Upper Yosemite Fall
Hike to the top of Yosemite Falls for unmatched views of Yosemite Valley and the High Sierra, a challenging but rewarding Yosemite experience.
Hike to the top of one of North America's tallest waterfalls, Upper Yosemite Fall, via a strenuous trail offering breathtaking views of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and the High Sierra. The 7.2-mile round trip is a challenging climb, but the panoramic vistas are well worth the effort.
A brief summary to Upper Yosemite Fall
- 9026 Lost Arrow Rd, TUOLUMNE MEADOWS, California, 95389, US
- +1209-372-0200
- Visit website
Local tips
- Start early in the morning to avoid crowds and the heat of the day.
- Bring at least 3-4 liters of water per person, especially during summer.
- Wear sturdy hiking boots and consider using trekking poles for the steep descent.
- Check the Yosemite Falls webcam to assess water flow, which typically peaks in May or June.
- Be aware that there are no restrooms along the trail itself.
Getting There
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Shuttle
From anywhere in Yosemite Valley, take the free Yosemite Valley Shuttle to stop #7, which is near Camp 4. From the shuttle stop, walk towards the back of the Camp 4 parking lot; the trailhead is located on the opposite side. The shuttle runs frequently, approximately every 12-22 minutes on the Valleywide route and every 8-12 minutes on the East Valley route, from 7 AM to 10 PM. There is no cost to ride the shuttle.
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Walking
If you are near Yosemite Village, walk west along the Valley Loop Trail for approximately 0.5 miles to reach the Yosemite Falls Trailhead behind Camp 4. Follow signs for the Upper Yosemite Fall Trail. Camp 4 has restrooms and water. From Yosemite Valley Lodge, walk east towards Yosemite Village, then follow the directions above. Allow approximately 15-20 minutes walking time from either location.
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Parking
If driving, parking is available at the Yosemite Falls parking lot across from Camp 4. This lot fills up quickly, especially during peak season, so arrive early. If the lot is full, park elsewhere in Yosemite Valley and take the free shuttle to Camp 4. Parking is free within Yosemite Valley, but a park entrance fee is required to enter Yosemite National Park. As of July 2025, the entrance fee is $35 per vehicle, valid for seven days. Alternatively, purchase a Yosemite Annual Pass for $70 or an America the Beautiful Pass for $80 for unlimited visits to National Parks for one year.
Discover more about Upper Yosemite Fall
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Yosemite Cemetery
1.1 km
Discover the stories etched in stone at Yosemite Cemetery, a serene and historic burial ground where pioneers and park figures rest amidst the valley's grandeur.
Yosemite Wilderness Center
1.3 km
Your gateway to Yosemite's backcountry: permits, bear canisters, expert advice, and essential resources for unforgettable wilderness adventures.
Yosemite Valley Lodge
1.5 km
Experience the majesty of Yosemite Falls from Yosemite Valley Lodge, offering comfortable lodging and convenient access to the park's iconic attractions and natural wonders.
The Ahwahnee
2.3 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.
Housekeeping Camp
2.3 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.
Four Mile Trailhead
2.6 km
Hike Yosemite's Four Mile Trail for breathtaking views of Yosemite Valley, El Capitan, and Half Dome. A challenging climb to Glacier Point!
Curry Village
3.1 km
Experience Yosemite Valley's charm at Curry Village: lodging, dining, activities, and stunning views beneath Glacier Point.
El Capitan Picnic Area
3.8 km
Picnic beneath a giant: Enjoy stunning views of El Capitan in Yosemite National Park at this accessible and scenic picnic spot.
Washburn Point
4.5 km
Experience Yosemite's grandeur from Washburn Point: panoramic views of Half Dome, Nevada and Vernal Falls, and the High Sierra await along the scenic Glacier Point Road.
El Capitan Meadow
5.1 km
Experience the awe-inspiring presence of El Capitan, the world's largest granite monolith, from the serene beauty of El Capitan Meadow in Yosemite Valley.
