Is swimming allowed at Vernal Fall?

No, swimming is not allowed at Vernal Fall.

Live Conditions · 1,750 ft³/s · Higher than usual

Vernal Fall

Q: Are dogs allowed at Vernal Fall?

No, dogs are not allowed at Vernal Fall.

California • Yosemite National Park • 317 ft

By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026

Yosemite National Park NP · National Park Service

Photo Credits (5)

Stewf CC BY-NC-SA 2.0 · Flickr

kittell CC BY-NC 2.0 · Flickr

Stewf CC BY-NC-SA 2.0 · Flickr

robsettantasei CC BY 2.0 · Flickr

Difficulty

Moderate

Trail Length

2.4 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

Elevation Gain

350 ft

About Vernal Fall

Vernal Fall is a stunning 317-foot waterfall located in Yosemite National Park, California. It is part of the Merced River and is one of the park's most iconic waterfalls, known for its powerful flow and misty spray, especially during the spring snowmelt.

The Setting

Vernal Fall sits at 5,144 feet within Yosemite National Park, in the high mountains of California. At 317 feet, it is among the taller waterfalls in California.

Height: 317 feet

Nearby Falls Worth Visiting

Nevada Fall (594 ft) lies 0.7 miles to the east. Also nearby: Illilouette Falls (370 ft, 1.3 mi).

Nevada Fall Illilouette Falls

Trail & Hike Details

The Approach

The moderate 2.4-mile out-and-back trail gains 350 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.

Trail Description

The Mist Trail to Vernal Fall is a popular and scenic hike. The trail begins with a paved section before transitioning to steep granite steps near the waterfall. The mist from the fall can make the steps slippery, especially in spring and early summer.

What to Expect

The falls plunge a dramatic 317 feet.

Accessibility

The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.

Frequently Asked Questions

🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Vernal Fall?

❌ Dogs are not allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🤑 Fee: $35.00

🏊 Is There Swimming at Vernal Fall?

❌ Swimming is not allowed

When to Visit

spring summer fall

Spring is the best time to visit Vernal Fall, as the snowmelt creates a powerful flow. Summer and fall are also good, but the flow may be reduced. Winter access may be limited due to snow and ice.

Seasonal Access

The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Access roads and trails may close during winter due to snow. Check with Yosemite National Park for current conditions.

Safety Information

The trail can be slippery due to mist, especially near the granite steps. Stay on marked trails and avoid getting too close to the water. Fatal accidents have occurred when visitors ignored safety warnings.

Current Water Conditions

Updated about 3 hours ago Roaring

1,750 ft³/s

Current discharge — how much water is flowing

Higher than usual for this time of year

Very Low Low Normal High Very High

472 718 1.7k 2.1k

Based on 110 years of record

5.47 ft

Water depth at gauge

50°F

Warm

Very comfortable

7-Day Discharge Trend

What does this mean for your visit?

The water is flowing higher than usual for this time of year. Water temperature is very cold at 50 degrees F, expect numbness within minutes.

About This Gauge

MERCED R A HAPPY ISLES BRIDGE NR YOSEMITE CA

USGS 11264500

0.7 mi from waterfall

Drainage: 181 sq mi

Altitude: 4,020 ft

Weather Forecast

Location & Access

Getting There

Vernal Fall is accessed via the Mist Trail, starting from the Happy Isles trailhead in Yosemite Valley. The trailhead is located near the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

Parking is available at the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center or Curry Village. Shuttle buses can take visitors to the Happy Isles trailhead.

Elevation

5144 feet above sea level

Coordinates

37.728757° N, -119.546206° W

Land Management

Yosemite National Park NP

Managed by NPS

Visitor Tips & Gear

Start early to avoid crowds, especially during peak seasons. Wear sturdy shoes with good grip, as the trail can be slippery. Bring a rain jacket or poncho to stay dry from the mist. Carry plenty of water and snacks, as the hike can be strenuous.

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With 2.4 miles and 350 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.

America the Beautiful Annual Pass

Covers entrance fees at 2,000+ federal recreation sites — required at most National Parks.

Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)

Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.

Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket

Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.

Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag

Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.

Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)

Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.

Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof

Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.

TrailBuddy Trekking Poles

Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.

Where to Stay

Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby

Glamping Hipcamp

Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses

RV Rentals Outdoorsy

Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip

Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Nearby Campground

Upper Pines Campground

1.0 miles away · 240 sites

Walking distance Reservable

Overview Upper Pines campsites are available to reserve up to five months in advance on the 15th of each month at 7:00 a.m. PST. For example, on January 15, arrival dates for the period May 15 to June 14 become available to reserve, and therefore, the full arrival date window would be from January 15 to June 14. Reservation Tips! Campsites in Yosemite are extremely popular and typically sell out in minutes. Login to your account or create a new account before the 7:00 a.m. (PST) release time. Yo

Book on Recreation.gov