Lower Yosemite Falls Hiking Trail

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When visiting Yosemite Valley, you’ll immediately take notice of its collective grandeur. Everywhere you look, it’s one amazing sight after another. One of those sights which stand out amongst most is the park’s namesake - Yosemite Falls, the tallest waterfall in North America at 2,425 feet.

When searching for the best things to do in Yosemite Valley, many will point to the Upper Yosemite Falls hike and for good reason. The views from up there are simply incredible. However, it’s a physically demanding, time consuming hike.

For those who don’t have the time (or energy) to tackle the upper falls, and simply want an up-close view of this magnificent waterfall, there’s the Lower Yosemite Falls hiking trail. It’s an excellent option for those just looking to hit up the highlights.

So where do you park to see Yosemite Falls? How long is the trail to the lower portion? Is this trail stroller friendly? I answer all of these questions and more in the post below.

Trail Stats

• Location: Yosemite Valley, California

• Fee: Standard park entry fee (currently $35)

• Open: All year

• Cell Service: Decent, but can be spotty

• Restroom: Semi-large structure with flush toilets at the trailhead

• Parking: Large day-use lot east of Yosemite Valley Lodge

• EV Stations: Rivian Waypoint stations in the Yosemite Valley Lodge lot

• Difficulty: Easy

• Popularity: Mega high

• Mileage: One mile for the whole loop

• Time: Less than one hour

• Elevation Gain: 55 feet

• Condition: Well maintained

• Features: Lower portion of Yosemite Falls

• Best Viewed: November - June (peak flow in May)

• Pets: Allowed, but must be leashed

• Drones: Prohibited

• Hazards: Wildlife encounters are possible, as well as slippery rocks around the waterfall (off trail)

• My Visit(s): 2015, 2020, 2021 and 2024

Lower Yosemite Falls Parking

Much like the rest of Yosemite Valley, finding parking for Yosemite Falls can be quite the hassle. It’s for this reason I always encourage people to utilize the free Yosemite Valley Shuttle. It makes multiple stops at most of the valley highlights and is easy to use.

However, if you insist on using your own vehicle to get around, you’ll find parking for Yosemite Falls (either the upper or lower trails) in the lot east of Yosemite Valley Lodge, just a bit further down Northside Drive.

To get to the trailhead from here, you can, in theory, walk along Northside Drive but I don’t recommend it. The best (and safest) ways to reach it are to either cross the street and take the trail that cuts through Camp 4 or take the trail through Yosemite Valley Lodge and then cross the street to the trailhead.

Either way, you’re looking at a (roughly) half a mile walk to the trailhead, one way. I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention the parking lot directly across the street. I’m not encouraging you to park there as that area is typically reserved for hotel guests, but it is there. So do with that what you will.

Again, I’m going to strongly encourage you to utilize the shuttle. Park your vehicle at either Curry Village or Yosemite Village and hop on. Be sure you’re taking the valley-wide shuttle and not the east valley one. Shuttle service begins at 7am and ends at 10pm and again, it is free. The stop you’ll use for Yosemite Falls is #6.

Lower Yosemite Falls Trail

Both the trail to the base of the falls, and the conjoining loop, are paved paths with virtually no elevation gain to speak of. They’re also wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it an ideal outing for the entire family.

To the right of the trailhead is a semi-large structure with flushable toilets, water bootle refill stations and an array of unshaded picnic tables. It’s busy here quite often so if you’re looking to enjoy a quiet picnic, this isn’t it.

The lower section of Yosemite Falls is on full display in front of you at the trailhead so to continue, simply head straight for it and follow the path. If you’re here during the busy summer season, get here early in the morning and you’ll likely have it (mostly) to yourself.

About a quarter mile after starting, the trail will veer to the right and you’ll arrive to the base of the falls. As stated above, if you’re here in the early morning, you’ll likely only encounter a few others. After that, though, the crowds will be sizable. So pack your patience.

With few exceptions, don’t expect to see water flowing past June. Every so often there’s still flow into July, but it’s rare. If you want to see Yosemite Falls at its fullest, I recommend visiting no later than May. Once you get into July and August, the falls are all but dried up for the season.

If you feel inclined, you can boulder-hop your way to a closer view of the falls. I’m assuming Yosemite doesn’t prohibit this, as many were doing it and the ranger that was there didn’t seem to mind. Be careful, though. Those granite rocks are notoriously slick.

Most people stop here and head back the same way they came. For a more tranquil experience, traverse over Yosemite Creek via the wooden bridge and continue on the loop trail. Here, you’ll walk through a cluster of tall redwoods, which provide much needed shade. You’ll also get continued views of Yosemite Falls.

This segment of the trail was a virtual ghost town compared to what I experienced on the other side and at the base. Definitely don’t skip the other half of the loop. If nothing else, it’s a relatively peaceful escape from the crowds.

Shortly after crossing the bridge, you’ll come to a massive granite rock. There’s nothing inherently special about it that I was able to determine, but it’s crazy to think how loud of a noise that thing caused when it slammed into the valley floor all those years ago.

Shortly after the big rock, you’ll reach a segment of the trail that transitions from pavement to a wooden boardwalk. I asked about this and was told it’s because early in the season, there’s often runoff from Yosemite Creek and the boardwalk allows the runoff to flow while enabling visitors to still enjoy the trail.

In between the boardwalks there’s a small detour you can take for a view of the falls. Look for a small sign stating “falls view”. You’ll come to the view shortly after taking the detour. The view from here isn’t all that unique, but it’s still worth checking out since the detour only takes a few minutes.

If you’ve taken the shuttle to Lower Yosemite Falls, you’ll find shuttle stop #6 prior to the end of the loop, along Northside Drive to the left of the trail. Otherwise, continue on the loop to reach the trailhead, and continue to your vehicle.

Lower Yosemite Falls Common Questions

What is the difference between Upper and Lower Yosemite Falls?

Yosemite Falls is comprised of three parts - the lower falls, middle cascade and the upper falls. Together, they create Yosemite Falls. The upper portion is 1,430 feet tall while the lower portion stands at 320 feet. When adding in the middle cascade, the waterfall’s total height is 2,425 feet.

How long does it take to hike Lower Yosemite Falls?

That all depends on your fitness level and walking stride but generally, I would say less than one hour (including time spent at the base).

Is the Yosemite Falls hike hard?

