USA — El Portal, California
Ascend the iconic Mist Trail in Yosemite National Park for a moderate 8.9 km hike to Vernal and Nevada Falls. This 5-7 hour route immerses you in the raw power of Yosemite's highlands, following the Merced River's course. The path transitions from paved to rugged granite, leading you directly into the refreshing spray of spectacular cascades. Prepare for stunning panoramas and a truly memorable wilderness experience.
Distance: 8.9 km
Elevation Gain: 609 m
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 5-7 hours
The Mist Trail, a celebrated segment of the John Muir Trail and a popular day hike in Yosemite National Park, offers an immersive experience into the raw power and breathtaking beauty of Yosemite's high country. This iconic trail ascends alongside the Merced River, leading hikers directly into the spray of two of Yosemite's most spectacular waterfalls: Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall. It's a journey that begins with a paved, accessible path and progressively transforms into a challenging, granite staircase, rewarding every step with increasingly dramatic vistas and the invigorating mist of cascading water. The trail is renowned for its accessibility from Yosemite Valley, its moderate to strenuous difficulty, and its unparalleled close-up views of these natural wonders, making it a must-do for many visitors to the park.
The Mist Trail is a quintessential Yosemite experience, a pathway that allows hikers to feel the immense power of water as it plunges over granite cliffs. The trail's name is derived from the perpetual cloud of mist generated by Vernal Fall, especially during the spring and early summer snowmelt. This mist often creates rainbows and a refreshing, albeit damp, environment for hikers ascending the steep granite steps alongside the waterfall. The trail is divided into distinct sections, each offering a unique perspective and challenge.
The initial section from the Happy Isles trailhead to the Vernal Fall footbridge is paved and relatively gentle, making it accessible to a wider range of visitors, including those with strollers or in wheelchairs. This section offers excellent views of the Merced River and the surrounding granite domes. Beyond the footbridge, the trail becomes significantly steeper and more rugged. The ascent to the top of Vernal Fall involves climbing over 600 granite steps, often wet and slippery from the waterfall's spray. This is where the "Mist Trail" truly earns its name, as hikers are enveloped in a refreshing, drenching mist. The views from the top of Vernal Fall are spectacular, offering a commanding perspective of the Merced River as it prepares to leap over the precipice.
For those continuing to Nevada Fall, the trail continues its ascent, becoming even more challenging. This section offers a different character, with more exposed granite and panoramic views of the surrounding Yosemite high country. The climb to Nevada Fall is strenuous, but the reward is a magnificent view of the powerful, two-tiered Nevada Fall, which is significantly larger than Vernal Fall. The trail can be completed as a loop by returning via the John Muir Trail, which offers a drier, less steep descent with different, equally stunning, viewpoints. This loop is highly recommended for its varied scenery and to avoid descending the slippery Mist Trail steps.
The Mist Trail is a testament to the raw, untamed beauty of Yosemite. It’s a place where the sheer force of nature is palpable, and the effort required to witness it up close is a significant part of its appeal. The trail's popularity means it can be crowded, especially during peak season, but the experience of standing beside these colossal waterfalls is undeniably worth navigating the crowds.
The area that encompasses the Mist Trail has a rich history, deeply intertwined with the indigenous Miwok people who inhabited Yosemite Valley for thousands of years. The Miwok people utilized the valley and its surrounding high country for hunting, gathering, and seasonal migration. The Merced River, which the Mist Trail follows, was a vital resource for them, providing water and sustenance. While specific trails used by the Miwok in this immediate area are not extensively documented, their presence and deep connection to this land are foundational to its human history.
The modern development of the Mist Trail began in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, as Yosemite became a popular destination for tourists and adventurers. The initial path to Vernal Fall was constructed in the 1860s, primarily for easier access to the waterfall. However, it was the construction of the steep granite staircase alongside Vernal Fall in the early 1900s that truly defined the "Mist Trail" as we know it. This ambitious engineering feat allowed visitors to get remarkably close to the thundering water, a stark contrast to the more distant viewing points common at the time.
The extension of the trail to Nevada Fall further enhanced its appeal, offering a more challenging hike with grander vistas. The trail's route was influenced by the desire to showcase the park's most dramatic natural features. The construction of the John Muir Trail (JMT) in the 1930s, which shares a significant portion of its route with the Mist Trail and offers an alternative descent, further cemented the area's status as a premier hiking destination. The JMT, named after the famed naturalist and conservationist John Muir, was designed to traverse the Sierra Nevada, and its passage through Yosemite highlights the park's most iconic landscapes.
