Are you making a plan to visit Lower Yosemite Falls? I think you made the best decision, because Lower Yosemite Falls is one of the most visited and iconic beauty spots in Yosemite National Park. When you’re planning a trip to Yosemite, this waterfall should be at the top of your list. It’s stunning beauty, easy to reach, and gives you that wow moment you dream about when visiting a national park.
But perhaps you’re asking: Can you get here? How long is the trail? What’s the view like? So did I other times before watching it for the initial time. Let me cut through the clutter and get you straight to the falls.
Whether you’re taking the kids on a hike or posing for magazine-quality Snapchats, or you just want to experience the melting mists blowing on your face, Lower Yosemite Falls delivers.
And the best part? You do not have to be a hardcore hiker to appreciate it.
Today, in this story, I’ll show you how to get there, let you in on what to expect, and give you a head-to-toe idea of what it feels like to be standing at the bottom of one of America’s highest waterfalls. Ready? Let’s dive in.
How to Get to Lower Yosemite Falls
Foreground: Lower Yosemite Falls is in Yosemite Valley, only a few minutes’ walk from Yosemite Village. Lower Yosemite Falls is famous for its accessibility. You can catch the free Yosemite shuttle and hop off at Shuttle Stop #6, which leads you a short stagger from the trailhead.
Yup, from there it’s an easy walk along a paved path. You’ll hear the sound of the waterfall before you see it, especially in spring when snowmelt is at its peak. I heard it from the shuttle—I was twice as excited before I even got off.
Lower Yosemite Falls Address
The real address isn’t a regular GPS location. To navigate, use this master’s address:
Lower Yosemite Falls Trailhead, Yosemite National Park, CA 95389, USA
If you are navigating with Google Maps or Apple Maps, just search for Lower Yosemite Falls. It’ll walk you straight to a nearby parking lot or shuttle stop.
Lower Yosemite Falls Directions
From Yosemite Valley Lodge, walk east on the paved path for under 10 minutes. If you are driving in from out of the valley:
Enter Yosemite National Park through Highway 41, 140, or 120.
Follow the signs to Yosemite Valley Lodge.
Park in the Yosemite Falls Day-use Parking lot.
On foot or by bus to Stop #6.
When I drove in, I had no trouble finding the signs to follow. I didn’t use a map since there are signs for Yosemite Falls.
Lower Yosemite Falls Weather
Conditions at Lower Yosemite Falls vary by season. In early spring, the waterfall is roaring due to the melting snow. You may even end up sopping wet just standing on the bridge — and that’s before you’ve crossed it. Summer is hot, and falls begin to trickle down slightly by late July or August.
In the autumn, the flow is significantly less, and in the winter, with snow covering the trail, the views become enchanting. I went once in December — the falls were icy, and the feeling was dreamy.
Always bring layers. Yosemite Valley can be warm in the sun and chilly in the shade.
Lower Yosemite Falls Height
Lower Yosemite Falls is part of Yosemite Falls, which is the tallest waterfall in North America at 2,425 feet. The lower section alone drops 320 feet, which still feels massive when you stand at the bottom. You’ll want to take photos here—it’s the kind of place that makes you feel small in the best way.
Lower Yosemite Falls AllTrails
On AllTrails, the Lower Yosemite Falls Trail is rated easy. The loop is about 1 mile round trip, mostly flat, and fully paved. Great for all ages and abilities, including wheelchairs and strollers.
Reading reviews on AllTrails before my visit helped me feel prepared. Most people say the same thing—it’s short, sweet, and stunning.
How Long Is the Hike to Lower Yosemite Falls
The hike to Lower Yosemite Falls is just 0.5 miles one way, or 1 mile round trip. It’s one of the shortest hikes in Yosemite Valley with one of the biggest payoffs. The trail loops around, so you can approach the falls from one side and return via the other, getting two different views.
When I went, it took about 30 minutes total, but I stopped a lot for photos.
Lower Yosemite Falls Hike Time
You can do the whole Lower Yosemite Falls hike in about 20–40 minutes, depending on your pace. If you’re with kids or taking lots of pictures, expect to spend closer to an hour.
I spent almost an hour here because I just couldn’t stop looking up. The mist, the trees, the sound—it’s all so peaceful and powerful at the same time.