The lower loop trail? No. It’s easy. If you’ve heard someone referring to this hike as hard, they were referring to the Upper Yosemite Falls hike which is a hard, physically demanding hike.

Do you need a reservation for Yosemite Falls?

Not for the falls itself but dependent on when you visit, you may need a day-use reservation to enter Yosemite.

Can you see Yosemite Falls without hiking?

You won’t be able to see the base but yes, there are many points throughout the park where you can see Yosemite Falls without hiking. A few include from the trailhead of this hike, Cook’s Meadow and Glacier Point.

Can you see Yosemite Falls from Tunnel View?

No, you cannot see it from Tunnel View.

When is Yosemite Falls dry?

Yosemite Falls typically begins to dry up around late June or early July. By late July, all you’ll be looking at is a smooth granite surface. If you want to see Yosemite Falls, plan you visit for between November to June. May is the falls’ peak flow time. If Yosemite Falls is dry during your visit, you can still see Bridalveil Falls, which flows all year.

PSALM 121:8

10 Amazing Things To Do On Yosemite’s East Side

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It still surprises me how many people are completely unaware that there’s much more to Yosemite than the valley. Don’t get me wrong, the valley is literally dotted with amazing sights like Tunnel View, Yosemite Falls, Half Dome, and the Mist Trail, so there’s no shame in spending your vacation there.

However, I put this list together to persuade you to include a visit to the east side of Yosemite during your visit. Many of the main sights can be seen in a single day, but if you want to include a few of the hiking trails (and you should), you’ll want to set aside at least two days.

This list was made with families and casual hikers in mind, which is why the more strenuous trails, such as Cloud’s Rest, were omitted. With that in mind, let’s get into my pick of 10 amazing things to do on the east entrance of Yosemite.

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Is the East Entrance to Yosemite open?

Yosemite’s east entrance is seasonal. It is closed during the winter due to heavy snowpack and remains closed through spring while road crews work to clear it. Typically, Yosemite’s east gate opens between late May and mid June, depending how heavy the snowfall was that year. For example, due to the record snowfall of the 2022/2023 winter, the east entrance didn’t open until late July.

In general, park officials will keep the gate open until the first major snowfall of the year, which typically occurs in late October or sometime in November. During this time, the only way to access this side of the park is via backcountry skiing.

1) Drive Tioga Pass

If you’re coming from Lee Vining, this part is built into the trip. Tioga Pass is California’s highest automobile pass in the state and is the access road to Yosemite’s east entrance. Most of it is also closed during winter.

From the valley, follow the signs to Highway 120 and keep driving until you’re outside of the east gate and head down to Lee Vining. While you’re there, be sure to grab some lunch at Whoa Nelly Deli or Bodie Mike’s BBQ.

This drive is simply breathtaking and is a must see. Drive cautiously, though. The is narrow, the drop-offs are steep, and there are no guard rails. Additionally, keep an eye out for falling rocks. Some notable features along the pass include Nunatak Loop, Saddlebag Lake, Lake Ellery, and the Twenty Lakes Loop trail.

2) Gaylor Lakes Trail

Gaylor Lakes is one of the first hiking trails you’ll come across after arriving. In fact, the parking lot is immediately to your right upon driving through the gate. People who are hiking up to the summit of Mount Dana also park here, so it fills rather quickly.

Gaylor Lakes is a moderate-level hike and rather short in length, but the first mile or so is an exhausting uphill slog above 10,000 feet. After the pass, it drops you back down and it is there where you’ll come across the first of a series of lakes. Keep going and you’ll discover historic miners cabins.

• Trail Length: About 3 miles, out and back

3) Elizabeth Lake Trail

This is another hike on the easier side. There is some elevation gain along the way, but nothing difficult and for the most part, it’s barely noticeable. It’s mostly flat, short in length and has an epic payoff at the end. Unicorn Peak is the mountain shadowing the lake and is climbable if you have any energy left to burn.

The official trailhead is located at the back end of Tuolumne Meadows campground. To get there, simply drive through the campground and park by the restrooms. If it is closed, you’ll need to park in the lot out front and walk to the trailhead. This will add another couple miles overall.

• Trail Length: 5 miles, out and back. 7 miles if hiking through the campground

4) Olmsted Point

Olmsted Point is one of the east side’s most popular attractions due to its easy access and epic view of Half Dome. The lot can comfortably hold around a few dozen vehicles, but tour buses do utilize it and thus, it fills up quickly. Especially on weekends and in the summer months.

Try to get here as early as possible to guarantee a parking spot (being here for sunrise is an experience all its own). It will fill up later in the day but people tend to come and go often. So worst case, you may just have to circle around a couple times.

• Pro tip: If you have extra energy to burn, head up the granite slope across the road because from there, the views of Half Dome and Tenaya Lake are epic

5) Lembert Dome & Dog Lake Trail

Looming 800 feet above Tuolumne Meadows is Lembert Dome, one of the most recognizable landmarks on the east side. Hiking to the top of Lembert Dome is possible via a rather short, but steep in some places, trail. Once you’re up there, the views of Tuolumne Meadows are outstanding.

Additionally, you can add some milage to this hike but taking the detour to Dog Lake, which is just behind Lembert Dome. Why did they name it, “Dog”, you ask? I have no idea, but it’s a beautiful lake regardless and worth the short detour.

While this hike starts out on flat terrain, it soon turns into an uphill climb that will make you question your desire to complete the hike. Once you get past that, though, the trail smooths out again (until you reach the dome, that is). Despite the climb, it’s completely doable as a family hike.

• Trail Length: 2.8 miles, out and back for both Lembert Dome and Dog Lake

6) Tenaya Lake

Tenaya Lake is the largest and easily accessed of all Yosemite lakes. No hiking required. Simply find a parking spot in the lots at either end of the lake or find a spot along the shoulder.

In the dead of summer, the crowds here can get particularly large but still nowhere near the levels Yosemite Valley receives. To guarantee yourself a good spot on the lake itself, arrive early.

There’s an easy going trail that circles the lake. You won’t have to worry about ups and downs as it’s mostly flat but early on in the season you will encounter high water levels at the lake’s outlet on the west end. Late in the season, however, it’s a non-issue.

• Pro Tip: Tenaya Lake is one of the most scenic lakes you could possibly paddle board on. Bring this highly-rated inflatable SUP board along with you

7) Pothole Dome

The easiest of all the domes, Pothole stands on the western end of Tuolumne Meadows and is mild in difficulty. It’s also hard to miss as it’s easily visible from the road.

