Hiking California National Parks USA

How to Hike the Upper Yosemite Falls Trail (2026 guide)

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Yosemite Falls is one of North America’s tallest waterfalls with an impressive height of 2,425 feet. It’s even more impressive in person! 🤯

It features three distinct cascades: the Upper Yosemite Fall (1,430 feet), the Middle Cascades (675 feet), and the serene Lower Yosemite Fall (320 feet).

The Upper Yosemite Falls Trail is truly spectacular with rewarding panoramic views of Yosemite Valley.

As you ascend, prepare for a steep climb with significant elevation gain, navigating slippery rocks and rugged terrain. While this hike is challenging, the payoff is worth every step!

Check out this blog post for all the essential tips, including the best time to hit the trail, essential hiking details, trail directions, and much more. 🙌

Affiliate Disclaimer: Some links on this page may be affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Thanks for supporting the blog! 🫶

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Upper Yosemite Falls Trail Stats and Map

Upper Yosemite Falls Trail Stats

Woman standing on the Upper Yosemite Falls Trail looking at Upper Yosemite Fall.
Upper Yosemite Falls Trail

Starting Point: Upper Yosemite Falls Trailhead

Length: 7 miles (+2 miles if going to Yosemite Point)

Elevation Gain: 3,200 feet

Difficulty: Challenging

Hiking Time: 4 to 8 hours

Route Type: Out-and-back

Pet-friendly? No, pets are not allowed

Hike Features: Columbia Rock, different angles of Yosemite Falls, Yosemite Falls Overlook, insane views of the valley, and Yosemite Point

Upper Yosemite Falls Trail Map

Yosemite Entrance Fee and Reservations

Entrance to Yosemite National Park costs $35 per vehicle for a 3-day pass. However, if you have the America the Beautiful Annual Pass, your entry is free!

For those who love exploring national parks, investing in the Annual Pass is a smart choice. At just $80, for U.S. residents, it grants you access to over 2,000 federal recreation sites across the country!

FEE UPDATES! Beginning January 1, 2026, non-U.S. residents (without an annual pass) will pay a $100 per person in addition to the standard entrance fee. The Annual Pass for non-US. residents will cost $250.

Reservations are not required at this time (updated January 12, 2026).

Side Note: The name of the waterfall is actually Upper Yosemite Fall (without the “s” at the end), but for SEO blogging purposes, I kept the “s” at the end because most people search Upper Yosemite Falls instead of Upper Yosemite Fall. 🙃

Upper Yosemite Falls Trailhead and Parking

Man and woman posing for a picture at the Yosemite Falls Overlook after tackling the Upper Yosemite Falls hike.
Yosemite Falls Overlook

Upper Yosemite Falls Trailhead is located near Camp 4 in Yosemite Valley.

You will see the trail sign towards the back left-side of the Camp 4 parking area.

🚌 Parking near the trailhead can be tricky (see options below). Thankfully, Yosemite Valley has a free shuttle system.

The Upper Yosemite Falls Trailhead is located at bus stop #7.

🅿️ Upper Yosemite Falls Parking Options:

  1. Yosemite Falls parking area is located across the street from the trailhead.
  2. Yosemite Village parking area is located further away from the trailhead. You can either walk to the trailhead which is almost a 1.5-mile walk or take the free shuttle.
  3. Camp 4 parking area is designated only for those camping at Camp 4. If you are camping at Camp 4, congrats. You have the best parking spot for the Upper Yosemite Falls Trail!

Best Time to Hike the Upper Yosemite Falls Trail

🌷 Spring (March – May): Spring might be the best time to hike the Upper Yosemite Falls Trail!

The weather is mild (not too cold, not too hot), the summer crowds have not arrived yet, and by late spring Yosemite Falls is at its peak flow.

Just be aware that in early to mid-spring you may encounter lingering snow from the previous winter season along this trail, especially as you get closer to the top. Always be prepared with the appropriate gear and check trail conditions before heading out!