Lower Yosemite Falls Bridge
About halfway into the trail, you’ll cross the Lower Yosemite Falls Bridge. This is where you get the most direct and dramatic view of the waterfall. You’ll feel the mist and hear the thundering water.
This is also the best photo spot. I saw people taking selfies, family shots, and even wedding photos!
Lower Yosemite Falls Campground
There’s no campground right at this Falls, but you can stay nearby at North Pines, Upper Pines, or Camp 4. These campgrounds are all within a short drive or shuttle ride.
I stayed at Camp 4 once—it’s popular with rock climbers and has a rustic, adventurous vibe. Make sure to reserve early because spots fill fast.
Lower Yosemite Falls Picnic Area
Just a short walk from the trailhead, the Falls Picnic Area is a lovely place to relax after your hike. There are picnic tables and restrooms nearby. Bring snacks or lunch—you’ll want to sit and soak in the views.
I had a sandwich here while watching squirrels and listening to the falls in the distance. One of the simplest yet best meals I’ve ever had.
Curry Village to Lower Yosemite Falls
Curry Village is about 1.5 miles from Lower Yosemite Falls. You can walk, bike, or take the free shuttle. It’s a scenic route through Yosemite Valley, passing trees, meadows, and cliff views.
On my second trip, I stayed at Curry Village. I loved waking up and walking to the falls in the morning—it felt like I had the park to myself.
Lower Yosemite Falls Trailhead, California
The Lower Yosemite Falls Trailhead is one of the busiest in California due to its location and ease. You’ll find signs, maps, and restrooms at the start. The trailhead starts near Shuttle Stop #6.
Everything is well-marked, and the paved trail makes it easy for families and older travelers.
Lower Yosemite Falls to Glacier Point
Glacier Point is a separate viewpoint high above Yosemite Valley. You can’t hike directly from Lower Yosemite Falls to Glacier Point without a very long hike like the Four-Mile Trail (which is 4.8 miles one way and very steep).
Driving is easier—just take the Glacier Point Road when it’s open (usually summer to fall). The view from up there is unreal—you’ll see all of Yosemite Valley, including the Upper and Lower Falls.
Lower Yosemite Falls to El Capitan
To get from Lower Yosemite Falls to El Capitan, you can hike or drive west through Yosemite Valley. It’s about 3.5 miles along Northside Drive. You can also bike the valley loop trail.
Seeing El Capitan after Lower Falls gives you a full picture of Yosemite’s epic scale. I did this bike ride once and stopped constantly to stare at the cliffs.
Lower Yosemite Falls View
The view of this Falls is jaw-dropping, especially from the bridge. Water tumbles down a granite wall into a pool surrounded by rocks and trees. Sunlight hits the mist, and sometimes you see rainbows.
Even if you’ve seen photos online, nothing compares to standing there. My advice? Go in the morning when it’s quieter. That’s when I felt most connected to the place.
Final Thoughts
Lower Yosemite Falls is more than a quick hike—it’s an experience. It’s a place where you can feel the heartbeat of Yosemite. Whether you come for the easy trail, the photos, the mist, or the magic, this waterfall leaves a lasting impression.
Bring water, wear good shoes, and take your time. There’s no rush—just nature doing its thing, right in front of you.
I’ve been twice now and I’d go again in a heartbeat. And if you ever need just one reason to visit Yosemite, let the Falls be it.
Here Some FAQs
Is the Lower Yosemite Falls Trail open year-round?
Yes, the trail is usually open all year. In winter, you may see icy patches and even a huge ice cone at the base of the falls.
How crowded does Lower Yosemite Falls get?
It’s one of the most visited spots in the park, so expect crowds—especially late mornings in spring and summer. For fewer people, visit early in the morning or near sunset.
Can I swim at the base of Lower Yosemite Falls?
No. Swimming or wading near the base is dangerous due to cold, swift water, and slippery rocks. The National Park Service strongly advises against it.
Does Lower Yosemite Falls ever dry up?
Yes. In late summer or during drought years, the waterfall can slow to a trickle or dry completely. Spring snowmelt brings the most dramatic flow.
Hi, I’m Ummey Salma, a travel blogger and founder of atourtousa.com.
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