Hike the Mist Trail to Vernal & Nevada Falls

Yosemite Valley, California

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Details

Distance

7 miles

Elevation Gain

2000 ft

Route Type

Loop

Description

Added by Nicole Twu

This hike leads you to two waterfalls and scenic views of Half Dome.

The trail head is accessible not far from Curry Village off of the main Yosemite Park road. From Curry Village, there is about a 1.5 mile hike to the Mist Trail trail head. You'll have your last opportunity to fill up on water at the bottom.

During the spring, as the snow melts, the waterfalls are very strong. The hike up the stone steps at this time of year is slippery and you will get wet as you head up. You'll walk across the top of Vernal falls where you can take a break before continuing to Nevada falls.

Once you reach the top of Nevada falls, you'll see the fork in the road to Half Dome. Since the Mist Trail can be so slippery, the best route is to loop back down on the John Muir Trail. This also provides a different perspective on the falls and Half Dome.

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Features

Hiking

Scenic

Waterfall

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