The Mist Trail is one of the most popular hikes in Yosemite National Park. This article has useful details that will prepare you to hike like a pro.
Like many people with a serious case of wanderlust, I devour travel-related magazines, websites, and newspaper articles on a constant basis.
I am always looking for that next place I want to visit.
Once in a while, I bump into a place that gets me really excited. Then, when I start researching the details, I discover a hard truth: that beautiful and awesome place is located 5 to 10 miles from a trailhead somewhere in the world.
I must confess I am not the most athletic or fit person in the world. Since getting my latest job, I have gotten less and less exercise due to the different pressures I have to face.
Even though that is my current reality, I have always enjoyed the outdoors. Most of my trips include the “walk/hike” element in one way or another.
During my visit to Yosemite National Park, I was decided to do at least one decent hike. Based on research, I chose to complete part of the Mist Trail.
And, let me tell you, that was a great decision!
Table of Contents
About the Mist Trail
The Mist Trail has been called nature’s giant staircase. The hike affords incredible views of Vernal and Nevada Falls, two of the most powerful waterfalls in the Yosemite National Park.
The picture below shows the falls seen from Glacier Point.
It is called “Mist Trail” because the spray of the falls (during spring and early summer) will totally soak you (and the surroundings).
There are different stages to the trail. It is 0.8 miles (one way, 400 ft elevation gain, moderate) to the Vernal Fall Footbridge. Another steep 0.5 miles will take you to the top of the fall (600 ft elevation gain, strenuous). If you are up to the challenge, an additional 1.5 will take you to Nevada Fall (1000 ft elevation gain, strenuous).
Total distance (round trip) is 3 miles to Vernal Fall and 7 miles to Nevada Fall.
Some people continue walking towards Half Dome or merge into the John Muir Trail.
Now, you can hike as much as you want. My recommendation is to make it at least to the base (or close to the base) of Vernal Fall. If you feel determined, make it to the top (climbing a set of stairs is required).
I firmly believe that almost everybody can make it to this stage without major problems. I saw people of all ages hiking along. If you are not a strong hiker (like me), the trick is to take it slow. Anyway, you will stop like a thousand times to take pictures and absorb your surroundings.
Hiking to Vernal Fall can take up to half-day. Of course, there are many factors involved when it comes to hiking but I am assuming you will want to spend some time around. Hiking to Nevada Fall adds 2-3 hours to the time spent on the hike.
Fact: Notice I am using the term “fall” without an “s.” This is because Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall are single drop waterfalls. It is a faux pas to call one of them “falls.”
How to Reach the Mist Trail
The trailhead to the Mist Trail is located in the Happy Isles area. Since this is one of the most popular hikes in the Yosemite Valley, expect to be surrounded by a lot of people (especially during summer).
My recommendation is to head to the trailhead as early as possible to secure a parking lot, avoid traffic congestion and crowds. The trailhead’s parking lot can fill up as early as 10:00 a.m.
If the parking lot is full, you may need to drive around nearby areas to find a spot. Keep in mind this can add to the total walking mileage of the day. Another option is to park at a lot located farther away and take the shuttle to stop #16
Mist Trail – Hiking to the Footbridge
The first few meters of the trail are flat and wide. The Merced River (which flows through the falls) brings a sense of coolness at the beginning of the adventure.
At one point the trail forks. This is the beginning of the ascent. From that point, is all up to the footbridge.
The trail is mostly shaded and surrounded by big boulders, fallen logs, and small water streams.
Once some elevation is gained, you can see that you are surrounded by granite. In fact, you are in a canyon formed by the river.
Paying attention to the flora and fauna brought some surprises.
My husband even saw a yellow and black snake. Thankfully, I didn’t see it.
Now, this is going to be confession time. The uphill hike wasn’t easy for me. I huffed, puffed, and stopped like a million times. It wasn’t simple to find a spot to rest when there are hundreds of people going up at the same time.
But, I breathed and took my time. I was enjoying all the beauty around me.
That is why I felt relieved when we reached the footbridge. From here, I got my first sight of the fall.
The view in the other direction was spectacular too.
