Vernal Falls trails

From Happy Isles, the hike enters the eastern end of Yosemite Valley and follows the Merced River through forest and granite scenery toward the Vernal Fall Footbridge, where the first open views of the river and surrounding canyon set the tone for one of Yosemite’s most iconic waterfall routes. The Mist…

Distance: 2.9 mi • Elevation gain: 2,228 ft • Maximum elevation: 6,007 ft

The Half Dome hike is a true Yosemite adventure. With breathtaking views of the falls, Yosemite Valley, and the Sierra Nevada, it rewards those who tackle its challenging terrain. The final ascent up the cable route is thrilling, and while demanding, it’s an unforgettable experience that’s well worth the…

Distance: 16.3 mi • Elevation gain: 6,368 ft • Maximum elevation: 8,816 ft

From Happy Isles, the route follows the John Muir Trail and Mist Trail along the Merced River, moving through forested Yosemite Valley scenery toward the narrowing granite canyon below Vernal Fall. The itinerary passes the Vernal Fall Footbridge, continues beside the river, and climbs into the Mist Trail…

Distance: 3.6 mi • Elevation gain: 1,575 ft • Maximum elevation: 5,197 ft

The route follows the river upstream toward the waterfall approach, passing through a lively canyon setting shaped by clear pools, polished rock and constant movement from the Merced. The hike then joins the Mist Trail, where the scenery becomes more dramatic beneath Vernal Fall, with spray, stone steps, cliff…

Distance: 5.9 mi • Elevation gain: 2,644 ft • Maximum elevation: 5,574 ft

Yosemite National Park. Merced River. #Hiking #Mountain #Waterfall #River #Forest #Nature

Distance: 16.6 mi • Elevation gain: 6,739 ft • Maximum elevation: 8,835 ft

The Phantom Falls Trail offers a rewarding hike through rolling hills, vibrant wildflower meadows, and unique basalt rock formations. As you journey across the open landscape, seasonal vernal pools and grazing cattle add to the rustic charm. The trail culminates at Phantom Falls, a dramatic cascade plunging…

Distance: 3.8 mi • Elevation gain: 489 ft • Maximum elevation: 1,342 ft

Hiking to Vernal Fall and Emerald Pool is an unforgettable adventure! The trail starts easy, but be ready for steep climbs and a series of misty granite steps, especially near the falls, where the refreshing spray from Vernal Fall makes the journey exhilarating. At the top, you'll be rewarded with stunning…

Distance: 3.5 mi • Elevation gain: 1,427 ft • Maximum elevation: 5,144 ft

The Vernal Fall hike offers a visually captivating journey through Yosemite's diverse landscapes. The Mist Trail, which approaches the fall directly, presents hikers with striking close-up views of Vernal Fall as the path winds upward alongside the cascading waters. As you ascend, the dramatic spray from the…

Distance: 1.5 mi • Elevation gain: 1,217 ft • Maximum elevation: 5,128 ft

Loop hike via John Muir Trail, Nevada Fall, Merced River, Little Yosemite Valley, Mist Trail, Silver Apron and Vernal Fall in the Yosemite National Park. #Hiking #Loop #Yosemite #Park #Nature #River #Mountain #Falls #Forest

Distance: 9.6 mi • Elevation gain: 3,786 ft • Maximum elevation: 6,214 ft

Yosemite National Park. Merced River. #Hiking #Loop #Waterfall #River #Mountain #Forest #Lake #Nature #Yosemite

Distance: 7.4 mi • Elevation gain: 2,986 ft • Maximum elevation: 6,056 ft

Loop hike from Curry Village to Nevada Fall via Happy Isles Bridge, Merced River, John Muir Trail, Mist Trail, Vernal Fall and Clark Point in the Yosemite National Park. #Hiking #Loop #Mountain #River #Falls #Nature #Forest #Park #Yosemite

Distance: 8.9 mi • Elevation gain: 3,783 ft • Maximum elevation: 6,066 ft

Distance: 7.4 mi • Elevation gain: 2,986 ft • Maximum elevation: 6,056 ft