Vernal and Nevada Falls via Mist Trail

The trailhead for the Vernal and Nevada Falls via Mist Trail is located at Happy Isles (Stop 16) in Yosemite Valley. During peak season, private vehicles are generally not allowed past the Yosemite Valley Lodge area, so you'll need to use the free Yosemite Valley shuttle bus to reach Happy Isles. Parking is available at various lots within Yosemite Valley, such as the Yosemite Valley Day Use Parking or near Yosemite Village, from where you can catch the shuttle.

Yes, the Vernal and Nevada Falls via Mist Trail is located within Yosemite National Park, so an entrance fee is required to access the park. Depending on the time of year, a reservation may also be necessary to enter the park, especially during peak season. Always check the official Yosemite National Park website for the most current entrance requirements and reservation policies before your visit.

The Mist Trail is spectacular from spring through fall. Spring (April to July) offers the most dramatic waterfall flow and the iconic 'mist' experience, often with rainbows, but conditions can be very wet and slippery. Summer provides warmer weather and still strong flows. Fall offers beautiful foliage and fewer crowds, though waterfall flows will be reduced. The trail can be partially or fully closed in winter due to ice and snow, with sections often rerouted to the John Muir Trail for safety.

No, dogs are generally not allowed on the Mist Trail, including the paved section to the Vernal Fall Footbridge, due to park regulations concerning wilderness areas and sensitive habitats. Dogs are permitted on paved roads and in developed areas, but not on most hiking trails in Yosemite National Park.

The full loop to both Vernal and Nevada Falls typically takes anywhere from 5 to 8 hours, depending on your pace and how much time you spend enjoying the views. The round trip to Vernal Fall alone can take 2-3 hours. The total distance for the full loop is approximately 13.4 km, with an elevation gain of about 677 meters.

The trail begins with a paved, steadily uphill section. Beyond the Happy Isles Bridge, the terrain becomes rugged. To Vernal Fall, you'll ascend over 600 steep, uneven granite steps, which are often wet and slippery from the waterfall's spray. The path to Nevada Fall continues with steep, rocky switchbacks, following the Merced River through a landscape of boulders and granite faces.

You'll encounter several stunning highlights, including the Happy Isles Nature Center at the start, the Mist Trail: Vernal & Nevada Falls themselves, and the powerful Nevada Fall. Along the way, enjoy views of the Merced River, Emerald Pool, and Silver Apron. From higher points like View of Half Dome and Nevada Fall from John Muir Trail or Clark Point, you'll get striking vistas of Liberty Cap and the back of Half Dome.

The most popular way to experience Vernal and Nevada Falls is as a loop. While you can hike out-and-back on the Mist Trail, many hikers choose to ascend via the Mist Trail and descend via the John Muir Trail, creating a scenic loop that offers different perspectives and avoids the slippery granite steps on the descent.

Yes, this route is part of a larger network of trails within Yosemite Valley. It primarily follows the Mist Trail and the John Muir Trail. Sections of the Bike Path and the Yosemite Valley Loop Trail also intersect or run concurrently with parts of this route.

The Mist Trail is considered moderate to strenuous, especially the steep, wet, and slippery granite steps to Vernal Fall. While many families with older, experienced hikers complete it, it might be challenging for very young children or those not accustomed to strenuous uphill climbs. For a less strenuous option with waterfall views, you can hike to the Vernal Fall Footbridge (1.6 miles round trip) and turn back. The John Muir Trail offers a less steep, though longer, alternative route to Nevada Fall.

Given the trail's conditions, wear sturdy hiking boots with good traction. Waterproof or water-resistant clothing is highly recommended, especially in spring and early summer, as you will get soaked by the mist near Vernal Fall. Bring plenty of water, snacks, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), and a camera. A waterproof bag for electronics is also a good idea. Trekking poles can be helpful for stability on the steep and uneven sections.