Today, the Mist Trail is one of the most heavily trafficked trails in Yosemite National Park, a testament to its enduring appeal and the public's fascination with its powerful waterfalls and dramatic scenery. Its history is a narrative of human interaction with a powerful natural environment, from the ancient stewardship of the Miwok to the engineering marvels of early park developers and the conservationist ideals of John Muir.
The Mist Trail's character changes dramatically with the seasons, offering distinct experiences throughout its operational period. The trail is generally accessible from late spring through autumn, with the most spectacular waterfall displays occurring during the spring snowmelt.
Spring (April–May): This is peak waterfall season. Yosemite's snowpack begins to melt rapidly, feeding the Merced River and transforming Vernal and Nevada Falls into roaring torrents. The mist is at its most intense, creating a truly immersive and often drenching experience. The granite steps can be very slippery, and caution is paramount. Wildflowers begin to bloom at lower elevations, adding colour to the landscape. Temperatures are generally cool and pleasant for hiking, though higher elevations may still have snow.
Summer (June–August): Waterfall flow begins to decrease as the snowmelt subsides, but Vernal and Nevada Falls remain impressive. The mist is less intense than in spring, making the climb less damp and the granite steps drier and safer. This is the busiest season, with large crowds on the trail. Temperatures can be warm, especially in Yosemite Valley, making the mist and spray a welcome relief. The John Muir Trail loop becomes a more popular option for descent due to drier conditions.
Autumn (September–October): Waterfall flow continues to diminish, and by late autumn, the falls may be reduced to a trickle or even dry up completely, depending on the year's precipitation. However, autumn offers clear skies, fewer crowds, and beautiful fall colours in the surrounding forests. The air is crisp and cool, making for very pleasant hiking conditions. The granite steps are typically dry and safe.
Winter (November–March): The Mist Trail is often closed or partially closed during winter due to snow, ice, and avalanche risk. The upper sections, particularly the granite steps, can be treacherous or impassable. While the lower section to the Vernal Fall footbridge may be accessible, venturing further requires winter hiking experience and appropriate gear. Avalanche danger is a serious concern, especially on the slopes above the falls.
Weather Reality: Yosemite's weather can be unpredictable. Even in summer, afternoon thunderstorms can occur, bringing rain, lightning, and a sudden drop in temperature. Always check the forecast before heading out and be prepared for changing conditions. The mist from Vernal Fall is a constant factor during spring and early summer, so waterproof gear is essential regardless of the ambient temperature.
Early Morning (7:00 AM - 8:00 AM): Arrival and Trailhead Start
Morning (8:00 AM - 10:00 AM): Vernal Fall Footbridge and Ascent
Midday (10:00 AM - 1:00 PM): Top of Vernal Fall and Ascent to Nevada Fall
Afternoon (1:00 PM - 4:00 PM): Descent and Return
Late Afternoon (4:00 PM onwards): Departure
Important Considerations:
The Mist Trail is a popular day hike, and while no advance booking is required for day use, careful planning is essential to maximise your experience and ensure safety. Yosemite National Park has implemented a reservation system for vehicle entry during peak seasons and hours. Check the official Yosemite National Park website (nps.gov/yose) for the most current entry requirements, as these can change. Arriving very early in the morning (before 8:00 AM) is highly recommended to secure parking at the Happy Isles trailhead or to catch the Yosemite Valley shuttle. If you plan to stay in Yosemite Valley, book accommodation well in advance, as lodging options fill up months, sometimes a year, ahead of time. El Portal is the closest town outside the park with lodging and services, approximately a 30-minute drive to Yosemite Valley.
This is a day hike requiring no overnight accommodation.
For day hiking the Mist Trail to Vernal and Nevada Falls, no specific permits are required. However, Yosemite National Park has implemented a reservation system for vehicle entry during peak periods. It is crucial to check the official Yosemite National Park website (nps.gov/yose) for the most up-to-date information on vehicle reservation requirements, as these can change based on the season and park management policies. These reservations are separate from any hiking plans and are necessary to drive into the park during specified times.
If you plan to continue beyond Nevada Fall and into the Yosemite wilderness for overnight camping, a wilderness permit is mandatory. These permits are issued by the Yosemite National Park Wilderness centre and are often competitive, especially for popular trailheads like Happy Isles. Reservations for wilderness permits can be made in advance through recreation.gov, and walk-up permits may be available but are not guaranteed.
Key Points for Day Hikers:
Detailed route notes, maps, logistics & tips for the Mist Trail Falls (PDF).
Precisely traced GPX for the Mist Trail Falls, ready for your GPS or favourite mapping app.
Yosemite Valley and its surroundings offer a wealth of activities beyond the Mist Trail, catering to various interests and fitness levels:
Trail Conditions: The Mist Trail is a well-maintained but challenging hike. The granite steps alongside Vernal Fall can be extremely slippery, especially during spring and early summer due to the waterfall's spray. Ice can be a hazard in colder months. Always check the Yosemite National Park website for current trail conditions and closures before your hike.
