Situated inside Yosemite National Park, Yosemite Falls is the highest waterfall in North America. With an impressive height of 2,450 ft, Yosemite Falls offers splendid natural beauty, abundant wildlife and countless adventure activities. The fall is divided into three parts- the Upper Yosemite Falls, Middle Cascades and the Lower Yosemite Falls. All three parts of the fall are worth exploring and are accessible by scenic hiking trails inside the park.
You can also visit the popular viewpoints surrounding the fall during your USA tour, such as the Yosemite Falls Viewpoint or the Swinging Bridge Picnic Area. These viewpoints offer one of the best views of the falls and are an ideal place to unwind and relax amidst nature. Additionally, there is a museum inside the park, offering insights into the history of Yosemite. You can also indulge in fun activities like camping, rock climbing, fishing and wildlife spotting. To explore the scenic surroundings, you can also go on a cycling tour of the park.
Highlights
• Marvel at the breathtaking Yosemite Falls, renowned as the highest waterfall in North America.
• Enjoy a scenic hike to the different sections of the fall for an adventurous experience.
• Indulge in fun activities like fishing, camping, rock climbing or picnicking near the falls.
• Spot various wild animals and birds like bighorn sheep, fox, deer and woodpeckers.
• Explore other sections of the park like Yosemite Museum, Glacier Point, Swinging Bridge Picnic Area and Vernal Falls.
How To Reach
- By Car: Yosemite Falls is located around 185 km from the city centre of California. You can reach the falls in approximately 2 hours 40 minutes via the CA-41 N route. You can either take a taxi or rent a private car to reach the falls. Once you reach the Yosemite National Park, you can either take the shuttle bus or hike towards the Yosemite Falls.
- By Bus: YARTS or Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System offers bus services from different locations in California, directly to the falls. You can simply book a round-trip ticket, making your journey even more convenient.
Best Time To Visit
Yosemite Falls is an all-year-round destination, offering unique experiences throughout the year.
- Best Season: Plan your visit to the falls between the months of April and June during which the fall has the maximum flow of water.
- Best Day of the Week: To avoid the weekend crowd and peacefully explore the place, you can visit on the weekdays.
- Best Time of the Day: You can visit the falls during the early hours to enjoy a peaceful ambience with fewer crowds.
Other Essential Information
- Wear sturdy shoes if you are planning to cover the hiking trails.
- Carry a warm jacket as the temperatures drop after sunset.
- Carry sufficient water to keep yourself hydrated throughout the day.
- Apply sunscreen properly to protect yourself from skin burns.
- Keep your environment clean and dispose of garbage in the dustbins.
- Refrain from getting too close to wild animals or offering them any kind of food.
- Consider staying overnight amidst nature and its serene ambience for a wholesome experience.
Go on a hike
The Yosemite Falls offers many exciting and scenic hiking trails for you to explore. The Lower Yosemite Falls is a short and easy hike for beginners which takes you up close to the falls, at a height of 320 ft. The Upper Yosemite Falls is the most popular and strenuous hike which requires a certain level of physical fitness. However, once you reach the top, the stunning views will surely make all the effort worth it. Another short hike to try is the Yosemite Point which starts from the Upper Yosemite Falls.
Enjoy rock climbing
One of the most loved and thrilling activities at Yosemite Falls is rock climbing. Whether you are a beginner or a skilled person, this climb is surely rewarding for all kinds of climbers. Being tied to a rope, you will have to climb a granite rock, during which you might fall back several times. However, keep climbing so that once you reach the top, you will be rewarded with unparalleled views of your scenic surroundings. After your climb, you can sit back, relax and admire the majestic views.
Spot wildlife
Apart from being a natural wonder, Yosemite Falls is also an ideal spot for all wildlife enthusiasts. The Yosemite National Park is home to more than 400 species of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians and fishes. Some of the mammals that you can spot near the falls are black bears, coyotes, mule deers and cougars. Additionally, it is an ideal place for bird watching where you can spot various birds like American dippers, dark-eyed junco, steller’s jay, American robin and peregrine falcons.
Camp near the falls
There are several camping sites near the Yosemite Falls where you can spend the night. One of the most popular camping sites is the North Pine Campground which is located amidst towering pine trees and right next to the serene Merced River. Upper Pines Campground offers cosy camps, delicious meals and an astounding view of the falls. Camp 4 is another popular spot which is particularly known for its rock climbing and adventure activities. For a more rugged experience, stay the night at Backpacking Campsites which requires a wilderness permit. Away from the crowd, it allows you to feel closer to nature and offers the best views of the falls and Yosemite Valley.
