We decided on a night hike and backpacked up to wake to the falls in the morning. From San Francisco, the drive is roughly five hours. On the way back, we decided to cross the bridge to avert all the sand. otherwise this hike was amazing and well worth it! The views of this waterfall are unbeatable from here, and if the flow rate for Vernal Fall is high, there is a very good chance you will get wet (hence the name). Mist Falls is a 45ft waterfall in California's Cedar Grove section of Kings Canyon National Park en route to Paradise Valley on an 8-mile round-trip hike. For a longer dayhike, the 9-mile trail to Mist Falls links woodlands, wildflower-strewn meadows, and views of a surging river, gaining a modest 600 feet along the way, mostly over the last mile to the falls. Awesome trail! This popular route starts along the sandy Cedar Grove Trail, and then takes a left (north) onto the Mist Falls Trail. This trail is well worth doing. As you climb into the wilderness, you’ll have some beautiful views of the canyon you were just in. It is advisable to leave early in the morning, becaus later the trail became really crouded, especially during the summer … The Mist Trail can also be used to access Half Dome via the cable ladder, along with Little Yosemite Valley, Nevada Falls, and many other locations in upper Yosemite. The Mist Falls Trail starts at the Rae Lakes loop trailhead located at the Road End parking lot. Took the meadows trail back which was a nice change. You can also take the John Muir Trail to the top of Vernal Fall (via the Clark Point cutoff) and the top of Nevada Fall, or combine the Mist Trail and John Muir Trail into a loop. We had lunch on top of the rocks and enjoyed the quiet emptiness. A breath-taking experience with family in one of California's best national parks. After making your way through a marshy area, you’ll come upon Bubbs Creek. The park road is closed in the winter time, so summer time is the best season to visit. We ended up see two bears in two different spots. Bugs galore, bring a face net if you prefer your sanity. Top of Mist Falls. I knew going in that the water level would be low for this time of year but the water that was coming down was amazingly clear! It’s called the Mist Trail for a reason because you get misted by the falls on your hike! Length 8.7 miElevation gain 879 ftRoute type Out & back. We will be back next summer hopefully and head back a little farther to Paradise Valley! So I pulled together a list of tips for hiking the Mist Trail, whether you’re just heading to Vernal Falls or planning to trek all the way to the top of Nevada Falls. Length: 8 miles (Out & Back) Elevation: About 800 ft; … The John Muir Trail also leads to the top of Nevada Fall (bypassing Vernal Fall). The falls are quite impressive: the river rushes down a steep, smooth granite slope before cascading over a cliff. This trail was sandy at first for about a mile before you get onto solid ground. A group we passed said they saw a bear, but we did not. Might be because we were there mid October which I’d imagine means water levels are much lower. make sure to bring enough water! Had a small lunch on the rocks below the waterfall. The trail is mostly moderate until the end, where there is a quick 600 foot gain to the waterfall. Though not a short hike, it's not difficult. The lower slopes are paved and scenic, but then you cross the Merced River and hike through the mist up 600 granite steps to the 317-foot Vernal Falls (3 miles round-trip). This boot path, somewhat less obvious after the 2017 Eagle Creek Fire closures left it fallow for a year and a half, simply ascends above the creek. Hikers can reach the top of Nevada Fall by continuing 1.3 miles (2.1 km) along the Mist Trail (from Vernal Fall). The giant waterwheel does create a lot of mist which is perfect to cool off after a good hike. Through it all, the Merced River rushes down from its source in the High Sierra, and broadens on the floor of Yosemite Valley. Prepare for slippery footing and a tremendous amount of waterfall spray in spring and early summer. The only downside to the Mist Trail, is that it is the busiest trail in all of Yosemite. Along the trail, the Merced River is a tumultuous mountain stream, lying in a U-shaped valley. The areas around Vernal Fall take you right through the mist of the falls getting you soaking wet. The air deep into the canyon towards the Mist Falls was relatively clear, and the trail was nearly empty. The Mist Trail is one of