Vernal Fall
8/29/2017
20:14 pm
(US)
Yosemite Valley - two day tripThe trail begins a gradual rise up the canyon toward Vernal Falls Bridge, where the first views of the 317-foot waterfall appear. The junction with the Mist Trail is just a few hundred yards past the Vernal Falls Bridge. Leave the JMT and follow the Mist Trail toward the base of Vernal Falls, where you begin your ascent up a steep granite staircase. The Mist Trail is named for this section; during high flow months expect a thundering volume of water and a healthy dose of spray as you climb, and don’t forget your rain jacket! As you continue up the granite staircase you’ll have full, front-and-center views of Vernal Falls. There are plenty of stairs and ledges on which to rest and enjoy the view. With the final push up a narrow, rocky staircase, the trail tops out on an open granite slab above Vernal Falls. Congratulate yourself, as you have just ascended the first step of the Giant Staircase. Soak in the views and explore the calmer waters of Emerald Pool and the Silver Apron area, but heed signs warning against swimming in this area. Unwitting swimmers have been sucked over the waterfall’s edge.
