Lower Yosemite Falls Trailhead
Hiking area · Yosemite Valley ·

Lower Yosemite Falls Trailhead

Hiking area · Yosemite Valley ·

Iconic waterfall, easy trails, stunning natural beauty

Lower Yosemite Falls Trailhead by null
Lower Yosemite Falls Trailhead by null
Lower Yosemite Falls Trailhead by null
Lower Yosemite Falls Trailhead by null
Lower Yosemite Falls Trailhead by null
Lower Yosemite Falls Trailhead by null
Lower Yosemite Falls Trailhead by null
Lower Yosemite Falls Trailhead by null
Lower Yosemite Falls Trailhead by null
Lower Yosemite Falls Trailhead by null
Lower Yosemite Falls Trailhead by null
Lower Yosemite Falls Trailhead by null
Lower Yosemite Falls Trailhead by null
Lower Yosemite Falls Trailhead by null
Lower Yosemite Falls Trailhead by null
Lower Yosemite Falls Trailhead by null
Lower Yosemite Falls Trailhead by null
Lower Yosemite Falls Trailhead by null
Lower Yosemite Falls Trailhead by null
Lower Yosemite Falls Trailhead by null
Lower Yosemite Falls Trailhead by null
Lower Yosemite Falls Trailhead by null
Lower Yosemite Falls Trailhead by null
Lower Yosemite Falls Trailhead by null
Lower Yosemite Falls Trailhead by null
Lower Yosemite Falls Trailhead by null
Lower Yosemite Falls Trailhead by null
Lower Yosemite Falls Trailhead by null
Lower Yosemite Falls Trailhead by null
Lower Yosemite Falls Trailhead by null
Lower Yosemite Falls Trailhead by null
Lower Yosemite Falls Trailhead by null
Lower Yosemite Falls Trailhead by null
Lower Yosemite Falls Trailhead by null
Lower Yosemite Falls Trailhead by null
Lower Yosemite Falls Trailhead by null
Lower Yosemite Falls Trailhead by null
Lower Yosemite Falls Trailhead by null
Lower Yosemite Falls Trailhead by null
Lower Yosemite Falls Trailhead by null
Lower Yosemite Falls Trailhead by null
Lower Yosemite Falls Trailhead by null

Information

Lower Yosemite Fall Trl, TUOLUMNE MEADOWS, CA 95389 Get directions

Wheelchair accessible entrance
Wheelchair accessible parking lot

Information

Static Map

Lower Yosemite Fall Trl, TUOLUMNE MEADOWS, CA 95389 Get directions

yosemitehikes.com

Features

•Wheelchair accessible entrance
•Wheelchair accessible parking lot

Last updated

Jan 19, 2026

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The Most Underrated Hike in Yosemite National Park

"A short, paved loop just under a mile, this trail winds through shaded forested areas and rocky outcroppings and offers easy access to one of Yosemite’s most iconic and breathtaking waterfalls. It’s wheelchair- and stroller-friendly, with benches to pause and interpretive signs that share geology and history, making it ideal for families and casual hikers who want beautiful scenery without a long or difficult climb. Open year-round, it’s especially rewarding in spring when snowmelt swells the falls and misty rainbows rise beneath the park’s towering cliffs, and even though the walk is brief, the views feel generous as you’re quickly immersed in the sight and sound of the waterfall." - Taryn White Taryn White Taryn White is a D.C.-based travel writer who covers a wide range of topics, including family travel, hotels, food, aviation, beaches, historical and cultural topics, and wellness travel. She can often be spotted around the world with her husband and two travel-loving kids. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines

https://www.travelandleisure.com/lower-yosemite-falls-trail-hike-11846813
Lower Yosemite Falls Trailhead

Hari K.

