Mirror Lake Hike

• 2 miles round trip to Mirror Lake and back, starting at 4,000 ft with a 100 ft elevation gain
• The trailhead is at Shuttle Stop #17
• Restrooms are at the first fork, about 5 minutes’ walk from the trailhead

Mirror Lake is a shallow, seasonal pool that fills with water in the spring and early summer. The rest of the year, it can be completely dry. However, it remains a favorite place to hike, especially for families, providing a close-up view of the iconic Half Dome.

The surroundings boast spectacular features: colossal rocks, picturesque meadows, and panoramic vistas of Half Dome. When the lake is full, its surface reflects beautifully, earning its name “mirror.”

You can expand your adventure by hiking the 4-mile (6.4 km) loop trail around the lake, which reopened in late 2012 after being closed due to a rockslide. The loop trail branches off to the right shortly after you start hiking.

While the trail is primarily paved, it can be snowy or icy during the winter season. This trail is also available for horseback riding, and hikers should be mindful of potential horse droppings on the path.

If you opt to walk from Yosemite Village instead of the shuttle bus, it will add 1.5 miles (2.4 km) each way.

Leashed pets are allowed on the paved trail, which is also wheelchair accessible.

Bridalveil Fall Hike

• 1.2 miles round trip starting at 4,000 ft with a 200 ft elevation gain
• The trailhead is at the parking lot on Hwy 41
• Toilets are in the parking lot

The short hike to Bridalveil Fall is one of the easiest and most scenic paths in Yosemite Valley. It is particularly impressive in spring and early summer when the falls are at their peak flow and rainbows can often be spotted in the afternoon mist.

Bridalveil Fall got its name from the mist that rises when the wind blows, resembling a wedding veil. During particularly wet springs, be prepared for some spray that may leave you feeling like you need protection from the elements.

The fall flows year-round, albeit at a lower volume during some seasons. The trail can become icy in the winter.

You can choose from two trailheads to reach Bridalveil Fall. The shorter path starts from the Bridalveil Fall parking area off US Hwy 41. Alternatively, park along Southside Drive for a slightly longer trail that offers additional views of El Capitan.

The paved trail offers easy access, leading to a viewing platform at the base of the waterfall.

Leashed pets are allowed on the paved trail.

Lower Yosemite Falls Hike

• 1-mile loop starting at 3,967 ft and more or less flat
• The trailhead is at Shuttle Stop #6
• Restrooms are at the trailhead

The stunning Yosemite Falls separates into sections, and the easiest hike in Yosemite Valley offers spectacular views right from the start, culminating at the base of the lower section of the falls. Two paved paths lead to a viewing bridge, creating a loop trail.

During spring, Yosemite Falls reaches its peak flow, providing a dramatic sight, though you should expect to get wet from the mist. In drier years, the falls may reduce to a trickle by late summer.

In winter, the trail can become icy, and cold temperatures may freeze the upper section of the falls completely.

Walking to the falls from Yosemite Village adds about 1 mile (1.6 km) round trip. If parking is full along Northside Drive, try the lot at Yosemite Lodge.

The eastern half of the loop remains wheelchair accessible. Leashed pets are allowed on the paved trails.

Vernal Fall Footbridge Hike

• 2 miles round trip to the bridge starting at 4,000 ft with a 300 ft elevation gain
• The trailhead is at the Happy Isles Shuttle Stop (#16)
• Restrooms are at Happy Isles just across the river from the trailhead and also just past the bridge

The Vernal Fall Footbridge hike is the most challenging of these easy treks, offering a steep section that can raise your heart rate. It follows the Mist Trail to a bridge over the Merced River with a splendid view of Vernal Fall.

In spring, the name “Mist Trail” becomes clear as the rapidly flowing waterfalls create a significant spray, making rocks slippery and presenting potential hazards.

Despite previous images showing unobstructed views from the footbridge, trees have grown in since then. However, if you venture a few hundred meters up the trail past the bridge, you will find a clearer sight.

Sentinel and Cook’s Meadow Hike

• 1-mile loop starting at 4,000 ft and more or less flat
• The trailhead is at the Valley Visitor Center (Shuttle Stop #5 or #9) or other locations mentioned above
• Pit toilets are at the Swinging Bridge parking lot
• Restrooms are at the Yosemite Lodge and Lower Yosemite Falls trailhead, with pit toilets along the way

This flat hike is packed with scenic opportunities, cutting right through the heart of Yosemite Valley and giving you ample time to enjoy the surroundings without the concerns of traffic.

As one of the easiest hikes, it remains a popular choice, typically not feeling overcrowded, especially as you take in the stunning views of Yosemite Falls, Half Dome, Glacier Point, and Royal Arches.

The meadows are particularly beautiful in spring and early summer when the grass thrives, wildflowers bloom, and waterfalls flow at their fullest, making it an ideal time to visit.

You can commence this loop trail from any point along its path, with convenient access from Southside Drive near the Swinging Bridge, the Yosemite Falls trailhead, or Yosemite Lodge.

This trail is wheelchair accessible, and leashed pets are allowed, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the natural beauty of Yosemite.