Yosemite Falls Trailhead: A Gateway to Majestic Heights
Hike to the top of Yosemite Falls, one of North America's tallest waterfalls, or enjoy an easy stroll to the base of the Lower Falls.
The Yosemite Falls Trailhead provides access to one of North America's tallest waterfalls, offering both a gentle walk to the base of the Lower Falls and a challenging climb to the top of Upper Yosemite Falls. With stunning views and a rich history, it's a must-visit destination in Yosemite National Park.
A brief summary to Yosemite Falls Trailhead
- Yosemite Falls Trail, TUOLUMNE MEADOWS, California, 95389, US
- +1209-372-0200
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Arrive early, especially during peak season, to find parking or utilize the free Yosemite Valley Shuttle to avoid congestion.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, especially if hiking the Upper Yosemite Falls Trail, as it is a strenuous climb.
- Check the Yosemite Falls webcam to assess water flow, as the falls can dry up in late summer or early fall.
- Stay on marked trails and be aware of slippery rocks, especially near the base of the falls.
- Consider hiking the trail in the spring when the water flow is at its peak for the most dramatic views.
Getting There
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Walking
From Yosemite Valley Lodge, walk east towards the Yosemite Falls area. Follow the signs for the Lower Yosemite Falls Trail. The trailhead is approximately a 0.5-mile walk from the lodge. Alternatively, from Yosemite Village, walk west for about 0.5 miles to reach the trailhead. The falls are visible from much of the valley, making them easy to locate.
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Public Transport
Take the free Yosemite Valley Shuttle to Shuttle Stop #6, Yosemite Falls. The Valleywide Shuttle serves all major areas within Yosemite Valley. From the shuttle stop, follow the paved path to the Lower Yosemite Falls Trail or cross the street to access the Upper Yosemite Falls Trailhead near Camp 4. The shuttle operates from 7 am to 10 pm, with buses arriving every 12 to 22 minutes.
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Parking
Parking is available at the Yosemite Falls parking area across the street from Camp 4. However, parking in Yosemite Valley can be challenging, especially during peak season. If the Yosemite Falls parking area is full, consider parking at Yosemite Village or Curry Village and taking the free shuttle to Shuttle Stop #6. *Note: There is a $35 entrance fee per vehicle to enter Yosemite National Park, valid for seven days. Alternatively, a Yosemite Annual Pass can be purchased for $70. Reservations may be required to enter the park during peak hours (6 am to 2 pm) on certain days.*
Discover more about Yosemite Falls Trailhead
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Yosemite Valley Lodge
0.4 km
Experience Yosemite Valley from this ideally located lodge, offering comfortable rooms, convenient amenities, and easy access to park attractions.
Four Mile Trailhead
0.9 km
Hike Yosemite's Four Mile Trail for breathtaking views of Yosemite Valley, El Capitan, and Half Dome. A challenging climb to Glacier Point!
Yosemite Cemetery
1.4 km
Discover the stories of Yosemite's pioneers in this peaceful and historic cemetery nestled in the heart of Yosemite Valley.
Yosemite Wilderness Center
1.5 km
Your first stop for Yosemite wilderness adventures: permits, maps, and expert advice in the heart of Tuolumne Meadows.
Housekeeping Camp
2.0 km
Experience Yosemite's beauty with a touch of comfort at Housekeeping Camp, offering rustic lodging and stunning views in the heart of Yosemite Valley.
El Capitan Picnic Area
2.3 km
Picnic beneath a giant: Enjoy stunning views of El Capitan in Yosemite National Park at this accessible and scenic picnic spot.
The Ahwahnee
2.5 km
Experience Yosemite's grandeur at the Ahwahnee Hotel, a historic landmark offering luxury, stunning views, and a connection to the park's natural beauty.
Curry Village
2.8 km
Experience Yosemite Valley's charm at Curry Village: lodging, dining, activities, and stunning views beneath Glacier Point.
Cathedral Rocks
4.3 km
Experience the grandeur of Yosemite's Cathedral Rocks, a stunning natural landmark offering breathtaking views and challenging climbs.
Hanging Valley Viewpoint
4.7 km
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Yosemite's Tuolumne Meadows from Hanging Valley Viewpoint, where granite cliffs meet lush wilderness.
Vernal Falls Footbridge
4.8 km
Hike the iconic Mist Trail to Vernal Fall Footbridge for breathtaking views of Yosemite's powerful waterfall and stunning granite landscape.
Vernal Falls
5.4 km
Explore the stunning Vernal Falls in Yosemite National Park, a breathtaking natural wonder perfect for hiking and photography enthusiasts.
Yosemite Valley View
6.0 km
Experience the iconic Yosemite Valley from this easily accessible viewpoint, offering stunning vistas of El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall, and the Merced River.
Half Dome
6.1 km
Conquer Yosemite's iconic Half Dome: a challenging hike with breathtaking panoramic views from the summit. Permits required.
Sub dome
6.4 km
Conquer the Sub Dome, conquer Half Dome. A challenging climb with rewarding views in Yosemite National Park.