Google
Yosemite Falls is one of the most beautiful and iconic sights in Yosemite National Park! I had the chance to hike up close to the waterfall, and it was such an unforgettable experience. I visited around sunset, and although the water flow was low that day, the view was still absolutely stunning. The peaceful surroundings, the golden light, and the sound of nature made it truly special. Definitely a must-visit spot for anyone exploring Yosemite

lg G

Google
Lower Yosemite Falls is absolutely beautiful and easy to reach, making it one of the most popular spots in Yosemite. The walk to the falls is short, scenic, and surrounded by towering trees and mountain views. When the water is flowing strong, the sound and mist are incredible truly refreshing and powerful. It’s a great place for photos and to feel the energy of nature up close. A must-see stop for any visit to Yosemite!

Amie S.

Google
Nice easy paved trail with the stunning waterfalls and rock formations. Suitable for families and casual hikers. Offers a great opportunity to connect with nature. Crowded.

Ori D.

Google
Beautiful waterfall, but very crowded and touristic place. Better hang out on all the other trails and hikes if you have the time and ability.

Leon M

Google
This trail offers an exceptionally accessible hiking experience, with convenient parking readily available. The path to the trailhead and the trail itself are suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. The waterfall at the end of the trail, near the initial bridge, presents a stunning visual spectacle. While it is possible to climb closer to the waterfall for a more intimate view, it is recommended to do so at your own risk. We observed some individuals attempting to scale the mountain near the waterfall, which is not advisable. The area beneath the bridge provides a safe and enjoyable opportunity for children to engage in water play. The trail loops back towards the restrooms near the trailhead after crossing the bridge. This trail is easily manageable with two children and a stroller, and is considered one of the most accessible trails in Yosemite.

Dustin L.

Google
I hiked the John Muir Trail starting at Happy Isles in 2024. It was such an amazing and life changing trip. You can visit Vernal and Nevada Falls as a day trip easily, but don't take it lightly. There's a fair amount of elevation gain. Bring water, snacks, and a camera, and be prepared to be surrounded by glory!!! :)

K M

Google
This area is so beautiful No photos I took captured the beauty of Yosemite. The bike trails are nice and make quick passes through the beautiful sites but not well marked! We got bumfuzzeled more than once but enjoyed the ride. Walking is preferred but Yosemite has made it so easy to see beautiful views of the most famous sites from your vehicle. I recommend using Shaka app and purchasing the never-expiring self guided tours. We would have missed so much had I not found this excellent app.

glenn G.

Google
Nice little hike with a good view of the falls. If you are in shape you can scramble up to the base of the lower falls and see the pond. This thought is NOT for everyone as the rocks are slick.
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Ashley M.

Yelp
This is probably one of my favorite hikes as I love the view of the waterfall, how close the view is, the large rocks you can climb if you'd like and the walking bridge. If you are looking for a short and fairly easy hike, I'd add this one to the list. There are also man made seesaws from logs right outside the trail which are fun to check out!
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Nicole V.

Yelp
A must do trail for anyone visiting Yosemite. Definitely very popular but for good reason!
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Gabriela M.

Yelp
Easy and short walk to Lower Yosemite Falls. This is a very popular destination due to its short distance and quick accessibility. This is a paved walkway, you'll walk through beautiful streams and stumble accidentally friendly squirrels. There were a lot of people during our visit, so it was hard to get clear shots of the waterfall. Nonetheless, you'll get to experience the mist of the waterfalls if you get close enough. This place is a must!
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Julie E.

Yelp
Beautiful and slightly easy walk. There's a part where it goes up hill and wheelchairs and the like aren't recommended as it's a 14% grade increase. You can start from the other side as it's a loop and you won't have to deal with the uphill bit and still enjoy everything. Absolutely breathtaking, the waters were roaring and we got pretty soaked. One of my favorite things to do in the park!
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Jonathon Q.

Yelp
Easy! Paved the whole way. ADA accessible! A nice view and so many people climbing all over the rocks.
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Stevo O.

Yelp
This is a very convenient waterfall to see up close without hiking too far in. There is a semi-paved road going to the falls, and if you're brave, you can go deep into the waterfall hoping rocks on the way. For me, I stayed on the shore, as the rocks are slippery, and it was too crowded. I would love to see this waterfall in the winter, when the water turns to slush or even snow, as it falls from the mountain top.
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Brianna L.

