Waterfall Guide to Vernal Fall, Yosemite National Park
Hike the Mist Trail to Vernal Fall in Yosemite National Park
The Mist Trail to Vernal Fall is one of Yosemite's most popular hikes. It is a fairly easy 3 miles round trip hike from the trailhead at Happy Isles. As you amble up the side of the waterfall, you hear the thundering roar of Vernal Fall as the water tumbles down 317 feet. In the spring, from April to early June, you can be sure to get soaked from the mist when you reach a certain elevation. On a sunny day, the spray from the cascading water forms mesmerizing rainbows. Along the way, you will encounter many photographers and artists taking pictures and painting the breathtaking scenery. When you get to the top of Vernal Fall, your reward is a large, flat, open area with protective railings and dramatic views of Yosemite Valley.
When hiking on any trails, especially on one that involves water and mist, make sure you are wearing proper footwear, and use caution when climbing up the moss-covered rocks, pathways and steep slippery steps. Stop to catch your breath and admire the awesome vista along the way. Bring plenty water to rehydrate yourself, and pack a sandwich to enjoy at the top of the falls.
Vernal Fall
Climb: moderate to strenuous
Elevation: 1000 feet
Waterfall height: 317 feet
Distance round trip: 3 miles
Best time to hike: April to early June
Mist Trail is closed in the winter
Fees: $20 per car
Directions to Yosemite National Park.
From the San Francisco Bay area
Distance: 195 mi / 314 km
Time: 4-5 hours
Take I-580 east to I-205 east to Highway 120 east (Manteca) or Highway 140 east (Merced) into Yosemite National Park.
From Sacramento
Distance: 176 mi / 283 km
Time: 4 hours
Take Highway 99 south to Highway 120 east (Manteca) or Highway 140 east (Merced) into Yosemite National Park.
Sources:
http://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/valleyhikes.htm
http://www.yosemitehikes.com/yosemite-valley/mist-trail/mist-trail.htm
Published by Eileen Thai - Featured Contributor in Travel
Eileen Thai is an adjunct ESL instructor at Chattanooga State Community College. She has traveled extensively up and down the U.S. East Coast and throughout the United States, Asia and some parts of Europe.... View profile
Fall Trip to Yosemite National ParkTips for a fall trip to Yosemite National Park!- Abundance of Wildlife Experienced at Yosemite National ParkYosemite National Park has mountains, flora, meadows, picturesque scenery, hiking, rock climbing, water sports and Sequoia trees, but have you ever stopped to look at the wildlife associated with Yosemite?
- Huge Fire Threatens Thousands of Homes Near Yosemite National Park FireThis summer has not been a good one for the residents of California as they have been hit by another major fire, this one in Yosemite National Park,
- Yosemite National Park in California: Family Lodging and Camping Space RentalLooking for a place to stay on your next trip to Yosemite National Park in Yosemite, California? Look no further than Yosemite Pines Resort located in Groveland, California.
- Hiking Trails in IowaHikers can enjoy the great outdoors with the many hiking trails found in Iowa.
- Your Best Yosemite National Park Guide
- Yosemite National Park in the Fall
- Yosemite National Park Travel Guide
- Visiting Yosemite National Park with Kids
- A Travel Guide to Yosemite National Park
- Great Western Road Trip: Tips for Enjoying Yosemite National Park
- Yosemite National Park
- The land mass of Yosemite National Park is 1169 square miles, about the size of Rhode Island
- The best time to hike Vernal Fall is in the spring