Mist Trail holds a special place in our heart as one of our favorite trails to hike. Many others share the same love for this hike as we do and it shows in the massive amount of visitors who decide to take on this epic route. From the steep switchbacks through the trees to ascending the granite steps beside Vernal Falls, there’s something to see around every corner. We’ve hiked this same trail over twenty times and are happy to share how we prepare for one of the most popular trails in Yosemite National Park, California.
Vernal & Nevada Falls via Mist Trail
A strenuous 5.4 mile (8.7 km) round trip hike takes you up through the mountains to these two epic waterfalls. Not only will the trail take you close to the base of the falls but it will also bring you to the top of them. There are many places to rest along the trail but we recommend a quick break at the top of Vernal Falls and a longer one atop Nevada Falls. These locations both have open spaces to find a place to sit down amongst the trees and even along the water’s edge. Since this trail is quite popular, there are three restrooms along the way. One is located at the bridge before Vernal Falls, another at the top of Vernal Falls, and the last at the top of Nevada Falls. Another important thing to note is that there are warning signs everywhere to stay away from the water’s edge as the current is much stronger than it looks. Many visitors have died on this trail after being swept away in the current so please be aware of your surroundings.
What to Bring
- Water — LOTS of it. Especially if you’re hiking in the spring/summer when the temperatures are rising, there’s only one place to refill your water which is on the way to Vernal and it’s not always available so it’s better to be prepared beforehand. This hike also has a lot of open pockets where you’re exposed to the sun for long stretches of time.
- Sunscreen/Hat — Same reason as above. Those long stretches of no shade are sure to cause a sunburn or two unless you’re properly protected.
- Snacks — Make sure you’re constantly taking breaks and eating a snack here and there so you have enough energy to finish the hike. We usually bring trail mix, beef jerky, and granola bars.
- Breakfast/Lunch — This isn’t necessary but we usually pack a lunch as well so we can sit at the top and enjoy a meal with a view for an hour or so before we head back down. A quick PB&J or Nutella sandwich does the trick for quick meals or even full on deli sandwiches.
- Raincoat/Poncho — You WILL get wet. Mist Trail gets its name from the intense mist that showers hikers along the trail. Depending on the season, you’ll either have a light dew on your clothing or you’ll be completely soaked.
- Proper Hiking Shoes/Boots — We cannot recommend this enough! You will be hiking a steep trail that is only paved up to a certain point. This trail has gravel, dirt, mud, slippery rocks, and puddles. Even your socks will get wet.
- Phone or Camera — You’ll only need this to capture some of the best waterfalls in the Sierras. You’re free to go without this one if you want to experience it fully with your own two eyes… but it is nice to have something to look back on or share with your friends & family back home.
- Comfortable Day Backpack — To carry all of the above.
Best Time to Go
May through July are the most popular times to go and are also the best times to go to see the waterfalls in full flow. You can still hike the trail from August until snow hits the trails but the waterfalls are usually quite dried up by then.
On the day of your hike, we recommend beginning as early as possible. We usually start right before sunrise, in the early hours of blue hour, so we can take in the views at our own pace. This also makes it easier to come back down since it will still be early enough in the day that people are either still waking up or beginning the hike that you’re finishing.
More information on this hike is provided on:
https://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/vernalnevadatrail.htm