Yelp
Pros: *Easy Trail *Beautiful *Bus shuttle drops you off *Close to main parking lot Cons: *N/A Extra: *Go during the spring when the snow is melting so you can see the waterfall.
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Daw M.

Yelp
Extremely kid friendly. Wonderful little loop to get some light walking in. The fall was very dry and it's the beginning of October. Lots of families and hikers so no need to be afraid if you're going solo.
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Jeff H.

Yelp
This is a nice 15 minute walk to see a waterfall at Yosemite. At 300 feet, Lower Yosemite Falls is the height of the Statue of Liberty or Big Ben. During peak hours in the summer, expect Disneyland crowds. Bicycles are not allowed on the trail.
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Michael B.

Yelp
This is an obviously beautiful location flooded by tourists from every walk of life. The waterfall is immediately in front of you, and you're able to scramble up to it for a closer look. The trail here is mostly flat and pretty wheelchair accessible. You won't get wet unless you choose to approach the fall or get into the creek created by it.
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Danielle D.

Yelp
This was a beautiful hike! I highly recommend going straight through the entire loop. I found many hikers going up to the fall and then back the same way which was very steep and in my personal view not as enjoyable. So glad I stopped here and enjoyed this beautiful water fall!
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Dani S.

Yelp
Definitely one of the most iconic spots in Yosemite national park. Must visit! This is a super easy hike to get to the falls. Lots of families and children does the short hike. The view is absolutely stunning, the waterfall is beautiful, very scenic. Water is freezing even when the air temperature is over 100° Nice place to wash your face and cool off. Make sure to bring lots of water and to take lots of pictures.
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Allie S.

Yelp
This is a great spot to go and accessible to many. The trail is a loop, half is paved and half is kind of a rocky dirt trail. I've been to this trail many times... sometimes the water level is high, sometimes it's non existent. During summer months when the water levels are decent, the mist from the waterfall feels great! Attached is a photo I took from July 2022, the park had a permit system due to Covid which limited the number of people who could enter the park. They dropped they now, so I probably wouldn't go during the summer months (when kids are out of school) if you can. The trail gets very busy since it's right there in the valley.
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Tracy L.

Yelp
This is an easy trail with big payoffs, especially if you can arrive early. Between limited park access due to COVID-19 and getting to this trail before 8am, we benefitted from seeing just about dozen or so people on this trail - total! In the past, it's hard to get a photo at the base of the falls without strangers in the background. This past Thursday morning, we had no such issues. The Trail is well paved and kept, there is a bathroom facility at the beginning where you park or get off the shuttle when it is running, and there is a lot of shade. This is a classic hike for Yosemite - it's great for first timers, families with kids, or for us it was an easy add on to our Cook's Meadow Loop hike.
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Jacqueline T.

Yelp
It's hard to give this a good rating since we went in October. As you can read elsewhere, Yosemite Falls is dried up in October. There's not a whole lot to see. We still decided to do the hike since it was short and easy. It's a mile round trip and very flat. It's also paved (handicap accessible I believe). While there's no falls, it was kind of cool to see it without water along with the dried up riverbed. I'm sure this is definitely a great stop earlier in the season, but once it's dried up, you can skip it.
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Mylesha D.

Yelp
Getting there: Yosemite Falls has two "hikes" to choose from. Upper Yosemite Falls will be a much longer and elevated hike but you will be able to view the upper part of the falls. Lower Yosemite falls is just as beautiful, but very much a nature walk. If you park at the Yosemite Lodge you can walk across the street to the trailhead. Experience: We went for New Years, and it was a little chilly and a lot more crowded than we expected. We made sure to wear our masks and tried to stay away from the crowded spots. The falls were beautiful but not as full as if you see them in the Summer months.
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Jeanette Y.

