Vernal and Nevada Falls via Mist Trail in Yosemite National Park (2026 guide)

So, you want to tackle the most popular and most iconic hike in Yosemite National Park? I’m glad you’re here. I’m going to tell you everything you need to know about hiking to Vernal and Nevada Falls via the Mist Trail in Yosemite! 🙌

The Mist Trail is steep and exhilarating, especially the granite steps right beside Vernal Fall. In spring, prepared to get soaked from the waterfall’s mist. Personally, that’s my favorite part – it’s like a natural waterpark!

The Mist Trail hike takes you to two stunning waterfalls. Vernal Fall is a 317-foot cascade whereas Nevada Fall is 594 feet tall. I’m sure you’ve seen lots of videos on social media about this hike. It’s amazing and worth every step, but don’t underestimate it. The hike is not easy!

Read through this full guide about hiking the Mist Trail to Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall so you know what to expect and how to prepare. 💦

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Vernal and Nevada Falls via Mist Trail Stats and Map

The Mist Trail hike to Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall is one of the best hikes in Yosemite Valley. The valley is also the most popular area in the entire park. During the spring and summer months, prepare to share the trail with lots of other eager hikers.

There’s a reason this is the most popular hike in Yosemite National Park. When the waterfall, specifically Vernal Fall, is at its peak flow, hiking up the stairs section on the Mist Trail is like being caught in a torrential downpour. It’s an epic experience!

The hike is actually not that long, but there’s a good bit of elevation gain. And some sections are literally just steps – it’s like a stairmaster.

Just because you see someone hiking a trail on social media, doesn’t mean it’s easy and doable for everyone. That’s why I created this trail guide, so you know what to expect and how to prepare yourself!

Mist Trail Stats

⚠️ Mist Trail Repair Work (2026 update)! Starting July 27 through October, the Mist Trail from its junction with the John Muir Trail (above Vernal Fall Footbridge) to the top of Vernal Fall will be open Fridays through Sundays and on holidays. It will also be open Mondays through Thursdays from 3:30 PM to 7 AM (when safe). The John Muir Trail is an alternate route to the top of Vernal Fall at other times.

Mist Trail Map

Yosemite National Park 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 this year. (updated June 3, 2026).

Mist Trail Turn Around Points

A great thing about having free will is that you don’t have to hike the entire Mist Trail. There are several options depending on your skill level and personal preference.

Most people tend to hike to the top of Vernal Fall then turn around. Those with children will just hike to the Vernal Fall Footbridge. If you have a strong desire to reach the top of Nevada Fall, go for it! Just know your limits. 🙂

1. Vernal Fall Footbridge

• 0.9 miles (1.4 km) one way
• First view of Vernal Fall
• Bathrooms are located here (May to October)
• Drinking water available here (May to October)

2. Mist Trail Granite Staircase

• 1.2 mile (1.9 km) one way to reach the start of the stairs
• 600+ steps
• The iconic mist-soaked staircase
• Be careful – it may be slippery!
• Bring a rain jacket or poncho – you might get drenched 💦

3. Top of Vernal Fall

• 1.5 miles (2.4 km) one way
• Close-up view of Vernal Fall cascading over the cliff (please stay behind the guardrail)

4. Top of Nevada Fall

• 3 miles (4.8 km) one way
• Incredible views at the top of Nevada Fall

Mist Trail and John Muir Trail Trailhead

The Mist Trail Trailhead (also known as the Mist Trail and John Muir Trail Trailhead) is located near Happy Isles (shuttle stop #16).

📍 Google Maps Location: Mist Trail and John Muir Trail Trailhead

🅿️ Trailhead Parking: There is no parking directly at the trailhead. The most ideal place to park is either at the Yosemite Valley Trailhead Parking (0.5 miles / 0.8 km from the trailhead) or Curry Village (1 mile / 1.6 km from the trailhead). You might also find roadside parking along Happy Isles Loop Road.

🗺️ Distance to Trailhead: The trailhead is about 1 mile (1.6 km) from Curry Village and 2.5 miles (4 km) from the Yosemite Village.

