Vernal and Nevada Falls - Day and Section Hikes - page 1

1 Vernal and Nevada Falls
S CENERY :
T RAIL CONDITION :
C HILDREN :
D IFFICULTY :
S OLITUDE :
D ISTANCE : 8 miles
H IKING TIME : 4-6 hours
O UTSTANDING FEATURES : Vernal Falls, Nevada Falls, Emerald Pool, Silver Apron,
Clark Point, sweeping views of the valley
A Yosemite classic, this one has it all: rushing waterfalls, verdant canyons, slabs of
imposing granite, shady conifers, and inspiring views of the valley below. Nevada
Falls drops 594 feet, making it the longest single leap of the Merced River, while
Vernal Falls completes the journey with a 317-foot drop.
The trail is no secret, but it's hard to blame the masses once you witness its dra-
matic charm. Start this walk early before it's overrun with valley-floor visitors, as
well as to avoid midday heat in the summer. Beginning on the John Muir Trail (JMT),
this is a balloon loop. Start by climbing to a scenic footbridge and a thunderous view
of Vernal Falls. Next, continue up the Mist Trail to the top of Nevada Falls. To return,
loop back, descending on the more gradual JMT to rejoin your route at the foot-
bridge.
DIRECTIONS: Yosemite can be entered via four main gateways: The B IG O AK F LAT
R OAD E NTRANCE is on CA 120 West (Big Oak Flat Road) and is the closest western
access to Tuolumne Meadows; the A RCH R OCK E NTRANCE on CA 140 (El Portal
Road) is east of Merced and the safest bet in inclement weather, as it receives the least
amount of snowfall; the S OUTH E NTRANCE is on CA 41 (Wawona Road), north of
Fresno; and the weather-dependent T IOGA P ASS E NTRANCE is on CA 120 East (Tioga
Road) and is the closest eastern access to Tuolumne Meadows. Tioga Road is closed
during the winter months due to snow, and sometimes doesn't open until June or
July. While the first three entrances are generally open year-round, all roads are sub-
ject to closure; check with the park service by phone at [phone] or visit
www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/conditions.htm to determine current conditions.