From the parking lot (10-12 cars max) you’ll find the trail that takes you straight to it. As tempting as it may be to cut straight across, please keep to the trail. This area is part of a years long effort to grow more trees in the meadow.

Once you reach Pothole, simply find a section that looks to be in your comfort zone and go up. There’s no official path from this point. Alternatively, keep on the trail and it’ll eventually take you to beautiful cascades on the Tuolumne River.

• Pro tip: Go as high as you can. The views of Tuolumne Meadows and Cathedral Peak are amazing from the top

8) Mono Pass Trail

This hike falls under the category of sorta long but still moderate. It’s mostly flat until you reach the fork to Spillway Lake and starts to head up to Mono Pass at 10,599 feet.

Along the trail you’ll pass beautiful river streams, meadows, and shaded pines (until you reach the pass, that is). Once you pass the boundary of Yosemite and reach a rocky shelf, you’ll have an epic view of Sardine Lake and a slither of Mono Lake in the same frame.

• Trail Length: 7.8 miles, RT if you go to the Sardine Lake overlook. 7.4 miles if you don’t

• Pro Tip: Shortly after arriving at the pass but before the lake you’ll see an unmarked trail spurring off to the right. Take it and in a quarter mile you’ll see a few old 1800’s miner cabins

9) Tuolumne Meadows

Few things beat taking a stroll through the always beautiful, Tuolumne Meadows. It is probably the most tourist heavy attraction on this list but don’t fret, you’ll have plenty of elbow room.

Some notable features of Tuolumne Meadows are frequent deer & bear sightings (mostly in the morning), the Merced River, Pothole Dome, Parsons Memorial Lodge, Soda Springs, and more!

• Pro Tip: If you’re here in spring or early summer, bring mosquito repellant and lots of it. If you’re not a fan of DEET, you can try this DEET-free citronella spray. I use when I hike and it does a great job at keeping mosquitos, bees, and other insects off of me (it smells fantastic as well)

10) Cathedral Lakes Trail

Rounding out the list is one of the premier hikes on Yosemite’s east side and easily one of the top hikes in the entire park, Cathedral Lakes. This one is mega popular among the Instagram crowd and is a regular stop along the John Muir Trail (JMT).

The trail is moderate in difficulty but the first couple miles or so will be a steady uphill slog. You’ll see two lakes, both of which are worthy of your efforts. Lower Cathedral is the largest of the pair but the upper lake, in my opinion, wins in the scenery department.

1. Trail Length: 7 miles, out and back if doing one lake. 8 miles if doing both

After exploring the park’s highly scenic east side, consider spending one day in Yosemite Valley. If you’ve never been there, it’s not to be missed. I’ve curated a highly detailed one day Yosemite travel itinerary if you’re interested.

This post was originally published in 2021 and was recently updated for accuracy.

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Hike Through the Historic Donner Summit Tunnels

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When searching for the most unique and best hikes in Northern California, many will point to areas like South Lake Tahoe, Yosemite National Park, and famed Mono County, and for good reason. Those areas have some of the most beautiful hiking trails in the state.

Just a bit outside of Lake Tahoe proper, near the historic gold mining town of Truckee, is one of the most unique hikes you’ll come across anywhere - the Donner Summit Tunnels.

The tunnels were built in 1867 to accommodate the first train passage through the Sierra Nevada Range. Built primarily by Chinese laborers, nothing but hand drilling methods and explosives were used to carve through the granite-based Mount Judah.

The tunnels saw the first train traffic shortly after completion in 1868, and were used as recently as 1993, when they were then decommissioned. Today, the property is still owned by Union Pacific, who have been kind enough to allow people to freely explore the tunnels.

So how do you get to the Donner Summit Tunnels? What’s the parking situation like? What can you expect on this hike? I answer all of these questions and more below. Let’s get into it.

Trail Stats

• Location: Donner Summit in Norden, CA

• Fee: None

• Open: Mostly in Spring, Summer, and Fall. Difficult to impossible to access in Winter.

• For: Everyone

• Cell Service: Spotty

• Restroom: None

• Parking: Large dirt lot at the trailhead. There are also pull-outs on the side of the road, but you’ll be backtracking on the hike

• EV Stations: None

• Difficulty: Easy

• Popularity: Moderate

• Mileage: About 5-miles, out and back

• Elevation Gain: Just shy of 400 feet. The trail is mostly flat

• Condition: Not maintained, but completely doable

• Features: Historic trail tunnels, China Wall, petroglyphs and vast views.

• Pets: Allowed on leash

• Drones: No signs prohibiting it, but I saw a few people flying theirs

• Hazards: Uneven ground, loose gravel, low visibility, steep drop offs, and potential wildlife encounters.

• My Visit(s): July 2024

Recommended Products for this Hike

• Rechargeable Flashlight with High Lumens

• Sturdy Hiking Shoes or Boots

• Camera Tripod (you’ll need it for the low-light situations)

• Citronella Spray (a Deet-free way to keep the bugs off of you)

• DJI Drone (for even better photos/video of the area)

How to Get to Donner Tunnels

Most people access the Donner Tunnels from Interstate-80, as it’s easy and straight forward. If you’re coming from the direction of Reno or Truckee (westbound), take the Donner Lake Road exit. When you get to the bottom, turn right on Donner Pass Road to head up the pass.

Less than a mile after crossing the Donner Summit Bridge, look for the sign in the photo above (Sugar Bowl Road). You’ll turn left here. Shortly thereafter, look for an unmarked dirt road on your right. This will take you to the parking lot.

Coming from Sacramento (eastbound), you’ll take the Donner Pass Road exit for about four miles before turning right onto Sugar Bowl Road to the parking lot. If you’re coming from Lake Tahoe, you have a couple options:

1. From North Lake/Sand Harbor area: Make your way to North Shore Boulevard (CA-217) and go north. Then, merge onto I-80 west for a short time before taking the Donner Pass road exit and head up the summit to the parking lot.

2. From South Lake/Emerald Bay area: Travel north on CA-89 and continue onto Highway 28, before turning left onto North Shore Boulevard (north). From there, follow the same directions as described above.

Donner Tunnels Parking Lot and Trailhead

The parking lot for Donner Tunnels is a circular dirt lot with no actual parking spaces laid out. It’s essentially park wherever you can find space. If you arrive early (like I did), you’ll have no trouble finding a spot. Later in the day is when it starts to fill, as shown in the photo above.

