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Lower Yosemite Falls

Mariposa County, California

4.8/5
based on 19 reviews

Details

Distance

1.16 miles

Route Type

Loop

Description

Added by Tiffany Nguyen

The Lower Yosemite Falls Loop in Yosemite Valley is a leisurely walk to the bottom of the highest waterfall in North America. Enjoy views of both Upper and Lower Yosemite Falls. It's open year-round so you can enjoy the falls at any time of the year.

At 2,425 feet, Yosemite Falls is the highest waterfall in North America. The falls consists of three sections: Upper Falls, Middle Cascades, and Lower Falls. At 320 feet, Lower Yosemite Falls is one of the most popular attractions at Yosemite National Park. This 1-mile loop is a leisurely walk with awesome views of both Upper and Lower Falls and viewing access to the bottom of Lower Falls. The paved loop trail begins at shuttle stop #6. For the best views of Yosemite Falls, consider walking the loop in a clockwise direction.

Lower Falls is open all year long, but peak water flow is during late spring and early summer after all the winter snow has melted. Visiting Yosemite in the wintertime is an entirely new and amazing experience compared to the summertime appearance that most are acquainted with. Another plus is that Yosemite Falls is much less populated in the winter as compared with the summer. Visit Yosemite Falls during the wintertime and you will find a huge mound of snow collected at the bottom of the falls.

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Features

Photography
Hiking
Bathrooms
Family Friendly
Groups
Scenic
Waterfall

Reviews

Short loop to the Lower Falls is a great group outing. Depending on the time of year, it could be gushing or pretty sparse. Lots of big rocks you can climb but be careful as it gets slippery!

The hike here was not that bad. Come during the winter and you might be able to see some snow. But we missed it. The thi if he of refreshing water is so relaxing . Short nice hike here with a family is good and easy here. The elevation gain isn’t terrible. I would recommend.

This is an easy paved walk to lower Yosemite falls. Be prepared to take turns getting a picture, it is usually busy because it is an easy/short walk

This is one of the most interesting attractions in Yosemite if you don't want (or can't) go to more strenuous hikes. Also a great option when with kids. I did it as a first round of acquaintance with the park and it just fueled my desire to explore much more the park!

Such a beautiful waterfall!

I would take the shuttle or walk to this area during peak season. Parking is cramped here. There are chances to see wildlife on this non aggressive, shorter hike. It is also wheelchair accessible so that everyone in the family can join!

This was a beautiful and breath taking run (literally!)

Because of it's short, paved path this walk to Lower Yosemite Falls can be very crowded. But if you go in the winter or in the rain, you might get lucky (like I did) and have the falls all to yourself.

Very very easy walk to the falls. They are worth the crowds

This is a must do if you are in Yosemite, be prepared for heavy crowds if you are there during peak season. Either way, its a short hike and worth the time.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Photograph Moonbows at Yosemite Falls

Rock Climb Penthouse Cracks, Yosemite NP

Bike Yosemite Valley

Yosemite Point

Hike the North Dome Loop via Yosemite Falls Trail

El Capitan Trail