Yosemite’s most iconic hikes. We only saw 7 people so it wasn’t busy. Reply. Decent swimming if you're careful! ©2020 Yosemite Mariposa County Tourism Bureau, Yosemite Itineraries: What to Do in Yosemite. The beginning portions were really pretty. After the hot hike, it is a welcomed reprieve. After getting a few pictures, we found a nice place to relax and grab a snack before returning back down the trail. Easy hike. Check out my reviews for paradise valley for more info! Reading this made me miss going outdoors! Be prepared to get wet! Beautiful views and a good bit of water on the falls even in October. There is a restroom at the trailhead but no water or services. This route follows along the sandy Cedar Grove trail, parallel to Bubbs Creek. Went during a smoky weekend with my pals and lucked out due to wind patterns. The Mist Trail Hike is a must-do hike in Yosemite National Park. Mist Falls is the most popular destination on the trail. The falls are quite impressive: the river rushes down a steep, smooth granite slope before pouring over a precipice. This trail climbs alongside Vernal Fall. Only passed one other group with them on all day, and as you can see this trail is pretty popular. The trail starts from the John Muir Trail (JMT) trail head near the happy isles shuttle stop. Easy to moderate. Fees are $35 per vehicle or $30 per motorcycle. It took us abt 3 hours up and back plus abt half an hour or so having our lunch above the falls. There was hardly anybody on the trail so it was nice to have it to ourselves. Got too confident with my new hiking boots and walked out past a "slick rock" sign and got put on ice skates, so don't be dumb like me. Mist Falls is a 8.7 mile heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Hume, California that features a waterfall and is rated as moderate. If you are entering on foot or bike the fee is $20 per person. This trail begins at the Happy Isles bus stop in Yosemite Valley. It takes you over the top of two beautiful, huge waterfalls (Nevada Falls and Vernal Falls) and provides some of the best views in the park. This was a great hike! The gorgeous Mist fall trail starts at Roads end ranger station and it remains flat for around 2 miles or so. Considered the classic Yosemite hike, the Mist Trail to Vernal Falls and Nevada Falls lives up to its hype. This popular trail takes you to Vernal and Nevada Falls - iconic places in the Yosemite Valley. Heard from passing hikers there was a bear but never came across one just some fresh tracks. Saw a rattlesnake and passed a few hikers that saw a baby bear, we did not run into it though. Beautiful trail. The trail got pretty warm, even on a relatively cool day but there was good shade for the majority of it. Unfortunately you’ll have to leave Fido at home, as this park is not dog friendly! As others have mentioned, the first mile or so is along a sandy paty and not that exciting. Reply. The Mist Falls scramble route follows the western side of Mist Creek, so go back to re-cross Mist Creek and turn uphill following a steep scree slope. Some canyon views but not tons. We finally made it to Mist Falls after following the Kings River for most of the trail. $35! But before we would get back up, an overly friendly black bear came over to try and say hi. Travel Clans on July 6, 2020 at 4:52 am . Amazing view .5 mile from the falls 8mi Jul 20, 2017 Dylan Tweed. You’ll find an excellent view of Vernal Fall from the footbridge at 0.75 miles (1.3 km). My watch indicated the mileage total as 8.5 miles and that includes hiking a bit above the falls. The falls reach their peak from late spring to early summer, so if you want the traditional Mist Trail experience, with a light, natural shower while hiking, come during that time. Kings Canyon National Park charges a fee to enter. More information and maps can be found on the NPS website here. Vernal Fall Mist Trail is closed in winter, but access is available via the John Muir Trail, which may be snowy. The portion of the John Muir Trail between Clark Point and the top of Nevada Fall is closed in winter. You can also purchase a park specific annual pass for $70. At mile 3 the trail begins to climb along some dramatic cascades in the boulder-strewn river, reaching Mist Falls at mile 4.5. As many other have mentioned, we encountered one bear and one snake on the trail! So awesome!! It starts pretty flat and boring weaving through trees, once you reach mile two it gets better. The water was super calming to fall asleep