🚗 Parking Tips: The parking lots closest to the trailhead fill up fast, especially during summer months and holidays. If you’re visiting during summer or on a holiday, I suggest finding a parking spot before 7 AM.

🚻 Facilities: Restrooms (flush toilets) and drinking water are available at Happy Isles. You can also find flush toilets and drinking water at the Vernal Fall Footbridge (seasonally available).

🚌 Shuttle Option: You can take the free Yosemite Valley shuttle to Happy Isles (stop #16) which is located just 0.1 miles (0.2 km) from the trailhead.

Best Time to Hike the Mist Trail in Yosemite National Park

☀️ Late Spring and Early Summer (May-early June): These months are by far the best times to experience Yosemite’s stunning waterfalls! The peak flow, from May to early June, is fueled by snowmelt from the winter season, transforming the waterfalls into powerful, mesmerizing cascades.

If catching the waterfalls at their most impressive is your main goal, I highly recommend visiting Yosemite in May. The weather is warm but not overwhelming, the summer crowds haven’t arrived yet, and the waterfalls are nothing short of magical!

Be aware that some years, peak flow may be earlier than normal. For example, in 2026, the waterfalls hit peak flow much earlier (sometime around April). The previous winter snowpack was so light that the waterfalls started drying up early in the season.

🌷 Early to Mid-Spring (March-May): The waterfalls start to come back to life in March and April. They may not be at peak flow just yet, but as the snow at higher elevations begins to melt, the waterfalls grow stronger day by day.

In 2026, a major winter storm hit Yosemite National Park in mid-February, dumping a significant amount of snow. Soon after, a heat wave accelerated the snowmelt, creating massive waterfalls throughout the park in March.

If you’re hoping to see waterfalls at their peak, keep an eye on the weather forecast and check Yosemite’s current conditions page for updates on river levels, waterfall flow, and snowpack. The park’s webcams are also a great way to see how Yosemite Falls is flowing before your visit.

🏞️ Summer and Fall (June-November): Waterfalls in Yosemite Valley can still be flowing strongly in early summer, especially after winters with a deep snowpack. By late summer and into fall, the waterfalls begin to shrink, and some dry up completely.

Vernal and Nevada Falls flow year-round but their size reduces significantly during this time of year. Occasionally, fall rainstorms can bring them back to life for a short time.

If seeing waterfalls is your main goal, August through November usually isn’t the best time to visit Yosemite National Park, but it’s still worth keeping an eye on the weather. After a good stretch of rain, the waterfalls can surprise you with a stronger flow.

☃️ Winter Closures: The lower section of the Mist Trail near Vernal Fall and the upper portion of the John Muir Trail, from Clark Point to the top of Nevada Fall, closes in winter due to the risk of falling ice/rock and other hazardous wintery conditions.

Even on the sections that remain open, winter conditions can make them dangerously icy. Always check Yosemite’s current trail conditions before setting off on your hike!

If weather permits, there is an alternate winter route available to access Vernal and Nevada Falls. Learn more about the winter route HERE.

If you plan to hike the winter route, be prepared with microspikes, hiking poles, and the 10 essentials for hiking.

Update: My husband and I hiked the Mist Trail on January 9 and 27, 2026 and the entire trail was still open! The steps were insanely icy on the 9th. They were also icy on the 27th but the ice was a thinner layer which was very dangerous because we didn’t even see it until we stepped on a very slippery step! We wore microspikes each time once we noticed the ice and had no issues ascending or descending. So, if the steps along Mist Trail near Vernal Fall are open in the winter, make sure you carry traction devices for your shoes and hiking poles! You do NOT want to slip and fall on these steps. 🫣

Mist Trail to Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall: Step-by-Step Directions

This blog post focuses on hiking the Mist Trail (because that’s the trail people have heard of), but what people don’t realize is that the actual best route is the Mist Trail and John Muir Trail Loop.

Basically, you go up the Mist Trail to Vernal and Nevada Falls then go down the John Muir Trail. It’s so much better than retracing your steps back down the Mist Trail, especially during peak season when the Mist Trail becomes congested with tourists.