Unmissable attractions to see
Upper Yosemite Falls
0.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Upper Yosemite Falls, the tallest waterfall in North America, nestled in the stunning landscapes of Yosemite National Park.
Columbia Rock
0.5 km
Explore Columbia Rock: A Stunning Hiking Destination in Yosemite National Park with Breathtaking Views and Natural Beauty.
Swinging Bridge Picnic Area
0.7 km
Discover the serene beauty of Swinging Bridge Picnic Area in Yosemite National Park, a perfect spot for picnics and outdoor adventures amidst stunning scenery.
Lower Yosemite Fall Trailhead
0.7 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Lower Yosemite Fall, a spectacular waterfall trailhead in Yosemite National Park, perfect for hiking and photography.
Yosemite Valley Loop Trail
0.8 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Yosemite Valley Loop Trail, a stunning hiking route through America's iconic national park.
Yosemite Valley
0.8 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Yosemite Valley, a national reserve known for its majestic waterfalls and iconic granite formations, perfect for nature lovers.
Sentinel/Cook's Meadow Loop
0.8 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Sentinel/Cook's Meadow Loop, a serene hiking paradise in Yosemite National Park, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Lower Yosemite Fall Trl
0.8 km
Explore the stunning Lower Yosemite Fall Trail in California, where breathtaking views and serene nature await every visitor in Yosemite National Park.
Sentinel Beach Picnic Area
0.9 km
Discover the serene beauty of Sentinel Beach Picnic Area in Yosemite National Park, where nature meets relaxation for an unforgettable outdoor experience.
Yosemite Falls View
0.9 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Yosemite Falls View, a must-visit attraction in Yosemite National Park known for its stunning vistas and natural wonders.
Yosemite Valley Chapel
0.9 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Yosemite Valley Chapel, a historic gem nestled in the heart of Yosemite National Park, perfect for reflection and inspiration.
Cook's Meadow Loop
0.9 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Cook's Meadow Loop in Yosemite Valley, a serene trail with iconic views and diverse wildlife.
Lower Yosemite Fall Vista Point
1.0 km
Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Lower Yosemite Fall, a scenic spot in Yosemite National Park, perfect for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Sentinel Bridge
1.1 km
Experience the breathtaking views from Sentinel Bridge in Yosemite Valley, a must-see attraction for nature lovers and photographers.
Yosemite Village
1.1 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Yosemite Village, your gateway to California's iconic national park, rich in nature, history, and adventure.
Essential places to dine
Yosemite Lodge Food Court
0.3 km
Experience delicious meals amidst breathtaking views at Yosemite Lodge Food Court - where nature meets culinary delight.
The Mountain Room
0.3 km
Experience exceptional American cuisine with breathtaking views at The Mountain Room in Yosemite Valley Lodge.
The Loft at Degnan's
1.6 km
Discover The Loft at Degnan's - where delicious pizzas meet stunning Yosemite Valley views.
Village Grill
1.6 km
Experience delicious American cuisine at Village Grill in Yosemite National Park - a perfect stop for hungry adventurers!
The Ahwahnee Dining Room
2.4 km
Experience fine dining at The Ahwahnee Dining Room in Yosemite National Park - where culinary artistry meets breathtaking natural beauty.
The Ahwahnee Bar
2.5 km
Experience luxury dining at The Ahwahnee Bar amidst Yosemite's breathtaking scenery with craft cocktails and gourmet bites.
Curry Village Pizza Deck
2.8 km
Savor delicious pizza in the heart of Yosemite National Park at Curry Village Pizza Deck - where nature meets flavor.
Curry Village Dining Pavilion
2.8 km
Experience delightful dining amidst breathtaking views at Curry Village Dining Pavilion in Yosemite Valley.
Seven Tents Pavilion
2.8 km
Experience delightful dining at Seven Tents Pavilion amidst Yosemite Valley's breathtaking landscapes.
Taqueria @ Meadow Grill
2.8 km
Experience delicious grilled dishes amidst the stunning scenery of Yosemite Valley at Taqueria @ Meadow Grill.
The Skiers Grill
10.4 km
Discover The Skiers Grill: A cozy dining gem in Badger Pass Ski Area offering hearty breakfasts and delicious lunches amidst Yosemite's stunning scenery.
White Wolf Lodge Dining Room
14.8 km
Experience fine dining at White Wolf Lodge Dining Room amidst California's breathtaking High Sierra landscapes.
The River Restaurant & Lounge
16.0 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at The River Restaurant & Lounge, where breathtaking views meet delicious flavors in El Portal.
Wawona Hotel Dining Room
23.3 km
Experience delectable American cuisine surrounded by Yosemite's breathtaking beauty at Wawona Hotel Dining Room.
The Restaurant at Rush Creek Lodge
25.8 km
Experience authentic American cuisine amidst stunning natural beauty at The Restaurant at Rush Creek Lodge in Groveland.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Base Camp Eatery
0.3 km
Experience the flavors of Yosemite Valley at Base Camp Eatery, where delicious meals meet breathtaking views in a casual atmosphere.