While any vehicle can access this lot, I do need to warn you about all of the tire-busting rocks. Union Pacific doesn’t maintain this lot at all and as such, there are rocks all over the place that have the potential for ruining your day. Take it slow and you should be fine. The good news is there’s no parking fee.

The unsigned trailhead is located just off the parking lot through a heavily graffitied red gate. You’ll find the first of several tunnels after you walk underneath the road you took to get here.

Donner Tunnels Hike

From here, you’ll work your way through a series of tunnels, each with a varying level of length (and graffiti). The first one from the parking lot is fairly long and dark, but you’ll always have the light at the end in sight.

Don’t be fooled by the amount of light in the photo above. That was me using my camera’s settings so I could show you the detail. It’s actually very dark in here and in my opinion, a cell phone flashlight doesn’t cut it. Which is why I recommend bringing a flashlight with high lumens.

In these tunnels and the upcoming ones, you’ll likely hear, smell, and possibly even see bats in the tunnels. We never saw them, but we did hear and smell them. As is the case with most wildlife encounters, don’t go looking for trouble and you likely won’t find it. In other words, don’t bother them.

After the first tunnel, you’ll briefly enter a snow shed before walking back out into a clearing with sweeping views of Donner Lake and the surrounding mountains. On this stretch, you’ll pass by some petroglyphs on your left and walk over the historic China Wall (pictured below) before entering the next tunnel.

The China Wall is a 75-foot high hand-built retaining wall that helped keep the trains propped up as it passed between the two tunnels. Take a moment to check it out. It’s amazing what the laborers were able to accomplish without the help of modern equipment.

Also along this stretch is the ability to climb up onto the top of the tunnel you just left. You’ll get an awesome perspective for photos. Just be careful as there’s no established way up and the granite rocks are slippery. Going back down is a bit sketchy.

From here, you’ll enter the next tunnel and go through a series of several more. You’ll go through sections where enough light passes through the slits in the walls, enabling you to see without a flashlight. Then you’ll hike through sections of near-complete darkness as well.

On top of the darkness, the ground you’ll be walking on is on uneven, loose gravel with occasion larger rocks. Additionally, and particularly if you’re here while the snowpack is still melting, you’ll also have standing water and potential icy spots to traverse.

The walls of the tunnels are literally covered in graffiti. Some are actually artistically well done while other pieces are simply words/political statements or nondescript images. While I do think it’s a shame that a historical site like this has graffiti all over it, I have to admit that it does add a certain vibe to the overall experience.

If you’re bringing small children, be warned that some of the graffiti art is highly inappropriate for young eyes. Thankfully, most of it is difficult to make out, or even see in the darkness, so I wouldn’t let it stop you from bringing them. Just something to be conscience of.

The hike can be as short or as long as you want it to be. During our hike, I noticed most people turn around after the second tunnel, but I recommend sticking it out and keep going to the end of the final tunnel. If you do, you’ll be rewarded with an epic, unobstructed view of Donner Lake (especially if you climb on top of the tunnel).

In conclusion, this hike is fantastic. Even if you don’t care about the historical aspect of it, it’s worth it for the views and photography opportunities alone. Additionally, because there’s so much to explore, you could hike the Donner Tunnels multiple times over and always see something new.

When you’re finished, consider heading over to nearby Donner Camp Site and see where part of the ill-fated Donner Party attempted to wait out winter and fight off starvation. Further up the freeway is where you’ll find Emerald Pools, a stunning swimming hole. Additionally, Emerald Bay State Park is about an hour away and more than worth the drive.

EXODUS 13:21

Olmsted Point: An Epic View of Half Dome

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Yosemite National Park has many amazing viewpoints throughout the park. Household names such as Glacier Point, Washburn Point and Tunnel View typically get the lion’s share of the attention. There’s another viewpoint that isn’t as well known, but features one of the best views of the park’s iconic Half Dome…Olmsted Point.

Olmsted Point is located on the park’s beautiful east side, just down the road from Tenaya Lake and Tuolumne Meadows. There’s no hiking involved. Simply park your car near the lookout and enjoy yourself. There’s a short interpretive trail you can use, or explore around the granite rock for even closer views of Half Dome.

Keep in mind that since Olmsted Point is in Yosemite’s backcountry, this area of the park closes in the winter due to heavy snowfall. Highway 120, the road which cuts through the east side, is typically accessible between late May or early June and the first major snowfall (which typically happens around mid October to early November).

In this post, I’ll discuss topics such as how to get there, the parking situation, who Olmsted Point is named for, other things to see and do nearby, and more. Let’s get into it.

How to Get to Olmsted Point and Parking

Getting to Olmsted Point

Getting to Olmsted Point is straightforward. As mentioned above, it’s located in Yosemite’s east side, just down the road from famed Tenaya Lake and Tuolumne Meadows. You can get there either from Lee Vining and entering through the east gate, or by traveling up Tioga road from the valley.

From Lee Vining, you’re looking at a roughly 45-minute drive. You’ll travel up the awe-inspiring Tioga Pass before passing through Yosemite’s east entrance. From the entrance, it’s about 17-miles before you’ll arrive at Olmsted on your left, shortly after passing Tenaya Lake.

From the valley, follow signage to Tioga road. Olmsted will be the first major visible attraction you’ll come across and it’ll be on your right side. It’s about 45-miles up a winding mountain road, so expect the drive to take a bit over an hour.

Parking at Olmsted Point

The parking lot for Olmsted Point is fairly large and paved. It’s large enough to hold dozens of vehicles but despite that, it does fill quickly. Especially during the busy summer months. So if you’re visiting during that time, I suggest arriving early. Particularly during sunrise. That’s what I did and as you can see in the photo above, I was the only one there.

If you’re not going to make it for sunrise, I suggest arriving prior to 10am. After that, the lot begins to fill as more people enter the park and additionally, that’s when the tour buses begin to arrive, causing a huge swell of crowds at Olmsted.

Olmsted Point Things to Do

When visiting Olmsted Point, many people just get out of their car, spend a few minutes taking in the view, and leave. While the view of Half Dome is indeed the main attraction, be sure to venture past the paved lookout and spend some time exploring.

At the lookout deck itself are a few informational signs detailing the glacier-carved history of Olmsted Point, facts about the man it was named for, and other tidbits of information. Just to left of those signs is a trailhead leading to the Olmsted Point Nature Trail.

