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Hike to Bridalveil Fall

Mariposa County, California

3.8/5
based on 4 reviews

Details

Distance

1.2 miles

Elevation Gain

200 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Eric Bennett

Take a quick hike in Yosemite National Park to this stunning 620 foot waterfall. 

Since most things you want to see in Yosemite require a hike, this place is a nice change to see something without having to walk for hours. From the parking lot it is just about a 10 minute walk to the falls.

If you scramble up the rocks, you can get a nice view of the falls and the pond. It used to be bigger, but due to a recent rockslide, the majority of it has been filled in with rocks. This is still an awesome place to stop and check out while in Yosemite, especially since it's such a short stroll to get to!

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Features

Chillin
Photography
Hiking
Bathrooms
Easy Parking
Scenic
Waterfall

Hike to Bridalveil Fall Reviews

We got quite wet, worth it. It's beautiful! A must stop in Yosemite, even with the crowds. Quick, easy walk from the parking lot. Obviously, it will be wet/slick, so wear good shoes.

Okay, yeah, it's crowded, and there isn't as much water in summer and fall. But less water actually makes it easier for the changing wind patterns to toss the spray around, and most tourists come for a quick look and a single picture before leaving again, so you can sit for a good while and watch the water getting tossed in its patterns. One important note - scrambling up the rocks at the end of the trail is VERY DANGEROUS, as the copious X-rays of hikers' broken bones, which the park posts at the start of the trail, can attest. I know the main review here suggests it, but just say no.

This spring the falls were raging after having a favorable winter, the rivers all around were swollen with snowmelt. The earlier start the better with this popular trail. A modest elevation climb but the stone steps provide some easy traversing. Just be sure to walk with a sure foot as the steps can be wet from the mist of the waterfall.

Nice view. Down sides are that it gets very crowded and with the drought the falls aren't flowing much anymore.

Leave No Trace

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

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