How long is the hike to the top of Vernal Falls?
How long is the hike to the top of Vernal Falls?
Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 2 h 30 min to complete. This is a very popular area for hiking, so you’ll likely encounter other people while exploring.
How many miles is the hike to Vernal Falls?
The Mist Trail (Vernal and Nevada Falls) Distance: 3 miles (4.8 km) round trip to Vernal Fall, 7 miles (11 km) round trip to Nevada Fall. If you walk from Curry Village instead of catching a shuttle bus to the trailhead, add an extra 1.5 miles (2.4 km) round trip.
How long does it take to hike the Mist Trail?
3-6 hours
| Rating: | Fairly strenuous to strenuous day hike |
|---|---|
| Access: | Happy Isles Trailhead (Shuttle Stop 16 along the Yosemite Valley shuttle system) |
| Time Required: | 3-6 hours |
| Length: | 5.5 miles round trip up Mist Trail and back down John Muir Trail (1.4 miles to top of Vernal Fall, 1.2 miles more to top of Nevada Fall) |
How long is Half Dome hike?
10 to 12 hours
Most hikers take 10 to 12 hours to hike to Half Dome and back; some take longer. If you plan on hiking during the day, it’s smart to leave around sunrise (or earlier) and then have a non-negotiable turn-around time. For instance, if you haven’t reached the top of Half Dome by 3:30 pm, you will turn around.
How many steps are there at Vernal Falls?
600 steps
To proceed directly to the top of Vernal Fall, follow the Mist Trail 0.3 miles (0.5 km) up a steep granite stairway of over 600 steps. Prepare for slippery footing and a tremendous amount of waterfall spray in spring and early summer (hence the name for this trail!).
How long is Mariposa Grove trail?
Mariposa Grove Information Access to the grove is via a four-mile round-trip hike with 500 feet of elevation change. In winter you can expect snow or ice on this hike. It’s an additional 1.5 miles round trip (and another 500 feet of elevation change) to the Grizzly Giant and California Tunnel Tree.
How long is the hike up Half Dome?
Most hikers take 10 to 12 hours to hike to Half Dome and back; some take longer. If you plan on hiking during the day, it’s smart to leave around sunrise (or earlier) and then have a non-negotiable turn-around time. For instance, if you haven’t reached the top of Half Dome by 3:30 pm, you will turn around.
Can kids do the Mist Trail?
The Mist Trail is a moderate hike doable with kids. We chose to make the steep 1.5 mile climb up to Vernal Fall with our kids ages 8, 11, 14, and 15. The first paved mile of the trail is the busiest and leads you to the Vernal Falls footbridge.
Is Mist Trail Safe?
This trail is dangerous and should be closed. The portion of the trail that ascends over slippery, wet granite steps is always crowded, with no handrails, and huge steps that were probably made for mules, not people. Don’t go above Vernal Falls on this trail if you value your life.
Is the Mist Trail closed?
The lower portion of the Mist Trail along Vernal Fall closes in winter due to risk of falling ice and rock. The upper portion of the John Muir Trail between Clark Point and the top of Nevada Fall is closed in winter due to treacherously icy conditions.
Where does the Mist Trail start?
Happy Isles Trailhead
The Mist Trail starts at Happy Isles Trailhead (YARTS Happy Isles shuttle stop #16, and within walking distance of Curry Village and the parking lot). The park recommends starting early to avoid the larger crowds.
