Upper Yosemite Falls Trail Hiker Reviews

My 15 year old son and I made this our first "intense" hike. We had done a number of others, but knew we wanted more of a challenge and came up to Yosemite to do it for Mother's Day. I had read a number of books, but not these reviews beforehand. I knew it would be hard, but didn't realize the "stairmaster" issue. We didn't make it all the way to the very top (son's choice not mine) but close enough. We took our time, made a number of stops to catch breath/enjoy scenery. But the cautions as to the nature of the trail are valid. I took a spill on the way down (sand and hidden rock) which wrenched my ankle but good. Fortunately we were prepared. Taped it up but good and took it slow on way down. Pack more water and food than needed. I could not believe the people I saw going up without any water. Overall, I am very proud of how we did on our first real challenge. We are committed to train more and to go back and to also do Half Dome.

This hike is easy to underestimate and not respect. I did this. It is a workout on the legs. There is a section where you go through sand. Ouch! Main thing is to carry three times the water you think you need. The vista and the pools at the top are a generous reward though. It is so stunningly beautiful, it is hard to describe.

Imagine climbing a 45 degree grade for 4 and 1/2 hours straight. The trail is relentless and brutal but well worth the reward if you make it.

It might rate 4 stars, but I'm not sure the views from mid-trail are any better than they are from Fern Ledge. Until I do Fern Ledge myself, I'm giving this a solid 3.

I did it with a backpack loaded for an overnight. It was a great night, but I'm not sure I'll suffer that torture again! Very strenuous climb, even without 20 lbs or so on your back.

I cringe every time someone suggests this hike but yet it fills my heart. It's brutal, to be blunt. It is not a trail for beginners or for people that "once were in shape". The trail has dry, hot areas with large boulders that seem to go straight up to the sky - they will liquify your quads. There can also be other hazards like ice and snow meringues that swallow the trail even in summer. If mentally and physically fit, this trail has some stunning views. I have hiked this trail over a dozen times, often with a 35 lb backpack, and I have photographed about every inch of it, but there are certain spots I just can't make enough images of. One of my favorite views is about a mile or less after Columbia Rock, where the entire upper fall is visible. Once on the top, if you don't collapse right away, there is a narrow, and VERY scary trail to the overlook of the falls. Depending on the day, this causes me a total panic attack - but the entire valley can been seen, and you have to do it at least once - just hold the handrail. Like most high country trails, there is little water available. And what water is available must be sterilized with iodine, chlorine, UV, or a virus rated backpacking pump. One half liter of water IS NOT ENOUGH! And even though it's only 3ish miles to the top, plan on the hike taking all day - really! Beginners should consider a headlamp as part of a day pack. Think the hike is brutal, just try it in the dark without any water. Oh, and sad that I have to say it, but no matter hot you get, DO NOT go into the water of the falls - either falls or the upper river. People drown and are injured. Respect this trail and river - it only takes a moment to end up dead.

The hardest thing I've done by far. I was practically crawling up the last third but the view from the top is 100% worth the effort.

This was only my fourth hike in my life... I do not think I will ever face anything as difficult as this in my life. I am 40 and in decent shape... While the views are incredible, the duress you put your body through kind of overwhelmed me. You do not need to dress in layers. I did and paid for it because of how strenuous the hike was. That being said I am proud that I got to the top and plan on coming back to do it again next year. I also did Vernal Falls on the mist trail although it was closed off... I do not recommend this at all in the winter. It was really icy and slippery. This is God's country!!!

On my first visit to the park, I decided to do the Upper Yosemite Falls Trail with my boyfriend. We packed food and water and were pretty well prepared. Though, I wished we had brought one extra water bottle. At the time I was very out-of-shape and about 40 lbs. overweight. The hike was still very do-able, though I needed to rest more than the average bear. The problem which kept me from getting to the very top of the falls (we turned back maybe 100ft from the top) was my fear of heights. I have a horrible fear of heights and found some parts of the hike very challenging to my phobia - but I made it through the worst parts - sometimes crawling on my hands and knees, but I made it. So, given that I am pretty much the worst person to attempt this hike (out-of-shape, fear of heights), and I was able to make it as far as I did and LOVED IT!, I don't think there should be anything keeping you from going for it as well - but plan well!

