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Yosemite - Mist Trail (Vernal & Nevada Falls)

Curry Village Drive, Yosemite Valley, California

Description

The Mist Trail is located in the eastern part of the Yosemite Valley and shares the same trailhead as the famous John Muir Trail (that ends 340km later at Mount Whitney). After only 1.3km come the first good views of the Vernal Falls and the Mist Trail takes hikers to their top after a steep 600 steps climb. It is possible to head back down via the John Muir Trail or continue uphill to the top of Nevada Fall. Top of Vernal Fall: 4km out-and-back with only 300m elevation. A little technical but suitable for all fitness levels. Top of Nevada Falls: 9km with 600m elevation. Requires a base level of fitness but no prior hiking experience.

Access & Transport

The trailhead is just east of Curry Villa and the Upper Pines Campground. The Valley itself is 150km north of Fresno, 175km west of Modesto and 300km west of San Francisco.

Instructions & Recommendations

The trail is rocky and humid close to the waterfalls so make sure your footwear as good grip and, as always, do not forget to carry plenty of water (the #1 mistake of inexperienced hikers).

Meta review

Possibly the most popular hike in Yosemite NP. Online reviewers mention that it is easy to find, demanding on the way down and that some sections are slippery. They also confirm the first part is not very demanding but the second to the top of Nevada Falls much more so and makes for a long descent. There are regular comments that the hike took longer than expected and recommending going early as it gets quite busy. Opinions regarding the views are unanimously excellent.

Environmental & Social

Eco-friendly activity. Socially neural

Conclusion

The Mist trail doesn't waste too much time before rewarding hikers with views of Vernal Fall and those with more stamina can continue on to the top of Nevada Falls. In that sense it caters to all fitness level which means it can also get crowded during the peak season - but do not let that deter you. Not as spectacular as other trails (unless you continue on following the John Muir Trail) but a jack of all trades, so to speak.

Key positive

Spectacular waterfalls

Well maintained trail and easy to get to the trailhead

Key negative

Can be quite busy

Suitability

Suitable for all fitness level up to Vernal Falls.

About this Rating

TYPE

Onsite

RESEARCHED IN

Updated in July 2023

PROVIDER

Koreval

Included Items
None
Timing
Duration of visit

av. transport time:0h 30m

est. visit time:3h 30m

Sunlight based

Sunrise / early morningOk

MorningOk

Lunch timeOk

AfternoonOk

Sunset / eveningOk

Night – bef. midnightNo

Night – aft. midnightNo

Pricing
No charge for the trail but there is an entrance fee of $30 per vehicle for the park
Free

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