The Mist Trail and John Muir Trail Loop is about 7 miles (11.3 km) roundtrip with 2,200 feet of elevation gain. If the upper portion of the John Muir Trail is open, I highly recommend completing the loop!

⛔ Trail Closure: The John Muir Trail, between Clark Point and Panorama Trail junction (near the top of Nevada Fall), aka the “ice cut,” is closed through mid-July for trail repairs. A detour is available via the Mist Trail – see map for alternate route.

Beginning of the Mist Trail

Whether you took the shuttle to Happy Isles or walked from one of the nearby parking areas, follow the signs for Mist Trail.

Walk about 0.1 miles (0.2 km) down the road and across the Happy Isles Bridge to reach the Mist Trail and John Muir Trail Trailhead.

The trail is entirely paved for about 0.9 miles (1.4 km). It’s a steep, uphill climb almost the entire way before reaching the Vernal Fall Footbridge.

Think of this first section as a warmup for what’s the come. 😉

Vernal Fall Footbridge

At the footbridge you will catch the first glimpse of Vernal Fall cascading in the distance. This is a great turnaround point if you have young children or just don’t want to go any further. The next section will be a doozy (i.e. lots and lots of steps), so know your limits.

Near the footbridge you will find flush toilets and drinking water (available seasonally). If your next stop is Vernal Fall, continue following the Mist Trail past the restrooms.

The Mist Trail from here on out will no longer be paved.

Mist Trail – John Muir Trail Junction

In about 0.2 miles (0.3 km) past the footbridge, you will come across a trail junction. Continue straight to stay on the Mist Trail.

The trail on the left is the John Muir Trail. You could also take John Muir Trail to both Vernal and Nevada Falls, but I will discuss this route briefly a little later.

Follow the Mist Trail past the junction for about 0.2 miles (0.3 km) until you reach the start of the famous granite stairway.

Mist Trail Granite Stairway

Are you ready for the most exciting part of this entire hike!? If you hiking this trail in spring or early summer, be prepared to get drenched!

If you would rather not get soaked, this is a good time to throw on your rain jacket or poncho. The steps can be slippery so take your time and be careful!

The closeup view of Vernal Fall and feeling the refreshing mist hit your face takes away from the fact that you’re walking up so many steps – approximately 600 steps. 😮‍💨

You will go through a super cool natural tunnel. This is where things can get crazy! On the other side of the tunnel, the mist becomes even more aggressive. In late summer/fall, it’s not bad, but in spring/early summer, the mist can get intense!

If you go at the right time, you’ll see a rainbow – maybe even a double rainbow – at the base of Vernal Fall. There’s a nice platform just past the tunnel where you can stop, rest, and let others go by.

The hardest part, in my opinion, is the steps once you get out of the misty section. They are so big! My heart rate shoots up so fast stepping up on those big steps. I always see people taking breaks here.

You’re almost there! Just a few more steps until you reach the top of Vernal Fall.

Top of Vernal Fall

At the top of Vernal Fall, take a moment to relax and soak in the incredible views. This is a perfect spot to catch your breath and appreciate the sheer power and beauty of the waterfall.

For those looking to snap an “Instagram-worthy” photo, there’s an amazing vantage point at the corner of the guardrails near Vernal Fall. Just remember to stay behind the railing – it’s there to protect you!

Mist Trail to Nevada Fall

Ready to continue your adventure to Nevada Fall? Head upward along the Mist Trail, passing by the serene Emerald Pool and the picturesque Silver Apron.

While these spots may look inviting, swimming in this area is extremely dangerous due to the treacherous currents. There are clear signs that warn against swimming here.

There is a vault toilet near the top of Vernal Fall. No drinking water though! Unless you filter water but be careful getting water in this area – you do NOT want to slip and fall here upstream from the waterfall.

Continue following the Mist Trail.

Mist Trail – Clark Point Junction

At the 1.7-mile (2.7-km) mark, you will come across another trail junction. Continue straight (towards the left) to stay on the Mist Trail.

The trail on the right heads to Clark Point which is an incredible viewpoint that we will hit on the way back down via the John Muir Trail.

