Bridalveil Fall: Yosemite's Ethereal Cascade
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
- Visit website
Local tips
- 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.
Getting There
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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.
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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
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Hanging Valley Viewpoint
0.5 km
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Yosemite's Tuolumne Meadows from Hanging Valley Viewpoint, where granite cliffs meet lush wilderness.
Cathedral Rocks
0.9 km
Experience the grandeur of Yosemite's Cathedral Rocks, a stunning natural landmark offering breathtaking views and challenging climbs.
El Capitan Picnic Area
2.6 km
Picnic beneath a giant: Enjoy stunning views of El Capitan in Yosemite National Park at this accessible and scenic picnic spot.
Four Mile Trailhead
4.4 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 Valley Lodge
5.2 km
Experience Yosemite Valley from this ideally located lodge, offering comfortable rooms, convenient amenities, and easy access to park attractions.
Yosemite Cemetery
6.2 km
Discover the stories of Yosemite's pioneers in this peaceful and historic cemetery nestled in the heart of Yosemite Valley.
Yosemite Wilderness Center
6.3 km
Your first stop for Yosemite wilderness adventures: permits, maps, and expert advice in the heart of Tuolumne Meadows.
Upper Yosemite Falls Trail
6.3 km
Hike to the top of Yosemite Falls for unparalleled views of Yosemite Valley and a challenging workout amidst stunning natural beauty.
Yosemite Conservation Heritage Center
6.4 km
Discover Yosemite's past and the Sierra Club's legacy at this historic landmark, offering exhibits, a library, and conservation insights.
Washburn Point
6.5 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.
Housekeeping Camp
6.5 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.
Glacier Point
6.5 km
Experience Yosemite's grandeur from Glacier Point: panoramic views, hiking trails, and unforgettable vistas await. Open seasonally by car.
Curry Village
7.0 km
Experience Yosemite Valley's charm at Curry Village: lodging, dining, activities, and stunning views beneath Glacier Point.
The Ahwahnee
7.1 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.
Yosemite Valley Vista Point
7.1 km
Experience Yosemite's iconic beauty from this easily accessible vista point, offering panoramic views of El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Fall. A must-see for every visitor.
Unmissable attractions to see
Bridalveil Creek
0.3 km
Discover the serene beauty of Bridalveil Creek in Tuolumne Meadows, a scenic spot perfect for relaxation, photography, and immersing in nature's wonders.
El Capitan Meadow
1.2 km
Discover the stunning beauty of El Capitan Meadow in Yosemite National Park, where breathtaking views and outdoor adventures await every traveler.
El Capitan Viewpoint
1.4 km
Discover stunning panoramic views of El Capitan at this scenic viewpoint in Yosemite National Park, a must-visit for nature lovers and photographers.
Yosemite Valley View
1.4 km
Explore the breathtaking vistas of Yosemite Valley View, where iconic landmarks meet serene natural beauty in California's stunning national park.
The Base of the Nose
1.5 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of The Base of the Nose in Yosemite National Park, a paradise for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Sentinel Falls
1.9 km
Discover the stunning beauty of Sentinel Falls in Mariposa, California, a breathtaking waterfall that captivates nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Cathedral Beach Picnic Area
2.0 km
Experience the serene beauty of Cathedral Beach Picnic Area in Tuolumne Meadows, a perfect picnic spot surrounded by Yosemite's breathtaking landscapes.
El Capitan Trail
2.0 km
Experience the majesty of El Capitan in Yosemite National Park: a world-class destination for climbing, hiking, and breathtaking views.
El Capitán
2.1 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of El Capitán, a granite monolith in Yosemite National Park that captivates adventurers and nature lovers alike.
Horsetail Fall
2.1 km
Discover the breathtaking Horsetail Fall in California, a stunning waterfall that captivates visitors with its natural beauty and fiery winter spectacle.
Artist Point Trail
2.7 km
Explore the stunning vistas and diverse wildlife along Artist Point Trail in Yosemite National Park, a must-visit for nature lovers and adventurers.
Tunnel view
2.7 km
Experience the stunning panoramic vistas of El Capitan and Half Dome at Tunnel View, a must-visit scenic spot in Yosemite National Park.
Wawona Tunnel
3.5 km
Discover the stunning vistas of Yosemite Valley at Wawona Tunnel, a historical landmark showcasing nature's breathtaking beauty.
Yosemite Valley Loop Trail
4.1 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Yosemite Valley Loop Trail, a stunning hiking route through America's iconic national park.
Sentinel Beach Picnic Area
4.1 km
Discover the serene beauty of Sentinel Beach Picnic Area in Yosemite National Park, where nature meets relaxation for an unforgettable outdoor experience.
