Nevada Fall — Attraction in Oakhurst

Nevada Fall via mist trail is propably the most popular trail inside Yosemite. The round trip is about 6 miles from happy isle trail head (7 to 8 mile from parking lot at curry village), with total elevation 2200 feet (Net elevation is about 1900 feet, but there are some up and down along the route). It takes about 4 to 6 hours to finish. Some tips about the trail: The nearest parking lot is the Yosemite Valley Trailhead parking lot, it is a shared parking lot for mirror lake trail too, and usually will fill up before 10AM. If the lot is full, you can park either along the road or the curry village. It means additional mile walk to the trail head Be sure to carry at least 1 liter of water per person for the trip on a cool day, and 2 liter during hot summer day. You can refill the water at the Vernal Fall foot bridge. Never drink water from waterfall without purifying. The bacterai like Giardia lamblia in these natural water will make your stomach sick days later. Pack some snacks or sandwich with you. It is great to have a picnic near the waterfall. During winter time (November to March), you need to take the winter route as suggested in the NPS website, be sure to have cramp on on your shoes for the icy stair steps on John Muir Trail(JMT). In the other seasons, most people will go up through mist trail, then return through JMT. It is a little longer, but less exposed, and easy on your knees. Never walk pass the fence at Vernal fall or Nevada fall. Too many foolish/brave folks lost their...

Nevada Falls sits above Vernal Falls along the Mist and John Muir Trails, offering one of Yosemite’s most rewarding day hikes. Reaching it requires a continued ascent beyond Vernal—about 2.5 miles one way from the Happy Isles trailhead and over 1,900 feet of elevation gain. The Mist Trail’s upper section is steep and often drenched in spray; the alternative via the John Muir Trail is longer but less exposed and makes for a gentler descent.

The falls drop 594 feet in a single dramatic plunge, with panoramic views of Liberty Cap, the Merced River gorge, and the eastern Yosemite Valley. Early morning offers the best light and cooler temperatures, while late afternoon brings quieter trails and longer shadows. A tranquil spot to rest is the flat granite shelf just downstream from the footbridge above the falls—an ideal place for a quiet lunch, provided you stay well back from the water’s edge.

Despite the serene setting, this area has seen numerous accidents. Hikers have died after venturing too close to the river or climbing unmarked boulders. Like Vernal Falls, Nevada’s approach hides swift currents beneath placid surfaces. The granite is unforgiving, and water conditions shift quickly with snowmelt. Rangers emphasize staying on-trail, avoiding wet rock, and never entering the water above or near the falls.

Nevada Falls rewards those who approach it with patience and prudence. It is a place to linger—but not to...

Nevada Falls is a mesmerizing masterpiece of nature that commands respect and awe. Located in the heart of Yosemite National Park, the journey to reach this waterfall is as rewarding as the destination itself.

The hike to Nevada Falls is an adventure filled with lush forests, pristine streams, and captivating vistas. It typically takes about 3-4 hours of hiking to arrive at Nevada Falls, making it a perfect day trip for those seeking both a physical challenge and a scenic treat.

Along the way, hikers will appreciate the convenience of a bathroom facility located before arriving at the Mist Trail, ensuring you can freshen up before continuing your ascent.

As you approach the falls, the sound of roaring water grows louder, and the sight of the powerful cascade is simply breathtaking. At the base of Nevada Falls, you can feel the mist on your skin and experience the raw force of nature. The views from the top, accessible via the Mist Trail, are equally stunning, offering a sweeping panorama of the surrounding wilderness.

Nevada Falls is a testament to the grandeur of Yosemite, and it's a must-see for hikers and nature enthusiasts. The memories of standing in the presence of this majestic waterfall will stay with you long after you've left, a testament to the power and beauty of the natural...