Upper Yosemite Fall Trailhead

Upper Yosemite Fall Trailhead

Quick Facts

Amenities

1 listed

Trailhead

One of Yosemite's oldest historic trails, built 1873 to 1877, the Yosemite Falls Trail leads to the top of the waterfall, which cascades 2,425 feet (739 m) above the Valley floor. This trail starts near Camp 4, along the Valley Loop Trail, and immediately climbs a series of switchbacks through oak woodland. Do not stray off of the maintained path, as you will find steep drops adjacent to the trail.

Use extreme caution when near the creek and remember you are directly above a waterfall.

Columbia Rock

Columbia Rock features views of Half Dome, Sentinel Rock, and the valley floor. From there, consider hiking another 0.5 miles (0.8 km) beyond this point for a stunning view of Upper Yosemite Fall.

Distance: 2 miles (3.2 km) round-trip
Elevation: 1,000 ft (328 m) elevation gain
Time estimate: 2-3 hours round trip

Top of Yosemite Falls

The upper switchbacks of the trail is steep and rocky but very scenic, including views of Upper Yosemite Fall with Half Dome in the background. The final portion of the hike leads to a small viewing platform where Yosemite Creek pours over the lip of the cliff.

Distance: 7.2 miles (11.6 km) round-trip
Elevation: 2,700 ft (820 m) elevation gain
Time estimate: 6-8 hours round trip

Tips & Seasonal Information

Pets and bicycles are not allowed on hiking trails. Do not shortcut switchbacks, which causes rapid trail erosion and results in injuries.

The Yosemite Falls Trail can be hiked year-round, though conditions vary depending on the season. In spring, when the waterfall is at its peak, this hike is stunning, and you may even get wet from the spray of the waterfall during a section of the hike. In summer, conditions are hot and dry, and the loose decomposed granite along the trail can be slippery. Keep in mind that by August, the waterfall is typically low or totally dry. During winter, the lower portion of this trail gets direct sunlight, so hiking can be snow-free while other trails are icy.

Columbia Rock, located one mile up the trail, is a worthwhile trip at any time of year. Beyond this point, the upper portion of this trail receives little to no sunlight in winter and can be very icy and slippery, or buried beneath feet of snow, making traction difficult. In winter, hiking in the colder early morning or late afternoon hours can be even more dangerous if the trail is icy.