Hiked the Upper Falls Trail (starting at campground 4) on Thanksgiving Day. Yosemite Falls had started trickling again due to the recent snowfall, so it was the perfect time to go. It was cold and misty down in the valley, so I started the hike with several layers. It got hot pretty quickly, and about 1/3 of the way through I had to shed the jacket, long sleeve wool shirt, and wool tights. Be mindful and bring a backpack that can carry the extra clothing.

Pretty tough trail, more switchbacks and more strenuous than the 4 mile trail, but the views are fantastic. Definitely go up to Yosemite Point, it's worth the extra push. There was still some ice and snow left over at the rim, so being careful on the trails, and having good tread on your hiking shoes is a must.

Also, the turnoff for the first viewing point (once you get to the top of the lower falls) veers off to the right. It's about .1 mile downhill, can be easily missed if you're not paying attention.

Overall a great hike, don't think it's 6-10 hrs, I finished in 7 hrs, but I took a TON of photos and dilly dallied quite a bit at the top.

I was 54 years old and not an outdoorsman. I am also considered obese at 285 yet I have hiked and trained for this for a few months. My whole Yosemite stay was actually a spontaneous diversion from another trip and I absolutely fell in love. I stayed at the Ahwahnee for 2 nights and Curry for 3. I hiked Sentinel Dome, which was spectacular with its 360 degree view, and then the Mist trail hike all the way to Nevada Falls, yet I knew that I MUST do the Upper Yosemite hike before I left. I started mid morning and simply moved one foot after the other using a walking cane (required!!) and was in a complete state of euphoria. While I had several people pass me on the way up, many stopped well short of the top and passed me going down while I continued simply moving foot by foot. The viewpoints along the way were mesmerizing. Midway up there is a point to stop at and look straight up the sheer granite face above and it was so overwhelming I had to turn away. Nevertheless, I continued to the very top ELATED. And relishing the views I sensed a great sense of pride at being there. It started to rain so I headed down (like I said I am not an outdoorsman...the rain ended and I wished I had stayed). The hike was physically challenging but is absolutely worth the effort. And the sense of accomplishment is most enjoyable.

I am in pretty good shape, and I am an avid hiker who lives in the yosemite area and I have to say that this hike is definitely a 10 on the difficulty scale. Make sure to bring more water than you can even conceive drinking. I had to turn back about 3/4's of a mile from the top because we ran out. I also had extreme vertigo and kinda felt woozy due to the altitude change. But this is a trail you don't have to hike to the top of to feel a sense of accomplishment. All along the trail you can almost see the whole valley... from various elevations.

If you are in your 50s, like me, you may want to take the hikers bus up Tioga Road, then start down the North Dome trail and turn right to the Yosemite Falls trail. Be sure to hike to the rim where there is an old steel railing at the point. Then, walk down and cross the bridge over Yosemite Creek and proceed down to the valley floor.

I hiked this trail with my son in August 2012. The falls had slowed to a trickle, however it made it great at the top for swimming above the falls. Beautiful views, however the overlook is treacherous, and not for the weak of heart!! We did run into two rattlesnakes on the trail, so be aware of your surroundings. Many boulders, so walking poles and hiking boots are highly recommended.

We enjoyed this trail much more than the 4 Mile Trail to Glacier Point. We have hiked Half Dome, Vernal and Nevada Falls....we would definitely do this one again!!

Did this today, July 17th 2012, with my 22 year old son, starting from Camp 4 (so 3.3 miles each way). Had spent the last week in Mammoth Lakes at 7,500 ft and walking trails in Tuolumne & Mammoth up to 11,300 ft so the thick air in Yosemite was most welcome (we did Clouds Rest from Tenaya Lake the previous day). We started together but I was quicker so carried on to the top alone with no water and stopping only to snatch the odd photo in a time of 1hr 20 minutes. We sat around looking at the views, drinking & eating then set off back down at a jog, taking 52 minutes to get to the starting point. A pair of Russian/Americans were faster than us going down but I was pleased with a total time of 2hrs 12 mins for the return trip. Again, no need for water on the way down (I caught the Russians drinking though!) My age? 61 years.