Essential places to dine
Yosemite Lodge Food Court
5.1 km
Experience delicious meals amidst breathtaking views at Yosemite Lodge Food Court - where nature meets culinary delight.
The Mountain Room
5.1 km
Experience exceptional American cuisine with breathtaking views at The Mountain Room in Yosemite Valley Lodge.
The Skiers Grill
6.2 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.
Village Grill
6.4 km
Experience delicious American cuisine at Village Grill in Yosemite National Park - a perfect stop for hungry adventurers!
The Loft at Degnan's
6.4 km
Discover The Loft at Degnan's - where delicious pizzas meet stunning Yosemite Valley views.
Curry Village Dining Pavilion
7.0 km
Experience delightful dining amidst breathtaking views at Curry Village Dining Pavilion in Yosemite Valley.
Curry Village Pizza Deck
7.0 km
Savor delicious pizza in the heart of Yosemite National Park at Curry Village Pizza Deck - where nature meets flavor.
Seven Tents Pavilion
7.0 km
Experience delightful dining at Seven Tents Pavilion amidst Yosemite Valley's breathtaking landscapes.
Taqueria @ Meadow Grill
7.0 km
Experience delicious grilled dishes amidst the stunning scenery of Yosemite Valley at Taqueria @ Meadow Grill.
The Ahwahnee Dining Room
7.1 km
Experience fine dining at The Ahwahnee Dining Room in Yosemite National Park - where culinary artistry meets breathtaking natural beauty.
The Ahwahnee Bar
7.2 km
Experience luxury dining at The Ahwahnee Bar amidst Yosemite's breathtaking scenery with craft cocktails and gourmet bites.
The River Restaurant & Lounge
11.3 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at The River Restaurant & Lounge, where breathtaking views meet delicious flavors in El Portal.
White Wolf Lodge Dining Room
17.0 km
Experience fine dining at White Wolf Lodge Dining Room amidst California's breathtaking High Sierra landscapes.
Wawona Hotel Dining Room
20.0 km
Experience delectable American cuisine surrounded by Yosemite's breathtaking beauty at Wawona Hotel Dining Room.
The Restaurant at Rush Creek Lodge
23.3 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
5.1 km
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Starbucks Yosemite
5.1 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
5.2 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
5.2 km
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Yosemite Village Parking
6.2 km
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Yosemite Visitor Center
6.3 km
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Degnan's Deli
6.4 km
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Village Store
6.4 km
Discover the ultimate convenience at The Village Store in Yosemite Valley, offering groceries and unique souvenirs for an unforgettable experience.
Housekeeping Camp Store
6.5 km
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Glacier Point Gift Shop & Snack Stand
6.5 km
Explore the Glacier Point Gift Shop & Snack Stand for unique souvenirs and tasty snacks amidst Yosemite's stunning beauty.
Curry Village Coffee Corner
7.0 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
7.0 km
Explore the heart of Yosemite with unique souvenirs and grocery essentials at Curry Village Gift and Grocery.
Mountain Shop at Curry Village
7.0 km
Explore Yosemite with ease - the Mountain Shop at Curry Village is your go-to for outdoor gear, groceries, and expert advice.
The Ahwahnee Sweet Shop
7.2 km
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The Ahwahnee Gift Shop
7.2 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Mountain Room Lounge
5.2 km
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Bar 1899
7.0 km
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Dry Creek Bar
53.9 km
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Tusks Bar
54.1 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Tusks Bar in Mammoth Lakes, where live music and sports create an unforgettable experience.
Steeps Bar
54.8 km
Discover Steeps Bar in Mammoth Lakes for a cozy atmosphere, delicious American cuisine, and stunning mountain views, perfect for any traveler.
Basin Bar
55.7 km
Unwind at Basin Bar in Mammoth Lakes, where friendly vibes and local brews blend seamlessly for an unforgettable après-adventure experience.
Grizzly Bar
57.3 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
58.6 km
Discover the perfect blend of exquisite wines and delightful cuisine at Side Door Wine Bar & Cafe in Mammoth Lakes, California.
Clocktower Cellar
58.8 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
58.8 km
Experience the best of Mammoth Lakes at Mammoth Brewing Company, where craft beer meets breathtaking scenery and great food.
Salsa's
59.2 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
59.7 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
59.8 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
59.9 km
Experience the perfect blend of exquisite wines and artisanal charcuterie at The Shed | Wine & Charcuterie in Mammoth Lakes, CA.
Yosemite Grill
60.0 km
Discover Yosemite Grill, where delectable grill delights meet the serene beauty of Oakhurst-North Fork, perfect for nature-loving foodies.
