Potwisha-Middle Fork

Dogs No Dogs

Features Fishing · Historical Significance · River/Creek · Swimming · Views

The Potwisha-Middle Fork Trail is a short trail that provide access to the Middle Fork of the Kaweah River before climbing up the hillside to an old irrigation system. The trail leaves the far end of the parking lot that is on the right side of the road as you approach the Potwisha campground. The trail crosses through an area with some boulders. Here, people break off and find places to hang out along the river so that they can swim during the heat of the summer. Summer in the foothills is very hot, so make sure you bring sunscreen, head coverings or hats, and bug spray. Continuing upstream, the trail crosses the river via a suspension bridge and provides access to more space to swim. If you follow the trail to the right, the trail approaches an old pipe that carried water from the irrigation ditch down to the river. The trail climbs up a couple of switchbacks to the top of the hill where an old irrigation system sits there. You can see how the concrete structure winds around the hillside and old sluice gates that controlled the water flow. You can enjoy views of the surrounding hillsides and look down on the Middle Fork of the Kaweah River. After exploring the irrigation system, you can return to the river to swim and then back to your car. You can make this a short little trip or turn it into a full day adventure hanging out by the river.

Deers and turkeys can be seen in the area, especially in the early morning or evenings. Bears can be seen in the area, so make sure to lock up your food or keep an eye on it when you are at the river.