Great views from the top but the flow was not very impressive.

That is the best reason to take this hike - just to say you've done it. Much more difficult than the 4 Mile Trail, and the views aren't as great. If this hike ranks an 8 out of 10 in difficulty, my limit is a 7. :)

The hike is not bad, don't misunderstand. I'm glad I did it. But, if I ever go back, there are other hikes I will do first. Disclaimer: Cardiovascular speaking, the hike wasn't bad for me. But, being sure of my footing on the steep switchbacks was. I was very careful not to misstep and injure an ankle, so I'm probably making this hike sound tougher than it was. (On the way down, I came upon a woman who was being put on a horse and assisted out by SAR rangers due to an injury on her ankle/leg.) Took lots of photos on the way up. Took me 3 hours. Took only a few photos on the way down. Took me 3 hrs and 20 minutes.

I did the hike in June. Plenty of people, but certainly not crowded.

Reward for the effort: 3 out of 5.

It is a long, long hike and one must be in good physical health. It is not a trail for small children, as some parts are very steep and some areas are completely out in the sun.

But once you get to the top you will not want to leave! Yes, it's that beautiful. Also take plenty of water, food, salt tablets and spray for bugs. But the main thing is to get yourself a nice walking stick, head gear and a nice pair of boots!

I loved this hike! The views are incredible and I can't wait to do it again! Next time I will continue on to Yosemite Point. We left the lower falls around 12:30 and headed up - make sure you take plenty of water - and made it down by 6:30. One word describes it best - AMAZING!

I hiked this yesterday and I can hardly move today! I'd been on here reading reviews before heading to Yosemite, so I knew I was in for a rough climb. I packed five liters of water and lots of snacks. Drank 3.5 liters on the way up and the last liter and a half on the way down. There were tons of people on the trail that were out of water though.

I'm from Houston (elevation: fifty feet), and I haven't been very active lately, so I'm pretty darn out of shape. I figured that since I'm 21 I would be fine making this hike as long as I was hydrated and well rested. Boy was I in for a shock. When people say this is the ultimate stair climber workout they're not joking. I took breaks practically every switchback when I got further up in elevation. There were four or five times when I came really close to turning around. Somehow I dug deep and managed to make it to the top! Going down wasn't near as bad but if you're overweight think twice before doing this. I'm skinny but my knees were sore and swollen when I got back down to the valley.

Overall it was an awesome hike with great views, just be prepared for it and know what you're getting into.

I was 17 years old and approx. 6 to 7 months pregnant...I was at Yosemite with my aunt and uncle and cousins and it was such a great experience. We camped in tent campers and met some Australians at our camp site. One day we were just going to climb the falls a little bit but as we started to climb my uncle and cousins tired out. Me...I just wanted to go to the top. I remember just going back and forth and back and forth...very exhausting. I carried nothing with me and drank water from the streams falling down from the rocks. I don't think my relatives realized what this was all about. I did get to the top which was just a fantastic sight and stayed there a bit. I remember the top as being rocky and I had to climb around and go to the edge just to see the falls...I could not see the bottom but it was great. I believe it took me somewhere around three hours to get to the top and about the same to get back down. Going down was harder because the steepness made you have to run back and forth all the time. I have read other readers telling of their walk and I guess I didn't realize how dangerous it was. I must have been very fit as myself and my unborn child did this trail quite well. Of course, my relatives were very very glad to see me when I got down because of the time limit and my condition. It was great and I certainly would like to see my capability of doing it again. I do remember there were not many people on the trail. I kind of followed a young married couple at the time and that is about all I remember climbing with me.

