Mist Trail
Yosemite's signature trail with incredible views scattered along the way, including Nevada Fall and the back of Half Dome.
Plan Around Mist Trail
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Mist Trail Details
Named for the enormous clouds of rainbow-strewn mist generated by the waterfalls it passes, Yosemite's most popular trail follows the Merced River's slippery granite banks from Happy Isles past Vernal and Nevada Fall. While the falls themselves are the main attraction, the trail offers great views throughout. The moderately difficult trail crosses the river just before Vernal Fall and becomes steeper as it nears Emerald Pool and Nevada Fall. While the water in the river may look inviting, it is especially dangerous and is usually closed to swimmers. The trail is best hiked in May when winter snow is melting and the falls are at their peak. Trailhead: Happy Isles Shuttle Stop #16
Difficulty
Moderate
Distance
7.0 miles
Estimated time
5 hours
Region
N/A
Nearby Parks Around Mist Trail
Compare nearby parks around Mist Trail when deciding whether to expand the route after this stop.
Nearby Points of Interest Around Mist Trail
Use nearby POIs to quickly expand your options beyond Mist Trail while the map context is still fresh.
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John Muir Trail
Not for the faint of heart, this epic 211-mile journey is one of the most scenic hikes in the country.
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Mist Fall
Yosemite's signature trail with incredible views scattered along the way, including Nevada Fall and the back of Half Dome.
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Half Dome
Aided by the famous cable walk, this is Yosemite's most famous hike, and one of its toughest.
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Half Dome
One of the Park's most familiar rock formations and a Yosemite icon.
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Half Dome
One of California'ss most familiar rock formations and a Yosemite icon.