The nature trail is short, clocking in at only a half-mile, out and back. It takes an average of 10-minutes to complete and offers a different perspective of Half Dome, Cloud’s Rest, and Tenaya Canyon. Be careful if you’re here in the morning during spring or early summer. The notorious Yosemite mosquitos will eat you alive.

To the right of the lookout deck are two rather large granite shelves you can walk out on and explore. The view of Half Dome doesn’t change very much, but there are granite boulders and a couple of trees up there you can utilize for creative photos (the first picture in this section, for example).

Additionally, behind the parking lot and across the street is another granite hill you can climb up to get a unique view of Half Dome from. Looking in the opposite direction from that vantage point is a equally fantastic view of Tenaya Lake.

Who is Olmsted Point Named After?

Olmsted Point is named after famous landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted. Best known for designing the grounds of Central Park in New York City, Olmsted played an instrumental role in the protection of Yosemite in the 1860’s.

While working with Senator John Conness, Olmsted helped to secure public land designation for Yosemite Valley and Mariposa Big Tree Grove, giving these areas protection of the state and ensuring they’ll be around for generations to come.

This historic effort resulted in the first acreage of land set aside for public use that would lay the groundwork for what would eventually become the National Parks system. I would say his contributions to Yosemite are deserving of this namesake dedication.

How to See Bridalveil Fall in Yosemite National Park

Standing at a commanding 617 feet, Bridalveil Falls is often the first waterfall visitors see when driving into Yosemite Valley. It is visible from portions of both Northside and Southside Drive, several pull outs along Big Oak Flat Road, and is part of the famed postcard view from the Tunnel View vista.

However, why stop at viewing it from afar when you can hike a short, easy-to-follow trail to the base and get up close and personal with it? Recently, Bridalveil Falls reopened to the public after a years-long closure for improvements to the trail, parking lot, and facilities.

The Bridalveil Falls hike is one of the most popular in the valley, often seeing similar crowds to other waterfall trails such as Lower Yosemite Falls and the Mist Trail. So how long is the Bridalveil Falls trail? When is the best time to visit? I discuss all of this and more in the post below.

How to Get to Bridalveil Fall and Parking

As one of the premier attractions in Yosemite Valley, Bridalveil Falls is easy to reach within the park. Its parking lot and facilities have recently gone through a years-long improvement project, adding additional parking spaces, improved trail conditions, and several restoration efforts.

The parking lot for Bridalveil is on the way to famed viewpoint, Tunnel View. From the El Portal entrance, make your way through El Portal road and take the Southside Drive option at the fork. From there, turn right onto Wawona Road. Shortly after that turn, the entrance to the parking lot will be on your left.

From the west entrance, continue down Wawona Road. After driving through Wawona Tunnel and passing Tunnel View on your left, continue a bit further down the road where you’ll find the parking lot on your right.

From the park’s east entrance or Hetch Hetchy, you’ll make your way to or on Big Oak Flat Road before transitioning onto El Portal Road, then onto Southside Drive, and taking the right turn onto Wawano Road. As you can see, no matter which direction you are coming from, Bridalveil Fall is easy to reach.

One important thing to note is the Yosemite Valley or the El Capitan shuttles do not stop here. The closest is stop E5 (Cathedral Beach Picnic Area) via the El Capitan shuttle (summer months only). From there, you can reach Bridalveil Fall via the Valley Loop Trail, which is a roughly 1.5-mile hike.

Bridalveil Fall Yosemite Hiking Trail

How long is the hike to Bridalveil Fall? Not long at all. If you’re not fond of long hikes or you’re just short on time, you’ll be happy to discover that the trail to Bridalveil Fall is less than a mile, round trip, along a smooth dirt path with very little elevation gain.

The trail begins at the far end of the parking lot, just past the restrooms. To the left of the trailhead is informational literature of how Bridalveil formed, current wildlife activity, and more.

The views of the waterfall are non-stop throughout this short trail. Just past the boardwalk section of the trail you’ll get more glimpses of Bridalveil beautifully framed by trees and other greenery. If you happen to be here during the fall, the fall foliage takes the view up a few notches.

Just prior to reaching the waterfall, you’ll encounter several views of the beautiful Bridalveil Creek. While spring is the best time to see the creek at its fullest, it’s a lovely sight even when it slows down as the water cascades over the boulders, creating dozens of mini waterfalls.

Once you reach the creek, simply follow it upstream. You’ll eventually come to a few steps and after that, Bridalveil Fall comes into view as you step into the viewing area. From here, you get close enough to the waterfall to feel the mist coming off of it (though not nearly as bad as the Mist Trail).

The viewing area is fairly small for such a popular destination. On a busy day, it isn’t unheard of for people to be shoulder-to-shoulder here. That is why I highly recommend getting here early to beat the rush. During my visit, I only had to share it with a few other people.

Common Questions About Bridalveil Fall

Is Bridalveil Fall open?

Yes. Bridalveil Fall reopened in 2023 from its years-long closure for the restoration project.

How long is the hike to Bridalveil Fall in Yosemite?

The trail is 0.8-miles, out and back.

What is the difference between Bridalveil Fall and Yosemite Falls?

While both are amazing in their own right, the differences are stark. Yosemite Falls is comprised of three waterfalls (upper, middle cascade, and lower sections), totaling 2,425 feet. Making it the tallest waterfall in North America. Bridalveil Fall is much smaller at 617 feet and is a singular waterfall. Both, however, are worthy of your time.

When is the best time to visit Bridalveil Fall?

Any time. Bridalveil flows all year, so there’s never a bad time. You’ll see it at its best in the spring. The summer months bring dense crowds and a diminished(ish) flow. Fall is fantastic for the colors and reduced crowds. Winter could be a great time as crowds are minimal, but you could be dealing with icy conditions and possible trail closures.

Is Bridalveil Fall trail ADA friendly?

Yes. The entire trail is paved, with the exception of the wooden boardwalk portion. There are three steps at the end, but to the right of those steps is a ramp you can utilize. Additionally, there is very little, if any, elevation gain on this trail.

Where is Bridalveil Fall located?

There are many waterfalls with this name in the United States. Both “Bridalveil” and “Bridal Vail” are often used. The Bridalveil Fall in this article is located in the valley of Yosemite National Park, California.

When does Bridalveil Fall stop flowing?

Unlike Yosemite Falls, Bridalveil Fall in Yosemite flows all year long.

