37 |
MIST & JOHN MUIR |
DISTANCE: 6.8 miles round-trip
HIKING TIME: 3.5 hours
SEASON: March–July
DIFFICULTY: challenging
Yosemite Valley’s most famous loop hike ascends granite stairsteps alongside Vernal Fall, continues upstream to the brink of Nevada Fall, and then descends via a long curve on the John Muir Trail. It’s a trip you have to do at least once in your life. Begin at Happy Isles and walk 0.75 mile to the footbridge below Vernal Fall. Cross the bridge and turn left onto Mist Trail. Climb the steep granite staircase of more than 500 steps along the side of Vernal Fall. Raincoats are often necessary in spring because of the billowing mist and spray.
Once on top, lean over the metal railing (hold tightly) and view the swirling, mysterious mist. Continue along the river’s edge, still following Mist Trail. In a half mile, the path crosses the river, then climbs another mile up the left flank of Nevada Fall. Nevada Fall drops 594 feet like a liquid avalanche. At its brink, gaze down at the churning whitewater, then cross the footbridge and follow John Muir Trail downhill. Look back for vistas of Nevada Fall framed by Liberty Cap and Half Dome. John Muir Trail will return you to the trailhead at Happy Isles.
From the Arch Rock entrance to Yosemite National Park, drive east for 11.6 miles to the day-use lot at Curry Village. Take the free shuttle to Happy Isles, Stop 16. In winter, the shuttle does not run; hike from the lot in Curry Village, an additional 2.0 miles. (Trails may be closed in winter; call to check.
