Taking the scenic route and driving to Stevenson's Creek Falls in California
Stevenson's Creek Falls is a 1,280-foot multi-tier waterfall located in Fresno County, in the US state of California, within the Sierra National Forest. The falls drop through the San Joaquin River Canyon and pass directly under a concrete bridge on Million Dollar Road (Million Dollar Mile).
| Road facts: Stevenson's Creek Falls (Million Dollar Road) | |
|---|---|
| Location | Fresno County, California (USA) |
| Road Name | Million Dollar Road (Million Dollar Mile) |
| Length | 7.1 miles (11.42 km) between Powerhouse #3 and Powerhouse #8 |
| Surface | Mostly paved / narrow asphalt |
| Access Level | Closed to public motorized traffic (Gated private utility road) |
Where is Million Dollar Road located?
The road cuts through the San Joaquin River Canyon in the Sierra National Forest. Built in 1922 by Southern California Edison, the 7.1-mile (11.42 km) service track links Big Creek Powerhouse #3 with Powerhouse #8.
Can you drive a private vehicle to Stevenson's Creek Falls?
No. Public motorized vehicles are strictly prohibited. The road is blocked by an official security gate, restricting vehicle access exclusively to Southern California Edison utility trucks. Non-motorized access on foot or by bicycle is permitted.
Is Million Dollar Road paved?
Yes. The route is mostly paved with a narrow, single-lane asphalt surface built along steep canyon cliffs. The road crosses directly over the base of the waterfall via a concrete bridge.
What are the main hazards along Million Dollar Road?
The road features steep drop-offs into the San Joaquin River Canyon without guardrails. Active rockfalls from the canyon walls frequently leave sharp debris on the asphalt, while high spring water runoff from Stevenson's Creek can wash directly over the bridge deck.
Pic: David Hurst