Yelp
Very easy 0.5 mile RT hike to the falls but it gets busy! We walked here from the lodge (after lunch) & you can see the falls from the lodge as you are getting closer & closer. It's a smooth pavement all the way there so anyone of all ages can easily walk there so there is no downside of putting this on your list of to-see. When you get there, there are several places you can take pictures...at the actual bottom, or you can walk around the stone wall & towards the falls so you can get a closer view. There were a ton of people who were there so expect crowds. If you are going to climb the rocks to get a closer view, be sure to have sturdy shoes or if you don't mind walking through the water. The rocks can be slippery! I've seen a few people fall in. This sight is beautiful & easy so I suggest adding it to your list! It's a great place to chill & enjoy the majestic falls. Highly recommend!
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Marisela S.

Yelp
We literally just stumbled on this trail, went up foe the day and parked on the side of the road, were I joking the views, went into the meadow, crossed the street and somehow just started this trail up the waterfall. We had seen this waterfall all day and were saying how the closer we got the more beautiful it was, who knew we would be feet away from it but the end of the day. It was easy directions, bathrooms we close by, beautiful scenery, the deer were out. The bridges were sturdy and it felt great! To get that close and have the mist on you ans benches and other river rocks you could walk through, I mean it is just a great experience and one you can bring the kiddos to. Totally worth the trip
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Allison C.

Yelp
We parked at Yosemite valley lodge (free) and walked across. Easy, paved hiked, slight Incline 0.5mi RT. We did this hike for its easiness and also the worker at our lodge said it was her fave. I even saw people with front wheel walkers doing this hike, so ADA accessible. When you get to the falls, there are benches to sit on. If you want to get to the base of the fall, you can walk across the bridge and hike up some rocks on the right side. I attempted it with the kids but got a little scared as I had my 4yo with me. I did see people reach the base tho, I even saw a lady with baby/toddler backpack carrier hike it. I probably should've went further. Anyway, we went mid Nov 2022. There's some old snow on the grounds. The viewing area was covered in slippery ice. My husband sat there as we tried to climb closer and said he saw multiple people slip. Wear appropriate footwear but even we had hiking boots and it was still slippery. We ate after at base camp eatery- quick east cafeteria style foods. Good selection. Clean bathrooms.
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Rhonda W.

Yelp
This is one of my fav National parks. You can see so much with very little walking or effort. It's just breathtaking .. this waterfall is just one of the many sights you have to see here. We stayed at rustic lodging in the park but very close this famous waterfall. naturally the spring the waterfall with be more mighty ... but it's always worth viewing.
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Henry L.

Yelp
Yosemite Falls is one of the most iconic landmarks here. So if it not on your agenda already, it should be. I enjoyed this hike immensely because, strip down all the hype of seeing a magnificent view, it was just an awesome meditative forest walk that does what a forest walk should do--grow on you each step of the way. I may be biased since we were here today late December, and I am sure that with the water flowing regularly, it is probably super beautiful. But without the crowds, there is a certain charm about this trail: the glowing rays of sun that just dance around the trees, the way you can self-direct in some spots and walk up a giant log just because you want to. Or the fact you can find some sweet pine cones to admire for a little bit. Without the gigantic waterfall, you also get to appreciate the sheer size and grandiosity of Yosemite. The rocks just below the waterfall have a certain immensity...You just have to see for yourself. Highly recommended for big groups, families, children.
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Stefanie C.

Yelp
I'm glad this was the first hike of our Yosemite trip... it was by far the most underwhelming. Crazy how much different seasons affect the experience here. It's beautiful, but it was hard to find Lower Yosemite "Falls" because it was the beginning of September, which apparently means dryness. Kinda funny how many people jump down into the place where water used to be and stack pebbles on top of the giant boulders. Lots of tourists and photo ops. Not exactly a "hike" but it's a sight to see. It's towards the beginning of where you can get dropped off on the shuttle so might as well. Family friendly spot since it's not a strenuous trek to get here. More like a leisurely stroll. I wonder if it actually gets water in other parts of the year. I'm sure it does. If you look further up, there are falls. Also if you're tight on time, just skip this site, or at least know what's good during the time of year you visit Yosemite.
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Lit L.

Yelp
No hike required. Great for seeing a water fall up close with the entire family. Parking is across the street.
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Samson W.