Weather: Yosemite's mountain weather can change rapidly. Be prepared for sun, rain, wind, and temperature fluctuations, even on the same day. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer and can bring lightning, heavy rain, and a significant drop in temperature. Hypothermia is a risk even in warmer months if you get wet and cold.
Water: Carry ample water (at least 2-3 litres per person). While water is available for refilling at the trailhead and Vernal Fall footbridge, it is essential to treat all water from natural sources before drinking, even if it appears clear. A water filter or purification tablets are recommended.
Wildlife: Yosemite is home to black bears, deer, coyotes, and various smaller animals. Never feed wildlife. Store food properly in bear-resistant containers or lockers if camping. Maintain a safe distance from all animals.
Crowds: The Mist Trail is one of Yosemite's most popular hikes. Expect significant crowds, especially during peak season (late spring through early autumn) and on weekends. Start your hike as early as possible to avoid the busiest times and secure parking.
Physical Fitness: This hike is strenuous, involving significant elevation gain and steep, uneven terrain. Ensure you are physically fit and prepared for the demands of the trail. If you are not accustomed to strenuous hiking, consider hiking only to the Vernal Fall footbridge or the top of Vernal Fall.
Emergency: Cell phone service is unreliable on the trail. In case of emergency, use your whistle (three short blasts) or seek assistance from other hikers or park rangers. Consider carrying a personal locator beacon (PLB) or satellite messenger for remote areas.
Vernal Fall Footbridge: Located about 1.3 km from the Happy Isles trailhead, this bridge offers the first substantial viewpoint of Vernal Fall. It's a popular spot for photos and a good turnaround point for those seeking a less strenuous hike. The bridge itself is an engineering marvel, spanning the Merced River.
Top of Vernal Fall: After ascending the famous granite steps, you reach the brink of Vernal Fall. The view down the waterfall and across the valley is spectacular. The Merced River flows gently here before its dramatic plunge, and you can often see rainbows forming in the mist. Be extremely cautious near the edge, as the rocks are often wet and slippery.
Emerald Pool and Silver Apron: Just above the brink of Vernal Fall, the Merced River flows over smooth granite slabs known as the Emerald Pool and Silver Apron. These areas are beautiful but can be hazardous due to slippery surfaces and strong currents. Swimming is strongly discouraged and often prohibited.
Top of Nevada Fall: Continuing past Vernal Fall, the trail ascends to the top of Nevada Fall. This is a much larger and more powerful waterfall than Vernal Fall, with a dramatic two-tiered cascade. The views from here are expansive, offering vistas of the surrounding granite domes and the High Sierra beyond. The John Muir Trail offers a different perspective of Nevada Fall on its descent.
Clark Point: If you choose to descend via the John Muir Trail, Clark Point offers a stunning overlook of Vernal Fall and the Merced River canyon. It's a great spot to appreciate the scale of the landscape and the path you've traversed.
The Mist Trail, like all of Yosemite National Park, is a precious natural resource that requires responsible stewardship. Adhering to Leave No Trace principles ensures that this beautiful environment remains pristine for future generations and minimises human impact on the delicate ecosystem.
Plan Ahead and Prepare: Check current trail conditions, weather forecasts, and any park alerts before your hike. Understand the difficulty of the trail and be prepared with appropriate gear and supplies. Start early to avoid crowds and potential hazards.
Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces: Stay on the designated trails and pathways. The granite steps and paved sections are designed to withstand heavy foot traffic. Avoid walking on vegetation or stepping off-trail, as this can damage fragile plant life and contribute to erosion.
Dispose of Waste Properly: Pack out everything you pack in, including all food scraps, wrappers, and any other trash. Use the restrooms provided at the trailhead and the Vernal Fall footbridge. If caught short, dig a cathole at least 60 metres (60 m) from water sources, trails, and campsites, and bury human waste. Pack out used toilet paper.
Leave What You Find: Do not remove or disturb natural objects such as rocks, plants, or wildflowers. Take only photographs and memories.
Minimise Campfire Impacts: Campfires are not permitted on this day hike. If you were camping overnight in the wilderness, use established fire rings where permitted and ensure fires are completely extinguished.
Respect Wildlife: Observe wildlife from a distance. Never feed animals, as this can alter their natural behaviours and diets, and can be harmful to their health. Store food securely to prevent attracting animals.
Be Considerate of Other Visitors: Yield to uphill hikers. Keep noise levels down and avoid playing loud music. Allow others to enjoy the natural sounds of the park. Be patient with other hikers, especially on crowded sections of the trail.
