Do you have to hike to see waterfalls in Yosemite?

These two mighty waterfalls form a cascade in which the Merced River flows down into the valley and create what is called the “giant staircase.” Another one of our hidden gems in Yosemite, Illilouette Fall can be glimpsed from the legendary Mist Trail, but to really get a good view of it, you need to do some hiking.



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Yosemite is particularly famous for its numerous waterfalls, many of which present impressive scenery with their splashing water, surrounding trees, and stunning rocks. While many of these waterfalls can be easily seen from a distance, a little hike is usually required to get the best views of the natural attraction.

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You can see Ribbon Fall from the road as you drive into Yosemite Valley, just beyond the turn for Bridalveil Fall (parking is available in turnouts). Flows: approximately December through April. Horsetail Fall is famous for appearing to be on fire when it reflects the orange glow of sunset in mid- to late-February.

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At 620 feet, Bridalveil Fall is often the first waterfall visitors see when entering Yosemite Valley. As one of the easier hikes in the Valley, Bridalveil Fall is the perfect attraction for visitors looking for minimal effort in return for maximum views.

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In Yosemite Valley, the area around Sentinel Meadow and the Yosemite Chapel is a favorite place to stop to look at Yosemite Falls. In Yosemite Valley, Sentinel Bridge is famous for its views of both Half Dome reflected in the Merced River. You can also see Yosemite Falls nearby.

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Horsetail Fall is a small, ephemeral waterfall that flows over the eastern edge of El Capitan in Yosemite Valley. For two weeks in February, the setting sun striking the waterfall creates a deep orange glow.

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Reservations are not required to visit Yosemite National Park. As always, we strongly recommend that you make a reservation if you plan to stay overnight in Yosemite.

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Yosemite is very busy this summer! Any time spring through fall, one- to four-hour delays are possible at entrance stations. It's best to arrive by 8 am or in the afternoon to avoid delays.

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Cellular Phone Service Yosemite Valley and Tuolumne Meadows have good signals. The best signal is in the Yosemite Village area near the Visitor Center. Signals also tend to be dependable in Crane Flat and right outside the park in El Portal.

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Highway 140 This historic Yosemite route follows the old railway tracks. It provides the lowest altitude approach, which means it's often the best year-round highway to travel on. This is a very scenic route to Yosemite and probably gives you the most impressive way to enter the park.

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