Hike to two beautiful waterfalls along some of the most famous hiking trails in Yosemite Valley. If you only have time for one hike while in Yosemite, look no further than the Mist Trail. It's no surprise that this is one of the most popular trails in Yosemite National Park. You'll be hiking so close to these two big waterfalls that the trail may get wet. This walk is best hiked in the spring or early summer, when the snow runoff is high and the falls are full of water.
The Mist Trail begins at the Happy Isles Trailhead (YARTS Happy Isles shuttle stop #16; Curry Village and the parking lot are within walking distance). The park suggests
Starting early will allow you to avoid the heavier crowds. Following a brief stroll along the river, you ascend a rather steep initial accent via stone steps until you reach the footbridge, which provides your first look of Vernal Falls in the distance. There is also a drinking fountain and bathrooms. You'll next make your way up to Vernal Falls, via Emerald Pool, and along Nevada Falls until you reach the summit of this trek.
You can take a detour along the John Muir Trail to get spectacular views of Nevada Falls and Liberty Cap in the distance before rejoining the Mist Trail near the footbridge. This return path is slightly longer, but it provides a variety of scenery and is easier. on the knees. Treat yourself to some ice cream or a refreshing drink at the little kiosk before reboarding the YARTS shuttle, or go across to Curry Village for a wider selection.
