Yosemite Falls
Witness the awe-inspiring power of North America's tallest waterfall, a three-tiered cascade plunging 2,425 feet.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Waterfalls are roaring!
Yosemite Falls
Best Time
Waterfalls are roaring!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness the awe-inspiring power of North America's tallest waterfall, a three-tiered cascade plunging 2,425 feet.
"Yosemite Falls is a breathtaking natural wonder and an absolute must-visit!"
💧 Catch the Mist!
The mist from Lower Yosemite Fall is refreshing! Bring a waterproof jacket or poncho, especially in spring.
👟 Hike Smart
The Upper Yosemite Falls trail is challenging. Start early, bring plenty of water, and wear sturdy hiking shoes.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lower Yosemite Fall Trail
Yosemite Valley
An easy, paved loop offering stunning, up-close views of the powerful Lower Yosemite Fall. Perfect for all ages!
Upper Yosemite Fall Trail
Yosemite Valley
A strenuous hike to the top of North America's tallest waterfall, rewarding hikers with panoramic valley vistas.
Yosemite Valley Viewpoints
Various locations in Yosemite Valley
Capture iconic shots of Yosemite Falls, El Capitan, and Half Dome from spots like Tunnel View and Valley View.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Yosemite Falls
Navigating Yosemite Valley
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💧 Catch the Mist!
The mist from Lower Yosemite Fall is refreshing! Bring a waterproof jacket or poncho, especially in spring.
👟 Hike Smart
The Upper Yosemite Falls trail is challenging. Start early, bring plenty of water, and wear sturdy hiking shoes.
📸 Golden Hour Photos
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography and fewer crowds.
🚗 Park & Ride
Utilize the free Yosemite Valley shuttle to avoid parking hassles and access key sites easily.
Tips
from all over the internet
💧 Catch the Mist!
The mist from Lower Yosemite Fall is refreshing! Bring a waterproof jacket or poncho, especially in spring.
👟 Hike Smart
The Upper Yosemite Falls trail is challenging. Start early, bring plenty of water, and wear sturdy hiking shoes.
📸 Golden Hour Photos
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography and fewer crowds.
🚗 Park & Ride
Utilize the free Yosemite Valley shuttle to avoid parking hassles and access key sites easily.
📱 Download Offline Maps
Cell service is unreliable. Download park maps and trail info beforehand.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Yosemite Falls for its breathtaking beauty and powerful presence, calling it a 'magical' and 'unforgettable' experience. The accessibility of the Lower Falls trail makes it enjoyable for all, while the challenging Upper Falls hike offers rewarding views. Some note that the falls' flow can be minimal in late summer.
"This wasn’t my first time in Yosemite, but it still felt just as magical. I went with Dad and Mom, and we spent time around Yosemite Falls. The sound of the rushing water was powerful, and the mist rising up gave everything a fresh, cool feeling. Even though I’d been to Yosemite before, standing in front of the falls reminded me why it’s such a special place — each visit feels new in its own way."
Diya Nalla
"Yosemite Falls is a breathtaking natural wonder and an absolute must-visit! I had the chance to witness its majestic beauty during my trip in August 2024, and it left a lasting impression. Despite being late summer, there was still a decent flow of water, and the sight of the falls cascading down in three dramatic tiers was awe-inspiring.
The surrounding granite cliffs and lush greenery add to the mesmerizing backdrop. The Lower Falls trail is an easy and accessible walk, making it enjoyable for visitors of all ages, while the views from various vantage points throughout the valley offer excellent photo opportunities.
It's a serene yet powerful experience that showcases the raw beauty of nature. I would highly recommend planning some quiet moments just to sit and absorb the surroundings.
Tip: Early morning or late afternoon offers the best lighting and fewer crowds.
Unquestionably deserving a 5/5!"
Haresh Modi
"I we drove from Chicago, and it was worth it, just beautiful. If you go there during peak season in the morning, please don't forget to make the reservation in advance. Otherwise, you are going to have to wait until 2 pm to enter the park"
Francisco Mu
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Yosemite Falls is located in Yosemite Valley. You can drive into the park (reservations may be required during peak season) and park in designated areas, then use the free shuttle system to reach the falls.
Parking is available in Yosemite Valley, but it fills up quickly, especially during peak times. Arriving early or using the shuttle is highly recommended.
Yes, YARTS (Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System) offers bus services from various gateway communities into Yosemite Valley, providing a convenient way to reach the falls.