Vernal Falls Footbridge
5.2 km
Experience the majesty of Yosemite's Vernal Fall from the iconic footbridge, a moderate hike offering breathtaking views and a taste of the park's natural splendor along the famed Mist Trail.
Vernal Falls
5.7 km
Explore the stunning Vernal Falls in Yosemite National Park, a breathtaking natural wonder perfect for hiking and photography enthusiasts.
Half Dome
5.7 km
Conquer Yosemite's iconic Half Dome: a challenging hike with breathtaking panoramic views from the summit. Permits required.
Cathedral Rocks
5.8 km
Experience the grandeur of Yosemite's Cathedral Rocks, a stunning natural landmark offering breathtaking views and challenging climbs.
Sub dome
6.0 km
Conquer the Sub Dome, conquer Half Dome. A challenging climb with rewarding views in Yosemite National Park.
Unmissable attractions to see
Yosemite Falls
0.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Yosemite Falls, a must-see natural wonder in Yosemite National Park, California.
Upper Yosemite Falls
0.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Upper Yosemite Falls, a majestic waterfall in Yosemite National Park, perfect for adventure and stunning vistas.
Upper Yosemite Falls Trail
0.2 km
Explore the stunning Upper Yosemite Falls Trail, a breathtaking hike in Yosemite Valley offering unparalleled views and natural beauty.
Lower Yosemite Fall Vista Point
0.8 km
Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Lower Yosemite Fall, a scenic spot in Yosemite National Park, perfect for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Lower Yosemite Fall Trl
1.0 km
Explore the stunning Lower Yosemite Fall Trail in California, where breathtaking views and serene nature await every visitor in Yosemite National Park.
Yosemite Falls View
1.1 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.
Indian Village of Ahwahnee
1.2 km
Explore the Indian Village of Ahwahnee in Yosemite Valley, a cultural gem showcasing the heritage of the Ahwahneechee people amidst stunning natural beauty.
Yosemite Museum
1.2 km
Discover the captivating history and ecology of Yosemite at the Yosemite Museum, a key stop for all visitors to this stunning national park.
Lower Yosemite Fall Trailhead
1.2 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Lower Yosemite Fall, a spectacular waterfall trailhead in Yosemite National Park, perfect for hiking and photography.
Yosemite Exploration Center
1.2 km
Yosemite Exploration Center: Your Gateway to Unlocking the Wonders of Yosemite National Park's Natural Beauty.
Cook's Meadow Loop
1.2 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Cook's Meadow Loop in Yosemite Valley, a serene trail with iconic views and diverse wildlife.
Yosemite Valley Visitor Center
1.2 km
Experience nature's beauty at the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center, your gateway to adventure in Yosemite National Park.
Yosemite Valley Welcome Center
1.2 km
Explore the breathtaking Yosemite National Park from the Yosemite Valley Welcome Center, your gateway to adventure and discovery in nature's masterpiece.
Columbia Rock
1.2 km
Explore Columbia Rock: A Stunning Hiking Destination in Yosemite National Park with Breathtaking Views and Natural Beauty.
Yosemite Village
1.2 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
The Loft at Degnan's
1.4 km
Discover The Loft at Degnan's - where delicious pizzas meet stunning Yosemite Valley views.
The Mountain Room
1.5 km
Experience exceptional American cuisine with breathtaking views at The Mountain Room in Yosemite Valley Lodge.
Yosemite Lodge Food Court
1.5 km
Experience delicious meals amidst breathtaking views at Yosemite Lodge Food Court - where nature meets culinary delight.
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
2.3 km
Experience fine dining at The Ahwahnee Dining Room in Yosemite National Park - where culinary artistry meets breathtaking natural beauty.
The Ahwahnee Bar
2.3 km
Experience luxury dining at The Ahwahnee Bar amidst Yosemite's breathtaking scenery with craft cocktails and gourmet bites.
Curry Village Pizza Deck
3.1 km
Savor delicious pizza in the heart of Yosemite National Park at Curry Village Pizza Deck - where nature meets flavor.
