservoir site a scenic road or trail“? Once constructed, who bears the burden of maintenance and safety?
There are other areas where San Francisco has not fully complied with and/or the National Park Service has not full enforced Raker Act. Until the statute is amended Restore Hetch Hetchy will be pursuing improvements so visitors will be able to better enjoy and appreciate Hetch Hetchy.
But this new bridge is exciting indeed. Go to Hetch Hetchy and see it for yourself!