Yelp
It is a 30 minute loop from either the Yosemite Valley Lodge or the street parking area. There are a few benches along the loop to sit at. Anyway, it is a breathtaking sight to see once you see the Lower Yosemite Falls. I especially love seeing the water falling down to the valley floor. And of course, it is crowded with people wanting to take photos. I even saw a few people who were brave enough to climb up on the rocks to get closer to the falls. Luckily there were no park rangers. It is one that you must visit while at Yosemite.
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Doris W.

Yelp
We were staying at Camp 4 and looking for a short hike that was close by. Per our multiple guide books we had, we decided to walk to Lower Yosemite Falls. Short walk from our campsite to the falls, maybe around 1/2 mile. Once there though it was so crowded! Lots of people, lots of tourists, lots of kids. It's an easy access waterfall. Just walked right on up, probably took us 5 minutes. It's beautiful. We went out on the rocks to get closer to the fall. But again, it is packed with people.
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Yonnie C.

Yelp
A brisk walk from the street where you park your car... There is a fork in the road -- on your left is the Falls View, where you can see both Upper and Lower Yosemite Falls in the distance. To the right of the fork, you'll walk directly to the bottom of Lower Yosemite Falls. It's super quick, you'll be able to finish within 10 minutes and it's family-friendly. Everyone comes here to check out the waterfall, so don't miss out! It's wonderful during spring time because the waterfalls are flowing at full capacity, April is a good month!
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Karla F.

Yelp
This trail is absolutely perfect for the non-hiker, families with small children, and those with disabilities. The trail is a short (completely paved and handicap accessible) scenic route featuring the gorgeous valley floor and, of course, a spectacular view of lower Yosemite falls. This is an extremely popular trail so be prepared for lots of people and crowded viewing spots. At the bottom of the falls you have the option to go off the path and explore on the rocks. Please make sure to use caution as the rocks get very slippery and many people crowd on them. Be safe and this is sure to be an awesome, short hike!
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Dana K.

Yelp
Lower Yosemite Falls is an easy 30 minute loop trail starting from shuttle stop # 6. This hike is located in Yosemite Park and is 1.1 miles long. This short walk has spectacular views of upper and lower Yosemite Falls. The waterfall may be dry in the late summer and early fall but expect a lot of spray in spring and early summer. The hike features educational exhibits and picnic areas. This is considered an easy hike. This hike is perfect for young children or elderly people. If you prefer not to walk biking is an excellent option. You can rent bikes right across the street at the lodge!
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Terr M.

Yelp
Adventure, relaxation, hiking & shopping are rolled into one in Yosemite Village. The Lower Yosemite Falls brings out a majestic force of water that you may need a raincoat as you go near to the falls. Distances from one spot to another are quite a walk but there are rental bikes available for family or friends. The Yosemite Visitor Shop offers a wide variety of souvenirs, books, etcetera catering one's interest. I super enjoy this national park.
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Paige T.

Yelp
Yosemite Fall gives you two beautiful tiers that you can experience top and bottom. This easy one mile roundtrip takes you through a grove of lush vegetation and plants you on a bridge parallel to the lower falls. You can rock scramble here to get as close as you can, especially since mid August the water flows are less intimidating to be near. If you can get there I would highly recommend it! It'd be a shame to pass up the opportunity for an intimate encounter. The waterfall is a beauty to behold and so much more impressive up close. Theres many paths to take towards the fall so if something is too slippery or dangerous turn around and try again. Be very careful and have decent shoes or go at it barefoot like I did. Despite being heavily trafficked I didn't have too hard of a time finding street parking.
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Charley C.

Yelp
The Lower Yosemite Falls is an obligatory short hike when in Yosemite National Park. There are several vantage points around the park thru breaks in the trees, one of my favorites is just west of the restrooms at the start of the trail where there is a break in the trees. Makes for a wonderful shot that many people walk past and never see. Although smaller than the big upper falls, the water is quite impressive. When you take the hike to the base of the falls the amount of water will, of course, vary by season. For me it is good in all seasons and especially when there is a dash of snow. Be sure to take the short hike. and be sure to keep your eyes open and stop occasionally the look in all directions - Yosemite is a wonder of the world to me.
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Joanna L.