The next 1.3 miles (2.1 km) past the trail junction features steep, rocky switchbacks and a lot more steps. Pace yourself and take breaks to enjoy the stunning surroundings along the way.

Top of Nevada Fall

At about the 3-mile (4.8-km) mark, you will reach the top of Nevada Fall! Head over to the Nevada Fall Footbridge to watch the roaring Merced River flow over the cliff.

The large granite dome towering above Nevada Fall is Liberty Cap. For a unique perspective of Nevada Fall, head to the right of the bridge to find an additional viewpoint offering a stunning side view of the cascade.

Find a nice spot on the granite to relax, eat snacks, and drink water.

⛔ Warning: Do NOT get in the river! Even if the water looks calm, don’t do it. It’s not worth the risk of slipping and being taken by the current over the waterfall – it’s not a survivable fall. I’m so serious. Please do not swim in the river upstream from Nevada Fall.

Panorama Trail – John Muir Trail Junction

Ready to complete the Mist Trail and John Muir Trail Loop? Continue past the Nevada Fall Footbridge and in about 0.1 miles (0.2 km) you will reach a junction.

The trail on the left is the Panorama Trail. This is one of my favorite trails in Yosemite! But let’s save that hike for another day.

Take a right onto the John Muir Trail.

John Muir Trail

Going down the John Muir Trail is so much better than heading back down the Mist Trail. It’s less crowded and a more gradual decline with a lot less steps.

You’ll be treated to sweeping views of Nevada Fall, the iconic Half Dome, and the towering Liberty Cap.

Clark Point

In about 1 mile you will reach Clark Point. This is a great spot to rest for a bit before finishing up the hike.

The views from Clark Point are so beautiful! You can see Nevada Fall from here. If you’re interested in seeing a different perspective of Vernal Fall, take a right on the Clark Point cutoff trail.

In about 0.3 miles (0.5 km), you will reach the viewpoint. There’s a short side trail to reach this spot, so keep an eye out. It’ll be on the left. Be prepared for a short but steep climb back up to Clark Point.

If you decided not to check out the Vernal Fall viewpoint, take a left at Clark Point to continue on the John Muir Trail. If you are coming up from the Clark Point cutoff trail, then continue straight back on the John Muir Trail.

John Muir Trail – Mist Trail Junction

Follow the John Muir Trail for about 1.5 miles (2.4 km) until you reach another trail junction. You will go down a lot of switchbacks before reaching this junction. Thankfully, you’re going downhill and not up!

At the junction, take a left to get back onto the Mist Trail.

Finish the Hike

Things will start to look familiar again as you pass the restrooms and Vernal Fall Footbridge.

Follow the paved Mist Trail back to the trailhead.

Congrats, you did it! 🥳

Mist Trail Alternate Hiking Routes

There are different routes you can take when hiking the Mist Trail in Yosemite National Park. We just discussed the Mist Trail and John Muir Trail Loop, so now let’s look at three more popular routes.

These routes are important to know because some sections of the Mist Trail and John Muir Trail can close temporarily whether it be for seasonal winter closure or for trail work.

1. Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall via Mist Trail

The Mist Trail to Nevada Fall is an excellent hiking option for those seeking a rewarding adventure in Yosemite. The trail offers stunning views of two iconic waterfalls – Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall.

The climb is challenging but the payoff is worth every step. This route will lead you to the top of both waterfalls!

🥾 Hiking Tip: You can retrace your steps down the Mist Trail to complete this hike, but this route isn’t recommended due to risk of congestion, especially during peak season. The recommended route is to take the John Muir Trail back down to return to the trailhead.

2. Vernal Fall and Clark Point via Mist Trail and JMT Loop

This is the preferred route if just hiking to Vernal Fall via Mist Trail.

Begin your journey on the Mist Trail, where you’ll tackle over 600 granite steps while feeling the invigorating spray of Vernal Fall as you ascend to the top.

Take the Clark Point cutoff trail to reach Clark Point offering incredible views of Nevada Fall in the distance along with Liberty Cap and Half Dome.

Then hop onto the John Muir Trail to return to the trailhead.

