Upper Yosemite Falls Trail — Attraction in Oakhurst

Wow. The Upper Yosemite Falls Trail took my breath away (both from the views and the strain!).

This is a strenuous hike, and park rangers recommend you leave at least 6 hours for this out-and-back hike. We visited on a Thursday in May and didn't struggle to park near the base of the trail, however we were there by 8:30am.

This trail took us 8 hours in total. Took us much longer going up than back down. You can turn back at Columbia Rock if it's getting too much for you. There are great views from there anyway, and it'd mean you'd skip out the hardest part, which in my opinion is the final stretch right up to the top of the falls. Waterproof hiking footwear a must because some terrain is unstable/uneven. We did get wet from the falls, although this was a relief as we were tired and hot. Maybe bring waterproofs if you want to stay dry.

I have a fear of heights but did manage to complete the trail. There were plenty of people on the trail but it wasn't too busy that I felt pressured to move if I was taking a little more time due to my fear. The views from the top are good enough without you having to go right to the edge, although standing on the rocks at the top did look great. Head over to the wooden bridge over the falls at the top too for some great photos.

If you have an extreme fear of heights, I probably wouldn't recommend this trail. Come prepared with sunscreen (very exposed to the sun at some points), plenty of water, food and a battery pack. Take in the amazing views, because I've never seen such beauty in my life. This trail is...

This hike was the hardest hike I've ever done, however, I still made it to the top and I'm very proud of myself. Will I ever want to do this hike again? Never lol if you're out of shape like I am, this hike will test your willpower. Walking sticks and waterproof hiking boots are a must. I used a Camel back and brought an extra water bottle and finished it all. Definitely bring snacks or food for energy. The first mile up, you're going up steep switchbacks. The next half mile gets a little easier, but still not easy. The best view is when you see the lower falls. After you pass the falls, the next half mile, or so, isn't as terrible but still hard. Once you get to the second set of switchbacks, all covered in snow and slush, you really start wondering what possessed you to even try this. However, you just have to keep pushing forward. Once you hike the mile of switchbacks, you'll hike up a small creek, and at that point, you're almost there. It was very rewarding getting to the top. Again, this is the POV of someone who is out of shape. My friend who is in shape did not struggle as much as i did. The only reason I didn't give it 5 stars is I did feel disappointed in the view of the falls at the top. In the end, it took me almost 8 hours to hike up and down this mountain. My legs were wobbly in the end and I slept for almost 12 hours...

Conquer one of the largest waterfalls in the world on a steady and well maintained hiking trail through and experience some of the best Yosemite Valley views on the way.

At last count Yosemite Falls was considered the seventh largest waterfall in the world, and since it's tiered, only the lowest 320 feet of falls can be viewed at close quarters without hitting the hiking trails. This trail takes you from the Lower Falls viewpoint to the top of the Upper Falls in 3½ miles and 2,700 feet of elevation gain.

You'll have plenty of excuses to stop for breaks on the climb, since photo opportunities are many. Sweeping panoramic views of Yosemite Valley and Half Dome become increasingly impressive as the elevation increases, and eventually you'll turn a corner and the towering Upper Yosemite Falls will be revealed.

Water crashes down 1,400ft of sheer vertical granite face into the pool below, before gushing off into the smaller mid-falls area. From here the trail does not approach the rushing water, but instead veers and switchbacks upwards towards the top of the falls where a viewing are provides limited views over the top of the falls.

If you have a little more energy left over, cross the Yosemite Bridge creek and head up another 300ft and ¾mile to Yosemite Point for an even higher vantage point...