Planning a trip to Yosemite? If so, be sure to read about the current day-use reservation requirements here. Also, read about Washburn Point, one of Yosemite’s most beautiful viewpoints. Additionally, if it’s your first visit, see my recommendations for the best things to do in Yosemite Valley. Finally, no visit to Yosemite would be complete without seeing its equally amazing east side.

Washburn Point: A Stunning Yosemite Viewpoint

When driving Glacier Road, most people have Glacier Point in mind as their ultimate destination and for good reason. Glacier Point is one of the most stunning viewpoints Yosemite has to offer. However, just a mile shy of Glacier Point is a similar vista in Washburn Point.

Washburn Point was named for the three Washburn brothers, who built the original road connecting Wawona to Yosemite Valley in the late 1800’s. This vista is easy to get to and is an excellent alternative to Glacier Point should you find yourself unable to find a parking lot (or don’t mind a bonus stop).

In this post, we’re going to cover multiple topics such as the parking situation, what you’re able to see from here, what to expect, best time to visit, and more. Let’s get into it.

How to Get to Washburn Point and Parking

Getting to Washburn Point is fairly straightforward. From the valley, the easiest thing to do is to follow the signs to Bridalveil Fall and Tunnel View. If you’re already on Northside Drive, you’ll keep left to loop back to Southside Drive and veer right onto Wawona road. If you’re on Southside Drive, though, you’ll need to loop back onto Northside first, as the main road in Yosemite Valley is one-way.

Once on Wawona road, you’ll pass Bridalveil Fall on your left and Tunnel View on your right before entering Wawona Tunnel. From the tunnel, you’ll travel for about eight miles before coming to Glacier Point Road where you’ll turn left onto. If you’re coming from the southern entrance of Yosemite, continue for about seventeen miles before turning right onto Glacier Point Road.

From this juncture, you’re roughly fifteen or so miles from Washburn Point. Keep in mind that if you’re driving an RV (or towing one) you cannot take it to either Washburn or Glacier Points as those vehicles are prohibited past the Sentinel Dome/Taft Point parking lots due to the (very) narrow road and tight bends.

Washburn Point’s parking lot will be on your right. It’s paved and can comfortably hold around three dozen or so vehicles. During peak times it can be difficult to snag a spot here. If this happens during your visit, your only option will be to circle around and try again as there’s no parking on the road allowed.

There are no bathrooms at Washburn Point. For that, you’ll need to go further down the road to Glacier Point or circle back to the Sentinel Dome/Taft Point parking lots. Additionally, there are no bear lockers for your food. Though they’re not entirely necessary as you’re never out of eyeshot of your vehicle.

Also, there are no free park shuttles to Glacier Road. Additionally, the paid tour shuttle only stops at Glacier Point. It does not make stops at any other trailheads. Your only option for Washburn is to drive your own vehicle, or hike to Glacier Point from the valley and then walk the 3/4 of a mile road to Washburn. Though I’ll caution against this option as the road has no sidewalks and can be dangerous for pedestrians.

Washburn Point in Yosemite

To call Washburn Point a ‘hike” would be quite the stretch as the only thing between you and the incredible scenery is about twenty concrete steps. The viewing deck below is large enough to contain a decent crowd with additional space on either side.

If you or someone you’ll be traveling with have mobility issues or you’ll be pushing a stroller, simply head to the north end of the parking lot and use the ramp to access the viewing deck.

As stated above, the view at Washburn Point is similar to that at Glacier Point, but at more of a side profile. The details of the “Grand Staircase” leading to famed Vernal and Nevada Falls are more clearly visible than they are down the road.

Directly in front of you, you’ll have a commanding view of Half Dome (the back side), Liberty Cap (the granite mountain that looms over Nevada Fall), Vernal Fall, Nevada Fall, Mount Broderick, North Dome and a peak of Cloud’s Rest. To the right, you’ll have a vast view of the Clark Range, with Mount Starr-King and Illilouette Falls in the foreground.

Washburn Point is also one of the best sunrise and sunset spots in Yosemite. Keep in mind that because of that, it usually results in higher crowds and tougher parking conditions. Sunset, in particular, can be a tough time to go, but is well worth the effort.

It’s eons easier at sunrise as most Yosemite visitors have yet to wake up. Once the sun has risen above the mountains, though, Washburn Point can be a tough spot to get good photos as the sun tends to produce harsh light here (as you can see in the photos in this post).

Best Time of Year to Visit Washburn Point

Washburn Point is located along the famed Glacier Road. Due to the heavy snowfall this area of the park sees, the road closes to vehicles in the winter. It’ll typically close in late October or November, and doesn’t reopen until spring (usually in late March or April).

In the winter, it’s possible to use skis to access Glacier Road from the Badger Pass Ski Area. Most people do this to access Glacier Point but since Washburn is on the way it makes for an easy (and excellent) bonus stop.

If you’re like most people, though, you’ll likely visit when the road opens to vehicle traffic for the spring, summer and fall seasons. Spring, in particular, is a great time to visit Washburn Point as you’ll be able to see (and hear) Nevada and Vernal Falls at their fullest flow.

While fall brings about the beautiful golden foliage the Sierras is known for, the flow of the waterfalls will be all but depleted by this point. You’ll still see some flow, but nothing like spring and early summer. Keep this fact in mind when planning your visit.

Planning a trip to Yosemite? If so, be sure to read 10 Awesome Things to Do in Yosemite Valley on Your First Visit. In addition, don’t forget to visit Yosemite’s famed east side. Finally, if you’re planning to hike Half Dome, read my How to Hike Half Dome for First Timers Guide.

Tunnel View: How to See the Most Iconic View in Yosemite

One thing you’ll notice about national parks is that the majority of them have that one view, attraction or trail that everyone has seen or at least knows about. They’re so popular that most people could simply look at a photo and will know exactly what and where it is.

In Yosemite, we are blessed with dozens of these. Iconic, easily recognizable landmarks such as Half Dome, El Capitan, Yosemite Falls, Bridalveil Fall, Glacier Point, Tuolumne Meadows, the Mist Trail, The Awahnee Hotel, Hetch Hetchy and more can be found in the valley and throughout the park.

However, amongst all of these is one viewpoint where you can stare in awe at quite a few of the above mentioned landmarks. One viewpoint that is so recognizable and popular that it’s been featured on hundreds of Yosemite publications throughout the years. That viewpoint is Tunnel View.