☀️ Summer (June – August): This trail is the busiest during the summer months despite it being the most brutal due to the heat, bigger crowds, and bugs!

Don’t let these factors steer you away if the only time you have to hike this trail is during the summer. It’s very important that you start early to avoid the heat and crowds.

Also, pack plenty of water and snacks, use sun protection, and know your limits. Hiking in the summer heat can be dangerous if you’re not prepared.

🎦 Want to see what Yosemite Falls currently looks like? Check out this webcam!

🍂 Fall (September – November): During the fall months, Yosemite Falls dwindles to a light trickle, so you won’t see the powerful, thundering waterfall that’s typical in spring. However, a strong rainstorm or early season snowstorm can sometimes bring it back to life.

Even without peak flow, this trail is worth hiking in the fall. Cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and the changing landscape filled with beautiful fall colors make it especially rewarding.

🌨️ Winter (December – February): Winter can be both an exhilarating and potentially dangerous time to hike the Upper Yosemite Falls Trail.

With cooler temperatures and significantly fewer crowds, it can be an incredible experience under the right conditions. However, snow and ice are often present, making winter hiking gear essential.

Be sure to know your limits and only attempt this hike if you’re comfortable navigating winter conditions.

❄️ Yosemite Winter Guides

Upper Yosemite Falls Trail Directions

Upper Yosemite Falls Trailhead

Beginning at the trailhead near Camp 4, you will start off hiking up switchback after switchback through an oak forest, quickly gaining elevation.

If hiking on a hot day, be thankful for the shade in the beginning because it won’t be like that the entire way.

Man hiking along the Upper Yosemite Falls trail located in Yosemite National Park.

Columbia Rock (turnaround option)

After about a mile of hiking up and about 1,000 feet of elevation gain, you will reach Columbia Rock.

This lookout provides awesome views of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and Sentinel Rock.

This is a great turnaround point for those who want great views of the valley but don’t want to hike all the way to the top of Upper Yosemite Falls.

🥾 Columbia Rock Hiking Details:

  • Distance – 2.2 miles (roundtrip)
  • Elevation Gain – 1,015 feet
  • Difficulty – Challenging

🤩 TRAVEL GUIDE: 1-Day Yosemite Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

Man looking at the views from Columbia Rock along the Upper Yosemite Falls trail.
View from Columbia Rock

Upper Yosemite Falls Trail

Continue your ascent. In about 0.2 miles, you will catch the first glimpse of Upper Yosemite Falls!

View of Upper Yosemite Falls between trees from the Upper Yosemite Falls trail.
Upper Yosemite Falls

The trail will eventually start going downhill, and you will re-enter into a forest of precious shade again.

At this point, you will be able to get a closer look at the waterfall.

If hiking during spring or early summer, prepare to hear the loud boom of the Upper Yosemite Falls crashing down and the cool mist washing over you.

View of Upper Yosemite Falls from the trail.

And the climb continues! Keep pushing, you are almost there!

The views along the way are spectacular.

Take rest breaks at each viewpoint to make this hike more bearable.

✨ READ THIS: Best Waterfalls in Yosemite National Park

Views of Yosemite Valley and Half Dome along the Upper Yosemite Falls trail.

You will reach a junction in the trail. Veer right to head towards Upper Yosemite Falls.

There will be another junction in the trail shortly after. Take a right.

Yosemite Falls Overlook

You will eventually see a sign that reads “Yosemite Falls Overlook”.

You made it to the top, my friend!

Sign stating "Yosemite Falls Overlook" with arrowing point to the left, located on top of Upper Yosemite Falls.
Yosemite Falls Overlook

Want to see something super awesome!?!?

*reader shakes head in a yes manner*

I thought so.

Another Overlook (scarier)

Walk a bit further towards the left of the overlook.

Go down the first set of steps and around the corner you will see another set of steps.

The second set of steps is much more… interesting.

First set of steps heading down towards another overlook of Upper Yosemite Falls.