Hiking to the Base of Vernal Fall
I rested for a little bit and my husband pushed me to get closer to the fall. I kept going. Things got a little bit easier in terms of steepness. After several steps, I heard a loud thunder sound. It was the waterfall hitting the rocks. That was the push I needed.
After making a curve, I started to see the top of the fall. People were just praising the scene. All I could hear was: “OMG guys! This is so cool” or “There it is. We made it.”
The trail turned into stairs. And, I mean stairs next to a cliff, no handrail, no nothing. Well, I freaked out a little bit (I am not that in love with heights) but kept pushing. At least, the stairs weren’t wet because we visited during the low flow season.
For some reason, all the fear and tiredness disappeared when I was able to stand in front of the falls.
I proceeded to take a good look at all the little details.
We decided to get off the trail to a green area located to the right of the fall. I am not sure if this is possible during high flow season. The area is full of big boulders and mud. People picnic and stand over the rocks.
When I looked back, I was surprised to see how high we were.
It is not that difficult to get close to the fall. The water kept changing its pattern due to the wind. That is why we got soaked. The mist felt so great on that hot day. Plus, it felt so surreal to be so close to this nature sight. You feel so small when you are in front of such great power.
We stayed a little bit more than an hour around the waterfall.
Hiking to the Top of Vernal Fall
Reaching the top of Vernal Fall requires climbing a steep set of stairs. Luckily, for scaredy cats like me, there are rails on this part of the trail.
As you ascend, you will be rewarded with even more gorgeous views of the fall. Once at the top, you will see the Merced River running at full force and plunging to create the fall.
Hiking to Nevada Fall
Walking an additional 1.5 mile will take you to Nevada Fall. Once again, you can get close to the fall and not walk to the top if you feel this is too strenuous. The views are lovely one way or another.
The plus is that the crowds thin once you leave behind Vernal Fall. You will have more quietness to absorb the surroundings.
Mist Trail – Details
Wear appropriate clothes and shoes. Non-slippery shoes are essential even if you are visiting during the low flow season.
Protect yourself from the sun. The trail has a combination of shaded and exposed areas. So, put that sunblock on. Plus, wearing a hat, cap and glasses sound like a good idea.
Use the restroom before hitting the trail. No worries if you do not do that. There are washing facilities at different strategic points along the hike.
I advise doing this hike with a full belly. You will need the energy.
Bring enough water and snacks on your day bag. Again, there are potable water stations along the trail.
There is a food cart (selling hot dogs, sandwiches, ice cream, etc.) at the trailhead. This is a great plus but I will not 100% count on it. Come prepared with adequate food and snacks.
Pay attention to the trail when it turns into stairs. As I mentioned, there is nothing protecting you from a fall (except for a rail in one particular area). A lot of people were paying attention to their phones and cameras. It is not cool to bump into people who are stopping out of the blue because they are not paying attention.
If you are hiking with kids, please, take care of them. Again, I saw parents taking pictures while their kids felt lost standing in a narrow path next to a cliff.
We got off trail because, as I mentioned, we visited during low flow season. Please take your precautions and use your judgment in determining if this is a safe activity depending on the time of the year you are visiting. The area next to the fall is tricky and slippery. I fell two times.
During spring, when the falls are at their maximum peak, there is no way to avoid getting wet. Consider bringing a raincoat or waterproof poncho (single use ones can be found for cheap at convenience stores).
Along the same line, bring something to protect your electronics. I have seen people using a plastic bag.
Do not get into the water streams. This is DANGEROUS.
Protect (and do not feed) wildlife. I saw people kicking or hitting (with a stick) squirrels. I do not think this is acceptable behavior.
Follow park rules and rangers’ instructions.
_____
The walk back went smoothly except for some burn in the calves. Ohh, but we were on such a high mood after standing next to that fall. I can say it was the highlight of the trip. After many weeks, we are still talking about the experience. Therefore, I want to encourage you to give this phenomenal hike a try!
More of Yosemite National Park
Exploring the Tioga Road: Yosemite’s High Country
More of the Area
Things to Do in Kings Canyon National Park
Have you done the Mist Trail? If not, is it on your bucket list?
