The best walks and hikes in Mariposa County

The Vernal and Nevada Falls via Mist Trail is a challenging 8.3-mile (13.4 km) hike in Yosemite National Park, gaining 2221 feet (677 metres) over an estimated 5 hours and 18 minutes. This difficult route immerses you in the power of two major waterfalls, Vernal and Nevada Falls, as you ascend steep granite steps carved into the cliffside. The trail is renowned for its close-up views and the drenching mist from Vernal Fall, creating rainbows on sunny days.

To tackle this popular route, plan an early morning start to avoid the crowds, especially if you are aiming for the top of Nevada Fall. During spring and early summer, the mist from Vernal Fall is intense, so waterproof clothing is highly recommended. The trailhead is easily accessible, but parking can fill up quickly, making an early arrival essential for a smoother experience.

Considered one of Yosemite's most popular trails, the Mist Trail offers an unforgettable experience, particularly the unique granite staircase alongside Vernal Fall. While the initial section to Vernal Fall can be very busy, the crowds tend to thin out on the more strenuous climb to Nevada Fall. You can also opt to return via the John Muir Trail, which provides a different perspective and a less steep descent, making for a scenic loop.

The Mist Trail is a truly immersive hiking experience, taking you right into the heart of Yosemite's powerful waterfalls. You'll navigate over 600 granite steps carved into the cliffside, feeling the refreshing spray from Vernal Fall as you ascend. The journey continues past the stunning Emerald Pool and Silver Apron, leading you to the majestic Nevada Fall, with continuous dramatic vistas of the Merced River and distant views of Liberty Cap and Half Dome.

This moderate 5.3-mile (8.5 km) hike involves a significant 1947 feet (593 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 3 hours and 54 minutes. Be prepared for a strenuous climb on often wet and slippery steps, especially during spring runoff. The trail is easily accessed by shuttle, but if you're driving, plan for early arrival as Mist Trail parking can be challenging. Good traction footwear is a must for this adventure.

Considered Yosemite's signature hike, the Mist Trail is renowned for its unparalleled access to two magnificent waterfalls, Vernal and Nevada Falls, which together drop over 900 feet. It's a must-do for anyone seeking a challenging climb combined with awe-inspiring natural beauty, making it one of the top rated hikes in Yosemite Valley.

The Mist Trail plunges you into the heart of Yosemite's raw power, delivering a sensory overload of thundering waterfalls and drenching mist. This moderate 5.3-mile (8.5 km) hike, with its 1947 feet (593 metres) of elevation gain, leads you up steep granite steps to the base of Vernal Fall, where you'll feel the full force of the spray. Continuing on, the trail winds past the serene Emerald Pool and Silver Apron before reaching the impressive Nevada Fall, offering a truly unforgettable experience over roughly 3 hours and 54 minutes.

To tackle this popular route, you'll want to use the park shuttle to reach the trailhead, as parking can be scarce. Be prepared for crowds, especially during peak season, and know that the granite steps can be wet and slippery from the constant mist, particularly in spring and early summer. Good traction footwear is essential, and a waterproof layer will keep you comfortable as you get up close to the falls.

What makes the Mist Trail truly stand out is its unique

The Vernal Fall and Clark Point Loop via Mist Trail and John Muir Trail offers an immersive Yosemite experience, taking you from the banks of the Merced River to the thundering spray of Vernal Fall. You'll navigate granite steps and forested paths, with the highlight being the powerful waterfall and the serene Emerald Pool. The trail culminates at Clark Point, where you're treated to expansive views of Nevada Fall and Half Dome, making the sustained climb well worth the effort.

To plan your visit, head to the Happy Isles Nature Center, the starting point for this adventure. Parking can be challenging, so an early start or utilizing Yosemite's shuttle service is highly recommended. This moderate 6.4-mile (10.3 km) loop, with its 1506 feet (459 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 3 hours and 49 minutes, so bring ample water and snacks. Spring offers the most dramatic waterfall flows, while fall provides cooler temperatures and clearer skies.

This loop is a quintessential Yosemite hike, combining the thrill of the Mist Trail's close encounter with Vernal Fall with the panoramic rewards of Clark Point. It's a fantastic way to experience two of Yosemite's most famous waterfalls and gain a unique perspective on the valley's grandeur, including distant views of Half Dome. The route provides a good challenge for those seeking a rewarding day hike in the heart of the park.

