Yosemite Falls — Attraction in Oakhurst

The Yosemite Falls is the tallest in the United States measuring, falling combined 2425 feet (739 metres) from the top of the north side valley ridge to the valley floor in Yosemite National Park. It is made of Upper Falls (1430 feet), a series of cascades (675 feet) and finally a Lower Falls (320 feet).

We very much enjoyed views of the Yosemite Falls within the valley. The Upper Falls are easy to see from a distance given the height of where the falls begin. We particularly enjoyed seeing it from the Swinging Bridge Picnic Area where it can be seen amongst peaks and a reflection lake made up of the Merced River when it is flowing nice during spring months.

From the Lower Yosemite Trail there are a couple of very nice viewpoints that include both the Upper and Lower Falls sections, demonstrating the impressive height of the Yosemite Falls. This is where you can take great photos of both falls.

We quite enjoyed the Lower Yosemite Trail (1 mile loop trail) that allows visitors relatively close access to the Lower Falls. It is easy and conveniently located just next to the village area and the free shuttle stop #6. This trail takes no more than 30 minutes to complete.

For those interested in more strenuous hikes and more times, consider the full Yosemite Falls hike (7.2 miles round trip) that takes up all the way to the top where the falls begins. Allow 6-8 hours for this hike...

Yosemite Falls descends in three, Upper, middle, and lower, free— Together they measure, tall and wide, Two thousand four hundred twenty-five.

From the base, the lower is all you see, The upper and middle hide from thee. For the full height, the meadow’s the way, Or west-side view where cascades play.

Snowmelt feeds this towering stream, At springtime peak, it’s a force extreme— Two thousand four hundred gallons each breath, Spilling each second in thundering depth.

By late summer, the waters dry, In winter, an ice cone rises high. Three hundred feet of frozen white, Gone by mid-April in warming light.

Sometimes in April or May’s bright glow, Mist and moon create a moonbow. Its arc appears if the skies are clear, And water is strong when the moon is near.

Stay on the trail, both east and west, Paved and steady for every guest. Wheelchairs may pass, though a slope may demand, Assistance near where the viewpoints stand.

Leashed pets may join, but bikes must stay, At racks by trailheads put away. Here the power of snow and stone Makes Yosemite...

Moderate hike to the base of the upper falls. Be in shape as there's a lot of vertical elevation gain but distance is only 2-3 miles each way to the bottom of the upper falls. Carry 4-6 bottles of 16oz/500ml size per person in the winter. Maybe 6-7 bottles in the summer. Sunscreen, light jacket, and a bright flashlight a plus... coming back down in the evening it gets dark quick under canopy and part of hike can be on uneven or slippery ground with either gravel it rocks or water. In the winter and spring waterproof hiking boots helpful though regular shoes should get you by with dry feet with extra caution. Snow shoes and poles helpful if going beyond 2 miles as trail can be snow covered.

Start hike or 3-4pm and be back down by 8pm taking your time. Get to see...