Anna says
That’s a beautiful trail and the sights of the waterfall make up for all the hike! I guess it’s better to visit on a season that’s not to hot, so as to make hiking better! Yosemite has many interesting places to visit, doesn’t it?!
Ruth says
Anna, Yosemite has tons of magnificent sights. I was able to explore beyond the Valley and cannot wait to return. Yes, it is better to visit in spring and fall because of the nicer weather and less crowds. Plus, in spring the waterfalls are at full flown (they look very different during that time).
Sally@Toddlers on Tour says
What an amazing sight, whilst I am not a hiker either it really looks like it was worth the effort. Quite simply beautiful.
Ruth says
I do not consider myself a hiker neither but I knew I wanted to do this particular hike. And, it paid out because the reward was very good.
Johanna Bradley says
Be still my beating heart! It doesn’t get any more spectacular than this, does it? Mine was just a puddle! 🙂
Ruth says
Ahh, thanks Johanna. Imagine how this waterfall will look when the flow is at its peak? I would love to see it then!
image-in-ing says
Lots of great information – thanks for sharing at http://image-in-ing.blogspot.com/2015/08/orchids-variety-in-bloom.html
Ruth says
Your welcome. Glad you enjoyed the post.
Indah Susanti says
Yosemite has been in my list of places to visit. Why people kicked squirrels 🙁 – gosh, they are so cute..unbelievable! Your post is truly informative – bookmarked it and I hope I will get there sooner 🙂
Ruth says
I do not know why people were being aggressive towards the wildlife. In another place I visited, I saw people breaking stuff they were not supposed to touch. I feel like writing a post ranting about the travel abuses I have observed lately. Anyway, hope you make it to Yosemite soon.
gin says
I remembered that hike and the pain, while climbing all these steps. The views were amazing, but at that time, I wasn’t that fit, so it was really painful to get there :p
Ruth says
See you have felt the pain too! Like I said, it was not east but doable. I saw people of all ages walking towards the fall.
Patti says
What a gorgeous walk! My husband and I also like to add a hike or long walk to our travels and I can relate to huffing and puffing up a trail:-) Thanks for sharing your hike.
Ruth says
Hello Patti, thanks for stopping by. Great to know you enjoy the outdoors too. Cheers to our next hike!
Su-sieee! Mac says
Thanks for sharing your awesome adventure. You took some wonderful photos. I almost felt like I was there. I’d love to try this trail before my mobility is gone. Going down the stairs without rails is the part that would freak me out the most. Good cheer!
Take 25 to Hollister
Ruth says
You know what, to me it was less scary to go down the stairs. I think the initial fear of the area faded away after being around more than an hour. Also, I think it felt better because I knew what to expect (as opposed to when I was going up, first time hiking the trail).
Bumble Bee Mum says
Thank you for linking up on Travel Tuesday.
Your photos at the bottom of the falls give me goosebumps! What a rewarding sight!! I am also slightly acrophobic, so I can imagine breaking into cold sweat going down that stairs. But WOW, the view from there. It’s just amazing.
Ruth says
At least the stairs weren’t wet. I think that would have been worst. But, yes, the views made it all worth.
Lyndall says
Hi Ruth – Wow, such a stunningly beautiful place. I love your photos. I want to go there now too. Thanks for highlighting this gorgeous corner of your country 🙂
Ruth says
Lyndall, it is a wonderful place. Great you can learn more about it thru this blog.
Malinda @mybrownpaperpackages says
What a gorgeous hike to do, despite the hard slog up those stairs at the end. This is something I would absolutely love to do! Thanks for sharing your beautiful photos with us.
Thanks for joining in #wednesdaywanderlust
Ruth says
Malinda, now I am pumped to do other hikes. I am already making some plans for the next long weekend that is coming the first week of September.
budget jan says
I love the clean cut rockface that the river falls over. My husband is like yours and pushes me out of my comfort zone and I have seen many amazing things because he does that – not that I am appreciative of it at the time lol.
Ruth says
Jan, I totally get you. In my case, I plan certain things and then I am the one who wants to back up. Since my husband likes to hikes and it not that afraid of heights, he pushes me to continue.