to. It's mostly flat until the last mile or so up to the falls, but even that didn't feel too strenuous. Falls were very cool, so many falls along this trail. Most important thing to know here is that the Mist Trail has a lot of MIST! Hikers can reach the top of Nevada Fall by continuing 1.3 miles (2.1 km) along the Mist Trail (from Vernal Fall). Great trail. While many of Yosemite's trails are popular due to having a single spectacular destination, the Mist Trail has fabulous views scattered all along it, beginning at the bridge overlook, progressing to two unforgettable waterfalls that fall a combined total of more than 900 feet (270 meters), and ending with perhaps the most striking of all: the view of Nevada Fall, Liberty Cap, and the back of Half Dome from … We also didn't have any trouble with bugs, though it sounds like others have. Good variety of scenery (meadow, dense woods, and waterfall). reece on July 6, 2020 at 5:04 am . Mist Falls – Hike Details/Info. More. If you are just day-hiking, and not taking an overnight trip, you do not need a permit to do this hike. Obviously not the right time of year to see a waterfall but the trail still has lots to offer, including a small vista overlooking part of the canyon. Mist Trail vs. John Muir Trail. Stand in awe of Vernal and Nevada Falls , then hop on the John Muir trail on the way back down to the Yosemite Valley. Great day hike for those looking to explore kings canyon without camping on the trail. Mist Falls Trail Well used route that winds through woodland and meadows near the Kings River for 2 miles, then climbs past a pretty sequence of waterfalls, pools and cascades Length: 4 miles Mist Falls. Hike the Mist Trail in Yosemite with your older kids! A 100-ft waterfall cascading over a granite ridge, surrounded by stunning mountainous peaks. Despite the climbing, the walk is pretty comfortable and fun, and well worth the effort. Very buggy if you go off trail. Mist Falls is a 14.0 kilometer heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Hume, California that features a waterfall and is rated as moderate. The Mist Trail is a climbing trail towards Vernal and Nevada falls. soda will be enough for the hike. After a beautiful drive through the western part of Kings Canyon, you’ll end at Road’s End Trailhead, which is where this hike begins. We didn't see any bears or snakes while hiking in the afternoon (left at 1pm, took two hours up, two hours down, and spent an hour at the top for a total of 5 hours), which was just fine by me! To proceed directly to the top of Vernal Fall, follow the Mist Trail 0.5 mile (0.8 km) up a steep granite stairway of over 600 steps. No bear sightings for us but we did see plenty of scat along the trails. Cant wait for the vaccine to … The drive itself to the trail is great too - very scenic. The waterfall was nice but I thought there would be a better view of the canyon. It is called the mist trail for a reason. I’ve only been hiking once, I defo need to go again. After a couple miles, you’ll take a left (north) onto the Mist Falls Trail. Did it with our 5 kids, and the 3 older ones (10, 8, 5) walked it no problem. They were both walking right on the trail. The Mist Trail alongside Nevada Fall. Hotel Creek Trail to Cedar Grove Overlook, Avalanche Pass Trail to Roaring River Via Kanawyers Trail, Little Creek Trail to Cedar Grove Overlook Loop [CLOSED], Zumwalt Meadow Trail to Kanawyers Trail Loop, Paradise Valley Trail to Woods Creek Crossing, Florence Lake via Kings Canyon on the John Muir and Pacific Crest Trail. On a hot summer day, it’s so refreshing. Despite being steep, often wet, and sometimes dangerous, the Mist Trail is Yosemite’s hallmark hike, with breathtaking views of the valley and two waterfalls. Damn this pandemic! I suggest take the trail to the brink of the falls and a get view of the mist and the forest below. But there are a few things to know before you go. Mist Trail is a punishing but majestic climb. The trail is primarily used for hiking, camping, and backpacking and is best used from May until October. The roiling water does in fact produce a lot of mist. Very beautiful! This is the furthest driveable point at Kings Canyon National Park and to get there you will need to drive through the entire park (about an hour drive). Some hikers may be continuing from the top of Nevada Fall to hike to Half Dome or elsewhere in Yosemite’s wilderness. Mist Trail Hike in Yosemite National Park (4K) The Mist Trail in Yosemite is one of the