Yelp
20 minute walk from Yosemite Lodge. Flat paved trail is wheelchair accessible. A few benches around the lower falls to sit at. Rocks around the falls to climb around. Take your family Christmas card photos here. How can one not love nature? Automatic 5 stars.
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Dang L.

Yelp
If you love short hikes for really cool waterfalls, this hike is your cup of tea. You can even take a shuttle there. However, it is only a 1 mile trek so I encourage you hike it. The ttail is pretty wide and flat. It is not steep at all and you start to feel the mist from the waterfsll reenergizing you as you get closer. On the hike towards the trail, before the bridge, on the right is a hidden super secret rock trail. Warning: please be careful of falling on the rocks and getting hurt. That is always a possibility going off trail. That being said, it is really easy and a lot of people were going off trail through the rocky paths for cool pictures as well. Use your own judgment if you are feeling adventurous and you will be fine =). It is a super low risk for a pictures with high likes.
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Laura R.

Yelp
I was here in November, during Thanksgiving week. So that meant less people, but VERY dry conditions. I think California had a really dry season in general around that time. I only went up the Lower Falls, pretty much because I knew the conditions were dry and I wanted to see a few other trails that day. Maybe if I come back, I'll check out Upper Falls. It seems worth it, so who knows. I seem to be making a habit of viewing large waterfalls in the winter and THEN the summer (I did the same for Niagara Falls). The trek wasn't very difficult for the Lower Falls, and pretty soon, you see a bridge with the falls to your left. When I say dry conditions, I truly mean DRY conditions. As in, people were climbing in the bed of the falls. This was one of my favorite Yosemite experiences, and really made this part of the trip memorable for me because it was such a unique experience. It's not every day you can say you climbed the bed of a usually burbling waterfall. I only went about three quarters of the way, if not a little less, but there were some people who had climbed all the way to the actual falls. It took me a good 30-45 minutes of climbing to even get as far as I did. The tourists were doing what you'd probably expect with so much dry surface space and the waterfall so far from the bridge: they climbed into the bed because they could. And I don't mean this was reserved for adults or teens. Oh no, no. There were children younger than 10 scampering along rocks and climbing up and down without any kind of supervision. So if they could do it, I could too, right? I'm sure it wasn't allowable, but it was a really awesome experience. Being able to scale rocks over 5 feet tall (that's only a couple inches shorter than I am!), and being in an area that is usually submerged under water (or at least spraying water) was so neat. It was also a serious workout, to boot. I did the trail believing it wouldn't be that bad (it wasn't), but climbing up and down those rocks was definitely a workout. It was fun navigating taller rocks and wider rocks, and leaping across chasms to get higher up. It really made me appreciate my body, and the things it can do. Gripping into rocks with my fingertips and arms, using precise balance to walk on the jagged edges, my leg muscles to propel me up, down, and sideways, my feet to maneuver into crevices and cracks. It made me feel very accomplished to climb for a little while and turn around and see how far I'd come. Take that, summer visitors! Bet you didn't get to climb a waterfall bed.
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A M.

Yelp
October is not the ideal time to see waterfalls, but we still enjoyed this short, easy walk to see Upper and Lower Yosemite Falls. The falls weren't spectacular, compared to others I've seen, but it is still incredibly cool to see one of the longest waterfalls in the world. While the views may not be the most amazing, especially in October, there's also very little effort involved. My big complaint was that the trail was confusingly marked (like much else in Yosemite, I felt) and there were signs labeled "Lower Yosemite Falls" pointing in multiple directions. I'm not sure we did the complete loop, we just wandered until we saw the falls, but there may have been better viewpoints elsewhere. Shuttle Stop #6
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Heidi L.

