Upper Yosemite Falls — Attraction in Oakhurst

I hiked Upper falls on Friday August 4th. Upper falls is 7 miles round trip according to the sign however online sources say it’s anywhere from 6-8 miles round trip. I left at 6 am and completed the hike at 12 pm, so 6 hours total, I’m not a very fast hiker so that includes my rest time and time spent at the top of the falls. This is a very steep hike with 3000 feet of elevation gain so bring lots of water!! This hike has gorgous views of the valley I suggest leaving at early as possible so that you can hike in the shade, I was able to avoid the sun hiking up but not on the way down. Leaving early is the best way to avoid crowds as well!! I only saw about 10 people total on my way up it was perfect. On the way down the rocks can be a little slick as most of them are covered in sand or dirt, if you have hiking poles I would bring them with you! I wish I’d brought some to prevent sliding on my way down!! I hiked to the upper falls lookout, there is an option to hike closer to the waterfall if you go down the stairs with a railing but I chose not to do that. So if you just go to the lookout you won’t see...

As some have stated, it’s probably the most strenuous hike at the park (as labeled by the parks maps). It was about a 7.5 hour round trip including stopping at the top for lunch/pics.

The amount of switchbacks and the incline at the beginning and end will have you wondering when it will end. As you keep looking up you’ll feel as though you made no progress but you’ll make it eventually. However, it is extremely tiring even in 65 degree weather that we did it in. Make sure you bring a ton of water and prepare mentally, it’s pretty difficult.

However, I will say that if you don’t want to do the whole hike, the best view is like 2/5 through the hike where the waterfall is most visible. Many took pictures there and turned around. The top has a better view of the valley, but if you’re there for the waterfall you can cut it short with little ones...

Disclaimer: my partner and I did Half Dome the day prior to this hike, so our perspective may be slightly skewed due to tired legs.

We idiotically started this hike at 12 p.m., which was a terrible mistake as temperatures were soaring in the mid-90s. Don't be fooled by the short length of this round trip hike (7.2 miles). The sun exposure on the many steep switchbacks is brutal, and the lack of shade for much of the hike will leave you asking, "how much farther?" when much remains.

After the strenuous journey, the oasis that awaits at the top is well worth the trouble. Pack a suit and plan to enjoy the view for awhile before heading down.

In hindsight, I wish we had started in the morning and been able to enjoy the refreshing pools during the hottest part of the day. Good luck to all + don't forget to pack...