The Mist Trail is among the most celebrated hikes in California, leading from the floor of Yosemite Valley to two of the park's most dramatic waterfalls — Vernal Fall (317 feet) and Nevada Fall (594 feet) — within a compact 7-mile round trip. The trailhead begins at Happy Isles, accessed via the free Yosemite Valley shuttle (stop 16). Yosemite National Park requires an entry fee or pass.
From Happy Isles, a paved trail follows the Merced River upstream for roughly 0.8 miles to the first junction. Continuing straight reaches the Vernal Fall Footbridge at 1 mile, where the waterfall fills the granite canyon ahead. Above the bridge, the Mist Trail proper begins: hundreds of stone steps cut directly into the gorge wall beside the cascading Merced River. In spring and early summer, spray from Vernal Fall saturates the staircase, making waterproof gear and traction footwear essential. The steps are slick year-round and demand careful footing, particularly on descent.
Above Vernal Fall at 1.5 miles, the trail levels briefly in the Emerald Pool area before continuing up additional granite steps to Nevada Fall at approximately 3.1 miles and 5,950 feet elevation. Nevada Fall — more than twice the height of Vernal — plunges into a churning pool below, and the panorama from the top surveys the upper Merced canyon, Liberty Cap, and the distant Clark Range. A short spur leads to a ledge directly above the fall.
The return can follow the same Mist Trail route (steep descent) or the alternate John Muir Trail, a gentler switchback path that rejoins the valley below Vernal Fall. Both routes total approximately 7 miles round trip. The trail is heavily trafficked in summer, and arriving before 8 a.m. dramatically reduces crowd density on the narrow stone stairs.
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Yosemite Valley, CA
- Best season
- April-June
Location
Happy Isles, Yosemite Valley, CA 95389
37.7320, -119.5568 View on map
Highlights
- Standing on the granite steps beside Vernal Fall and being drenched in waterfall mist
- Nevada Fall's 594-foot plunge and the panoramic view of Liberty Cap from the overlook
- The classic springtime display of snowmelt-fed waterfalls at their most powerful
- Emerald Pool — a turquoise basin between the two falls, framed by granite walls
- Choosing the steep Mist Trail descent or the scenic John Muir Trail return route
Tips for visiting
- Wear waterproof clothing and shoes on the Mist Trail section beside Vernal Fall — hikers are regularly soaked even in dry weather
- Start by 7 a.m. in summer to avoid the worst crowds on the narrow granite staircase
- The descent on wet stone steps is treacherous — take the John Muir Trail alternate down if footwear traction is limited
- Arrive via the free Yosemite Valley shuttle (stop 16) — parking at Happy Isles is extremely limited
- Spring visits (April to June) offer peak waterfall volume but expect icy or slippery conditions on the upper steps
When to visit
April through June offers the most dramatic waterfall displays when snowmelt peaks. Mornings before 8 a.m. are significantly less crowded and help avoid afternoon heat and traffic on the narrow stairs.
Accessibility
The Mist Trail is not wheelchair or stroller accessible. The route includes hundreds of steep stone steps, narrow passages beside running water, and wet slippery granite. The paved path to the Vernal Fall Footbridge (approximately 1 mile) is navigable for those with limited mobility.
Frequently asked questions
When are the waterfalls at peak flow?
Vernal and Nevada Falls peak in May and early June when Sierra snowmelt is at its highest. By August, flow diminishes significantly. April visits can be spectacular but the Mist Trail steps may be icy.
Is the Mist Trail open year-round?
The trail is generally open year-round, but icy conditions in winter and early spring create significant hazards. The National Park Service may close upper sections during severe snow or ice events.
Can hikers swim at the waterfalls?
Swimming is prohibited above and at both falls due to drowning risk. The currents above Vernal and Nevada Falls are deceptively powerful and have caused multiple fatalities.
Is the trail suitable for children?
The footbridge and lower section to the Vernal Fall viewpoint (1 mile) is suitable for older children. The steep, wet granite stairs above are challenging and potentially dangerous for young children.
Are permits required for the Mist Trail?
No special permit is required for this day hike. Yosemite National Park entry fees apply, and a timed entry reservation for the park may be required during peak summer months.