Bridalveil Fall, Yosemite Travel Guide

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Witness the beauty of Bridalveil Fall in Yosemite Valley, a 620-foot cascade with year-round flow and a rich Native American history.

Bridalveil Fall, a 620-foot waterfall in Yosemite National Park, is often the first sight that greets visitors entering Yosemite Valley. Flowing year-round, it's known for its delicate, swaying appearance and the strong winds that sometimes cause the water to flow sideways, inspiring its Native American name, Pohono, or 'Spirit of the Puffing Wind'.

A brief summary to Bridalveil Fall

TUOLUMNE MEADOWS, California, 95389, US
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Bridalveil Fall.

Visit in spring or early summer for the most powerful flow, but be prepared for heavy mist.
The trail can be icy in winter; wear appropriate footwear.
Parking is limited and fills up quickly, especially in summer. Arrive early or consider parking further east on Southside Drive and taking the longer trail.
Check for peak-hours reservation requirements before entering Yosemite National Park.

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Getting There

Driving

From Yosemite Valley, follow Southside Drive or Northside Drive to Wawona Road (Highway 41). The Bridalveil Fall parking area is located near the intersection of Wawona Road and Southside Drive. Be aware that the parking lot fills quickly, especially during peak season, leading to traffic congestion. As an alternative, parking is available a short distance east on Southside Drive, with a slightly longer trail to the fall. Note: Visitors entering Yosemite National Park may need a peak-hours reservation between 6 am and 2 pm on certain days. Check the National Park Service website for current requirements. Yosemite National Park Entrance Fee: $35 per vehicle, valid for 7 days.
Walking

From Yosemite Valley Lodge, Yosemite Village, or Curry Village, access the Valley Loop Trail. Follow the trail west towards the Bridalveil Fall area. This is a longer walk (approximately 4 miles from Yosemite Village). Once near the Bridalveil Fall parking area, follow the paved trail to the base of the fall. Note: Shuttle service is not available directly to Bridalveil Fall. There are no additional costs for walking to Bridalveil Fall within Yosemite National Park, but Park entrance fees still apply.

Discover more about Bridalveil Fall

Bridalveil Fall, one of Yosemite National Park's most iconic waterfalls, welcomes visitors as they enter Yosemite Valley. Plunging 620 feet (189 meters), the fall flows year-round, though its intensity varies with the seasons. Spring and early summer, with snowmelt at its peak, offer the most thunderous display, while in colder months, the wind might scatter the water before it reaches the ground.The fall's unique shape is a result of Yosemite's glacial history. Glaciers carved out hanging valleys, and Bridalveil Creek leaps from the edge of one such valley. Over time, the force of the water has eroded the cliff, creating a distinctive alcove. The primary source of the fall is Ostrander Lake, about 10 miles to the south.Historically, the Ahwahneechee Native Americans called the waterfall 'Pohono', meaning 'Spirit of the Puffing Wind'. Legend tells of a young woman swept away by the wind, her spirit trapped in the fall. In 1856, Warren Baer, a newspaper editor, suggested the name Bridalveil Fall, inspired by its lacy appearance.Today, a short, paved trail leads from the parking area to the base of the falls, making it easily accessible. The western trail is wheelchair accessible. Be prepared to get wet, especially in spring, as the mist can be significant. In winter, icy conditions may make the trail slippery.