I'm 20 and have quite muscular legs and often opt for a work out that includes some sort of incline or stairs, so this hike was actually fairly easy for me to ascend. I, like many others, did not bring enough water. I brought 4 bottles in the car but only carried 2 with me on the trail. Luckily I was able to refill at the falls (although not highly advised, but desperate times call for desperate measures). The trail was fairly crowded, but it may have also been due to the fact that it was a free (get outdoors) day. The people are generally quite friendly, although some can be quite rude when it comes to sharing the trail/being considerate of others. Going back down/the descent was the hardest part in my mind. You would think it would be easier, but by the time you head down you are exhausted and your legs are probably already sore. The steepness is rough on the knees when absorbing shock and the fine sand on the trail that covers the rocks/steps makes the descent dangerous. I slipped about 5 times so be careful! I would recommend going to the falls and the point. The falls has amazing views but can be pretty scary--I didn't go all the way because the winds are pretty strong up there and the mist makes it hard to hold the single pipe/guardrail. The point is very relaxing and a great place to regain energy before going back down. The hike took me a total of 6.5 hours including a 20 minute lunch stop and 45 minutes at the top (falls/point). It was worth it, but will take a big toll on your body and consume your whole day. Start early because otherwise you may be stuck hiking back in the dark with the mosquitos (don't make the descent any harder than it needs to be!)--I went back down at 2:30 and over 50% of the trail was already in the shade.

I had never done anything that strenuous before, and did it alone, at age 60. I had no idea how strenuous it would be when I started, and grossly underestimated how much water to take. I started with just one pint, but some kind person gave me two more along the way. My legs started to cramp about three fourths of the way up, but I made it to the top. The view at the top was well worth the effort to get there. Total time for the hike: 8 hours. I highly recommend it.

My first trip to Yosemite a few years back let me know what shape I was really in (round was the closest shape). Not knowing how strenuous hiking could be, I attempted this trail only to turn back around after getting a huge reality check. My physical fitness level could best be described as a frowny face. From that day on (3 years ago), I kicked the cigarets and junk food and began to train. I would not let some inanimate trail get the best of me. I've watched too many Rocky movies to not come back and kick this trail's behind.

The following two years, and 80 lbs lighter, I came back to conquer the mighty Half Dome. But, this year I decided to come back defeat the trail that once defeated me. I made it to the top in a brisk 3.5 hours and enjoyed the views of the falls and Half dome of in the distance. The top of the falls isn't as rewarding as Half Dome, but awe inspiring nonetheless. Make no mistake, this trail is still very strenuous, so don't make this your very first hike unless you're already in good shape.

Pro Tip: bring sun screen for the exposed sections, a few liters of water, and some salty, protein filled, and carb laden snacks. Your results may vary.

It's a pretty good hike. It can be very challenging for some people to get to the upper yosemite falls. It took us around 4 hours to get there and 2 hours to come back. Make sure to bring a lot of water with you. Be careful when rocks are wet, they get very slippery. Overall it's a great hike.

Over a few month period last fall (2011), which was unusually warm and dry, I hiked most of the major trails starting or ending in the valley -- Vernal/Nevada Falls via both Mist and Muir trails, 4-Mile Trail to Glacier Point, and Panorama trail. While Upper Yosemite Falls isn't as high or as long as 4-Mile trail, it's considerably more strenuous. For one, it's steeper. But the bigger issue is trail quality. 4-Mile trail is fairly "smooth", while the upper part of Upper Yosemite is like walking through a boulder field. You need to pay especially close attention to where you put your feet. Bring more food and water than you think you'll need. The views from the top are fantastic, but it's also relaxing and beautiful just to sit under a tree and nap.

Today I groan every time I have to use stairs or get up from a seated position, but the views yesterday were totally worth it. The views at the top are phenomenal, but there are also fantastic views of the valley the whole way up. We started the hike around 9 am and finished around 4:30 pm. This included the extension to Yosemite Point (also totally worth it), a long lunch at the top of the falls, water-filtering at a safe place on Yosemite Creek, and multiple breath-catching breaks along the way. The whole hike up was pretty exposed to the sun, which was kind of brutal considering you're going uphill almost non-stop. But on the way back down, many of the worst switch backs were in the shade. We thought starting the hike early would save us from the worst of the heat, but now I wonder if starting in the afternoon might be better, assuming you give yourself enough time to get back in the daylight. It's also worth noting that all the switch backs and steep drop-offs make it hard to find a private place to sneak off to and pee (remember that the nearest bathrooms are at the very bottom in Camp 4), so find somewhere at the top before you start heading back, because it seems like an extra long way down when your bladder is full and you're looking for a semi-private rock to hide behind at every turn!

