Upper Yosemite Falls and Snow Creek Hike

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
9.5-13.5h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
27.0 km
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
1,703 m
User Ratings
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Directions to Trailhead

Ascend one of North America’s tallest waterfalls along the Upper Yosemite Falls and Snow Creek Hike. This demanding one-way adventure wanders from the base of Yosemite Falls to the summit of North Dome and back down into the valley. Complete this trek as a challenging day hike or epic overnight expedition.

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Route Description for Upper Yosemite Falls and Snow Creek Hike

The Upper Yosemite Falls and Snow Creek Hike is an amazing adventure in Yosemite that reveals great panoramas of the legendary features that adorn the landscape. As this is a one-way excursion, be sure to arrange for pick up or leave a vehicle at the Mist Trailhead at the hike’s end. Wear a sturdy pair of footwear, several layers, and pack plenty of water and snacks to keep fueled along the way. Note: sections of the path are extremely steep and strenuous, so make sure you are prepared for an exhausting trek. The National Park also charges an entrance fee, so remember to refer to the NPS website for more information.

Embark on your exciting excursion from the Upper Yosemite Falls Trailhead. From here, follow the Upper Yosemite Falls Trail up several switchbacks to Columbia Rock, then continue on to the summit of Yosemite Falls. Revel in the scene of the dramatic cascades that pour over the cliffside, then continue to Yosemite Point for some breathtaking views of the canyon. From here, you will follow the path northeast along the northern rim to an intersection with the North Dome Trail.

At this point, head right to the summit of North Dome for an up close and personal view of Half Dome. Take some time to revel in the views, then head north along the North Dome Trail, before turning east around Indian Rock and the Natural Point. Here, the route will turn south and you will merge onto the Snow Creek Trail, descending steep switchbacks to Tenaya Creek. After connecting with the Valley Loop Trail, wander this path down to the Mist Trailhead to mark the end of your exhausting excursion.

Getting to the Upper Yosemite Falls and Snow Creek Hike Trailhead

The Upper Yosemite Falls and Snow Creek Hike departs from the Upper Yosemite Falls Trailhead in Camp 4 off Northside Drive and ends at the Mist Trailhead off Happy Isles Loop Road.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground

    Backcountry Camping, Wilderness Permit Required.

  • When to do

    May-September

  • Pets allowed

    No

  • Family friendly

    No

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    Moderate

  • Route Type

    One Way

Upper Yosemite Falls and Snow Creek Hike Elevation Graph

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Upper Yosemite Falls and Snow Creek Hike Reviews

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