The free Yosemite Valley shuttle is the most efficient way to get around and access popular spots like Yosemite Falls, El Capitan Meadow, and visitor centers.
Roads within Yosemite Valley are generally open year-round, but Tioga Road and Glacier Point Road have seasonal closures. Always check the NPS website for current conditions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Reservations are often required to enter Yosemite National Park during peak seasons and times. Check the official Yosemite National Park website for the most up-to-date reservation requirements before your visit.
There is an entrance fee per vehicle, valid for 7 days. Consider purchasing an America the Beautiful Pass if you plan to visit multiple national parks within a year.
Yosemite Falls and the surrounding trails are generally accessible year-round during park operating hours. However, the flow of the falls is seasonal.
No, an entrance fee is required to enter Yosemite National Park. The fee helps maintain the park's natural beauty and facilities.
Discounts may be available for seniors, active military, and individuals with disabilities. Check the NPS website for details on passes and discounts.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Yosemite Falls is most impressive in spring and early summer (April-June) due to snowmelt. The flow can be minimal by late summer or fall. +1
The Lower Yosemite Fall Trail is an easy, paved loop perfect for families and offers close-up views. The Upper Yosemite Fall Trail is a strenuous hike to the top with incredible views.
The Lower Yosemite Fall Trail is paved and accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. The Upper Yosemite Fall Trail is a strenuous hike and not suitable for these.
Wear comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots. Bring layers as temperatures can vary, and a waterproof jacket if visiting in spring to stay dry from the mist.
Yes, restrooms are available at the Yosemite Falls day-use area and along the Lower Yosemite Fall Trail.
📸 📸 Photography
The base of Lower Yosemite Fall offers dramatic close-ups. For wider shots including the entire falls and valley, viewpoints like Tunnel View and Valley View are excellent. 
Early morning and late afternoon provide the best lighting, with softer light and fewer harsh shadows. This is also when crowds are typically smaller.
Drone usage is strictly prohibited in Yosemite National Park, including over Yosemite Falls, to protect wildlife and visitor experience.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the falls and valley. A telephoto lens can be useful for details on the upper falls. A tripod is helpful for low-light conditions.
While photography is encouraged, please be mindful of other visitors and stay on designated trails. Avoid disturbing wildlife or vegetation.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during the spring or early summer when the falls are at their most spectacular. While the Upper Yosemite Fall Trail is too strenuous for most children, the valley floor provides numerous scenic viewpoints and gentle walks that the whole family can enjoy together.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
Many solo travelers find solace and inspiration in the grandeur of Yosemite Valley. The park's natural beauty can be a powerful backdrop for introspection and rejuvenation. Remember to download offline maps and check weather forecasts before heading out.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1Timing is key for capturing the best light. Aim for the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon to avoid harsh shadows and achieve a more ethereal glow on the falls and granite cliffs.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Majesty of Yosemite Falls
While the falls are a year-round spectacle, their intensity varies greatly with the seasons. By late summer and fall, the flow can significantly diminish, sometimes even drying up completely. However, even a trickle can be beautiful against the backdrop of the granite cliffs, and the autumn colors in Yosemite Valley add a different kind of magic.
Visitors can experience Yosemite Falls from various perspectives. The easy, paved Lower Yosemite Fall Trail offers an accessible and immersive experience right at the base of the lower falls, while the challenging Upper Yosemite Fall Trail provides a strenuous hike to the top with breathtaking panoramic views of the valley.
Hiking the Yosemite Falls Trails
The Lower Yosemite Fall Trail is a much more accessible option, a 1-mile paved loop that is wheelchair and stroller friendly. It leads to the base of Lower Yosemite Fall, where you can feel the spray and hear the powerful roar of the water. This trail is perfect for families and those looking for a less strenuous experience.
For an even more rewarding view from the top, consider extending your hike to Yosemite Point, which offers a superior perspective of the entire waterfall system and the surrounding valley. This adds a bit more distance but is often considered worth the effort by seasoned hikers.
Safety and Respect in Yosemite
Respecting the natural environment is also crucial. This includes packing out all trash, staying on designated paths to protect vegetation, and not feeding wildlife. Drones are prohibited within the park to ensure the safety and tranquility of both visitors and animals.
When visiting Yosemite Falls, be mindful of the powerful water flow, especially during peak season. Stay behind safety barriers and supervise children closely.
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