This is the absolute must-do hike in Yosemite. The Incredible views of two of Yosemite National Park’s most spectacular cascades are most popular in spring and summer but are also worth visiting in autumn for the brilliant fall foliage. Beginning at Happy Isles in the eastern end of Yosemite Valley, our trail climbs above the cataracts and rapids of the Merced River to a bridge over the river with excellent views of 317 ft. tall Vernal Fall. The next half mile is where the Mist Trail earns its name. Steep and slick, the trail ascends a virtual granite stairway through the thundering mist of Vernal Fall. In spring and early summer rain gear is recommended. Once above the fall, the crowds thin out and the trail dries out as it continues past beautiful Emerald Pool and the Silver Apron to a final steep climb to the top of Nevada Fall, the taller of the two at 594 ft. From this point, we can backtrack to the trailhead or take the John Muir Trail back for a drier and less crowded return.

In July and August we access these waterfalls from the John Muir Trail to enjoy more solitude, as this is the peak tourist season in Yosemite.