The Mist Trail – Vernal and Nevada Falls

The Mist Trail to Vernal falls

One of the most iconic experiences in Yosemite National Park the Mist trail to Vernal and Nevada falls is a cant miss adventure when visiting. This hike is rated strenuous and there are some visitors who may not be able to to the entire journey, but if able it should be on everyone’s bucket list.

The hike starts on the Eastern Edge of the valley at Happy Isles Bridge where the Merced River enters the flats of the valley floor. The trail is well traveled and almost immediately gives visitors a clue that this hike will require a solid effort as you hike up to the Viewing bridge along the Merced River cascading below.

Most visitors make it to the viewing bridge and get their first glimpse of Vernal Falls. For some this is where their journey ends, but for others the venture up into the Mist trail will change their view of Yosemite for ever.

The mist trail is a often wet experience that will provides a heavy mist from the waterfall in spring and early summer making the climb up a staircase of boulders very slippery and an experience like no other in the park. the mist trail climbs steeply along the banks and concludes with a final 50 yards up along the cliff edge of Vernal Falls to the viewing deck above.

Emerald Pools

Just past the Viewing Deck of Vernal Falls is the Emerald Pools. A particularly calming location that provides a nice picnic location and rest spot before heading up to Nevada Fall. Emerald pools may look inviting to swim in but it is considered unsafe and has no swimming signs posted. The water rather quickly exits the pools straight into Vernal Fall.

Just above Emerald pools is a wooden bridge crossing over the Merced in carved out little canyon that shoots the water through into a granite water slide feature. Continuing a bit further you are greeted with a great viewing area of he base of Nevada Fall.

Nevada Fall

Nevada Fall is a gorgeous towering waterfall that will surprise many visitors . The climb to the top of Nevada Fall is strenuous but so worth it. Climbing a set of switch backs along the side of the fall up a canyon to meet up with the JMT, this section of the hike will break you if you are not in shape. stopping frequently and remembering water is important to complete this section safely. The top of this section meets up with the JMT section that will take you to half dome as well

The Top of Nevada Fall brings you right to the edge with fantastic scenic views of the canyon leading into Yosemite valley,

JMT Return and Clark Point:

After spending time at the summit of Nevada Fall, follow the JMT across the Merced River. Descend to the junction leading back to Vernal Falls, and consider making a stop at Clark Point. This vantage point offers one of the best photo and video opportunities of Vernal Falls. From here, you can choose to climb back up to the JMT and complete the loop back to the valley or descend to Vernal Falls and retrace your steps on the slippery Mist Trail in reverse.

Clark Point: A Breathtaking Pause on Your Yosemite Adventure

Nestled along the Mist Trail, Clark Point beckons adventurers to pause and immerse themselves in the unparalleled beauty of Yosemite National Park. While not just a waypoint but a destination in its own right, Clark Point offers a remarkable vista that showcases the park’s iconic waterfalls and rugged landscapes. Here’s what makes Clark Point a must-visit location on your Yosemite journey:

Scenic Overview:

• Location: Strategically positioned along the Mist Trail, Clark Point provides an ideal vantage point for soaking in the awe-inspiring views of Vernal Falls, Nevada Falls, and the surrounding granite cliffs.
• Unforgettable Panorama: As you ascend or descend the Mist Trail, Clark Point unveils a breathtaking panorama that captures the essence of Yosemite’s grandeur. The viewpoint serves as a natural pause, allowing you to absorb the sheer beauty of the park.

Visitor Experience:

• Hiking Adventure: Whether you’re ascending towards Vernal and Nevada Falls or descending after conquering Half Dome, Clark Point becomes a welcome break on the Mist Trail. The well-maintained trail ensures a rewarding and enjoyable hiking experience.
• Photography Paradise: Clark Point is a photographer’s dream, especially during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset. The soft, warm light enhances the textures of the landscape, creating unforgettable moments for those capturing Yosemite’s magic through the lens.
• Connecting Routes:
• Trail Junction: Clark Point is strategically located along the Mist Trail, making it a convenient spot for hikers to regroup or appreciate the surroundings before continuing their journey.
• Diverse Exploration: Whether you’re heading towards Vernal and Nevada Falls, continuing to Half Dome, or completing a loop back to the valley, Clark Point stands as a versatile location offering diverse exploration possibilities.

Whether you’re capturing the misty magic of Vernal Falls, conquering the challenging ascent to Nevada Fall, or relishing the scenic beauty at Clark Point, the Mist Trail is an adventure seeker’s paradise. As you plan your Yosemite experience, embrace the thrill, heed safety precautions, and let the Mist Trail weave its unforgettable tapestry of natural wonders. Your Mist Trail adventure begins here!

Adding on Half Dome to your Experience

The Mist Trail plays a crucial role in the Half Dome experience as it serves as one of the primary routes to reach the iconic granite dome. Here’s how the Mist Trail is interconnected with the Half Dome adventure:

1. Starting Point:

• The Mist Trail begins at Happy Isles Bridge on the eastern edge of Yosemite Valley.
• Hikers heading to Half Dome often choose the Mist Trail as their starting point for the journey.

2. Scenic Journey:

• As hikers ascend the Mist Trail, they pass by Vernal Falls and Nevada Fall, both iconic waterfalls along the route.
• The misty and refreshing experience of the trail adds a unique element to the journey, especially during the spring and early summer when the waterfalls are at their peak.

3. Intersection with the John Muir Trail (JMT):

• Near the top of Nevada Fall, the Mist Trail intersects with the John Muir Trail (JMT).
• Hikers now leave the Mist Trail for the JMT for another 4.4 miles, which also leads to Half Dome.

4. Access to Half Dome:

• Hikers following the Mist Trail or the JMT will eventually reach the junction where the trails diverge for the final ascent to Half Dome.
• The ascent to Half Dome involves navigating the steep and challenging Subdome before reaching the iconic cables section.

5. Final Ascent – Cables Section:

• The cables section is a thrilling and steep climb that leads to the summit of Half Dome.
• Hikers use the cables as handrails to ascend the final stretch, providing a unique and exhilarating experience.

6. Summit Views:

• Reaching the summit of Half Dome offers unparalleled panoramic views of Yosemite Valley, the High Sierra peaks, and the vast wilderness below.
• Hikers can savor the accomplishment of conquering Half Dome and appreciate the breathtaking scenery.

7. Return Journey:

• After experiencing the summit, hikers descend back through the cables section, Subdome, and retrace their steps on the Mist Trail or the JMT.
• The Mist Trail provides a refreshing and scenic descent, allowing hikers to revisit the spectacular waterfalls along the way.

8. Completing the Loop:

• Hikers have the option to complete a loop by taking the JMT down to the valley, passing Clark Point, or descending via the Mist Trail.

Adding on Glacier Point to the Experience

Another alternative route after reaching the Top of Nevada Fall and completing the Mist trail is to continue South on the Panorama trail to Illilouette Falls and continuing below Washburn Point to Glacier Point where you can either catch a shuttle back to the valley or hike down the Four mile trail to the valley floor .

This route is extensive and extremely strenuous but technically doable from a mileage stand point if given the time in Yosemite. You are adding 9.5+ miles to your hike but will see some of the best views of Yosemite on your walk.

The Mist Trail not only adds a scenic and misty dimension to the journey but also sets the stage for the breathtaking adventure that awaits hikers at the summit of Half Dome. It’s a pivotal part of the overall Half Dome experience, providing both a challenging ascent and a rewarding descent amidst Yosemite’s natural wonders.