3. Vernal and Nevada Falls via John Muir Trail

The John Muir Trail spans 211 miles (340 km), stretching from the iconic Yosemite Valley to the summit of Mount Whitney – the highest peak in the contiguous United States.

Within Yosemite, this renowned trail intersects with the Mist Trail, offering hikers an alternative route to the same breathtaking landmarks.

The John Muir Trail to Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall is an excellent hiking option for those seeking a less crowded and more scenic route to these iconic Yosemite waterfalls.

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

Tips for Hiking the Mist Trail in Yosemite National Park

1. Plan Your Route: There are multiple route options along the Mist Trail and John Muir Trail, each offering unique experiences. Choose the route that best matches your abilities and hiking goals. Plan your route in advance, carry a physical map and compass, and download offline maps!

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

3. Be Physically Prepared: Both the Mist Trail and John Muir Trail can be quite challenging. It’s a good idea to train for these trails by strength training and completing cardio exercises for endurance.

4. Be Bear Aware: Black bears are active within Yosemite National Park. Follow these guidelines to avoid any negative interactions with a black bear.

🐻 Note: Bear spray is prohibited in Yosemite National Park!

5. 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.

Mist Trail vs John Muir Trail: Which One is Right for You

✅ Reasons to hike the Mist Trail:

1. Best view of Vernal Fall.
2. Unique experience of hiking through the mist of Vernal Fall (sometimes it’s a light mist and other times it’s a torrential down pour). This is the best part of the Mist Trail in my opinion!
3. Climbing up 600 granite steps can be a fun challenge.
4. Shorter, more direct route to Vernal Fall (1.5 miles / 2.4 km one way) and Nevada Fall (3 miles / 4.8 km one way) as compared to the John Muir Trail.

✅ Reasons to hike the John Muir Trail:

1. Not as popular as the Mist Trail, so you will have a quieter, more peaceful hiking experience.
2. Slightly longer distance to the top of Nevada Fall but less strenuous climb.
3. Avoids the slippery granite steps along the Mist Trail.
4. Incredible views of Nevada Fall, Liberty Cap, and Half Dome.
5. More chances of seeing wildlife due to lesser foot traffic.

What to Bring to Yosemite National Park

🎟️ 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.

👚 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 👇

• Base layer: REI Co-op Sahara Shade Hoodie (warm/mild conditions) and REI Co-op Midweight Long-Sleeve Base Layer (cooler conditions)
• Fleece mid layer: Cotopaxi Teca Fleece Full-Zip Jacket
• Down mid layer: Cotopaxi Fuego Hooded Down Jacket
• Outer shell: In the summer I always pack a light windbreaker, such as the Cotopaxi Teca Crop Windbreaker or the RevolutionRace Unit Light Windbreaker. Make sure to also pack a waterproof rain jacket – I like the Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Jacket.

🩳 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 👇

• Cotopaxi Losdos Zip-Off Pants
• RevolutionRace Breezy Ankle Outdoor Pants
• Baleaf Fleece-Lined Jogger Pants
• RevolutionRace Summit Pocket Tights
• Revolution Race Hike & Dive Shorts

🥾 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 👇

• Short walks and sightseeing: Cotopaxi Kapai 1.5L Del Dia Hip Pack
• Short, easy to moderate day hikes: REI Co-op Flash 22L Pack
• Long, moderate to challenging day hikes: REI Co-op Trail 25L Pack or Cotopaxi Luzon Del Dia 24L Pack

🥢 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.

💩 Waste Disposal Supplies – WAG bags, trowel, toilet paper, pee cloth, wipes, Ziploc bags – be sure to pack out everything!

Conclusion

If you’re thinking about adding the Mist Trail to your Yosemite National Park itinerary, I hope you feel more prepared after reading this guide!

Planning your Yosemite trip in the spring or early summer? I highly recommend making time to hike the Mist Trail to Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall, then take the John Muir Trail back down for one incredibly scenic hike!

If this guide inspires you to hike to Vernal and Nevada Falls via the Mist Trail in Yosemite National Park, I’d love to hear about your adventure. Leave a comment and share your experience!

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