As others said, make sure you take plenty of food and water (I drank just over two liters on the way up), wear good shoes, and take some blister-prevention stuff with you just in case. It's beautiful--enjoy!!

The description for this hike is right on, including the emphasis on how strenuous the hike is and how amazing the views are. A word of caution: we saw several people unprepared for the intensity of this trail - not enough food/snacks or water. Don't underestimate the amount of water or nutrition you'll need. Bring at least two liters of water. Wear layers - especially in winter/spring. It is a rocky, sometimes slippery, trail with areas of soft sand. Wear hiking boots - we saw several people in Converse sneakers or running shoes struggling. Take your time going up and coming down. I referred to my "catch my breath" pauses as "okay, time to gaze at nature in wonderment!". Bring a camera and a sense of camaraderie for your fellow hikers. This is a beautiful, well-defined trail and you will enjoy a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction at having climbed it.

My husband and I (respectfully in our mid-40's) with our daughter (13) climbed to upper yosemite falls on New Years weekend. Our intentions were to take our daughter cross country skiing, but due to our dry winter we decided to head up the Yosemite falls trail. Our intent wasn't to climb to the top, but after each stop we decided to trek on with just a few bottles of water, apples and cookies. I've climbed the falls I think about 3 other times in my life, but always in the summer and when I was younger. This time of course there wasn't the beauty of the roaring falls, but still an impressive trickle and amazing views. I have to say, if you want to attempt the falls but are frightened by the difficulty, try it in the cooler fall and winter months. Not that the cool weather makes the hike any easier on your legs and lungs, but the heat of the summer makes it much more difficult and you have to carry much more water in the summer.

awesome hike...nothing like I've ever done and can't wait to do it all over again next year

I've done the Panoramic Trail and the Four Mile Trail a few times and enjoyed each time. I decided to do the the Upper Yosemite Falls Trail yesterday. I'll never go back on this hike again. There were a few good scenic views but nothing compared to the other trails in the Valley. The top was not worth much. The trail is rocky all the way up so it's really tough to maintain balance.

I have done this hike three times. It is one of those hikes that you will swear you will never do it again but you do because it calls to you.

Make sure you have been in Yosemite at least 24 hours to acclimate.

Bring plenty of water, lots of trail-mix and beef jerky, and comfortable lightweight hiking shoes, you will need it. Travel light but bring your camera and your sturdiest friend. Give yourself plenty of time to enjoy the trip up and on the way down you will wish you parked at the trail-head.

(Bicycles are mandatory for me to get around Yosemite Valley on your schedule, cheaper and better quality to buy a decent one off of Craigslist before you go.)

Now you can do all the other hikes in the valley and they will look short and easy! (Except for the Glacier Point 4 mile hike, which is just as hard but not as rewarding...drive to this one.)

Good (much easier) training hikes are Mt Baldy in Angeles National forest and Mt Wilson from the valley floor in Los Angeles.

The wife and I picked this hike because we like a challenge; we were not disappointed. We parked near the visitor's center and took the free shuttle to the Campground 4 stop where the trail starts. The trail is off to the left of the campground and is easy to follow the entire way.

The hike starts with a set of switchbacks and you cover a lot of elevation fairly quickly. Most of it is shaded due to the forest, and there's not much to look at until you get to Columbia Rock about a mile in. This gives you the first view of the valley and Halfdome.

At that point, the trail levels out for another mile or so and goes back downhill as you move around the side of the mountain. The view is wonderful for most of this portion of the hike, though shade is not as prevalent. Get an early start if you can (we were on the trail before 9AM in late September).

Once you hit the second stretch of switchbacks the trail gets very hard. It goes nearly straight up and shade is limited. Back and forth and back and forth. Once you've made it out of the switchbacks, it's just a little further to a flat area with plenty of room to relax and have lunch.

At the top you can scramble down some narrow, steep stairs, including a section of steps where you need to hold on to a handrail to keep from falling off the side of the rock face. Very rewarding, though a little terrifying for those who don't like heights. View of the falls is nice, and you get a very nice view of the valley.

