Yosemite Falls Tours

Yosemite Falls showing a waterfall and mountains
Yosemite Falls which includes rapids
Yosemite Falls showing rapids
Yosemite Falls featuring mountains
Yosemite Falls showing a waterfall and a gorge or canyon as well as an individual male


You may hear these thundering falls, which are among the top 10 tallest in the world, before you see them in California’s Yosemite National Park.

Yosemite National Park sets the bar high for magnificent natural beauty, but Yosemite Falls is indisputably one of its most striking features. This towering waterfall is one of the highest in North America. Water plunges a total of 2,425 feet (739 meters) from top to bottom of Yosemite Falls in three distinct sections.

The 1,430-foot (440-meter) drop of Upper Yosemite Falls is impressive by itself. To experience its deafening power up close, follow one of several trails between its base and top. Note that the hike to the top of Yosemite Falls is strenuous and will take all day.

The Middle Cascades are a series of five small falls. These don’t have great public access so many people miss them entirely.

Although Lower Yosemite Falls is the smallest portion, its accessibility makes it the most popular viewing point for the waterfall. Explore it via the popular 1-mile (1.6-kilometer) loop trail or take the free shuttle bus to the base of the falls.

The most dramatic time to visit Yosemite Falls is in May or June, when the runoff from snowmelt creates an impressive cascade with a deafening roar. By the end of summer, most of the snow in the high country has melted and the falls are reduced to a mere trickle.

If you visit in the spring, look for a moonbow, also known as a lunar rainbow in the spray from the falls. In winter, a unique “snow cone” formation develops at the base of the falls.

Yosemite Village is nestled near the foot of the falls. This quaint town is a great place to stop for a snack or souvenir. If you want to stay overnight, get a room at Yosemite Lodge. For a more rustic experience, bring your tent or RV to one of Yosemite’s many rentable campsites. Book well in advance to ensure you can get accommodations.

While visiting Yosemite National Park, seeing Yosemite Falls is a must. You might get a little wet, but it is well worth it to experience this natural wonder.

Plan a trip to see Yosemite Falls

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
The LEEF Hotel
Los Angeles Deluxe Suites - 2 Bedrooms & 2 Bathrooms
SIRTAJ - Beverly Hills

Reviews of Yosemite Falls

4.7
Top Destination
5 - Excellent
790
5 - Excellent 80%
4 - Good
139
4 - Good 14%
3 - Okay
49
3 - Okay 5%
2 - Disappointing
5
2 - Disappointing 1%
1 - Terrible
4
1 - Terrible 0%

3/5 - Okay

Verified traveler

If you are expecting to see this in late fall, don't. It's a seasonal waterfall depending on the time of year.

3/5 - Okay

Verified traveler

I went in late fall oct1 and no water

3/5 - Okay

Verified traveler

Best in spring..falls was a dribble in September

4/5 - Good

Verified traveler

Vert good. easy hike, - no parking

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

It took us 2.5 hours of hiking to see the magnificent Yosemite Falls at the halfway point. Bring lots of water and hiking poles to help with slippery slope.

4/5 - Good

Verified traveler

Beautiful, but crowded!

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Yosemite Falls

Curry Village

Curry Village

2.5 out of 5
9010 Curry Village Dr., Yosemite National Park, CA
Curry Village
Yosemite Valley Lodge

Yosemite Valley Lodge

3 out of 5
9006 Yosemite Lodge Drive, Yosemite National Park, CA
Yosemite Valley Lodge
The Ahwahnee

The Ahwahnee

4 out of 5
9005 Ahwahnee Drive, Yosemite National Park, CA
The Ahwahnee
Yosemite Valley Lodge

Yosemite Valley Lodge

3 out of 5
9006 Yosemite Lodge Drive, Yosemite National Park, CA
Yosemite Valley Lodge
Curry Village

Curry Village

2 out of 5
9010 Curry Village Dr., 9010, Yosemite National Park, CA
Curry Village
Yosemite View Lodge

Yosemite View Lodge

2.5 out of 5
11136 Highway 140, El Portal, CA
Yosemite View Lodge
The Ahweanee in Foresta, Inside Yosemite National Park

The Ahweanee in Foresta, Inside Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park
The Ahweanee in Foresta, Inside Yosemite National Park
INSIDE YOSEMITE! Ten minutes from Yosemite Valley. SUMMER/FALL openings!

INSIDE YOSEMITE! Ten minutes from Yosemite Valley. SUMMER/FALL openings!

YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK
INSIDE YOSEMITE! Ten minutes from Yosemite Valley. SUMMER/FALL openings!
Yosemite Mountain Lodge

Yosemite Mountain Lodge

Yosemite
Yosemite Mountain Lodge
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Yosemite Falls

Yosemite Falls offers a variety of activities for visitors, including stunning hiking trails like the Panorama Trail. Explore the breathtaking beauty of Yosemite through outdoor seating areas that provide a nature experience unlike any other. For those looking for adventure, consider a ski trip during the winter months. Whether you're hiking or simply enjoying the scenery, Yosemite Falls is a must-see destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Shopping

The nearest shopping option is the El Portal Market, a convenient store offering various essentials and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, you can explore more shops in nearby towns, where you’ll find unique gifts and local crafts to remember your visit to Yosemite Falls.

Recreation

The Swinging Bridge Picnic Area, just a mile from Yosemite Falls, offers a serene spot for relaxation amidst nature. Ascent, the Spa at Tenaya Lodge, located 20 miles away, provides indulgent body treatments for ultimate rejuvenation. For sports enthusiasts, Wawona Golf Course, 16 miles away, delivers outdoor excitement on the greens.

Adventure

Embark on a hike at Cook's Meadow, located 0.9 mile from Yosemite Falls, where you'll enjoy breathtaking scenery and outdoor adventures. For a family-friendly experience, the Sentinel Beach Picnic Area, 2 miles away, offers a great campground. Explore the Shadow of the Giants Trail, also 2 miles distant, for more hiking thrills.

Nightlife

The nightlife in Yosemite Falls offers a mix of culture and family-friendly vibes. Catch a performance at the Yosemite Lodge Amphitheater, just 1 mile away, or enjoy a show at the Golden Chain Theater, located 27 miles away, both providing enchanting entertainment under the stars.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Yosemite Falls

Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast or simply seeking breathtaking scenery, Yosemite Falls and its surrounding attractions offer something for everyone. Explore the stunning Yosemite Valley and the expansive Yosemite National Park, where adventure awaits at every turn. From the majestic Yosemite Falls to thrilling Yosemite adventures, this destination guarantees an unforgettable experience filled with natural beauty and excitement.

  • Yosemite Valley: A stunning glacial valley, Yosemite Valley is known for its breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventure opportunities. Located 0.8 miles from Yosemite Falls, visitors can explore hiking trails, rock climbing, and the iconic El Capitan, all while soaking in the vibrant outdoor vibes.
  • Yosemite National Park: This vast national park, situated 1 mile from Yosemite Falls, offers awe-inspiring scenery and countless adventures. With diverse ecosystems, towering granite cliffs, and picturesque meadows, it's a haven for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.
  • Yosemite Visitor Center: Located 0.8 miles from Yosemite Falls, the Yosemite Visitor Center serves as a gateway to the park. Families can gather information, participate in educational programs, and enjoy engaging exhibits, all while embracing the adventurous atmosphere.

Best time to go to Yosemite Falls

The best time to visit Yosemite Falls can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Yosemite Falls falls in July, when visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature around Yosemite Falls falls in December and February. February has average visitor numbers and mostly sunny weather.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January27.7°F (-2.4°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
February26.6°F (-3.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
March28.9°F (-1.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
April35.1°F (1.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighAverage
May42.8°F (6.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June54.3°F (12.4°C)No RainSunnyModerately HighSlightly High
July62.8°F (17.1°C)No RainSunnyModerately HighSlightly High
August61.0°F (16.1°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
September55.6°F (13.1°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
October45.0°F (7.2°C)Light RainSunnyModerately LowAverage
November33.6°F (0.9°C)Light RainSunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
December26.6°F (-3.0°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyModerately LowAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Yosemite Falls

To save money on your trip to Yosemite Falls, consider visiting in the cheaper months of January, March, or November, and book your hotel about a month in advance for the best rates. Tuesdays offer the lowest hotel prices, while Fridays are the most expensive. Use Expedia to find last-minute deals and customize your search based on your budget. Look for package deals combining flights and hotel stays, and join Expedia's One Key membership for exclusive discounts and potential cash rewards for future bookings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Yosemite Falls are January, March and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel around Yosemite Falls about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Yosemite Falls is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Yosemite Falls is Friday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to customize your options based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To find the best prices and deals, make sure to arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by booking an Expedia package that combines your hotel stay near Yosemite Falls with your flights and activities.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.

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