Ruth Daly says
This reminds me of hiking in the Rockies – the trees, the waterfall, the mountains. And I always find that taking my time is the best way to hike!
Ruth says
I think I am more of a beach person than a mountain person. However, the scenery on this trip was so amazing that I look forward to do more mountain trips. I believe each person has a walking / hiking rhythm. That is why I tell my husband to go ahead if he wants. I do not want to hold him up and in that way I can take my time.
Muza-chan says
Beautiful…
Ruth says
Thanks!
Kelly Del Valle says
Oh my gosh! What a BEAUTIFUL spot, and your shots are all so lovely! I love hiking, but I’m right there with you being a little bit intimidated by big treks. The trails I’m used to are almost completely FLAT! I know that hitting elevation ups the difficulty by a bunch, and since I am going to be hiking the Smokey Mountains in November, I’ve started a training regime at the gym. I want to be able to enjoy the trip without having to stop and catch my breath all the time!
Ruth says
What you are doing is great! Building some resistance before the trip will help you to enjoy more. I think if you are planning a trip(even if hiking is not involved), you should start some king of exercise regime. Travel involves a lot of walking and standing.
Jen says
As always, incredible shots! I again kick myself for not ever making it to Yosemite when I lived so close to it. I am definitely putting it on a list for the next time we make our way west and journey to visit friends in Bishop!
Thank you for joining us for Photo Friday again this week!
Ruth says
Yes, Jen, you have to visit all day. But beware! There are a lot of beautiful areas to visit near Bishop. You may get sidetracked ;0)
Elaine J. Masters says
I’d love to do this hike but have been to Yosemite on only short trips into the valley. Great pictures and the Vernal Falls look incredible.
Ruth says
Definitely, this hike needs some time. I know a lot of people who have been to the park but because of time reasons, have not walked to the waterfall. I decided to stay three days at the park to try to see as much as possible.
Sadie says
Yosemite is such a magical place! I hope someday to spend an extend period of time there. Looking at all your beautiful pics has made my feet itch a little bit more. 😉
Ruth says
Thanks! It is great that you want to visit and stay a bit longer than usual. After coming home, I read an article about walking from camp to camp in the park (over a period of several days) and now the idea doesn’t get out of my mind. Of course, I will start with something simple.
Paula McInerney says
What a beautiful hike and spectacular views. I am not great with heights so would have to keep well away from the edges.
Ruth says
Paula, I am awful with heights. I was got really scared at first (when I got that first view of the stairs) but then the fear went away (even thought there was a cliff next to me). I guess the magnitude of the waterfalls relaxes you.
Ting at My Travel Monkey says
There’s something so satisfying about all that physical exertion when you get spectacular views like this! I’ve always wanted to go to Yosemite and even more so now. Your photos of Vernal are wonderful. Thanks for sharing on #MondayEscapes
Ellen @ The Cynical Sailor says
I loved our time at Yosemite and looking at your pictures takes me right back to those wonderful moments we had there. Yosemite is definitely one of those places I want to get back to one day – truly awe inspiring.
Lyn - A Hole in my Shoe says
What beautiful photos of Yosemite, I have never been there. Thank you for linking up with #TheWeeklyPostcard
Carmen says
The pictures are absolutely stunning! I would love to see the wildlife there! Definitely a cool place for hiking.
Ruth says
Thanks Carmen! If you enjoy watching wildlife, this is the place for you. We saw deer, squirrels, others rodents native to the area, tons of birds and even a mountain lion.
Karen says
Growing up, I never thought I’d be the type of person who would dream of taking a hike like this, but now I use my wanderlust as inspiration to exercise so I can do all these things. Beautiful photos.
Ruth says
That is a great way to approach things Karen. When I was a child, I never hiked or did adventurous things (my parents weren’t into those things). As an adult, I know that if I want to keep visiting certain places, I need to have to maintain a good health.
Julie Jordan Scott says
That’s it! I need to get back to Yosemite soon! Your photos are gorgeous and so inspiring!!
Ruth says
Well, I can understand now why this is such a popular park. Everything is amazing there!