The Upper Yosemite Fall Trail is a demanding but incredibly rewarding journey that takes you to the top of North America's tallest waterfall. You'll navigate a consistently steep and rocky path, gaining 3435 feet (1047 metres) in elevation over 6.7 miles (10.8 km). The effort is paid back with continuous, expansive views of Yosemite Valley and Half Dome as you climb, culminating in an up-close encounter with the powerful Yosemite Falls. Expect a difficult hike that takes around 4 hours and 47 minutes, best suited for experienced hikers seeking a challenge.

To make the most of your hike, plan to go in spring or early summer when the waterfall is at its most impressive. The trail is largely exposed, so bring plenty of water, especially if you're hiking on a warm day. The trailhead is easily accessible in Yosemite Valley, but parking can fill up quickly, so an early start is always a good idea. Be prepared for a strenuous day and always stay on the marked path for safety.

This historic trail, built between 1873 and 1877, offers a unique perspective on Yosemite's iconic landscape that many visitors never get to see. Beyond the main falls, you can extend your hike to Yosemite Point for even more classic views of Half Dome and the Sierra Nevada Mountains. It's a high-effort, high-reward experience that showcases the raw power and beauty of Yosemite's natural features.

Embark on the Upper Yosemite Fall Trail, a moderate hike that takes you on a rewarding ascent. This route covers 5.6 miles (9.0 km) with a significant elevation gain of 2414 feet (736 metres), typically completed in about 3 hours and 41 minutes. As you climb, you will pass through varied terrain, offering glimpses of the valley below and the powerful waterfall. The trail provides a direct experience of the park's grandeur, leading you closer to one of its most iconic features.

To make the most of your visit, plan to hike the Upper Yosemite Fall Trail during spring or early summer, generally from April to June. This period ensures you will see the waterfall at its most impressive flow. Be aware that by August, the falls can diminish significantly or even dry up completely, so check conditions before you go. Starting early in the day is always a good idea to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures on this exposed climb.

This trail is a direct path to the top of North America's tallest waterfall, offering a unique perspective on Yosemite Valley. From the summit, you can take in expansive views that stretch across the valley floor and encompass surrounding Sierra mountain peaks. It is a journey that connects you deeply with the natural forces that shaped this famous landscape, providing a memorable experience beyond just viewing the falls from below.

Embark on the Mist Trail to Vernal Fall for a memorable hike through Yosemite National Park. This moderate route spans 4.7 miles (7.5 km) and involves a climb of 1038 feet (316 metres), typically taking about 2 hours and 40 minutes to complete. As you follow the Merced River, you will encounter the trail's iconic granite steps, where the mist from Vernal Fall can drench you, especially in spring and early summer, often creating rainbows. The experience culminates in spectacular, close-up views of the powerful 317-foot Vernal Fall.

Planning your visit carefully will enhance your experience on this popular trail. Expect crowds, particularly from April to June and during midday hours. To avoid the busiest times, consider starting your hike early in the morning or later in the afternoon. During periods of high water flow, especially in spring, the granite steps can become very slippery due to the waterfall's spray, so wearing hiking shoes with good traction is highly recommended. This trail is easily accessible within Yosemite National Park.

The Mist Trail is renowned for its unique natural features and historical significance within Yosemite. The trail's construction, featuring over 600 carved granite steps, is a testament to early park development, allowing visitors unparalleled access to the waterfall's base. Beyond Vernal Fall, you have the option to continue to the serene Emerald Pool, offering a different perspective of the park's stunning waterways. This route provides a quintessential Yosemite experience, blending challenging terrain with breathtaking natural beauty.

The Lower Yosemite Fall Trail offers an incredibly accessible and scenic journey through Yosemite Valley, leading you right to the base of the iconic Lower Yosemite Fall. This easy, paved loop winds through a lush forested valley, providing dramatic views of the 320-foot (98-meter) cascade and the surrounding granite cliffs. You'll feel the refreshing mist from the falls, especially during peak flow, making it a truly immersive experience.

Planning your visit is straightforward, but be prepared for crowds, as this is one of Yosemite's most popular routes. The best time to go is during spring and early summer when the waterfall is at its most powerful due to snowmelt. By late summer, the falls can significantly diminish or even dry up, so time your trip accordingly for the best views.

What makes this trail particularly special is its exceptional accessibility; it's family-friendly and suitable for all abilities, including those using wheelchairs. It's a fantastic option for anyone looking for a high-reward, low-effort hike, covering 2.9 miles (4.6 km) with only 83 feet (25 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking just over an hour.