The 7 Most Beautiful Waterfalls at Yosemite National Park

By now you’re probably fully aware of the love Evan and I have for Yosemite National Park. Home to Half Dome, El Capitan, giant sequoia trees, lilac wildflowers, deer, and more — this park is full of wildlife attractions. Yet, at the top of the list for the best natural wonders are the waterfalls at Yosemite.

Right after the winter snow melt, Yosemite is gushing with eye-catching water displays. There’s waterfalls ranging in height from 150 feet all the way to 2,425 feet, which easily snags a spot as one of tallest waterfalls in the world.

In my opinion, it’s one of the best national parks with waterfalls. But what can I say, I’m in love with Yosemite National Park.

If you’re planning a trip, don’t visit the park without adding stops to see these jaw-dropping Yosemite waterfalls up close. Maximize your time with these national park resources:

Below you’ll find the must-see waterfalls in the park, along with the dos and don’ts for swimming, and the best time to see the falls.

Feel free to jump ahead!

Does Yosemite have waterfalls right now?

Absolutely!

Yosemite National Park is always flowing with waterfalls no matter the season. That doesn’t mean there aren’t seasons where the water is extra gushy and mighty. With that being said the best time to explore the glorious waterfalls at Yosemite, is during spring and early summer.

During the spring, you’ll experience the cascading waterfalls post snow melt, lesser crowds and the roaring power from the falls. However, the water is icy cold if you plan on swimming. Also, depending on the year the weather may be cool to warm, so you may need a jacket if you’re visiting during March or early April.

Summer still allows you to see the mighty falls, but it’s much more crowded. The water and weather tend to warmer which is an ideal situation for water enthusiasts. Think warm weather and soaking wet clothes after trekking up a hill. It’s the ultimate summertime reward.

However if you’re unable to visit during spring or summer, fall and winter are still okay times to witness some of the waterfalls that run year long. The list includes Bridalveil Fall, Wapama Falls, Nevada Fall, Vernal Fall, Chilnualna Falls and Illilouette Fall.

How many waterfalls are there in Yosemite National Park?

In total, Yosemite has about 18 waterfalls and cascades scattered throughout the park. Each of the falls vary in height, width, and flow.

Below you’ll find a list of the falls, along with their height.

Can you swim in waterfalls at Yosemite?

According to the National Park Service, you’re allowed to swim in almost every body of water within Yosemite. Hurray for swimming post-hiking!

While it’s generally permitted, there are some areas that are prohibited to swim in. For example, swimming in reservoirs (i.e. Hetch Hetchy or Lake Eleanor Reservoir) is a big no-no. On that list no-swim list you’ll also find swimming in the:

• Wawona Domestic Water Intake
• Emerald Pool and Silver Apron
• Dana Fork of the Tuolumne River

Also swimming above a waterfall is prohibited and swimming near waterfalls is very dangerous. Many people are swept over the edge of a fall, so it’s best to avoid directly swimming in a waterfall.

For more swimming rules in Yosemite click here.

Where are the best waterfalls in Yosemite?

When it comes to the best waterfalls in Yosemite, this question ultimately boils down to preference. What type of waterfall experience do you enjoy? What inspires you about waterfalls? Do you like to hike to the falls?

Personally, my favorite waterfalls are Wapama Falls, Nevada Falls, and Vernal Falls. Why? Because it’s a gorgeous hike that winds up the mountainside, followed by a hefty water surprise — getting soaking wet from the falls.

Nevertheless, the most popular waterfalls in the park are Bridalveil Fall and Yosemite Falls.

The most stunning waterfalls in Yosemite

Below is a list of the most beautiful falls in the park, in no particular order.

Wapama Falls

Highlights: flows all year, wildflowers, getting wet from the falls, crossing through a dark tunnel, stunning views, and reservoir.

While Wapama Falls is not a hidden gem, it’s a semi-hidden gem for travelers entering Yosemite from the Southern Gate. Since this waterfall is tucked away in Hetch Hetchy, it can take about two hours to reach the trailhead from the South Gate. But, it’s 100% worth the drive!

It’s a popular hiking trail in Yosemite for backpackers and hikers coming from San Francisco, so it’s important to get here early. We arrived around 10:00 am and scored one of the last parking spots.

