Yosemite Falls
California • Yosemite National Park • 2425 ft
By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Hard
Trail Length
7.2 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
2,700 ft
About Yosemite Falls
Yosemite Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in North America, located in Yosemite National Park, California. It consists of three sections: Upper Yosemite Fall, the Middle Cascades, and Lower Yosemite Fall. The waterfall is a major attraction and offers stunning views, especially during peak flow in the spring.
The Setting
Yosemite Falls sits at 6,824 feet within Yosemite National Park, in the high mountains of California. At 2425 feet, it is among the taller waterfalls in California.
Height: 2425 feet
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Sentinel Fall (1920 ft) lies 2.3 miles to the south. Also nearby: Upper Yosemite Falls (1430 ft, 0.2 mi) and Lehamite Falls (1180 ft, 0.9 mi).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The hard 7.2-mile out-and-back trail gains 2,700 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to the top of Upper Yosemite Fall is steep and challenging, with numerous switchbacks and rocky terrain. However, there are shorter, easier trails to Lower Yosemite Fall, which is accessible and family-friendly. The full hike offers breathtaking views of the valley and the waterfall.
What to Expect
The falls plunge a dramatic 2425 feet.
Accessibility
The trail involves steep, uneven terrain with significant elevation change and is not accessible to mobility devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Yosemite Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $35.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Yosemite Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit Yosemite Falls is in late spring (April to June) when the snowmelt is at its peak, creating a dramatic flow. By late summer, the waterfall may dry up, depending on the year's snowfall.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter. Check with Yosemite National Park for current conditions.
Safety Information
The trail to Upper Yosemite Fall is steep and can be dangerous, especially during wet or icy conditions. Stay on marked trails and avoid getting too close to the edge. Carry plenty of water and be prepared for sudden weather changes.
Current Water Conditions
1,710 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Higher than usual for this time of year
Based on 110 years of record
5.42 ft
Water depth at gauge
52°F
ColdBracing — limit time in water
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 a bracing 52 degrees F, limit your time in the water.
About This Gauge
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Yosemite Valley hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Yosemite Falls is located in Yosemite Valley within Yosemite National Park. Visitors can access the falls via shuttle buses or by parking in designated areas near Yosemite Village.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available near Yosemite Village and the Yosemite Falls trailhead, but it can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. Arrive early to secure a spot.
Elevation
6824 feet above sea level
Coordinates
37.758258° N, -119.595166° W
Land Management
Managed by NPS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Arrive early to avoid crowds and secure parking. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring plenty of water, especially if hiking to the top of Upper Yosemite Fall. Check weather conditions before your visit, as trails can be icy or slippery during winter.
This trail sits at 6,824 ft above sea level
Elevated TrailUV radiation is roughly 27% stronger at this elevation than at sea level, and the dry air accelerates dehydration. Extra sun protection and fluids go a long way.
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Coppertone Sport SPF 50 Sunscreen
UV intensity jumps ~4% per 1,000 ft — at this elevation you can burn in half the time.
Sun Bum SPF 30 Lip Balm (3-Pack)
Lips have almost no natural UV protection and burn fast in thin, dry mountain air.
Liquid I.V. Electrolyte Packets
You lose moisture ~2x faster at elevation — electrolytes help you absorb water efficiently.
ROCKNIGHT Polarized UV400 Sunglasses
High-altitude glare off rock and water is intense — UV400 lenses block 99%+ of UVA/UVB.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
This challenging 7.2 miles trail gains 2,700 ft in elevation — come prepared with proper hiking boots and trekking poles. Icy conditions are common in winter — traction cleats are a smart addition.
America the Beautiful Annual Pass
Covers entrance fees at 2,000+ federal recreation sites — required at most National Parks.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter
The backcountry standard — filters 99.9% of bacteria and weighs just 3 oz.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
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.
Where to Stay
Yosemite View Lodge
Rush Creek Lodge at Yosemite
Evergreen Lodge at Yosemite
Buck Meadows Lodge
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
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
Lower Pines Campground
2.0 miles away · 75 sites
Overview Lower Pines is closed for the winter season.Lower 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 the campground open date to June 14. Reservation tips! Campsites in Yosemite are extremely popular and typically sell out in minutes. Login to your account or create
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Nearby Attractions
Yosemite Valley, El Capitan, Half Dome, Bridalveil Fall, Glacier Point
Wildlife
Visitors may encounter deer, squirrels, and a variety of birds. Bears are also present in the park, so proper food storage is essential.
Cities near Yosemite Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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