Yelp
Again, not really a hike, more like a walk. In the summer there is less water so you can climb the rocks to get to the pool of water at the bottom of the waterfall. Signs suggest you to not climb the rocks due to injuries before but c'mon take the risk! Just be careful, watch your step, mind other people's spaces', and you'll see how cool it is to be able to jump into the pool of water! It's freezing but totally worth the swim! Such a great experience to bath in water from a great waterfall! Next time I'm doing the Upper Yosemite Falls! It's only the tallest waterfall in America!!! C'mon!
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Darlene E.

Yelp
For all the years I've visited Yosemite, this is my first time hiking to Lower Yosemite Falls. This is must have experience, even safe for the kids. The trail itself it very mellow and easy to trek. Definitely wear some comfortable shoes and clothing, I was fine in my t-shirt and jeans. The path is completely paved, so you don't have to worry about uneven ground and loose dirt. When you get to the waterfall there are some benches to rest on, as well as many large rocks. Hold onto your hat, the wind from the falls can be pretty strong depending on how full it is. Feeling the spray on your body and face is so refreshing. Take a seat and enjoy it for a while. Don't forget to take pictures. I would allow at least an hour and a half for a round trip, depending on if you sit by the falls for a while or not. There is a large parking lot across the street from the trail-head.
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Gerry P.

Yelp
Yah easy "hike" to a waterfall. Plenty of parking surrounding areas. There are bathrooms and a bus line goes there? Great for strollers. There is a big nice meadow nearby.
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Sara G.

Yelp
The hike to Lower Yosemite Falls is another easy hike suitable for all ages. The trail head is located near shuttle stop #7 (Camp 4). There are two trail heads here, one for Lower Yosemite Falls and one for Upper Yosemite Falls. The Lower Yosemite Falls trail is a mostly flat and paved trail. It is around a quarter of a mile or so to the waterfall. Once you get closer to the falls, you will start feeling the mist which is very refreshing. Best times to see the waterfall is springtime to early summer. The area below the water fall is very crowded with people taking pictures and scrambling on rocks. I would have loved to hike to Upper Yosemite Falls for more of a challenge, but didn't have enough time. It is defiantly on my to do list for the next time I visit the park.
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Eric B.

Yelp
This short, easy walk rewards with spectacular views of Upper and Lower Yosemite Falls. It's a paved 1 mile loop and for me it's a tasty appetizer for a more challenging and rewording hike on the Upper Yosemite Falls Trail. At the same time, the final 320 foot drop of Yosemite Falls is a pretty cool thing to see. From here, Yosemite Creek emerges from the base of the Lower Falls and flows into the nearby Merced River. Also watch out for the slippery loose rocks (talus) around the plunge pool at the bottom. I have only been here in the non-Summer months when the crowds are small and the weather/scenery is more refreshing. Of course in the later months of the year, there might not be much water flowing. You can begin at the Lower Yosemite Falls Trail head at Shuttle Stop #6.
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Sandyann G.

Yelp
Always an adventure and the falls are amazing. It is difficult to get pictures due to the sheer size of the falls and the crush of tourists. Come in the Spring when the falls are at their finest. Be prepared to brave the crowds and wear waterproof clothes. The tour buses stop here; the falls will be at their finest; and you will get wet. For ideas on what not to wear check out my photo. Unless heels are the new hiking boot.
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Mifa Y.

Yelp
Unbelievable! I felt like Captain Ahab in the search of Moby Dick...for years I've been chasing the "moonbow" at lower Yosemite falls and FINALLY I SAW IT! The moon is so bright and full at certain times of the year that it hits the water at night and forms a perfect rainbow. This time 100+ spectators came at 10:40pm to see one of the most gorgeous gifts from creation. Apparently it can only be captured on film when the aperture of special lens camera are left open a minute or 2. Unfortunately, we didn't have one but you can be sure it is tatooed in my memory f.o.r.e.v.e.r.! In the meantime our group took this photo on the base of the falls.
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April B.

