Yosemite Falls

Yosemite Falls: The Tallest Waterfall in the U.S.

Standing at 2,425 feet, Yosemite Falls is the tallest waterfall in the U.S. and one of the tallest in the world. It consists of three separate falls: Upper Yosemite Fall (1,430 feet), the middle cascades (675 feet), and Lower Yosemite Fall (320 feet). These falls are visible around Yosemite Valley, with the best viewing spots being Sentinel Meadow and Yosemite Chapel, which hosts Sunday services and weddings.

Close-Up View: Hiking Yosemite Falls

Lower Yosemite Fall Trail

For an up-close view of Yosemite Falls, a hike is necessary. The Lower Yosemite Fall Trail is an easy, well-traveled 1-mile level paved loop that's partially accessible. Restrooms and potable water are available on the western portion of the loop. Spring is the best time to visit for optimal water flow due to snowmelt at its peak.

Yosemite Falls Trail

Built between 1873 and 1877, the Yosemite Falls Trail is one of the park’s oldest. Hikers will use switchbacks to climb the first 1,000 feet to reach the one-mile marker at Columbia Rock. From here, the trail offers expansive views of Yosemite Valley, including Half Dome. For a closer view of the Upper Yosemite Fall, hikers can continue an additional half-mile. For those with the stamina, the hike to the top of Yosemite Falls is a 7.2-mile round-trip with a 2,700-foot elevation gain. This hike is estimated to take six to eight hours, and hikers are advised to bring four quarts of water, especially during the summer.

Visitor Experiences

Springtime visitors often commented on the powerful roar of the falls, which could be heard and felt around the valley. Hikers praised the amazing views and advised taking time on the trail. The view from Columbia Rock remains impressive for those who do not wish to continue uphill. During summer and fall, visitors noticed significantly less water flowing down the falls compared to spring.

Trail Access and Amenities

Both trails are in the Yosemite Valley and are open year-round. The Lower Yosemite Fall Trail is located near the Yosemite Valley Lodge at shuttle stop No. 6. The Yosemite Falls Trail is along the Valley Loop Trail, with most hikers using the shuttle and exiting at stop No. 7, near Camp 4. This location also has the last portable water and restrooms. For additional information on Yosemite Falls, visit the NPS website.