If you only have time for one hike while in Yosemite look no further - the Mist Trail is the hike for you. During this hike you will get up close and personal with two breathtaking waterfalls, Vernal and Nevada Falls. You will know Vernal Fall is getting close as you feel a cool breeze of mist getting stronger as you power up the steep incline. You may get wet from the mist, so make sure to bring a rain jacket.
The Mist Trail is an iconic 6.4 mile hiking loop in Yosemite National Park that passes and summits Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall. A difficult and gorgeous hike that begins at the Happy Isle trailhead taking all hikers on a journey up the granite landscape to the top of Nevada Fall where you can look down into the heart of Yosemite Valley.
Read on to discover what you can see along this trail, how long it will take, the best season to go, and so much more!
Enjoy the view of Mount Broderick and Nevada Fall while hiking down the Mist Trail in Yosemite National Park. Photograph by Dalton Johnson
Hiking the Mist Trail Overview:
Distance: 6.4 mile loop
Elevation Gain: 2,200 feet
Difficulty: Strenuous
How long does it take to hike: 4-5 hours
Terrain: steep, maintained trail
HOW LONG IS THE MIST TRAIL DAY HIKE?
Day hiking the Mist Trail is a 6.4 mile loop that begins at Happy Isle trailhead and ascends a steep, winding trail passing two waterfalls, Vernal and Nevada Falls. Most hikers complete the Mist Trail hike in 4 to 5 hours.
WHAT IS THE ELEVATION GAIN OF THE MIST TRAIL DAY HIKE?
The total elevation gain of the Mist Trail is 2,162 feet up a well maintained trail. Hiking the Mist Trail is difficult, but can be done by all hikers. There are many switch backs with large rocks that you can sit on to rest while going up.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO DAY HIKE THE MIST TRAIL?
On average, hikers take 4 hours to hike the full trail; 3 hours up and 1 hour down. This hike is a loop with a gorgeous lunch/picnic spot at the top of Nevada Fall. I suggest bringing enough snacks to sit at the top and enjoy the view for little while.
HOW HARD IS THE MIST TRAIL DAY HIKE?
The Mist Trail is a moderate to difficult hike because the first half is uphill. Although the Mist Trail is a difficult hike, there are plenty of places to stop and rest along the way to the top.
When is the best season to Hike the Mist Trail?
The best time to hike the Mist Trail is in Spring, or early Summer, while the snow runoff is high and the falls are full of water. The outside temperatures will be modest, 60s-70s, keeping you cool during this hard hike.
WHY HIKE THE Mist Trail?
If you are coming to Yosemite Valley to see the sights, hiking the Mist Trail should be on your bucket list. Where else in the world can you hike past two waterfalls, stare at granite monoliths, and embrace the burn in your thighs from a difficult hike? No where else. While this hike is one of the most popular day hikes in Yosemite Valley, the design and sights are unparalleled. When you stop for breaks, look over your shoulder, I promise you wont be disappointed. Soak in the beauty and challenge yourself to reach the top of Nevada Falls.
Once you reach Nevada Falls, take a load off by sitting down. Pack a lunch and have a picnic.
WHAT TO SEE ALONG THE mist trail?
Vernal Fall
Nevada Fall
Half Dome
Liberty Cap
Mount Broderick
Hiking up the Mist Trail with friends near Vernal Fall in Yosemite National Park. Photograph by Dalton Johnson
Now that you have discovered what you can see along this trail, how long it will take, and the best season to go, it is your turn to get outside and start hiking the Mist Trail. If you know of any other helpful information, please leave a comment below to help out your fellow hikers. If you found this article to be helpful, please share it among your friends, or on social media, so others can learn as well.