If you can do it, take the trail up to Yosemite Point. The slopes are a lot less steep, though the elevation gain is considerable. At the top, the view is breathtaking. We went to Glacier Point later in the day and both agreed the view from Yosemite point was much nicer. Did not hurt that it was just the two of us standing on what seemed like the top of the world.

The way down was difficult, particularly through the upper switchbacks. We spent four hours going up, and just a little over two coming down. We're both in our late twenties, not overweight, and do the gym a few times each week and this was very strenuous for us. The wife said it was probably the hardest physical challenge she's ever had, and she's pretty athletic.

A few notes: Take lots of water. We brought five liters of water and two liters of poweraid and went through it on the way up. I brought a water filter and we refilled in the river before we hiked to Yosemite Point. We also brought lunch and some snacks, and were very happy that we did. There were plenty of folks who did not, and they didn't look very happy.

This is probably the best hike I've ever taken, and even with a pretty light daypack was much more difficult than treks I've done in the Appalachians with a weekend's worth of gear on my back.

Do it!

I had the pleasure of hiking this trail from 2 directions, up from the valley floor and back, and starting from Tioga Road, about 13 miles down to the valley floor. A bit dusty coming up from the valley floor the first 3rd. Some slower hikers in sandals caught my attention, not sure they made it all the way. Bring enough water to get to the top and back, or pump water from the steam above. Don't swim in the enticingly beautiful pools above the falls, it's not worth the risk. The railing and out cropping make for exciting views nearly straight down th cliffs. From the Tioga Road trail head you can enjoy a gentle descent with plenty of access to water if you bring a purification pump. Wonderful water scenes, and shaded spots for lunch. The return trip down sheer granite steps is exhilarating, but tread carefully. The trail widens on the lower portion for a speedy descent.

An early start and plenty to drink and eat make this the great hike of your life, be safe and enjoy..

Very briefly, the views and atmosphere were so enthralling that I didn't always notice the ache in my quads on the way up. The many switchbacks up to the first outlook seemed endless, but the hike really begins when they end. Some portions of the trail are cobblestone, very irregular-- ankle high boots and a walking stick, ski pole, etc. really help. Also, bring lots of water or a purifier for when you reach the top. On a hot day, you may well drink it all on the way up and have little for the way down. Returning to the trailhead, rehydrating was our single-minded goal. Hot, butt-kicking, and highly rewarding hike. Or, you can hike in from Tioga Rd. and be a bit more casual...also a lovely time.

Although I came across a number of unlikely looking fitness level people for this hike like grandma and grandpa from the city (and enjoyed lapping them :)

The description given on this web site is spot on. A good alternative is to hike up to about half-way (Columbia Point I believe--the guard-railed overlook). After that is a dicey uphill (lots of sounds of slips and slides among the people) and then a downhill spot (where I said "Geez, I don't want to regain this elevation more than once" and turned back as a bike ride of the valley was calling to me).

Bring plenty of water and then more. And of course the descent is more worrisome than the climb (hard to fall uphill). I found the trail head hard to find (I overshot it and ended up in Camp 4). There is a path inset and following the road that goes to the trail head. I asked many ongoing people if this was the way to the (Upper Yosemite Falls) trail and most said they didn't know (huh?), but it was. BTW, when I was there (7/4/2011) there was a steady stream of people up and down so it was more the Times Square rather than wilderness experience (refer to my Yosemite video).

I've done this hike three times--over the years. I used to live much closer than I do now. It's a great workout with spectacular views. I've hiked in Denali, Patagonia, climbed Kilimanjaro. Yosemite Falls is about as good as day hikes get. The trail is good with well-engineered switchbacks. Though it is true that it's two Empire State Building's worth of stairmaster climbing, a fit person who likes to sweat can simply put 'er in gear and thoroughly enjoy the day. It's also a good trail to run down!