How to Get to Tunnel View in Yosemite

Thankfully, seeing this beauty for yourself requires little effort as you’ll simply park your car, get out and take in the view. If you’re coming from the valley, follow the signs to Glacier Point (HWY 41). You’ll turn right, bypass the turn out for Bridalveil Fall, and head uphill for about 1.5 miles to the parking lot on your right.

If you’re coming from the southern entrance, follow the posted signs to the valley. Once you reach Wawona Tunnel, you’ll want to start slowing down because the main parking lot will be to your immediate left after exciting the tunnel. Additionally, there’s a smaller parking lot across the road.

Depending on how crowded it is during your visit, both lots may be full (pro tip - they probably will be). Thankfully, people don’t tend to spend a lot of time here as aside from the view, there’s nothing to do, so there’s a lot of come-and-go. If the lots are full, just circle back around.

During my first visit, every spot was taken, causing us to circle around a couple times (it was Father’s Day weekend, to be fair). Making matters worse were the tour busses dropping off hordes of tourists. Prepare yourself for this possibility as Tunnel View is one of the main stops for tour companies.

My most recent visit was much different, though. Covid-19 did a number on tourism and Yosemite was no exception. As you can see in the photo above, there was plenty of available parking in the middle of the day and I was able to walk right up to the wall without having to fight for a spot. It’ll likely never happen again, so don’t depend on this.

What to See at Tunnel View in Yosemite

From Tunnel View, you’re able to see and photograph many of Yosemite’s top landmarks all in the same frame. The most notable of which include El Cap, Half Dome, Bridalveil Falls and Sentinel Dome. You’ll also get an up close look at the historic Wawona Tunnel. It’s the longest tunnel in the park and where you’ll go if you want to drive to the attractions along Glacier road.

This is where most people will take in the view. However, if you have extra energy to burn and want to ditch the crowds, there are two other spots that offer similar views but with far less people around. These, however, require a little bit of effort to reach.

The two viewpoints mentioned above Artist Point and Inspiration Point. Both offer similar, yet slightly different views of the same one you get at Tunnel View. The biggest advantage to both is that because of the steep, half mile climb to get to each one it tends to see less people. Some argue that either or both offer a superior view because they’re at a higher angle.

The trailhead for both is located in the smaller of the two Tunnel View lots. As stated above, the first half mile is going to be a steep, uphill slog and for Inspiration Point, you’ll need to fight your way through an unmaintained section of trail towards the end.

Directions wise, both are the same in the beginning (technically, you’re on the Pohono trail), but you’ll eventually come to a split. To get to Artist Point, turn left here and follow it for another half mile. For Inspiration Point, you’ll cross the road and begin your trek through the aforementioned unmaintained section of trail. Inspiration Point is on a granite shelf overlooking the valley.

Best Time to Visit Tunnel View

Honestly, anytime is a good time. The view will be slightly different dependent upon the season. Winter will feature the snow-covered granite slopes of El Cap and Sentinel Dome, while Fall features beautiful yellow and orange hues in the trees below. Even the dead of summer is a great time, but you’ll be there in the height of the tourist season and high temperatures that accompany it.

Time of day is another conversation. If you just want to see it and snap a few photos, getting there first thing in the morning when the crowds are lightest is best. If you really don’t care about photo quality and don’t mind crowds, then just show up whenever.

Planning a trip to Yosemite? If so, be sure to read 10 Things to Do in Yosemite Valley on Your First Visit. Additionally, check out Hiking Half Dome in Yosemite if you’re considering conquering Yosemite’s most epic day hike. Finally, to save money on vacation packages to epic destinations such as Disneyland, Walt Disney World, Universal Studios and several cruise lines, visit my friends at Get Away Today.

This post was originally published in 2020 and was recently updated for accuracy.

Visit Gold Bug Park in Placerville: Mine Tour, Historic Stamp Mill, Hiking and More

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products or services that I believe will add value to my readers.

Located in the historical town of Placerville in Northern California, Gold Bug Park features hiking trails, gem panning, a historic stamp mill and the park’s main attraction, Gold Bug Mine.

Originally called Hattie Mine, it was constructed in 1888 by William Craddock and John Drench. The original name, Hattie, was the name of Craddock’s oldest daughter.

The mine would change ownership several times throughout its operation and would eventually cease operations in the 1940’s.

Today, the park and mine are open to the public for self-guided tours via a handheld audio device. It may not be as impressive as Bodie, but Gold Bug Mine is a fantastically preserved example of California’s rich mining history.

In this post, I’ll discuss a variety of topics, such as what to expect during the tour, entry fees, parking and more. At the end, be sure to let me know in the comments if this is a place you and your family would enjoy visiting. Let’s get into it.

Getting There, Parking & Entrance Fees

Gold Park Park is conveniently situated almost right off US-50 and only around 45 miles from Sacramento, and 60 miles from the heart of South Lake Tahoe. It’s also an easy visit from nearby Apple Hill.

From US-50, take the Bedford Ave. exit and continue for a mile before turning right onto Gold Bug Ln and into the parking lot for Gold Bug Park.

Parking is fairly limited near the visitor center, but there is a much larger lot further up the road near the stamp mill, if needed. Both options are free, by the way.

From the smaller lot, there’s a wooden boardwalk leading to the mine entrance. To the left of the boardwalk is where gem panning takes place and to the right is the visitor center.

To get to the entrance to Gold Bug Mine, go up the stairs from inside the visitor center to the check-in desk. There is where you’ll pay your entry fees.

In this room, there are several exhibits of mining artifacts, some of which were discovered in Gold Bug itself. One such exhibit is a caged canary (pictured below) which miners used as a way to detect the presence of carbon monoxide.

With their small size and rapid breathing rate, canaries would quickly succumb to the effects of carbon monoxide, giving the miners a heads up to looming danger.

While guided tours are offered from time to time, self-guided tours are what most visitors will experience. Fees for the self-guided tour are as follows:

• $12 - Adults

• $10 - Senior (55+) and Military

• $6 - Youth (6 - 17 years)

• Free - Ages 5 and under

In 2024, Gold Bug Mine is open from 10am - 4pm, with no new tours allowed after 3:30pm. Additionally, those under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

Prior to the tour, each person will be given a handheld audio device (no headphones) and an optional yellow hardhat. To begin your tour, simply exit the room to the adjacent mine entrance.