Right past the trailhead you’ll instantly be greeted by the O’Shaughnessy Dam that was created in the 1920s. It’s where San Fransisco gets their water supply from, and it’s a stunning place to soak up the majestic water and surrounding mountains.

Along this 5.5 mile out and back trail, you’ll find colorful wild flowers, and lush flora and fauna as you wind through different ecosystems. On the trail we found stunning lookout points as we hiked near the reservoir and a couple places to splash our toes in water to cool off during the heat.

Having said that, the best prize was crossing the bridge in front of Wapama Falls. Expect to get drenched, especially if you’re crossing the bridge several times to cool off. I strongly recommend doing this since the trail is extremely exposed!

Hiking tip: Consider packing a lunch or snacks to enjoy once you reach the falls. We did this and it was extremely refreshing to relax by the water, dry off in the sun, and devour some tasty vegan avocado sandwiches.

Related post: 17 Mouthwatering Vegan Lunch Ideas To Try During Your Next Trip

Cascade Creek Falls

Highlights: very accessible, hike down into the creek, and flowing waterfall off of Big Oak Flat Road.

One of the most accessible waterfalls at Yosemite is Cascade Creek Falls, also known as The Cascades. You don’t have to hike or bike to witness this fall. Instead, you can pull right beside it and park in a turnoff between Big Oak Flat Road and El Portal Road.

It’s located just outside Yosemite Valley and is about a 10 to 20 minute drive. The signs to witness this waterfall are extremely small, so stay alert once you start driving on Big Oak Flat Road.

You’ll see a small sign labeled Cascade Creek and immediately drive over a bridge. The turnout will be to your left, but you’ll have to cross the street again to get an even closer view.

Be careful! Cars whip around this corner, so it can be dangerous.

Stay on the parking lot side and descend down the hillside to get a picturesque view. Or cross the street to spend some downtime at the creek. We dipped our toes in, drank some kombucha, and relaxed here for a bit. It was extremely enjoyable to listen to the faint rumble and stretch our legs before we made the drive to Wapama Falls.

While we drove to this creek, you can also hike in from Tamarack Campground Trail. It’s about 4.4 miles out and back and rated as moderate. I’ve been told there’s lots of bear sightings on this trail, so use caution!

Yosemite Falls

Highlight: the largest waterfall in Yosemite, one of tallest waterfalls in the world, and can see the falls almost anywhere in the Valley.

Yosemite Falls are the tallest waterfalls in California and one of tallest in the world. The impressive 2,425 feet long streams attract visitors to Yosemite from all over the world. But, what’s even more unique is that this waterfall is a combination of three different falls — Lower Yosemite Falls (320 feet), Middle Cascades (675 feet) and the tallest section, Upper Yosemite Falls (1,430 feet).

Because this is one of the most popular waterfalls at Yosemite, the trail to see the falls is well-maintained and accessible. The easiest and best trail to access the falls up close is the Lower Yosemite Fall Trail. But you can also experience scenic views anywhere throughout the Valley Floor.

My favorite views points are from Cook’s Meadow, the chapel, and Curry Village.

It’s a short leisurely 1 mile loop to greet the waterfalls. Here you’ll also find a wooden footbridge right beneath the falls for a mid-afternoon mist.

Alternatively, if you want to experience the falls from a higher viewpoint, consider hiking another trail. To view the top of the falls, hike Yosemite Falls Trail. This hiking trail is strenuous and is 7.2 miles out and back. In total, it takes about 6 1/2 to 8 hours to complete.

Another great hike to view the falls from higher up is Columbia Rock Trail. This trail is 2 miles out and back and is rated as moderate.

Each of these trails have several switchbacks as you fiercely scale up the mountain. Make sure to pack snacks and lots of water if you’re hiking them.

Bridalveil Fall

Highlight: flows all year long, beautiful scenery, and the first waterfall to see in the Valley.

Upon entering the Valley Floor, Bridalveil Fall is the first rushing water you’ll witness. While the Bridalveil Fall Trail is currently closed due to construction, views of this waterfall can be seen from Tunnel View and the drive down into the park.

Keep your camera ready because you’ll pass by this 620 feet tall beauty in a matter of seconds.