If you have an extreme fear of heights, I don’t recommend going any further.

But the views from the second overlook are worth tackling the steps (if you are comfortable).

Hold on tight to the railing and take your time!

Second set of steps heading down towards another overlook of Upper Yosemite Falls.

The views of Upper Yosemite Falls are not the best from either overlook, but you will have incredible views of Yosemite Valley!

Closer view of Upper Yosemite Falls from the overlook.
View of Upper Yosemite Falls from the overlook

To return to the trailhead, simply retrace your steps back down the trail.

The descent down Upper Yosemite Falls is steep, and loose rocks make it very slippery.

Take your time and use hiking poles if you have them!

Bonus: Yosemite Point

BUT WAIT! There are more awesome views further along the trail if you’re up for it!!

Ready for more hiking?

*reader shakes head again in a yes manner*

Okay! Let’s head towards Yosemite Point. This will add an extra mile to your hike one-way.

Retrace your steps back down the trail towards the junction. There will be a sign directing you towards Yosemite Point.

Follow the trail to a bridge that takes you over Yosemite Creek. Watch as the water falls over the cliff to form Upper Yosemite Falls.

Please don’t swim in the creek! It’s very dangerous!!

Bridge over Yosemite Creek leading to Yosemite Point.

Continue hiking up (yes, more elevation gain) about a mile until you reach another lookout.

You will see guardrails around the edge of a cliff. That is Yosemite Point!

Man at Yosemite Point taking a picture of the views of Yosemite Falls.
Yosemite Point Overlook

The view from Yosemite Point is better than the view from Yosemite Falls Overlook (in my opinion).

Woman sitting on a rock at Yosemite Point looking at the jaw-dropping views of Half Dome and snowy mountains.

Retrace your steps back to the trailhead and bust out a happy dance (if your legs allow it) because you made it! 🥳

🥾 Explore more of Yosemite Valley and Glacier Point with these hikes!

Tips for Hiking Upper Yosemite Falls Trail

1. Start Early: Beat the crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures by starting your hike early in the morning, especially during peak season.

2. Be Physically Prepared: With a 3,200-foot elevation gain, be ready for a challenging ascent. Take your time and pace yourself.

3. Watch for Wildlife: Black bears are active within Yosemite. Follow these guidelines to avoid any negative interactions with a black bear.

🐻 Note: bear spray is prohibited in Yosemite!

4. Respect Nature: Follow Leave No Trace principles – plan ahead, pack out all trash, avoid disturbing wildlife, be considerate of others, and respect the natural beauty of Yosemite National Park.

5. Safety: Keep a safe distance from cliff edges and don’t swim upstream near a waterfall.

FAQs: Upper Yosemite Falls Hike

  1. How long does the Upper Yosemite Falls hike take?

    The Upper Yosemite Falls hike typically takes 6 to 8 hours roundtrip.

  2. How many switchbacks are on the Upper Yosemite Falls Trail?

    According to several sources, there are approximately 60 switchbacks on the Upper Yosemite Falls Trail.

  3. Do you need a permit for the Upper Yosemite Falls hike?

    No, you do not need a permit for the Upper Yosemite Falls hike. However, you do need an entrance pass to enter the park, and possibly a reservation depending on the time of year.

  4. What is the elevation of Upper Yosemite Falls?

    The top of Upper Yosemite Falls sits at 6,526 feet.

  5. Is the Upper Yosemite Falls hike hard?

    The Upper Yosemite Falls hike is considered a strenuous and challenging trail. It involves a steep elevation gain of 3,200 feet and is approximately 7 miles roundtrip.

What to Bring to Yosemite

🎟️ Entrance Pass – You will need to purchase an entrance pass once you reach the entrance station or you can buy the America the Beautiful Pass ahead of time and use that for the entire year.

📆 Reservation – Depending on when you plan to visit Yosemite, you may need a reservation.

