When in Yosemite: Hike to Vernal & Nevada Falls
Do you love waterfalls, amazing views, and one-of-a-kind experiences? If yes, then this hike is for you! As one of the more popular hikes in Yosemite, the Vernal/Nevada Falls trail is a breathtaking adventure that we highly recommend. Keep reading for highlights, features, and adventure tips for this beautiful hike!
The Mist Trail is not open year round, so be sure to check the NPS website for closures before you go. This trail is not recommended as an out and back. It’s best to continue the trail to either Nevada Falls or Clark Point and loop back via the John Muir Trail.
This trail is very strenuous, even for the advanced hiker. This 7.2 mile round trip loop trail increases in elevation by 2,217 feet to the top of Nevada Falls. However, don’t let that stop you from seeing these incredible views! It’s an experience that you will not soon forget! Pack lots of water and snacks, go at your own pace, and be sure to bring a rain jacket (no seriously - you will get SOAKED during peak season).
MIST TRAIL TO VERNAL FALLS
To begin this hike, you will need to start at the Happy Isles trailhead. The first landmark you will reach is the Vernal Falls footbridge. Here, you get your first glimpse at the beauty of the falls. Continue a little further and you will reach the Mist Trail / John Muir Trail junction. This is where the main adventure begins.
If you decide to take the Mist Trail, you will continue upstream alongside the Merced River. Shortly after the junction, you will hit the rocky steps that take you to the top of Vernal Falls. This is where you will need a water repellent jacket. The trail puts you directly across the falls. During peak waterfall season, the whole way up the steps you’ll be covered in mist. In the springtime when the falls are at their fullest, the mist is very thick and casts beautiful rainbows when the light hits just right.
These steps give you gorgeous views of Vernal Falls. Each step provides a different perspective of this natural beauty. This section isn’t very long (just over half a mile) but if you’re like us, you will be stopping to take lots of photos. Be aware that the steps do get very slippery, so be sure to wear appropriate footwear for this hike. This area can get very congested with fellow hikers, so always be mindful when passing others on this section.
Once you reach the top of Vernal Falls, reward yourself with a snack and enjoy the beautiful view. If heights don’t bother you, there are guard rails that allow you to go right next to the waterfall edge where you can look down at the falls.
EMERALD POOL
Just past the top of Vernal Falls is the Emerald Pool. This peaceful body of water is a great spot to sit back and relax before continuing up to Nevada Falls. The pool sits at the base of Silver Apron which is a large granite “slide” formation with flowing water from Nevada Falls. As tempting as it looks to slide down this rock into the Emerald Pool, it is VERY dangerous as the current is incredibly strong and has sent people over the falls to their death. DO NOT swim in the Emerald Pool regardless of the name! As long as you’re safe, it makes for a great place to listen to the rushing water and enjoy views of the pool.
CONTINUING TO NEVADA FALLS
After passing the Emerald Pool, you will continue on the trail to the bridge that goes over Silver Apron. From here it is just over a mile to Nevada Falls. The first half of this section is relatively flat and shaded. Just before you hit the switchbacks, you’ll reach a section of the hike with almost a direct view of the falls. The next (and last) part of this section is the most challenging. You’ll be climbing up switchbacks the rest of the way. The switchbacks aren’t very long, but are rocky and have very little shade. Make sure you have plenty of water for this part. For the last stretch of the hike, you’ll get great views of Nevada Falls as you venture to the top!
Once you’re done with the switchbacks, you’ll make a right to continue to the top of Nevada Falls. Be sure to give yourself enough time to take in the views of the valley. Being at the top of the falls is such an incredible experience. It’s definitely a must-see in Yosemite!
descending the john muir trail
Once you’re ready to venture back down to the valley, you will take the John Muir Trail down. This portion of the hike will go much faster since it’s downhill. The terrain is rocky and can be slippery at times. Go at your own pace and watch your step.
You will eventually connect back to the Mist Trail at the junction with the John Muir Trail. Continue back to the Happy Isles trailhead to complete your hike!
BONUS FACT: Did you know that this trail is part of the overall hike to Half Dome?
Our Tips:
Go in the Spring to get the best experience of the falls
Depart early to beat the heat and crowds
Bring plenty of water and snacks
Wear comfortable shoes with good traction for the stairs and switchbacks
Bring a water resistant jacket for the Mist Trail
Wear a hat and/or bring sun protection
Bring a map or download a map on your phone before departing
