Vernal Fall

Awesome quick and easy hike in Yosemite. It was our first time here and most of the falls and lakes were dry so we were super stoked to have the chance to experience Vernal Falls.

We like to keep a good pace while hiking and seemed to make it to the top in no time. The granite stairs weren't wet at all and no mist was felt on Mist Trail which probably made this small trek a bit easier than other times of the year.

I can't wait to return, my son did seem to tucker out at the top due to the speed he was climbing which then lead him to not want to go up further to Nevada Falls which was a total bummer. He later regretted that.

I'd definitely recommend arriving early - before 8A, when we were headed down shuttles full of hikers were arriving and it seemed like quite a different experience than being up here with the peace and solitude of fewer bodies.

Tons of great areas to stop and snap a few photos. Can't wait to return!

I've done this twice, the first time I only made it to the footbridge and then this last time I went to the bottom of the falls, maybe the 3rd time I'll do the entire thing!

I've had two back surgeries and very bad knees but it was a gorgeous and wonderful experience. If you're able I recommend it!

In my opinion it's a tough hike, you're mainly going up a steel hill but I saw people running and pushing strollers. Don't forget to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, a snack, and at the time of my review the bathrooms near the footbridge are closed so make sure to go before heading on this trail.

Once you pass the footbridge to the second part it's more uphill. Right before you get to the bottom of the waterfall you'll have to go up some steep, wet, and very slippery stairs so be very cautious and go at your own pace.

During this hike, don't feel pressured - go at your own speed. Take all the breaks you need and enjoy the views!

This is the sight to see on Mist Trail! You get different views depending on where you are on the trail. Once you're at the top though, it doesn't look too great. Take your photos when you are on the rock steps.

There was so much water in May 2023. I was here the first weekend of May. We got soaked by the time we reached the top. The steps are wet, slippery, and muddy. There are puddles that you either walk through or navigate around. Having hiking poles was helpful.

This review is for the Vernal And Nevada Falls Via Mist Trail was a ~8.75 mile round trip (starting from Yosemite Valley Trailhead Parking) that took ~4.5 hours to complete.

Extremely crowded and popular hike. Mist Trail was closed between 7am - 3:30pm from Mondays - Thursdays. Poncho highly recommended when attempting the Mist Trail! Beautiful views throughout the hike! Steep inclines especially at Nevada Falls.

Limited parking that fills up fast in the morning.

Short video of the hike for those interested: https://youtu.be/fmsgeGWhebk

Vernal Falls is a gorgeous waterfall that demands a visit. You'll first see it from a bridge crossing the Merced river. Once you're up close you'll find yourself in the misty spray of the huge waterfall in your face. Keep in mind the trail to get here is extremely steep for just over a mile, and then you'll have to ascend over 700 stairs to reach the top. It's a tough tough hike but absolutely worth it. You'll also have a restroom and water fountain along the way if you get tired. The summer sun will create rainbows at this waterfall in the evening.

Vernal fall is one of the ineffable Beauty in Yosemite valley. Best months to visit to experience peak Flows: May to Early July
To spot this view Hike 'Mist Trail' about 2.4 Mile Round trip with elevation gain 1000ft. It takes around 3 hrs.
If you wanted to take a look at Nevada falls but couldn't afford to hike further from mist trail? then return back via Clarke point. This route will give you scenic views of Nevada falls.

Try parking your vehicle near 'Trail head parking' or 'Curry Village' to let your knees thaank you.

Tip: Make sure you carry waterproof hiking shoes as this trail is slippery.

A gorgeous hike that is of moderate difficulty and has beautiful views along the way (good opportunities for breaks if needed). It culminates in first the vernal fall bridge (0.8mi hike with some steep areas) and then almost right next to vernal falls itself (another 0.7mi, some slick rocky steps that can be a bit slippery going down). I visited in early June in the afternoon, so there was quite the crowd factor. There are also connections to other trails and sites such as Nevada falls for a longer trek, but I only spent part of the afternoon (about 2hrs) hiking from the trailhead up to vernal falls and back, with time for a snack break.

Let's be honest, if you are a beginner like me this is tough. I took a lot of break before I could get there but then again maybe it's just me since I have to really work on my cardio. I was lucky though that it was a little cloudy during my hike and I don't have to feel the heat of the sun.
There will be a stop at the mist trail for a restroom and drinking fountain.
I break I took I see friendly squirrels around, but please don't feed them. Clean up after eating. It's dangerous for them to eat human food.

Getting there:
Located on the Mist Trail, if you follow the signs for Curry Village you'll come to a stop sign where you can either go straight towards the trailhead or turn left and cross the bridge towards Yosemite Falls. Follow the trailhead and park in the parking lot (if there's room). From there follow the blocked off road to the trail.

Experience:
Vernal Falls is a must see if it's your first visit to the park. I've taken this trail each time I've hiked Half Dome, and it's beautiful at any time of the year. The water flows more in the summer due to all the melted snow, but I must say seeing the pools completely frozen over in the winter was pretty awesome.

Hiking up the falls gets a little sketch, especially in the winter time. It's super icy and can be very dangerous if you do not have proper shoes, and I would even say spikes on your shoes. We had both and climbing up was still a bit slippery for us, but way easier than those we saw that didn't have spikes or even hiking shoes. However, if you are fully equipped definitely take caution but take advantage. Yosemite in the winter is gorgeous! If you can, try to make it to Nevada Falls and the bridge. Very nice photo spot!

Absolutely stunning water fall in Yosemite Valley. Must see!

Took the hike to this water fall on my recent trip to Yosemite. The hike was intermediate level, with some incline. The weather was super hot, so the hike was more strenuous than normal. Make sure to carry plenty of water, or bring a cup and drink from the river.

The trail is crowded, so do be careful. Towards the end of the path getting up to the waterfall, the trail is rocky and very wet, misty and slippery. All the work is worth the view at the top, very beautiful.

If you continue for another 2-3 hours, you will get to Nevada Falls.
Definitely recommend doing this hike!

If you're in the area and can hike uphill without any health issues then you must visit these falls. I saw children and seniors hiking up the mountain on this very popular trail with splendid views. There's a big natural water slide right above the falls which you are not supposed to go in, but some visitors will be too tempted and ignore the no swimming sign. If you need to use the restroom there are more than enough trees to hide behind, please don't leave your tissue behind.