👚 Layers of Clothing (top) – Pack a moisture-wicking base layer, a fleece mid-layer, an insulated jacket, and an outer shell to protect you from the elements, such as rain and wind. You may not need all these layers, especially in the summer months, but it’s always best to be over-prepared!

Check out my favorite tops 👇

🩳 Hiking Shorts or Pants – Pack a comfortable, durable, and stretchy pair of hiking shorts or pants. Also think about what conditions you might run into, such as warm or cold temperatures, wind and/or rain, bugs, and overgrown trails.

Check out my favorite hiking bottoms 👇

🥾 Hiking Footwear – Bring a good pair of hiking boots or shoes with good traction. If I’m not expecting to hike in too much mud or snow, my go-to hiking shoes are the Altra Lone Peak trail runners. They have a wide-toe box, 0 mm heel-to-toe drop, and MaxTrac rubber outsole. Plus, they’re lightweight and so comfy!

🧦 Socks – Moisture-wicking, quick-drying socks are the way to go. My favorite pair of hiking socks are Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Cushion Socks. Always pack an extra pair!

🎒 Day Pack – What you plan to do (sightseeing, hiking, etc.), determines what size pack you’ll need. Here is what I typically bring based on what I’m doing that day 👇

🥢 Trekking Poles – Essential for stability, balance, and support when hiking trails, especially on tough, rocky, and uneven terrain. I use REI Co-op Trailmade Trekking Poles and love them!

❄️ Microspikes – Bring a pair of microspikes if you’re visiting in the winter and you’re planning to hike along icy trails. They will give you good traction to avoid slipping! I use Black Diamond Access Spike Traction Device.

🦟 Mosquito/Bug Repellants – In the warmer months, be prepared for annoying gnats, mosquitoes, and flies. Wear long-sleeve clothing, a head net, and use bug spray.

🧤 Extra Warm Layers – If you expect cooler conditions or hiking to higher elevations, make sure to pack extra layers for added warmth, such as gloves, beanie, neck gaiter, and a light jacket.

🗺️ Navigation – Carry a physical topographic map, compass, a satellite messenger (or personal locator beacon), and download offline maps to help you stay on course, find your way in unfamiliar terrain, and call for help if needed.

🔦 Headlamp/Flashlight – A reliable light source with extra batteries, in case you end up hiking in the dark or need it for emergency situations.

💧 Water – Water bottles to carry sufficient water to stay hydrated, along with a filtration system or purification tablets if you plan to refill from natural sources.

🍕 Food – Energy-rich snacks or meals to keep your energy levels up during the hike.

😎 Sun Protection – Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sunhat to protect yourself from harmful UV rays, even when it’s cloudy. Also, polarized sunglasses are important when it’s bright outside and to reduce glare from reflective surfaces like water, snow, and roads.

🩹 First-Aid Kit – A basic first-aid kit with items like bandages, antiseptic, pain relievers, and any personal medications you may need.

🥶 Emergency Shelter – Pack an emergency bivy sack or space blanket for shelter in case of sudden weather changes.

🔥 Fire – A lighter, matches, or fire starter to help you build a fire for warmth or signaling in case of emergency. Along with matches, I also carry a multi-tool carabiner that has a fire starter, utility blade, screwdriver, and bottle opener.

🗡️ Multi-Tool and Repair Kit – A versatile tool/knife and repair kit to handle any task, from preparing food to making repairs.

Conclusion

The Upper Yosemite Falls Trail is a rewarding adventure that offers breathtaking views and a challenging climb.

Reaching the top of one of North America’s tallest waterfalls is an experience worth every step!

Want to hear something crazy? In 2025, my husband and I hiked this trail 5 times. Yes, it was a choice. No one forced us! 😜

If this guide inspires you to hike the Upper Yosemite Falls Trail, I’d love to hear about your adventure.

Leave a comment and share your experience!

🤩 Yosemite Trip Planning Resources

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This blog post is about the Upper Yosemite Falls hike.
This blog post is a beginner's guide on how to hike to Upper Yosemite Falls and Yosemite Point.