Lower Yosemite Fall
Experience the thundering power of North America's tallest waterfall up close on an accessible paved trail in Yosemite Valley.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Lower Yosemite Fall
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the thundering power of North America's tallest waterfall up close on an accessible paved trail in Yosemite Valley.
"Wake up early if you want to avoid the crowds. It's hitting, man!"
🎯 Go Early to Avoid Crowds
Arrive by 7 AM to experience the falls with minimal people.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The paved trail to Lower Yosemite Fall is easy, but you'll want comfy shoes for exploring more of the valley.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lower Yosemite Fall
Yosemite Valley
Witness the sheer power and beauty of North America's tallest waterfall up close. The mist can be invigorating!
Yosemite Valley Floor
Yosemite Valley
Explore the heart of Yosemite, surrounded by iconic granite cliffs and meadows. Perfect for biking and leisurely strolls.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Early Bird Gets the View
Check Park Entry Requirements
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Go Early to Avoid Crowds
Arrive by 7 AM to experience the falls with minimal people.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The paved trail to Lower Yosemite Fall is easy, but you'll want comfy shoes for exploring more of the valley.
📸 Capture the Majesty
The best light for photos is often early morning or late afternoon.
💧 Prepare for Mist
You'll likely get wet from the waterfall's spray, especially in spring!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Go Early to Avoid Crowds
Arrive by 7 AM to experience the falls with minimal people.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The paved trail to Lower Yosemite Fall is easy, but you'll want comfy shoes for exploring more of the valley.
📸 Capture the Majesty
The best light for photos is often early morning or late afternoon.
💧 Prepare for Mist
You'll likely get wet from the waterfall's spray, especially in spring!
🚗 Check Park Entry
Reservations may be required to enter Yosemite. Check NPS website!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the awe-inspiring beauty and accessibility of Lower Yosemite Fall, noting its powerful presence and the refreshing mist. The ease of access via a paved trail makes it a highlight for many, though its popularity means it can get quite crowded. Planning an early visit is key to enjoying its grandeur with fewer people.
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Sergiy Tretyak
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Corey Dohrman
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lower Yosemite Fall is located in Yosemite Valley. You can drive and park in designated lots, or take the free Yosemite Valley shuttle bus to the Lower Yosemite Fall stop.
Yes, there are parking areas available in Yosemite Valley, but they can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Consider using the shuttle.
Absolutely! Biking the Yosemite Valley floor is a popular way to get around and offers great views.
The free Yosemite Valley shuttle is highly recommended to avoid parking hassles and access various points of interest, including Lower Yosemite Fall.
Reservations are often required to drive into Yosemite National Park on certain dates and times. Always check the official NPS website for the most current information before your visit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no separate ticket required for Lower Yosemite Fall itself. You will need to pay the entrance fee for Yosemite National Park.
Lower Yosemite Fall is accessible year-round, but the best time to visit for full waterfall flow is typically spring. The trail is generally open during daylight hours.
Yes, Yosemite National Park has an entrance fee per vehicle, which is valid for seven days. Check the NPS website for current pricing.
This depends on the current reservation system. It's crucial to check the Yosemite National Park website for any reservation requirements before your trip.
Discounts may be available for certain passes, such as the America the Beautiful Pass. Check the NPS website for details on passes and potential discounts.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The paved loop trail to the base of Lower Yosemite Fall is very short and accessible, taking about 30 minutes roundtrip.
Yes, the paved loop trail is generally accessible for strollers and wheelchairs, making it a great option for many visitors.
Wear comfortable walking shoes and layers. Bring a rain jacket or poncho, as you will likely get wet from the waterfall's mist.
Restroom facilities are available near the Lower Yosemite Fall trailhead.
To avoid crowds and get the best light for photos, visiting early in the morning (around 7 AM) is highly recommended.
📸 📸 Photography
The paved trail offers several viewpoints directly at the base of the falls. For wider shots of Yosemite Valley including the falls, consider viewpoints from the Valley floor or higher elevations.
Early morning offers softer light and fewer crowds, while late afternoon can also provide beautiful lighting.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the falls and surrounding cliffs. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details.
The best strategy is to visit very early in the morning, as suggested by many visitors.
From the base of Lower Yosemite Fall, you can see both the upper and lower sections, but a wider perspective from a distance is needed for a full view of both.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Active Explorers & Hikers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Experiencing Yosemite's Waterfalls
While Lower Yosemite Fall is a relatively short and easy walk from the trailhead, it's important to be prepared for the spray. Many visitors recommend wearing waterproof clothing or bringing a poncho, as the mist can be quite significant, particularly in May and June.
Beyond Lower Yosemite Fall, Yosemite boasts other magnificent waterfalls like Upper Yosemite Fall, Bridalveil Fall, and Vernal Fall (accessible via the Mist Trail).
+1 Each offers a unique perspective and experience. For those seeking a more challenging hike with waterfall views, the Mist Trail to Vernal and Nevada Falls is a popular, albeit strenuous, option. Navigating Yosemite Valley
When planning your visit, it's crucial to be aware of potential park entry reservation requirements. Yosemite National Park frequently implements reservation systems during peak seasons to manage visitor numbers. Always check the official National Park Service (NPS) website for the most up-to-date information on reservations, road closures, and shuttle schedules before your trip.
For those looking to capture the iconic Yosemite landscapes, Tunnel View and Glacier Point offer unparalleled panoramic vistas.
+1 While Lower Yosemite Fall is best experienced up close, these viewpoints provide a grander perspective of the entire valley, including Half Dome and El Capitan. Remember to plan your time wisely, as Yosemite offers a wealth of natural beauty to explore.
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