Eileen says
Hello Ruth, Yosemite is a beautiful park. Your photos brings back memories of my trip there. We also enjoyed the hike to the waterfalls. Amazing views and lovely photos. Enjoy your new week ahead!
Ruth says
Thanks Eileen. I will like to visit again when the waterfalls are at full flow. I think the view would be completely different.
Anda says
From what you are describing the hike to Vernal Fall wasn’t quite a pice of cake, Ruth. I would have done it too, though. I found myself in situations like this, when the attraction of the final destinations helps me push myself. I don’t think we ever hiked this road. In fact, it’s been so long since I’ve been in Yosemite that I can’t even remember. Good post. Thanks for joining us again for #TheWeeklyPostcard.
Ruth says
To be honest, I wanted to do other short hikes but after this one, I had enough for the trip. I think this trail would be easy for a person in the right conditions.
Victoria@celebratetheweekend.com says
Great post, Ruth- helpful details, awesome pictures and wonderful honesty! I actually chose similar trail last summer for similar reasons (not that fit; 1 hike choice:) and only made it to the footbridge of the Falls so I admire you for pushing further on!(our trail might have been slightly different- it had more elevation- is that possible?were there more than one trails to the footbridge of the Vernal Falls?)
Ruth says
Victoria,there may be other trails that take you to the footbridge. Several trails meet around here. I know the route is different (longer I think) during winter. However, this is the most popular route to get to the footbridge and the fall. I realized that I do not have photos showing the more steep parts (except the stairs). Maybe that is why you do not recognize the trail.
Michele {Malaysian Meanders} says
Hitting squirrels? That’s mean. Too bad you witnessed that. I think I could definitely make it to the footbridge. I was all for heading up to the next level until you mentioned the scary stairs. That view, though! That would make it worthwhile. I’ll get to Yosemite some day.
Michele {Malaysian Meanders} says
Hitting squirrels? That’s mean. Too bad you witnessed that. I think I could definitely make it to the footbridge. I was all for heading up to the next level until you mentioned the scary stairs. That view, though! That would make it worthwhile. I’ll get to Yosemite some day.
Ruth says
I know hitting squirrels is so mean ;0( Not sure why some people were doing it. I knew I was I am not the only one scarred of those stairs. I can’t imagine how it would be when it is slippery and there is water mist everywhere.
Elizabeth (Wander Mum) says
What a beautiful sight! We are planning on going to Yosemite in April and I would definitely be up for this but we have a three year old so won’t be able to be quite so adventurous. Well done for doing it – it was all worth it! #mondayescapes xx
Ruth says
Nice to know you guys are planning a trip to the park! Believe it or not, I saw people carrying babies on the stairs area. I even saw a couple that left a stroller behind some trees and did the stairs portion of the trail with the baby in a kangaroo pouch.
Laia | colibrist says
Wonderful waterfalls and views! I am not a sportive person either, and even though I walk a lot I find it very tiring to go uphill. So I can understand you! Good news is that these hikes usually reward with excellent views 🙂
Ruth says
Laia, that is kind of surprising since all most of your posts are about hiking. I guess we are similar in that we can go forever on flat terrain but the altitude gain kills us.
Connie Reed says
What breathtaking beauty! We were supposed to drive through Yosemite on our cross-country road trip, but the pass was closed because of snow. I’m kind of glad now because I want to be able to spend some time there instead of rushing through. Thank you for your list of helpful warnings. Hard to believe people were beating the little creatures with sticks when they are supposed to be there to enjoy nature.
Ruth says
Connie, you definitely want some time to enjoy the park. There is a lot to see. And, you can see way more if you are up for walks and hikes.
Nancie says
Hi Ruth. What a gorgeous hike. I can understand why you felt energized after seeing such beauty! #TPThursday
Ruth says
Thanks Nancie. I even though about continuing to the top of the waterfall but then, realized it was too much of a push (at least for that day).
Corinne says
Ruth, What a beautiful hike. When we were there it was really dry. I love your photos, as always.
Happy Weekend Travel Inspiration!
Ruth says
Ohh, so it can get dryer? I guess we had luck during our visit. The Yosemite and Bridalveil Falls were just a thin mist of water.