most popular hikes in the entire park. This trail can get buggy, bring some DEET and clothes that will cover your skin. It’s the start of the Half Dome trail but it also goes past Vernal Falls and Nevada Falls. Great hike today with my daughter. Trail is usually accessible throughout the autumn season. Mist Falls. Book your tickets online for Mist Trail, Yosemite National Park: See 1,020 reviews, articles, and 794 photos of Mist Trail, ranked No.9 on Tripadvisor among 137 attractions in Yosemite National Park. Can get heavily trafficked. There’s no clear indication you’ve reached the “top” so we accidentally added on an extra mile. This hike takes around 5 hours to complete, plus the drive, so plan accordingly. The Mist Trail is the more popular of the two trails, for good reason. See the map, profile, and description below for more information. Beyond the bridge, at 0.2 miles, the Mist Trail and the John Muir Trail diverge. Vernal Fall Mist Trail is closed in winter, but access is available via the John Muir Trail, which may be snowy. The first part of this 8-mile round trip is relatively flat; during the last mile to the falls, the trail gains 600'. Mist Falls is one of the larger (if not the largest) waterfalls in Kings Canyon National Park. Stop at the snack shop for an ice cream treat or cool beverage, but don't make the mistake of thinking your 16 oz. Wasn’t overwhelmed by this hike, especially based on the reviews. The mist trail is an iconic hike in Yosemite. They seemed very calm and we just kept our distance. | About Waterfall Wednesdays! Enormous boulders, some the size of a house, are dwarfed by the sheer faces of exfoliating granite, which rise 3000 feet (914 m) from the river. Make sure you have a bottle or two of water for the trail. Most loved sights include the famous bridge overlook, as well as the views of two enormous waterfalls: Vernal and Nevada Falls. Finally, there was a disappointing number of people on the trail not wearing masks. I'm not much of a bird watcher but I saw what I would guess was a western scrub jay and at least two woodpeckers. IN COORDINATION WITH PUBLIC HEALTH GUIDELINES, YOSEMITE IS ONLY OPEN FROM 8 AM TO 5 PM DAILY. short and sweet, great views of the east bay/sf on a clear day. The John Muir Trail also leads to the top of Nevada Fall (bypassing Vernal Fall). The Mist Trail is one of Yosemite’s signature hikes. The drive to roads end can't be beat, and the views get more and more spectacular as you gain elevation in the second half of the trail. The Mist Trail to Vernal Falls is my favorite hike at Yosemite. Hiking to the top of the trail guarantees striking views of Liberty Cap and the back of Half Dome. The falls are not as roaring this time of the year but it was still a great hike with lots of good views. Mellow hike even amidst the darkness. At the top of the Mist Trail (by another bathroom), turn right on John Muir Trail (Half Dome is to the left) and hike a quarter mile to the top of Nevada Fall. Gorgeous view. Permit: Go on NPS.com, locate sequoia & kings canyon then click on plan trip to buy a day pass!! We arrived around 0845 on Sunday the 9/27. we went on a hot day and had just enough. It’s clear to see why Mist Falls is a must-hike trail for any true nature enthusiast visiting Kings Canyon National Park. Here's how to plan well for this day hike, We were able to sit out on the rock by the water which was pretty sweet. Hiking along the valley was gorgeous with the alpine peaks on either side! Not many mosquitos but may see an occasional king snake. Not too many people on the trail and had the waterfall all to ourselves for a bit. Eventually you’ll reach the falls which are, as their name suggests, very misty! This sandy trail follows the glaciated South Fork Canyon through forest and chaparral, past an impressive show of rapids and cascades, to one of the largest waterfalls in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. The John Muir Trail is longer—approximately 4 miles one-way compared to the Mist Trail’s 2.5 miles (4 km)—so plan accordingly. Be sure to pack plenty of water, sunscreen and mosquito repellent. The beginning of the Mist Trail is in Yosemite Valley near the Happy Isles Nature Center at shuttle stop 16. The trail starts out in the trees and follows the cascading river. The Mist Trail Hike is Yosemite National Park’s signature hike and offers truly majestic natural views scattered along the trail. Bring bug spray. 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