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Discover
Yosemite’s Waterfalls Not just a great valley, but a shrine to human foresight, the strength of granite, the power of glaciers, the persistence of life, and the tranquility of the High Sierra landscape.
First protected in 1864, Yosemite National Park is best known for its waterfalls, but within its nearly 1,200 square miles, you can find deep valleys, grand meadows, ancient giant sequoias, a vast wilderness area, and much more.Yosemite is home to countless waterfalls. The best time to see waterfalls is during spring, which is when most of the snowmelt occurs. Peak runoff typically occurs in May or June, with some waterfalls (including Yosemite Falls) often only a trickle or completely dry by August. Storms in late fall rejuvenate some of the waterfalls and all of them accumulate frost along their edges many nights during the winter. Watch your footing on the trails.
Location 1: Yosemite Falls
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Location 2: Vernal Falls
320 feet tall
318 feet tall
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Explore
Yosemite FALLS Look for the ice cone at the base of the upper fall during winter and for roaring runoff April through June. Yosemite Falls, one of the world’s tallest waterfalls, is actually made up of three separate falls: Upper Yosemite Fall (1,430 feet), the middle cascades (675 feet), and Lower Yosemite Fall (320 feet). You can see Yosemite Falls from numerous places around Yosemite Valley, especially around Yosemite Village and Yosemite Valley Lodge. A one-mile loop trail leads to the base of Lower Yosemite Fall (the eastern side of the loop, from the shuttle stop to the base of the waterfall, is wheelchair accessible). It’s also possible to hike to the top of Yosemite Falls as a strenuous, all-day hike. If walking from the Valley Visitor center, follow the bicycle path to shuttle stop #6 and begin the trail. Be prepared to spend at least 1 to 2 hours on the hike.
Map: Yosemite Falls
Intermediate Trail **
Time on Trail: 1–2 hours
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Feel the Rush at
VERNal FALLS The John Muir and Mist Trails offer spectacular, up-close views of two large waterfalls, enjoyable scenery along the Merced River, and unique views across Yosemite Valley. This first paved mile of trail is busiest and accesses the Vernal Fall Footbridge. Almost entirely uphill, you can appreciate views along the way, and during spring, when the water levels are at their peak, you can also glimpse Illillouette Fall from this first section of trail. Prepare for slippery footing and a tremendous amount of waterfall spray in spring and early summer (hence the name for this trail!). You will delight in views of Vernal Fall along this stretch of trail and may even be able to see a rainbow in the spray of the fall. At the top of the Fall, you can experience beautiful views straight down the length of the 317-foot waterfall. Be prepared to spend at least 3 to 4 hours on this hike.
Map: Vernal Falls
Streneous Trail ***
Time on Trail: 3–4 hours
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Yosemite Yosemite National Park www.nps.gov/yosemite