Unlike many other trails in the park, several restrooms are available along your hike. This is the only drinking water available along the trail, so carry plenty of water for your hike. Consider making a loop by continuing on the trail, past the brink of Vernal Fall and Emerald Pool, taking the cutoff trail to Clark Point, and then hiking down the John Muir Trail.ĭrinking water is available at the shuttle stop near the trailhead (stop #16) and also at the Vernal Fall Footbridge (May to October).
There are many areas of loose rock/decomposed granite, mixed with steep steps, and water, which makes for slippery footing in places. Sprained ankles and knee injuries are common on this trail.Carry a head lamp (with fresh or extra batteries) in case you end up hiking more slowly or farther then planned and find yourself hiking back in the dark.Observe warning signs and railings-these exist for your safety.Stay on the established trail: do not swim or wade in the river and do not walk along the edge of the river.Some hikers may be continuing from the top of Nevada Fall to hike to Half Dome or elsewhere in Yosemite’s wilderness. The John Muir Trail is longer-approximately 4 miles one-way compared to the Mist Trail’s 2.5 miles (4 km)-so plan accordingly. If you choose the John Muir Trail, you will enjoy different scenery, with great views of Liberty Cap and different views of Nevada Fall. Use extreme caution while you're near any flowing water or wet rock in this area.įrom here, you can either return down the Mist Trail, or continue over the bridge to the John Muir Trail for an alternate route back to Yosemite Valley. At the top of the climb, head right to reach the footbridge that crosses the Merced River above the fall, allowing you a closer view of it. Crashing down 594 feet, this thunderous waterfall is fullest in spring and early summer, and you will find terrific photographic opportunities along this stretch of trail. Both of these look may look inviting on a hot summer’s day, but it is illegal and dangerous to swim here due to the extremely hazardous current.Ĭontinuing along the Mist Trail, you’ll experience another 1.5 miles (2.4 km) of steep, rocky switchbacks in order to reach Nevada Fall. If you choose to continue on the Mist Trail, shortly beyond Vernal Fall, you will pass by Emerald Pool and Silver Apron. At the top of Vernal Fall, you can experience jaw-dropping views straight down the length of the 317-foot waterfall (please don't cross the railings and use extreme caution while you're near any flowing water or wet rock in this area).įrom this point, you can: choose to turn around and head back the way you came continue up to the next junction (about 0.2 miles / 0.3 km) and take the longer route back via the John Muir Trail or continue uphill on the Mist Trail to the top of Nevada Fall. You will delight in views of Vernal Fall all along this stretch of trail and may even be able to see a rainbow in the spray of the fall. Prepare for slippery footing and a tremendous amount of waterfall spray in spring and early summer (hence the name for this trail!). To proceed directly to the top of Vernal Fall, follow the Mist Trail 0.3 miles (0.5 km) up a steep granite stairway of over 600 steps.
About 0.2 miles (0.3 km) beyond the bridge, the Mist Trail and the John Muir Trail diverge. You'll find an excellent view of Vernal Fall from the footbridge at 0.8 miles (1.3 km). Almost entirely uphill, you can appreciate views along the way, and during spring, when the water levels are at their peak, you can also glimpse Illillouette Fall from this first section of trail. This first paved mile of trail is busiest and accesses the Vernal Fall Footbridge. The John Muir and Mist Trails offer spectacular, up-close views of two large waterfalls, enjoyable scenery along the Merced River, and unique views across Yosemite Valley.
This very popular hike originates near Happy Isles in eastern Yosemite Valley. See the map, profile, and description below for more information.Īll begin at: Happy Isles (shuttle stop #16) You can also take the John Muir Trail to the top of Vernal Fall (via the Clark Point cutoff) and the top of Nevada Fall, or combine the Mist Trail and John Muir Trail into a loop. Distance: 2.4 mi (3.9 km) round trip (via Mist Trail)ĭistance: 5.4 mi (8.7 km) round trip (via Mist Trail)
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