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Vernal & Nevada Falls via Happy Isles

Yosemite Valley, California

4.6/5
based on 20 reviews

Details

Distance

7.23 miles

Elevation Gain

2815 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Kristina Zhylenkova

Take in unforgettable views of Vernal Falls, Nevada Falls, Liberty Cap, and the back of Half Dome. This hike can be modified: you can hike to the top of Vernal Fall or keep going to the top of Nevada Fall. The best time to visit is spring/early summer when the waterfalls are at their peak flow. 

This popular hike starts near Happy Isles in Yosemite Valley. The first mile of the trail is paved and almost entirely uphill. You will come to the footbridge which tends to be very crowded. About 0.2 miles beyond the footbridge, the Mist Trail and the John Muir Trail diverge. Follow the Mist Trail 0.5 miles up a steep granite stairway of over 600 steps directly to the top of Vernal Fall. Use caution on this part of the trail. The stairs can become dangerously slippery. Prepare for slippery footing and a tremendous amount of waterfall spray, especially in spring and early summer. At the top of Vernal Falls, you can get breathtaking views straight down the 317 foot waterfall.

Here you can either choose to turn around and head back the way you came or you can continue up to the next junction which is about 0.2 miles and take the longer route back via the John Muir Trail or continue uphill on the Mist Trail to the top of Nevada Falls. Continuing along the Mist Trail, you’ll hike another 1.5 miles of steep, rocky switchbacks in order to reach Nevada Fall. At the top of the trail, head right to reach the footbridge that crosses the Merced River above the waterfall.

From this point, you can either return down the Mist Trail, or continue over the bridge to the John Muir Trail for an alternate route back down. If you choose the John Muir Trail, you will enjoy views of Liberty Cap, the back of Half Dome, and a different view of Nevada Falls all in the same frame. The John Muir Trail is longer, about 4 miles one way compared to the Mist Trail, which is 2.5 miles so plan accordingly.

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Features

Photography
Hiking
Family Friendly
Scenic
Waterfall

Vernal & Nevada Falls via Happy Isles Reviews

Great hike! Unlike the other falls in Yosemite, Vernal & Nevada Falls carry a lot of water even during high summer. Less crowded after Vernal Falls. But be very careful when descending - the granite steps can be very slippery. Bonus: For a great cardio training try hiking/running all the way up to the top of Nevada falls as fast as possible!

The hike is pretty straight forward. Just go early in the morning to avoid the traffic.

Gorgeous, gorgeous, gorgeous hike! It can get strenuous at times especially climbing the rock steps but worth every burning sensation. The views are breathtaking and being so close to the waterfalls just makes you feel alive.

Leave No Trace

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

Nearby

Half Dome via the Mist Trail

Thru-Hike the John Muir Trail

Snow Creek Trail

Mirror Lake

Mist Trail to Vernal Falls

Hike to Hidden Falls (aka Tenaya Creek Falls)