Mist Trail is a 6.50 mile out and back trail located in Yosemite National Park, California that offers a fantastic view of Vernal Falls and is rated as moderate. The trail is primarily used for hiking and is accessible year-round.
Directions from Arch Rock Entrance: Travel eastward into the Yosemite Valley, 11.5 miles to the Curry Village day-use area. Park your car and take the shuttle to stop number 16, Happy Isles. Head eastward along the paved path that leads along the northern bank of the Merced River.
California Travel and Tourism Commision, P.O. Box 1499 , Sacramento, CA, 95812-1499, Phone: 800-862-2543
Tyler Harding (5919)
3 months ago
N/A:
39 Completed 42 Reviews
This is a fantastic trail that is out of this world amazing. I completed this trail on a larger hike from the valley to the top of half-dome and only wish I had broken the overall hike into two days so I could have hiked it more slowly and taken it all in. The mist trail is best in spring I've heard after a good rain as the falls will be full. I completed the hike in September of 2010 and the falls were smaller but still incredible. This trail is a MUST. I would recommend taking this trail to the campsite of lower yosemite and then going to half dome the next day. Don't forget to get your permit for half dome first! by the way, the mist trail is VERY steep so come prepared or take your time.
Chris Jacobs (23)
3 months ago
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2 Completed 2 Reviews
This is a favorite trail of mine and I highly recommend it.
A few things you should know about this trail. While fairly short in length, it is very steep and the latter portion is made up of stone steps soaked in the mist coming off the falls. I usually just get wet then dry in the sun at the top, but some prefer bringing a small, packable rain poncho to keep somewhat dry. While not overly slick, I would recommend shoes with good grip. You definitelydo not want to slip on the stone steps.
David Bridges (255)
4 months ago
N/A:
10 Completed 9 Reviews
We took the Mist Trail to the top of Vernal Falls and then continued a short bit past the lake. Then we switched over to the John Muir Trail which gave us a spectacular view of Nevada Falls without having to climb to it before we descended the switchbacks back to the bridge near the trailhead.
Naomi Peterson
8 months ago
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48 Completed 38 Reviews
Ruby Duarte (133)
8 months ago
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3 Completed 3 Reviews
OMG!! Ya.....my choice of words for this hike! It was breathtaking...if your brave enough to step off the trail, just a bit. You can stand at the edge of some small trails that are off the main trail itself....here the mist from the falls really does take your breath away! Please be careful. The hike to the falls is a bit demanding, but easy if your in good shape. I loved the area about half way there....your skin get covered in the mist from the falls, hence MIST TRAIL lol! Loved it!! After climbing what seems like endless step...the view at the top of the falls was so pretty. We had lunch, and hung out for an hour or so, and headed back down. The squirrels are halarious,and love Sun Chips...ummmm ya please dont feed these lil guys, so they say. Oh well. Vernal Fall was too much fun!
Ben Hauser (272)
8 months ago
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8 Completed 3 Reviews
The signs said The Mist Trail was closed so we took part of The John Muir trail to Vernal Falls. However, seeing all the people ducking under the gate to take the Mist Trail back, we ending up doing the same. The hike can be steep at times but the sights at the top are well worth the walk. Vernal Falls were awe-inspiring to say the least but I also thoroughly enjoyed the Emerald Pool and the water-slides just above Vernal Falls. Take care above the falls, 3 people died just a month after I was there. The Mist Trail is aptly named being completely drenched in spray from the falls but still surprisingly safe and with good footing.
Denise Collar (356)
9 months ago
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11 Completed 11 Reviews
I made it to the top of Trail. It is now cross off bucket list. I would do it again but leave early in morning and make up to next waterfall.
Sonya Mendoza (57)
9 months ago
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2 Completed 2 Reviews
A moderate hike that kicked my ass! We hiked all the way up to Nevada Fall,,,my calves and thighs were sore for the next four days. The steps up to Vernal Fall are slippery, and the crowd factor was high, so hike with caution during peak tourist season. Prepare to get a little wet from the waterfall!
Jamie Cloninger (135)
12 months ago
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4 Completed 3 Reviews
I have to admit, this hike kicked my butt once I got near the top and I recommend a good meal before going so you have the energy to make it there. But once you make it to the top, it's amazing to see the power and rush of the falls.
Ria M. (3262)
over 1 year ago
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53 Completed 41 Reviews
This is a beautiful and very popular hike. We all enjoyed it, but it was difficult to hike at our own speed with so many other people on the trail.
Louie Delatorre
almost 2 years ago
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0 Completed 1 Reviews
The Mist Trail is very beautiful and I would recommend to everyone who loves a good hike. Word to beginers, this trail is pretty hard and not for beginners. Beautiful scenery all the way through. I camped out at little yosemite valley and had a great time.
Joe Blanchard
almost 2 years ago
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3 Completed 3 Reviews
Powerful Merced River to hike along. Mist is an understatment, should be be soaking wet trail during the thaw. Only drawback is the crowd. Continue up to steeper and dryer but less crowded Neveda fall.
Tanner Cook (204)
10 days ago
11 Completed 6 Reviews
Our group of 4 decided to get away from the hordes of people heading up along the main Mist Trail. We took the John Muir trail (there is a sign that says "Winter Route") towards Nevada Falls and then headed back down to Vernal and the Mist Trail. Great experience and viewpoints all along the route. It's just so crowded on the Mist trail. Bring a light waterproof jacket if you are there in the spring!