Upper Yosemite Falls Trail: A Stairway to Yosemite's Soul
Hike to the top of Yosemite Falls for unparalleled views of Yosemite Valley and a challenging workout amidst stunning natural beauty.
The Upper Yosemite Falls Trail is a strenuous but rewarding hike to the top of North America's tallest waterfall, offering panoramic views of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and the High Sierra. This historic trail, carved into the mountainside, is a must-do for experienced hikers seeking an unforgettable Yosemite experience.
A brief summary to Upper Yosemite Falls Trail
- Yosemite Valley, California, 95389, US
Local tips
- Start your hike early to avoid the crowds and the heat of the day. The trail is exposed and can get very hot in the summer.
- Bring plenty of water (3-4 liters per person) as there are no water sources along the trail.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good traction, as the trail is steep and rocky.
- Check the weather forecast before you go and be prepared for changing conditions.
- Consider hiking to Columbia Rock (2 miles round trip) for a shorter, less strenuous option with rewarding views.
Getting There
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Walking
The Upper Yosemite Falls Trailhead is located in Yosemite Valley near Camp 4. From Yosemite Valley Lodge, walk east towards Yosemite Village. Continue past the village, following signs for Camp 4. The trailhead is located on the far side of the Camp 4 parking lot. There are restrooms available for use at Camp 4. Parking near the trailhead is limited and fills up quickly, especially during peak season. Consider using the free Yosemite Valley Shuttle (shuttle stop #7). The shuttle operates from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM with buses arriving every 12 to 22 minutes. There are no fees associated with accessing the trailhead or hiking the Upper Yosemite Falls Trail beyond the park entrance fee.
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Public Transport
To reach the Upper Yosemite Falls Trailhead using public transport, take the free Yosemite Valley Shuttle to shuttle stop #7, which is Camp 4. From the shuttle stop, follow the signs to the Yosemite Falls Trail, crossing through the Camp 4 parking area to reach the trailhead. The Yosemite Valley Shuttle operates from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM, with buses arriving every 12 to 22 minutes. This service is free.
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Driving
To drive to the Upper Yosemite Falls Trailhead, enter Yosemite National Park and proceed to Yosemite Valley. Follow signs for Yosemite Valley Lodge and Yosemite Village. Continue past Yosemite Village on Northside Drive, looking for the Camp 4 parking lot on the left. Parking is limited and fills up quickly, especially during peak season. If the Camp 4 lot is full, park elsewhere in Yosemite Valley and take the free shuttle to shuttle stop #7. Note that to drive into Yosemite National Park between 6 am and 2 pm on select days, a reservation may be required. Check the National Park Service website for current reservation requirements. The entrance fee for Yosemite National Park is $35 per vehicle, valid for seven days. Alternatively, you can purchase a Yosemite Annual Pass for $70, which allows unlimited visits to the park for 12 months.
Discover more about Upper Yosemite Falls Trail
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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.
Yosemite Valley Lodge
1.7 km
Experience Yosemite Valley from this ideally located lodge, offering comfortable rooms, convenient amenities, and easy access to park attractions.
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.
Housekeeping Camp
2.6 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
2.8 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
3.3 km
Experience Yosemite Valley's charm at Curry Village: lodging, dining, activities, and stunning views beneath Glacier Point.
El Capitan Picnic Area
4.0 km
Picnic beneath a giant: Enjoy stunning views of El Capitan in Yosemite National Park at this accessible and scenic picnic spot.
Washburn Point
4.8 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
5.2 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
5.5 km
Hike the iconic Mist Trail to Vernal Fall Footbridge for breathtaking views of Yosemite's powerful waterfall and stunning granite landscape.
Half Dome
5.9 km
Conquer Yosemite's iconic Half Dome: a challenging hike with breathtaking panoramic views from the summit. Permits required.
Vernal Falls
5.9 km
Explore the stunning Vernal Falls in Yosemite National Park, a breathtaking natural wonder perfect for hiking and photography enthusiasts.
Cathedral Rocks
6.0 km
Experience the grandeur of Yosemite's Cathedral Rocks, a stunning natural landmark offering breathtaking views and challenging climbs.
Hanging Valley Viewpoint
6.1 km
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Yosemite's Tuolumne Meadows from Hanging Valley Viewpoint, where granite cliffs meet lush wilderness.
Unmissable attractions to see
Upper Yosemite Falls
0.2 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Upper Yosemite Falls, a majestic waterfall in Yosemite National Park, perfect for adventure and stunning vistas.
