Being a Floridian, mountains are not exactly a daily part of my life. I did grow up alongside the Smoky Mountains, which are more like foothills compared to the towering peaks of Yosemite National Park. Truly, my mind had no comprehension of what a mountain constituted of – and I spent this past week climbing one!
My husband Peter and I hiked from the Yosemite Valley Floor (elevation: 4,035ft) to the top of Nevada Falls (5,900ft) via the famous Mist Trail. Watch my vlog to see our journey of hiking this majestic waterfall. Truly, this was a life-changing experience for us!
This video shows what it is like to hike up to this waterfall during springtime when rain and snow are abundant in the park. For new hikers, I offer some tips & tricks for walking along the Mist Trail, as well as some trail guide information and the most amazing photographs of both Mist Trail and Glacier Point views!
Also, don’t forget to view my complete photo gallery collection of Yosemite National Park below! Also, if you are interested in my destination photography, visit my Travel Journal! I love taking pictures and keeping a visual log of the places I have visited!
The Mist Trail Hike | Gallery
Hiking Mist Trail: Quick Info
- This hike takes approximately 5-6 hours to complete for experienced hikers (round trip)
- This hike is categorized as strenuous according to nps.gov, so be cautious
- Total elevation gain is 2,000ft. It is possible to get elevation sickness on this hike
- Restrooms are available on this route, which is rare for a Yosemite hike
- You can hike to both waterfalls year-round, unless a trail is closed for maintenance. Remember to check with the park, and your map, at the entrance for seasonal information
The staircases on Vernal Fall are truly treacherous, and I was so out of breath climbing these! Coming down is even scarier, especially since the path is jagged and the constant spray from the waterfall increases the threat of slipping.
On the way to the next waterfall!
The majestic Nevada Fall! From this area, the hike was slow due extremely jagged rocks. The staircase climb on this area had no handrailing. It was truly just us, and the cliffs.
We made it to the top of Nevada Fall! I was so sore, but the level of satisfaction in reaching the top of the waterfall was indescribable. It was worth it!
“Into this one mountain mansion nature has gathered her choicest treasures to draw her lovers into close and confiding communion.”
John Muir, the “Father of National Parks”
Glacier Point | Gallery
Want to take fantastic pictures without making a grueling hike? Go to Glacier Point! This popular overlook towers at 7,214ft above sea level, and offers an amazing view of both Upper and Lower Yosemite Falls, Vernal and Nevada Falls, Half Dome, and the High Sierra peaks in the distance.
View of Nevada Fall from Glacier Point. Even in editing my photos, it still feels insane that I walked to the top of that crazy tall thing!
My trip also included whale watching at Dana Point in Southern CA. I saw a Finn whale and a party of dolphins! Stay tuned for a post of my adventures along the Pacific Coast.
If you are interested in my destination photography, visit my Travel Journal. Wherever I go, my camera travels with me. I am fortunate to live in St. Augustine, Florida, which is an incredible area to photograph. Being the oldest city in the United States, there are several amazing places to see!
-Emily