Yelp
Love this so called "hike" to lower yosemite falls. we didn't do upper because we needed to save strength for half dome but if i ever come back i'd definitely do upper yosemite falls. the walk to the falls is all flat land so no neet to worry about getting super tired. just wear comfortable shoes because it is quite a walk. You walk thru tons of trees and the area is just absloutely gorgeous! i went off trail a few times to take pictures of all the trees and mini rivers, love it! I went in August so the fall wasn't at it's best but it was still pretty damn cool! We decided to be adventurous and climb the rocks to get closer to the fall. Be care if you decide to do this!! Make sure you have some grip on your shoes otherwise you'll fall. The mist lands on the rocks which causes some rocks to be VERY slippery!! I would highly recommend this spot to anyone visiting yosemite. It's pretty freakin amazing!!
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Daniel D.

Yelp
Most people stay back at the fence area snapping pictures from far away but if you have the inclination to look past the "dangerous to climb" signs you'll be able to really appreciate the beauty of nature. A word to the wise though, if you do decide to make the trek up take the left "path" the right side is a much more strenuous climb. Either way you go the effort is well worth it. Also if you want to cool off take a bathing suit and you can swim in nature's own pool, great for cooling off in the summer time.
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Raylene M.

Yelp
I agree with some yelpers..this is more of a walk than a small hike. Made it in less than 10 minutes. It is great for children and the mist feels wonderful on the bridge! I would come back during the summer time to enjoy the mist.
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Tiffany Y.

Yelp
A great, brief hike (~1 hour total if you mingle around the falls). The trail itself is pretty flat, and there are some areas where bikes can go. I really enjoyed this hike, which takes you in a loop to see the Lower Yosemite Falls. Nice and peaceful, with beautiful scenery everywhere. There are several areas on the hike where you can see both the Upper and Lower falls together and that is really cool. The falls (both Upper and Lower Yosemite Falls) are fed by melting snow, so once the snow is melted, the falls dry up. I went in May, and the Falls were full and rushing. However, I believe that around August or so, the falls start to dry up.
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Benjamin G.

Yelp
The Lower Falls is an easy hike for just about anyone. You can walk from all points of the valley and turn it into a longer walk if you like, but you can also take the tram to and from different spots along the valley floor. We walked from Curry Village and then to the Lower Falls trail. Much like the rest of the park, the hike and surrounding area is absolutely beautiful. Tons of history to take in and experience. John Muir built a cabin near the bast of Yosemite falls in the late 1800s and you can still visit the site of where the structure was. Pretty cool to see. I also learned that this is a seasonal waterfall. We visited in mid-September and the falls were actually dry. It's actually pretty cool that this is possible and its interesting to learn about the ecosystem in this part of California. Simply wonderful.
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Sam M.

Yelp
We have been to Lower Yosemite Falls many times and this is my first review. If you visiting Yosemite for the first time and only have 1-2 days, this is a must stop. You can view the Lower Yosemite Falls from the road side or even from the car but you must get close to this fall to see the massive water flows from the top and enjoy the mist. It is a short flat hike and we usually park the car at the Yosemite Village and walk to the fall. It is a nice 4-miles flat trail both way. Once you reached the Lower Falls, just enjoy the view and take a photo or two from the bridge. Then you walk around the bridge towards the boulder and climb around the obstacle to get close to the water fall. The water is icy cold even in Summer but good to soak your feet in hot days and not winter. We get very closed to the water fall and had fun getting across the boulder, rocks and people who are coming down. It is fun experience but there is a warning sign that it is "Danger" so be careful and make sure you have a good shoe to walk up and down these boulder which could get slippery when wet. I forgot to mention that there is a spot where you can take a group photo with the Water falls behind you as background along the trail towards Yosemite Lodge. Look out for it.
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Josephine T.

Yelp
I did this trail with my 19 month old baby and husband who isn't the biggest fan of "hiking". We took the shuttle #2 to #6 from Yosemite village. All three of us loved it. During this time of year, the waterfall was dried up. The area around was still beautiful and easy to do. My son literally walked all around and loved it. It was an easy one mile loop. Across the way is a nice area for pics in the field. It is beautiful in Yosemite. Even though the fall was dried up we enjoyed it.