Yosemite Falls — Attraction in Oakhurst

An Unforgettable Family Adventure at Yosemite Falls! 🌲💦

Our trip to Yosemite Falls was nothing short of magical! As a family, we were looking for a nature-filled adventure that everyone — from kids to grandparents — could enjoy, and Yosemite delivered in every way.

The moment we caught our first glimpse of the falls, we were in awe. The sound of the rushing water, the mist in the air, and the sheer height of the falls created a breathtaking scene that felt straight out of a movie. It’s truly one of the most stunning sights we’ve ever seen.

We took the easy Lower Falls trail, which was perfect for our family— safe and accessible even for the little ones. The kids loved playing by the water’s edge (under our watchful eyes, of course), and we took some incredible family photos that we'll cherish forever.

What made it even more special was how the beauty of Yosemite brought us together.

But the magic didn’t stop there. Yosemite Valley itself is like stepping into another world. Surrounded by massive granite walls like El Capitan and Half Dome, with meadows, rivers, and wildflowers everywhere you look, it's a place that stirs your soul. We spent time walking through the valley floor, skipping stones by the Merced River, watching rock climbers on El Cap, and just taking in the beauty around us.

We also visited Tunnel View for a stunning panoramic view of the whole valley — definitely a must-see. The kids were amazed, and we adults felt deeply moved by the sheer scale and serenity of the landscape.

What made Yosemite Valley so special was how accessible yet wild it felt. There were plenty of picnic areas, bathrooms, and shuttle options, which made it easy to get around with a group. But at the same time, we felt completely immersed in nature — away from the noise of everyday life.

Yosemite is more than a park — it's an experience. A place where you can slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with each other and the natural world. Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, it has a way of making you feel small in the best possible way.

We’re so grateful for the memories we made here as a family and can’t wait to return. If you’re planning a family getaway that combines beauty, adventure, and peace — Yosemite Valley is calling.

If you're planning a family trip, Yosemite Falls is an absolute must. It’s a great mix of adventure, natural beauty, and peaceful moments — an experience we’ll never forget. We’re already talking about when we’ll go...

Easy, quick hike for all abilities (wheelchair friendly, fairly flat & wide, and short) to Lower Yosemite Falls.

Enjoy assessing what country your fellow hikers are from as they try to decide which side of the path to walk on. For reference, Americans drive on the right side of the road, and thus, walk on the right side of the path.

Redwoods, small bridges over rivers & creeks, and glimpses of the falls ahead will entertain hikers on the way to the Lower Falls.

Once at the base of the Falls, take your turn getting pictures and/or selfies with the Falls. It’s nice to offer to take pics for others, and even nicer to flip the camera and leave them a surprise pic of your face on their camera feed. It’s not nice, however, to take their camera and run. Language barriers are no problem when offering to take a pic; the “index finger on the shutter” sign language is pretty much universal.

You can enjoy the Lower Falls from the trail, or, adventurous folks can climb further toward the Falls over rocks & boulders. BE CAREFUL! People get injured at Yosemite ALL THE TIME. (People also die at Yosemite ALL THE TIME (mostly on the elevated hikes & overhangs)). When we last visited, spray from the Falls could be felt from the paved trail.

Don’t litter! We saw a cigarette butt left on the trail when there last. Seriously?! Respect the beauty of the park. Also, don’t smoke outside of your car. Visitors come to Yosemite for the fresh mountain air! If you must have a regular nicotine flow, buy yourself a box of patches.

Enjoy the beauty; and...

I visited Yosemite Falls in the last week of June, and it was a breathtaking experience. The weather was perfect, with clear skies and mild temperatures, making the visit even more enjoyable.

Yosemite Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in North America, and seeing the water cascade down the granite cliffs is truly awe-inspiring. The hike to the base of the falls is relatively easy and offers stunning views along the way. For those looking for more of a challenge, the hike to the top is strenuous but rewarding, with panoramic views of the entire valley. The sound of the rushing water and the mist in the air create a refreshing and invigorating experience.

I highly recommend getting your pass and registration in advance. It saves time and ensures you have everything in order for your visit. Checking the national park website before your trip is also a good idea, as it provides useful information and tips on amazing places to visit within the park, helping you plan your visit better.

Visiting in late June means the falls are still flowing powerfully from the snowmelt, providing a spectacular sight. The facilities around the park are well-maintained, and there are plenty of informational signs to learn about the geology and history of the area. Make sure to bring your camera – the photo opportunities are endless.

Whether you’re an avid hiker or just looking to take in the natural beauty, Yosemite Falls will not disappoint. It’s a highlight of Yosemite National Park and a place you’ll remember...