Vernal & Nevada Falls Hike Trail - Yosemite National Park, CA

Address:Trailhead at Happy Isles (shuttle stop 16) in the Yosemite Valley
Yosemite National Park, California
Tel: (209) 372-0200

The strenuous hike to the magnificent Vernal and Nevada Falls is one of the most rewarding trails in Yosemite National Park. The hike combines great views of the Yosemite Valley, the beautiful pure Merced River, and of course the Vernal and Nevada Falls themselves, which plummet from vertical granite cliffs to the heart of Yosemite Valley.

This seven mile long loop hike (elevation gain 1,800 feet) starts at Happy Isles (shuttle stop 16) at the eastern corner of the Yosemite Valley and parallels the Merced River while ascending to Vernal Falls. From the footbridge at the base of Vernal Falls, the trail climbs up a steep stairway to the top of the fall and to the Emerald Pool. This portion of the trail, called Mist Trail, may be slippery and wet, and is closed in the winter for safety reasons. The trail eventually leads to the brink of the 590 foot tall Nevada Fall, a total elevation gain of 2,000 feet. On the way back it is recommended to join the John Muir Trail that descends to the valley floor.

It is possible to shorten this hike by turning around after reaching the footbridge at the base of Vernal Falls and hiking back to Happy Isles. This option is 1.6 miles long in and out (400 feet elevation gain), is great for families with kids, and includes wonderful views of the valley and of the unique cliffs that surround it. So whether long or short, strenuous or easy, you're sure to find the loop that suits you and your family best, while seeing some of the most beautiful scenery in California!