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Hike the Mist Trail at Yosemite National Park

Published by Katie Cappello, Writer

Country: United States

The Experience

The Mist Trail, which takes you to the top of not one, but two waterfalls, is one of the most spectacular day hikes at Yosemite National Park in California. The day begins at Yosemite's Curry Village, where a park shuttle picks you up and deposits you at the Happy Isles trailhead. From this point, you will follow a gently rising trail for about a mile. This section of the hike, called the John Muir Trail, is easy and usually crowded. You first sight Vernal Falls from the footbridge which crosses the Merced River. At 317 feet tall, Vernal Falls is truly spectacular. Take the time to snap a few pictures from the bridge, then continue on your way.

This second leg of the hike is where the Mist Trail gets its name. As you continue up steep steps carved into granite, prepare to be drenched by mist from the powerful waterfall. But rewards await at the top of the Falls. As you dry off, contemplate the amazing view, and allow yourself to be lulled by the tranquility of the Emerald Pool. The Emerald Pool is a large, tranquil pond just upstream from the sheer drop-off of Vernal Falls. It has surprised many waders who thought its waters safe, only to be caught by the powerful current, so take heed of the "No Swimming" signs and keep your feet on land.

Cross back over the Merced River and follow through the woods a bit to get your first view of Nevada Falls. Here, churning water falls 594 feet to crash on the granite boulders below. As you begin your steep ascent to the top of those nearly 600 feet, keep in mind that the strenuous workout is worth it. When you finally emerge at the top of the Nevada Falls, you will find a paradisiacal view of Yosemite Valley stretching out before you in a vast panorama. You will also be able to catch sight of Half Dome, and the hikers who dot its face. Because many are unable to complete the climb to the top of Nevada Falls, the crowds will be thinner than at Vernal Falls, and you will have the opportunity to really lose yourself in the breathtaking views that Yosemite National Park is famous for.

The descent is relaxing, although long, as the John Muir Trail takes you down the other side of the falls and through a series of switchbacks to return to the footbridge at the bottom of Vernal Falls. Take your time, enjoy the quiet of the trail away from the thundering water of the Falls, and remember that you have climbed more than 900 feet today to experience Yosemite National Park the way it was meant to be experienced.

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Map

Puzzle

When to Go to Mist Trail

The Mist Trail is closed in winter, so do not attempt the hike before the spring thaw. The best time to hike the Mist Trail is in high summer, when the waterfalls are at their strongest and temperatures are warm, because then you will welcome a good, cooling soak!

While this hike can be completed in a day, sections of the trail are quite strenuous. Allow for plenty of time to complete the trail loop by beginning your hike first thing in the morning.

Odds n' Ends

Hiking essentials such as sunscreen, a hat, food, and plenty of water are needed. Wear loose, breathable clothing that can get wet and boots with a heavy tread. Carry plenty of plastic bags with which to protect your things that cannot get wet, such as cameras, watches, cell phones, or money.

Please respect this National Park and keep it as untouched as possible. Carry your trash out with you. Use only the composting toilets found along the trail. Take pictures, not souvenirs.

Places to Eat

Mountain Room at Yosemite Lodge at the Falls
To treat yourself after reaching the top, enjoy a gourmet meal and views of Yosemite Falls.
Curry Village
Step off the shuttle and choose from many food options, including pizza, burgers, tacos, and even ice cream.
Snacks at the Trailhead
If you just need a quick bite, try the snack stand at the Happy Isles Trailhead.

Recommended Places to Stay

The Ahwahnee Hotel
Sleep in style at this classic Craftsman-style hotel known for its history and elegance.
The Wawona Hotel
This lovely hotel within the park grounds features a 9-hole golf course and weekly barbecues.
Curry Village
In the heart of Yosemite Valley, Curry Village offers a variety of lodging options, both rustic and homey.

More Experiences Nearby

Trek along the Mist Trail to Vernal Falls in Yosemite National Park
The waterfalls of Yosemite National Park have a reputation for being some of the most beautiful in California, and possibly the world. The roaring waters of the Yosemite National Park’s five main waterfalls are set against the backdrop of the giant granite mountains of the Yosemite Valley. Vernal Falls is one of Yosemite’s most beautiful and mysterious waterfalls, and one that must not be missed on any trip into the Park. Vernal Falls has a staggering 317-foot drop before crashing into the large boulders below. The sheer force of this powerful waterfall can be felt within your core as you ...0 miles away.

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Books and DVDs

Top Trails: Yosemite: Must-Do Hikes for Everyone
It doesn't describe every possible hike in the Park, only the best.
Hiking Yosemite National Park, 2nd (Hiking Guide Series)
There are fifty-nine classic day hikes and overnight backpacking trips meticulously prepared by backcountry guide Suzanne Swedo.
100 Hikes in Yosemite National Park
100 Hikes in Yosemite National Park includes Yosemite Valley (Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, El Capitan), Tuolumne Meadows (great for peak bagging), Hetch Hechy Reservoir (excellent, less trafficked trails above the reservoir and along the Tuolumne River), Wawona (see the giant Sequioas), and Glacier Point area (more opportunity for solitude yet less than an hour outside the valley).

Elsewhere on the Web

The Mist Trail (Vernal and Nevada Falls)
This is Yosemite's signature hike. While many of Yosemite's trails are popular due to having a single spectacular destination, the Mist Trail has fabulous views scattered all along it...
Yosemite - Mist Trail - California, United States
Everytrail takes you on a photo journey step by step.

Media References

The Mist Trail: Yosemite, California Beautiful Places in HD (television)
A hike up a misty trail next to vernal falls, complete with a rainbow.

Language Guides

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