Starbucks Yosemite
0.3 km
Experience a unique coffee haven in the heart of Yosemite National Park, where nature meets the comfort of Starbucks.
Yosemite Valley Lodge Gift Shop
0.4 km
Discover unique souvenirs and essential supplies at Yosemite Valley Lodge Gift Shop, your gateway to capturing the essence of Yosemite National Park.
Yosemite Valley Lodge Bike Stand
0.4 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Yosemite National Park on two wheels with the Yosemite Valley Lodge Bike Stand, an ideal adventure for all outdoor enthusiasts.
Yosemite Visitor Center
1.5 km
Explore Yosemite National Park's breathtaking beauty starting at the Visitor Center, your gateway to adventure, information, and unforgettable experiences.
Yosemite Village Parking
1.5 km
Discover the heart of Yosemite National Park with easy parking access to breathtaking views and a free shuttle service around the valley.
Degnan's Deli
1.6 km
Discover the delicious flavors of Degnan's Deli in Yosemite, where fresh ingredients meet stunning natural beauty for the perfect dining experience.
Village Store
1.6 km
Discover the ultimate convenience at The Village Store in Yosemite Valley, offering groceries and unique souvenirs for an unforgettable experience.
Housekeeping Camp Store
2.0 km
Explore Yosemite National Park with ease at Housekeeping Camp Store, your go-to for groceries and camping essentials amidst stunning natural beauty.
The Ahwahnee Sweet Shop
2.5 km
Discover sweet delights at The Ahwahnee Sweet Shop in Yosemite National Park, where delectable confections meet breathtaking natural beauty.
The Ahwahnee Gift Shop
2.5 km
Discover unique souvenirs and outdoor gear at The Ahwahnee Gift Shop, nestled in Yosemite Valley, capturing the spirit of nature's beauty.
Curry Village Coffee Corner
2.8 km
Experience the charm of Curry Village Coffee Corner, your perfect retreat in the heart of Yosemite National Park, offering delicious coffee and breathtaking views.
Curry Village Gift and Grocery
2.8 km
Explore the heart of Yosemite with unique souvenirs and grocery essentials at Curry Village Gift and Grocery.
Mountain Shop at Curry Village
2.8 km
Explore Yosemite with ease - the Mountain Shop at Curry Village is your go-to for outdoor gear, groceries, and expert advice.
Glacier Point Gift Shop & Snack Stand
2.9 km
Explore the Glacier Point Gift Shop & Snack Stand for unique souvenirs and tasty snacks amidst Yosemite's stunning beauty.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Mountain Room Lounge
0.4 km
Experience the breathtaking views and delicious local cuisine at The Mountain Room Lounge in Yosemite National Park.
Bar 1899
2.8 km
Experience the rustic charm of Bar 1899 in Yosemite Valley, where refreshing drinks and breathtaking views create unforgettable moments.
Dry Creek Bar
50.6 km
Discover unique cocktails and cozy lodging at Dry Creek Bar, a must-visit cocktail haven in the heart of Mammoth Lakes, California.
Tusks Bar
50.7 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Tusks Bar in Mammoth Lakes, where live music and sports create an unforgettable experience.
Steeps Bar
51.5 km
Discover Steeps Bar in Mammoth Lakes for a cozy atmosphere, delicious American cuisine, and stunning mountain views, perfect for any traveler.
Basin Bar
52.4 km
Unwind at Basin Bar in Mammoth Lakes, where friendly vibes and local brews blend seamlessly for an unforgettable après-adventure experience.
Grizzly Bar
53.9 km
Experience the warmth and charm of Grizzly Bar, a cozy destination in Mammoth Lakes offering delicious American cuisine and refreshing drinks.
Side Door Wine Bar & Cafe
55.2 km
Discover the perfect blend of exquisite wines and delightful cuisine at Side Door Wine Bar & Cafe in Mammoth Lakes, California.
Clocktower Cellar
55.4 km
Discover the charm of Clocktower Cellar, a cozy bar and restaurant in Mammoth Lakes, offering fine wines, delicious food, and a warm atmosphere.
Mammoth Brewing Company
55.4 km
Experience the best of Mammoth Lakes at Mammoth Brewing Company, where craft beer meets breathtaking scenery and great food.
Salsa's
55.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Salsa's in Mammoth Lakes, offering a fantastic drink selection and lively atmosphere amidst breathtaking mountain views.
Liberty Sports Bar and Grill
56.3 km
Experience the best of American cuisine and lively sports atmosphere at Liberty Sports Bar and Grill in Mammoth Lakes.
Black Velvet Coffee Roaster | Espresso & Wine Bar
56.4 km
Discover Black Velvet Coffee Roaster, a delightful espresso bar in Mammoth Lakes offering artisanal coffees and exquisite wines in a cozy atmosphere.
The Shed | Wine & Charcuterie
56.5 km
Experience the perfect blend of exquisite wines and artisanal charcuterie at The Shed | Wine & Charcuterie in Mammoth Lakes, CA.
Distant Brewing
57.1 km
Discover the best of craft brews and delicious American cuisine at Distant Brewing in Mammoth Lakes, the perfect spot for beer lovers.
