​Nevada Falls via Mist Trail

The Nevada Falls via Mist Trail is a must-add to your Yosemite itinerary if you don’t mind getting wet as you tackle a technical ascent. Let the alpine mist cool you off as you hike up along the craggy granite cliffside. Though demanding, the views are well worth the effort! Be sure to wear sturdy, comfortable footwear, and a rain poncho in the spring when the cascades surge. Note: the National Park charges an entrance fee; refer to the NPS website for the pricing guide.

Embark on your adventure along the Nevada Falls via Mist Trail from the Mist Trailhead. From here, wander south along the John Muir Trail to pass the Happy Isles on the Merced River. Follow this route over the Vernal Falls Footbridge, which reveals wonderful views of the cascades above, then continue to your first intersection. Keep left here and hike the Mist Trail east up the vertiginous cliffside; mind your footing as the terrain here can be extremely slippery. As you climb, you will be granted wonderful views of Vernal Falls’ profile just before you summit the cascades. Enjoy the beautiful scenery, then continue past Emerald Pool and up to Nevada Falls.

From atop Nevada Falls, you will be granted a lovely panorama of the mesmerizing cascades. If you want to head over to the top of the falls, then wander along the John Muir Trail. Admire the scenery and, when you are ready, retrace your footing along the path back to the trailhead.