The Ultimate Guide to Yosemite National Park’s Best Waterfalls
For outdoor adventurers who want to chase waterfalls, there are few destinations that deliver like Yosemite National Park. This stunning park in Northern California is home to dozens of waterfalls, ranging from majestic giants to smaller, hidden gems. While some require backcountry hiking skills to reach, many waterfalls boast accessible viewpoints or are situated along easy trails.
To experience Yosemite’s waterfalls at their peak, timing is everything. Most falls flow fastest as the Sierra snow begins to melt, making spring and early summer the best times for waterfall enthusiasts to visit. Fortunately, several of Yosemite’s waterfalls flow continuously, providing breathtaking displays year-round.
How Many Waterfalls Are There in Yosemite?
There are more than two dozen waterfalls in Yosemite National Park. However, counting them can be more complicated than one might expect. While some waterfalls are well-established and officially named, there are spots where snowmelt creates temporary or ephemeral falls. Consequently, visitors may forever debate whether seeing 24, 25, 26, or more waterfalls is the ultimate goal.
Top Waterfalls to Explore in Yosemite National Park
1. Bridalveil Fall: Best for the Iconic Yosemite Backdrop
Height: 620 feet
The Fastest Way to See the Falls: Stop at Tunnel View for a distant view or take a short hike from the parking area.
Bridalveil Fall is typically the first waterfall most visitors encounter, easily visible from the popular car turnout at Tunnel View. It flows fastest in spring, but its beauty remains captivating throughout the year.
2. Vernal Fall: Best for Families
Height: 317 feet
The Fastest Way to See the Falls: Hike from Happy Isles along the Panorama Trail.
Vernal Fall is located on the busy Mist Trail, where hikers often experience a refreshing spray as they ascend a rock staircase adjacent to the waterfall. This family-friendly hike is manageable for most children of elementary school age and above.
3. Nevada Fall: Best for Day Hikers
Height: 594 feet
The Fastest Way to See the Falls: Hike three uphill miles from Happy Isles, following the Mist Trail.
Located just upstream of Vernal Fall, Nevada Fall is part of one of Yosemite’s most popular day hikes. Hikers can enjoy stunning views while immersing themselves in nature’s beauty.
4. Yosemite Falls: Best for Accessibility
Height: 2,425 feet
The Fastest Way to See the Falls: Use the park’s shuttle system to stop 7, then stroll on a flat, paved path to the base.
As the tallest waterfall in North America, Yosemite Falls consists of three distinct sections. The trail to Lower Yosemite Falls is accessible to visitors of all abilities, making it a must-see for everyone.
5. Horsetail Fall: Best for Photographers
Height: 1,570 feet
The Fastest Way to See the Falls: Park at the El Capitan Picnic Area or nearby turnouts along Northside Drive.
Horsetail Fall flows in winter, peaking in February when it may illuminate with a fiery glow during the setting sun—an event that photographers eagerly anticipate.
6. Sentinel Falls: Best for Spring Viewing
Height: 1,920 feet
The Fastest Way to See the Falls: Stop at Sentinel Beach or near the Four Mile Trailhead for the best views.
Sentinel Falls flows in spring and early summer, cascading down six distinct sections. When in full flow, it’s visible from various points along Southside Drive in the valley.
7. Ribbon Fall: Best for Big Drops
Height: 1,612 feet
The Fastest Way to See the Falls: Park along Southside Drive just beyond Bridalveil Fall.
Ribbon Fall is the tallest single-drop waterfall in America, making it an impressive sight during its flow from March through June.
8. Illilouette Fall: Best for Serious Hikers
Height: 370 feet
The Fastest Way to See the Falls: Hike down the Panorama Trail from Glacier Point.
Illilouette Fall is less frequented by visitors due to its remote location, rewarding dedicated hikers with stunning views of the waterfall in higher flow months.
9. Chilnualna Falls: Best Near the Park’s South Entrance
Height: 690 feet
The Fastest Way to See the Falls: Start with a strenuous hike from the Chilnualna Falls Road parking area.
Chilnualna Falls is a beautiful option for those exploring the less-traveled areas of Yosemite, especially during the late spring and early summer when water levels peak.
10. Wapama Falls: Best for Spontaneous Visitors
Height: 1,400 feet
The Fastest Way to See the Falls: View from the parking lot at the O’Shaughnessy Dam.
Wapama Falls is accessible via a moderate 5-mile hike from the O’Shaughnessy Dam, offering opportunities to see multiple waterfalls in one trip.
11. Lehamite Falls: Best-Overlooked Fall
Height: 1,180 feet
The Fastest Way to See the Falls: View from Cook Meadow.
Lehamite Falls is often overshadowed by nearby waterfalls but provides beautiful cascades during its short flow period in spring.