Taqueria @ Meadow Grill
3.1 km
Experience delicious grilled dishes amidst the stunning scenery of Yosemite Valley at Taqueria @ Meadow Grill.
Seven Tents Pavilion
3.1 km
Experience delightful dining at Seven Tents Pavilion amidst Yosemite Valley's breathtaking landscapes.
Curry Village Dining Pavilion
3.1 km
Experience delightful dining amidst breathtaking views at Curry Village Dining Pavilion in Yosemite Valley.
The Skiers Grill
12.0 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
13.4 km
Experience fine dining at White Wolf Lodge Dining Room amidst California's breathtaking High Sierra landscapes.
The River Restaurant & Lounge
17.2 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
25.0 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
Yosemite Visitor Center
1.2 km
Explore Yosemite National Park's breathtaking beauty starting at the Visitor Center, your gateway to adventure, information, and unforgettable experiences.
Yosemite Valley Lodge Bike Stand
1.4 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.
Degnan's Deli
1.4 km
Discover the delicious flavors of Degnan's Deli in Yosemite, where fresh ingredients meet stunning natural beauty for the perfect dining experience.
Yosemite Valley Lodge Gift Shop
1.4 km
Discover unique souvenirs and essential supplies at Yosemite Valley Lodge Gift Shop, your gateway to capturing the essence of Yosemite National Park.
Starbucks Yosemite
1.5 km
Experience a unique coffee haven in the heart of Yosemite National Park, where nature meets the comfort of Starbucks.
Base Camp Eatery
1.5 km
Experience the flavors of Yosemite Valley at Base Camp Eatery, where delicious meals meet breathtaking views in a casual atmosphere.
Village Store
1.5 km
Discover the ultimate convenience at The Village Store in Yosemite Valley, offering groceries and unique souvenirs for an unforgettable experience.
Yosemite Village Parking
1.7 km
Discover the heart of Yosemite National Park with easy parking access to breathtaking views and a free shuttle service around the valley.
The Ahwahnee Gift Shop
2.3 km
Discover unique souvenirs and outdoor gear at The Ahwahnee Gift Shop, nestled in Yosemite Valley, capturing the spirit of nature's beauty.
The Ahwahnee Sweet Shop
2.3 km
Discover sweet delights at The Ahwahnee Sweet Shop in Yosemite National Park, where delectable confections meet breathtaking natural beauty.
Housekeeping Camp Store
2.3 km
Explore Yosemite National Park with ease at Housekeeping Camp Store, your go-to for groceries and camping essentials amidst stunning natural beauty.
Curry Village Gift and Grocery
3.1 km
Explore the heart of Yosemite with unique souvenirs and grocery essentials at Curry Village Gift and Grocery.
Curry Village Coffee Corner
3.1 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.
Mountain Shop at Curry Village
3.1 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
3.8 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
1.4 km
Experience the breathtaking views and delicious local cuisine at The Mountain Room Lounge in Yosemite National Park.
Bar 1899
3.1 km
Experience the rustic charm of Bar 1899 in Yosemite Valley, where refreshing drinks and breathtaking views create unforgettable moments.
Dry Creek Bar
50.5 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
50.6 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Tusks Bar in Mammoth Lakes, where live music and sports create an unforgettable experience.
Steeps Bar
51.4 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
53.8 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
55.1 km
Discover the perfect blend of exquisite wines and delightful cuisine at Side Door Wine Bar & Cafe in Mammoth Lakes, California.
Clocktower Cellar
55.2 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
55.3 km
Experience the best of Mammoth Lakes at Mammoth Brewing Company, where craft beer meets breathtaking scenery and great food.
Salsa's
55.6 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
56.2 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
56.3 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
56.4 km
Experience the perfect blend of exquisite wines and artisanal charcuterie at The Shed | Wine & Charcuterie in Mammoth Lakes, CA.
Distant Brewing
57.0 km
Discover the best of craft brews and delicious American cuisine at Distant Brewing in Mammoth Lakes, the perfect spot for beer lovers.