Still, one of the best things about this waterfall is that it flows year-round. Expect to be graced by it’s light flow during summer, fall, and winter. But during spring (especially May)… this fall roars loudly as water tumbles off the rocks.

Vernal Fall

Highlights: Vernal Fall Footbridge, accessible and paved paths, getting soaking wet from the falls, and scenic vistas of the Valley.

Vernal Fall is the first waterfall found along the rocky grand staircase that winds up the mountainside. It’s one of most popular hikes in Yosemite Valley and for good reason, as it’s extremely fun and scenic!

This waterfall is found on The Mist Trail. It’s trailhead starts near Happy Isles. It’s completely accessible as it’s paved a good portion of the way. This paved portion is extremely popular among tourist, but it tapers off somewhere after the Vernal Fall Footbridge (a beautiful lookout point).

To reach the bridge it’s about 0.8 miles one way.

During the hike you’ll trek along the Merced River as you journey up the mountainside. So expect your heart to be pumping since this glorious waterfall hike is completely uphill! Along the path you’ll see beautiful trees, scenic views of the river, and gorgeous vistas of the valley.

For those who what to journey on past the footbridge to see the fall, continue along the Mist Trail. After several hundred feet, you’ll approach the wet granite staircase. Begin your ascent carefully as the rocks are slippery and it’s quiet misty (hence the name). Continue trekking this route for about 0.4 miles and you’ll reach the top of Vernal Falls soaking wet.

At the top you’ll find immaculate views of the valley and some prime resting spots, before you turn back or continue the trek towards Nevada Fall.

Personally, this is one of my favorite hikes in the Valley because I’m obsessed with the ambiance of the rushing water as you hike up the mountain!

Nevada Fall

Highlight: Impressive views of the Valley, less crowded than Vernal Falls, and Emerald Pool.

Another rushing Yosemite waterfall on the Mist Trail is Nevada Fall. This fall is much larger than Vernal Fall and offers an even sweeter view of the valley from a birds eye.

In total, starting from the trailhead hiking to Nevada Fall is 5.4 miles out and back and takes anywhere from 5 to 6 hours, depending how fast or slow you hike. While it’s rated strenuous, the payoff are the views. Trust me, it’s completely worth it!

We hiked Nevada Falls during the evening time and were able to witness the rainbow-esque sunset over the falls. If you’re planning on hiking during the evening or nighttime — pack a head lamp. We forgot ours and made do with lights from our phones.

But I’ll admit it’d be much easier with a head lamp to waddle down the hill. That way you have your hands available for any hiking maneuvers needed. I’m pretty sure I tripped a couple of times because of it.

Nevertheless, this trail passes by two bodies of water — Silver Apron and Emerald Pool. Just as the name describes, Emerald Pool is a deep greenish color that pops against the blue spring skies. While it’s tempting to swim here or at Silver Apron, there’s absolutely no swimming allowed as it’s dangerous.

Horsetail Fall during Firefall

Highlights: the only waterfall in Yosemite that looks like lava flowing down the mountainside.

Yup, you read that right! Not only is it the only molten lava looking fall in Yosemite, but it’s also the only glowing red waterfall in California. With that being said, it’s actually not lava at all, rather a sun-kissed fall at the ideal time. This phenomena is called “firefall”.

It occurs right off the face of El Capitan, as a soft yet powerful waterfall called Horsetail Fall tumbles 1000 feet down into the abyss of the Merced River.

Legend has it that Horsetail Fall’s rise to stardom began when Ansel Adams captured the reddish falls protruding off of El Capitan. This attracted various nature enthusiast to experience the beauty of El Capitan and popularized this mountain. However, during that time, photos were in black and white, so the idea of a glowing red waterfall was unheard of.

This phenomena was later discovered in 1970 by a rock climber named Galen Rowell (source).

While this Yosemite waterfall can be viewed anytime between November to June, the reddish fall can only be viewed during firefall season in February (around the second or third week).

In order for this event to happen, the sky must be extremely clear, there has to be plenty of snow melt for the fall to cascade, and the sun has to be at a certain spot. So while it’s a beautiful sight, there’s a chance you may not see it. This past year we visited on February 22nd and 23rd, but didn’t see firefall.

Hiking tip: Follow the signs in Yosemite to know where you can park your vehicle because rangers will ticket you if you’re parked in non-firefall areas.

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