Upper Yosemite Fall
0.2 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Upper Yosemite Fall, a towering waterfall in Yosemite National Park, ideal for hiking and nature lovers.
Yosemite Falls
0.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Yosemite Falls, a must-see natural wonder in Yosemite National Park, California.
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.
Lower Yosemite Fall Trl
1.2 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
1.3 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
1.4 km
Explore the Indian Village of Ahwahnee in Yosemite Valley, a cultural gem showcasing the heritage of the Ahwahneechee people amidst stunning natural beauty.
Columbia Rock
1.4 km
Explore Columbia Rock: A Stunning Hiking Destination in Yosemite National Park with Breathtaking Views and Natural Beauty.
Yosemite Museum
1.4 km
Explore Yosemite Museum: A Journey Through Nature and Culture in Yosemite National Park.
Yosemite Exploration Center
1.5 km
Yosemite Exploration Center: Your Gateway to Unlocking the Wonders of Yosemite National Park's Natural Beauty.
Yosemite Valley Welcome Center
1.5 km
Explore the breathtaking Yosemite National Park from the Yosemite Valley Welcome Center, your gateway to adventure and discovery in nature's masterpiece.
Yosemite Valley Visitor Center
1.5 km
Discover Yosemite's wonders: exhibits, films, and expert advice await at the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center, your gateway to an unforgettable park experience.
Lower Yosemite Fall Trailhead
1.5 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Lower Yosemite Falls, a stunning hiking area in the heart of Yosemite National Park, perfect for all adventurers.
Cook's Meadow Loop
1.5 km
Experience iconic Yosemite views on this easy, accessible loop trail through Cook's Meadow, offering stunning perspectives of Yosemite's natural wonders.
Yosemite Village
1.5 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
1.6 km
Discover The Loft at Degnan's - where delicious pizzas meet stunning Yosemite Valley views.
The Mountain Room
1.7 km
Experience exceptional American cuisine with breathtaking views at The Mountain Room in Yosemite Valley Lodge.
Yosemite Lodge Food Court
1.7 km
Experience delicious meals amidst breathtaking views at Yosemite Lodge Food Court - where nature meets culinary delight.
Village Grill
1.8 km
Experience delicious American cuisine at Village Grill in Yosemite National Park - a perfect stop for hungry adventurers!
The Ahwahnee Dining Room
2.5 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
3.3 km
Savor delicious pizza in the heart of Yosemite National Park at Curry Village Pizza Deck - where nature meets flavor.
Taqueria @ Meadow Grill
3.3 km
Experience delicious grilled dishes amidst the stunning scenery of Yosemite Valley at Taqueria @ Meadow Grill.
Seven Tents Pavilion
3.4 km
Experience delightful dining at Seven Tents Pavilion amidst Yosemite Valley's breathtaking landscapes.
Curry Village Dining Pavilion
3.4 km
Experience delightful dining amidst breathtaking views at Curry Village Dining Pavilion in Yosemite Valley.
The Skiers Grill
12.2 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
13.1 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
25.2 km
Experience delectable American cuisine surrounded by Yosemite's breathtaking beauty at Wawona Hotel Dining Room.
The Restaurant at Rush Creek Lodge
25.6 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
1.5 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
1.6 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
1.6 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
1.7 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
1.7 km
Experience a unique coffee haven in the heart of Yosemite National Park, where nature meets the comfort of Starbucks.
Base Camp Eatery
1.7 km
Experience the flavors of Yosemite Valley at Base Camp Eatery, where delicious meals meet breathtaking views in a casual atmosphere.
Village Store
1.8 km
Discover the ultimate convenience at The Village Store in Yosemite Valley, offering groceries and unique souvenirs for an unforgettable experience.
Yosemite Village Parking
2.0 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
2.5 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
2.5 km
Discover sweet delights at The Ahwahnee Sweet Shop in Yosemite National Park, where delectable confections meet breathtaking natural beauty.
Housekeeping Camp Store
2.6 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
3.3 km
Explore the heart of Yosemite with unique souvenirs and grocery essentials at Curry Village Gift and Grocery.
Curry Village Coffee Corner
3.3 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
3.3 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
4.0 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
1.7 km
Experience the breathtaking views and delicious local cuisine at The Mountain Room Lounge in Yosemite National Park.
Bar 1899
3.3 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
50.8 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
52.5 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.
