Lower Yosemite Falls

Mariposa County, California

4.8/5

based on 20 reviews

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Details

Distance

1.16 miles

Elevation Gain

151 ft

Route Type

Loop

Description

Added by Tiffany Nguyen

The Lower Yosemite Falls Loop in Yosemite Valley is a leisurely walk to the bottom of the highest waterfall in North America. Enjoy views of both Upper and Lower Yosemite Falls. It's open year-round so you can enjoy the falls at any time of the year.

At 2,425 feet, Yosemite Falls is the highest waterfall in North America. The falls consists of three sections: Upper Falls, Middle Cascades, and Lower Falls. At 320 feet, Lower Yosemite Falls is one of the most popular attractions at Yosemite National Park. This 1-mile loop is a leisurely walk with awesome views of both Upper and Lower Falls and viewing access to the bottom of Lower Falls. The paved loop trail begins at shuttle stop #6. For the best views of Yosemite Falls, consider walking the loop in a clockwise direction.

Lower Falls is open all year long, but peak water flow is during late spring and early summer after all the winter snow has melted. Visiting Yosemite in the wintertime is an entirely new and amazing experience compared to the summertime appearance that most are acquainted with. Another plus is that Yosemite Falls is much less populated in the winter as compared with the summer. Visit Yosemite Falls during the wintertime and you will find a huge mound of snow collected at the bottom of the falls.

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Lower Yosemite Falls Reviews

Sandra Mohammad

Lower Yosemite Falls

10/16/23

Weather was cool 45 in the morning. Saw lots of grey squirrels and a dear crossing a bridge in front of us. Easily accessible from the Yosemite Valley Lodge.

5.0

Angela Dair

Lower Yosemite Falls

02/21/23

Short loop to the Lower Falls is a great group outing. Depending on the time of year, it could be gushing or pretty sparse. Lots of big rocks you can climb but be careful as it gets slippery!

5.0

Zena Luu

Lower Yosemite Falls

01/16/23

The hike here was not that bad. Come during the winter and you might be able to see some snow. But we missed it. The thi if he of refreshing water is so relaxing . Short nice hike here with a family is good and easy here. The elevation gain isn’t terrible. I would recommend.

5.0

Sami Smith

Lower Yosemite Falls

04/19/22

This is an easy paved walk to lower Yosemite falls. Be prepared to take turns getting a picture, it is usually busy because it is an easy/short walk

5.0

Andreas Brokalakis

Lower Yosemite Falls

09/22/20

This is one of the most interesting attractions in Yosemite if you don't want (or can't) go to more strenuous hikes. Also a great option when with kids. I did it as a first round of acquaintance with the park and it just fueled my desire to explore much more the park!

5.0

Noah Crider

Lower Yosemite Falls

06/18/20

Such a beautiful waterfall!

5.0

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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Lower Yosemite Falls

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Lower Yosemite Falls Reviews

Leave No Trace

Nearby

Photograph Moonbows at Yosemite Falls

Bike Yosemite Valley

Rock Climb Penthouse Cracks, Yosemite NP

Yosemite Point

Hike the North Dome Loop via Yosemite Falls Trail

El Capitan Trail

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