John says
Hey,Ruth. What a fantastic review and amazing photography. This is very helpful for those who wish to visit. It’s awesome you were able to push on. I love conquering challenges, too, and always get the reinvigorated feeling once you reach your destination amid mind-blowing natural surroundings. I bet you slept well that night, too. Next time, maybe you push ahead and do a hike along the famed John Muir Trail. That would be awesome.
Cheers!
JR
Ruth says
I know that doing the John Muir Trail will be awesome. Like I mentioned I a couch potato with hiker aspirations. I hope I can have more hiking adventures in the future. Thanks for stopping by.
Tina says
Wow.. Those photos are awesome.. It makes me wanna visit the place. 🙂
Ruth says
Great! You should visit one day. It is a magical place.
Eileen g says
The hike doesn’t look bad, but looks an be deceiving when it comes to hikes, especially uphills. Glad it paid off!
Ruth says
Eileen, like I have mentioned to other commenters, I do not think the hike is difficult at all. It was difficult to me because I am out of shape. However, I think it doable for most people.
Mary {The World Is A Book} says
We have been to Yosemite several times but have never gone on this trail. What a beauty! Beautiful photos and narrative, Ruth. I loved virtually hiking with you guys. I love the views you showed us here especially standing in front of the waterfall. We will need to visit again soon and make time to do this hike.
MacKenzie says
WOW!! You can get so close to the falls! I would be equally amazed/want to touch it and afraid for my camera equipment, ha!
Kylie says
Yosemite looks absolutely breathtaking! I’ve always wanted to visit!
katy kuhlwilm says
The waterfall looks spectacular! What an amazing hike. Definitely a part of the country I’d love to visit after covid
Curls en Route says
Seems like my kind of hiking trip! I’ve always wanted to go to Yosemite.. hopefully, when it’s safer to travel again!
Rebecca says
I didn’t get to see this when I went! Just an excuse for a return trip!
travelingfoundlove says
We loved hiking the Mist Trail. It is especially fun when you are getting closer to Vernal Fall. We also had a few break stops along the way with the continuous climb! The information you shared is great.
Courtney B says
This looks like a great hike! I am so impressed by the views of the waterfalls without even having to hike that many miles! I really appreciate the honest review of difficulty level at the different sections of the trail. I am just getting into hiking, and I think this would be awesome! Yosemite is definitely on my bucket list! Thanks!
Alanna Koritzke says
Looks like a beautiful spot! I haven’t been to Yosemite in years but looks like a trip is in order.
Lauren McGill says
I wanted to get to Yosemite next month but it’s all booked up! I hope some day soon because your photos look amazinggg.
Megs says
Looks like such a beautiful trail! Thanks for sharing all the details!
SHANY says
Wow! This is absolutely stunning. I’m hoping to visit Yosemite someday soon and I’ll definitely going to do this trail. Thank you so much for sharing
Jackie says
Wow, what an amazing trail! Sometimes I look at these incredibly beautiful scenes in nature, like the waterfalls as seen from Glacier point, and I wonder…how many centuries of people have stood there in awe?! It seems to make our everyday life so fleeting. I’m glad you took on a hiking trail a little outside your comfort zone—and then shared it here for all of us to enjoy. What an inspiring adventure!
Mona says
So beautiful! Yosemite is on my bucket list. Thanks for an informative guide!
Anna says
Ahh this is stunning! I have never been to Yosemite National Park but I would love to visit someday, your pictures are breathtaking.
Kelly says
This is great! While I enjoy hiking, I’m not really one for multi-day hikes or necessarily the fittest for super advanced ones so I really try to pick and choose what I do. Hikes like this are always worth it though 🙂
Dannielle Noonan says
Yosemite is definitely on my bucket list but I can’t see me travelling to the US for a few years now. Still, it will always be there! This train looks glorious.
Nikola Webster says
I was literally just in Yosemitein March right as the COVID shut down CA. We still got to see the park because we stayed on-site at the base but I sure wish I had read your guide first. We did not cover nearly as much ground as you did… Thanks for sharing. Nikki