Upper Yosemite Falls
2 images 1 contributors
Lewis Kemper
About this spot
The Yosemite Falls Trail leads to the top of Yosemite Falls, a strenuous 7.2 (11.6km) round trip hike. But you don’t have to go all the way to the top to see some incredible views.
The first great view long the hike is from Columbia Rock, just 1 mile from the trailhead. The trail starts with a grueling series of switchback after switchback but the one-mile walk is well worth the effort. From Columbia Rock you have a great view of Half Dome rising above the valley floor. You can also see Sentinel Rock, Mt. Clark, Washington’s Column and a unique view of the valley.
From here it is only another 0.5 miles (0.8 km) to a breathtaking view of Upper Yosemite Falls and the Middle Cascade. Standing at the level of the base of the falls and looking up to the top is the only way to really appreciate the immense size of Yosemite Falls.
For the adventurous you can continue to the top up another series of steep switchbacks. Along this section of the trail you get some side views of the waterfall as it leaps down the cliff. The aerial view of Yosemite Valley from the top is awesome, and you will be surprised how small Yosemite Creek is above the fall.
The first great view long the hike is from Columbia Rock, just 1 mile from the trailhead. The trail starts with a grueling series of switchback after switchback but the one-mile walk is well worth the effort. From Columbia Rock you have a great view of Half Dome rising above the valley floor. You can also see Sentinel Rock, Mt. Clark, Washington’s Column and a unique view of the valley.
From here it is only another 0.5 miles (0.8 km) to a breathtaking view of Upper Yosemite Falls and the Middle Cascade. Standing at the level of the base of the falls and looking up to the top is the only way to really appreciate the immense size of Yosemite Falls.
For the adventurous you can continue to the top up another series of steep switchbacks. Along this section of the trail you get some side views of the waterfall as it leaps down the cliff. The aerial view of Yosemite Valley from the top is awesome, and you will be surprised how small Yosemite Creek is above the fall.
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