Remembering Yosemite: Mist Trail

Yosemite Park is famous for its majestic waterfalls. Most notably are Bridal Veil, Vernal and Yosemite Falls. The best time to see them is in late spring, when winter snows melt into surging runoff and a raging plunge of mist and rainbows.

Vernal Falls is a little difficult to get to, but the spectacular views are well worth it. Make sure to take a poncho, as the spray is tremendous and you will definitely get wet.

The nearest parking is at around 3.1 km from the top of the Vernal Fall. You can divide your trail in 4 parts: 0.7 km to the rout sign (it is like a promenade in a town park), 1.3 km to Vernal Falls bridge (the “nothing” part), 0.6 km to the point where you’ll need the poncho (the “something” part) and the rest 0.5 km (the real trail). Good luck!

(Notes from a trip in April 2002)