Lower Yosemite Falls Day Hike
Yosemite National Park
Yosemite Falls drops 2,425 feet from the upper rim of the valley to the bottom of the lower falls. The lower falls plunge 320 feet to the rocks below. Yosemite visitors can take the easy Lower Yosemite Falls trail in a 1-mile loop to view the mighty falls from various observation points. The falls are at their best in late spring and early summer.
Lower Yosemite Falls
Lower Yosemite Falls Trailhead
Easy
1 mile
50 feet
Yosemite
Lower Yosemite Falls Trailhead is across the main road from the Yosemite Lodge complex, only a short distance west of shuttle bus stop #6. Facilities at the trailhead include full restrooms, drinking water, and picnic tables. Bike racks are nearby.
Lower Yosemite Falls Trailhead
Lower Yosemite Falls Trail
For the best views of the trail, take the loop in a clockwise direction, starting near Yosemite Lodge. The wide, paved trail leads directly toward the falls with many wonderful places to stop for photography. Close to the base of the falls visitors may get wet from the spray when the falls are roaring during the height of the snowmelt.
Exhibits along the trail provide information about the natural and cultural history of the area.
Lower Yosemite Falls Trail
Follow the loop on around to the east and back toward the trailhead. This eastern portion of the trail is best for wheelchairs. Leashed pets and strollers are permitted on the trail, but bicycles are not.
Things to Know
- Leashed pets and strollers are permitted on the Lower Yosemite Falls trail, but bicycles are not.
- Restrooms and drinking water are available at the trailhead, but not along the trail.
- Climbing on the rocks near the base of the falls is dangerous.
Yosemite Falls
Nearby Sierra Day Hikes
- Bridalveil Falls - short walk to base of beautiful falls
- Mirror Lake - 1 gentle mile to the lake
- Yosemite Falls Trail - hike up to the top of the falls
Other Nearby Trails
Cook's Meadow Loop leads around the meadow southeast of the Lower Yosemite Falls Trail. From the meadow loop you enjoy wonderful views of the falls, Half Dome and other valley features.
The Valley Loop Trail passes Yosemite Falls in its 11½-mile course around Yosemite Valley. The mostly flat trail provides wonderful views of valley features, including El Capitan, Yosemite Falls, and Half Dome.
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