We went on this hike on July 30, 2011. We started at 10 a.m. and it was already hot. We started with a pretty good pace. 45 minutes later our pace was slowing down. The hike starts with plenty of shade, then you are exposed to pure sunshine. Bring a hat if you're going during the summer. The hike is very hard. You definitely have to be in decent shape. Half way up, we were running low on water. We ran into a a tiny water fall with freezing water. We cooled ourselves off and decided to drink the water. It was so refreshingly good. I don't recommend doing this, since they do warn that the water may contain Giardia lambia, a microscopic protozoan that upsets human digestive systems. My son and I have no signs of any upsets. Other people were drinking from this source as well. Bring a portable purifier to be safe. The views along the way are extremely breathtaking. At the top you'll find a look out that is very steep to get down to. You walk down a very narrow step with a not-so-safe looking rail. There is also a "river" where the fall begins. It's not safe to go in, but you can definitely find some safe spots to put your feet in. The descent down is as hard as it is going up. If you've got knee problems, the descent will kill you. I recommend buying walking poles. I still hit myself on the head for not getting one. You can buy them for as little as $14.95 at the Yosemite Valley store. I am still in awe when I look at the pictures. I still can't believe I did it.

I consider myself in decent shape, usually doing 2-3 mile jogs twice a week and staying active. We started this hike just before noon and didn't get back down to the car until 6:30 at night. It is quite an incline, but nothing too intense all at once. The top of the falls are gorgeous, and the views along the way are well worth the trip. I visited early may this year and the water sounded like a jet plane. HOWEVER, fair warning to bring a snack (I only brought water) and if you are hiking later in the evening long sleeve thin layer to fend off chills. I was sore really badly (calves and quads) for about 3 days and after about 6 days I felt back to normal. Definitely worth it. And you can refill your water bottle at the streams if need be, so it's not like half dome where you have to lug a gallon or two all the way up. [Editor's Note: The small streams along the Yosemite Falls trail usually dry up at some point during the summer; if you're hoping to rely on them, try checking with a park ranger first to make sure they're still running. The park service recommends treating surface water before drinking it.]

Wow, this was a challenge, but it was absolutely worth it. The views of Half Dome and the valley are stunning and falls themselves are gorgeous. You need to be in decent enough shape to pull this one off; if you think the switchbacks in the forested beginning part of the trail are hard, just wait til you get higher up. And be CAREFUL on the slippery rocks near the falls! I wiped out on a spray-covered rock on my way down and hurt my arm, ouch, hiked out in a sling. Saw a few other descending hikers stumble or fall on my way up too and my companion slipped as well; it's quite steep and rocky and slick in spots so be prepared. Still worth it though, what an amazing experience! Your aching knees will recover and your memories will last a lifetime.

This trail was a great experience! It is definitely as strenuous as described. It is both steep and rocky - I found it harder coming down than going up. That said, the views of Upper Yosemite Fall and the surrounding Valley are amazing and well worth the effort. The extra distance (and climb) to Yosemite Point are also highly rewarding. This hike made for a great day - a fabulous workout that allowed me to enjoy my dinner that night at the Ahwahnee Dining Room all the more! Will never forget it!

The best of the worst. Stairway to heaven but hell along the way. Well worth it but please keep your brand new shoes at home. God save the knees!!!

For those who are up to it, do Yosemite Fall day one and top Nevada the next day and call me later. I have done so a couple of times and was more than glad to sit in my car for the trip home.

I just hiked this last week for the second time in my life and I still love it. Back in 1991 a college roommate and I hiked to the top of Yosemite Falls one day and then did Half Dome trail the next day. What were we thinking? This time was great because it was exactly 20 years later and I am still able to hike this kinda crazy trail, plus the waterfalls are all seriously 'going off' in the Valley this year. What a wonderous way to spend the day.

I have never hiked anything so strenuous in my life, I've only done simple little trails so I wasn't really prepared for the difficulty of this trail but it was the most amazing experience of my life. It is mostly rocks and is pretty much straight up hill. By the time I reached the top of the falls I couldn't feel my legs anymore and I was completely out of energy, but after a quick snack of trail mix, an apple, and plenty of water I was ready for the very strenuous hike back down. Going down the mountain was a little scary because it was so steep and if you slip you are only 5 feet from the edge where you would have a long ways down to the ground. It is not something I would recommend doing if you have small children with you. This is something you do need to be in pretty good shape for but it is absolutely worth doing. It was one of the best things I have ever experienced!