Gold Bug Mine Self-Guided Tour

The entrance to the mine is tall enough for most people to walk through without having to bend down the entire time. Additionally, the floor is easy to traverse as it’s been boarded. It’s fairly slim in some spots, so groups going in opposite directions would need to step aside to allow the other to pass.

The 353-foot long mine drift has several yellow cards, each with a number, placed into the wall at about eye level. These cards indicate when to start playing your audio device to hear the narrator’s discussion of that particular section of the mine.

If I remember correctly, there were twelve stops in total, with each stop taking three to five minutes for the narration, plus however long we stayed to look around and take photos. You can pause and play the device as you go. There is no time limit.

We were lucky in that we had the mine to ourselves for the majority of our time there, with a small group arriving while we were working our way back out.

Based on that brief encounter with the other group, I can see it being difficult to concentrate on the narrator on your own device when there are several others playing concurrently.

While trying to listen to the last one or two sections, we kept hearing the other groups narrator from the echoing in the mine, which was a bit distracting. So arrive early or outside the summer months to avoid a crowd if that’s important to you.

At the terminus of the drift, you’ll see an ore cart that was actually used in the mine. Additionally, you’ll see several examples of how dynamite was used by the miners.

We spent a little more than an hour exploring the mine. This included time to listen to the narrator at each stop, as well as to look around and taking photos.

When finished, you’ll simply make your way out of the drift and back to the check-in desk to turn in your audio device. From here, there are several other attractions to explore, including hiking trails and the historic stamp mill.

Joshua Hendy Stamp Mill & Hiking Trails

To get to the stamp mill from the mine, walk or drive further up the road to where it terminates at another parking lot. It’s housed inside a grey-colored building, the entrance of which can be found by walking up the dirt path.

The stamp mill will be recognizable right away, as its commanding presence hits you as soon as you enter the building. The interior is multi-level, allowing for multiple views of the stamp mill.

On the bottom level, there’s a working scale model of the stamp mill that demonstrates the ore crushing process, as well as several mining artifacts on display.

After checking out the stamp mill, be sure to exit the building and head further up the dirt path to see a live blacksmith demonstration. Additionally, back at the parking lot, there’s the trailhead for the Springhill Trail.

I didn’t hike it, but from the trailhead I saw these interesting, multi-colored trees so I walked to the top of the hill to check them out. The inside portion of the branches were grey, with the outside being bright red. They were incredibly cool to look at and photograph.

Gold Bug Park has something for everyone and is a fantastic example of how important it is to preserve our history whenever possible. I feel everyone, from history buffs to families, would enjoy their time here. If you have more time, consider visiting nearby Marshall Gold Discovery Site, the site of the first gold strike in California!

Planning a trip to Northern California? Read 10 Awesome Things to Do in Yosemite Valley on Your First Visit. If considering Lake Tahoe, read Emerald Bay State Park Guide. Also check out The Complete Guide to Muir Woods National Monument.

Yosemite Valley: 10 Things to Do For First Timers

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products or services that I believe will add value to my readers.

Of all the areas of Yosemite National Park, the Valley is where the bulk of park visitors go and for good reason; it boasts some of the parks most famous attractions, such as Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, El Cap, Tunnel View, Happy Isles and much more.

This post doesn’t intend to tell you what the best sights are, as most other websites and blogs do. Being the “best” is up to each person’s interpretation. What I may consider the best, others might disagree. Additionally, there are so many equally beautiful things to see in Yosemite Valley that labeling any of them the “best” would devalue the others, in my humble opinion.

So instead, this post will use the word “awesome” to describe the sights I’m about to recommend. There are many others, but if anyone in my family or friend group were visiting Yosemite for the first time and asked for my recommendations, these are what I would start with in order for them to get a well-rounded first visit of the Valley. Let’s get into it.

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1) Tunnel View

No visit to the Valley would be complete without seeing the classic postcard view of Yosemite, so it’s only fitting we begin here. You can reach Tunnel View by following the signs to Glacier Road (Hwy 41). They’re dotted all along the main road on the valley floor. You’ll turn right at the sign pointing towards Glacier Point and head up 1.5 miles to the viewpoint’s parking lot.

From the viewpoint, you’ll get an unparalleled view of some of Yosemite’s most iconic landmarks; El Cap, Bridalveil Falls, Half Dome, Sentinel Dome, and more. The crowds get thick at Tunnel View, as this is a popular tour bus stop. The earlier you arrive, the better. For additional information on Tunnel View, read my post at the link below.

READ ALSO: How to See the Most Iconic View in Yosemite

2) El Cap Meadow

Seeing El Capitan from Tunnel View is one thing, but seeing it up close and personal from the meadow below is a whole lot better. The best part? Due to its massive size, you can see it from just about anywhere in the meadow surrounding it.

Parking is plentiful on both sides of the road but in the busy summer months, it can be difficult to come by. If you can’t find a spot, just circle around. You’ll likely come across one eventually. The meadow makes for an excellent place to picnic and view El Cap climbers as they make their way up its face.

• Pro tip: Be sure to bring binoculars. Seeing climbers with the naked eye is nearly impossible.

3) The Mist Trail

The Mist Trail is one of the premier hiking trails of not just the valley, but the entire park. Two beautiful waterfalls, Vernal & Nevada, are the main features of the trail, along with the infamous (and quad bursting) stone steps. The latter (Vernal) provides the mist that the trail is famous for in the spring and early summer months.

The trail is on the shorter side, coming in at 3 miles round-trip if just going to Vernal Fall. It’ll be 7 miles round-trip if moving on to Nevada Fall as well. Despite its relative shortness, the trail is steep and you will have to navigate hundreds of the slick, stone steps at both waterfalls. If you have the stamina, this hike is a must.

READ ALSO: Hiking The Mist Trail in Yosemite National Park

4) Yosemite Falls

Made up of three falls (upper, middle, & lower), Yosemite Falls stands at a commanding 2,435 feet and is one of the parks biggest (literally) attractions. Most people view the falls at the base from the viewpoint located just across the road from Yosemite Valley Lodge.

If you want to get up close and personal with it, though, hiking the Upper Yosemite Falls trail will take you to the top where epic views of the valley await you. The trail is strenuous and is about 7 miles, round-trip.

READ ALSO: Lower Yosemite Falls Hiking Trail

5) Half Dome

Not for the faint of heart, but worth every ounce of effort, Half Dome is the undisputed king of popular hikes in Yosemite. In order to partake in this one, you’ll need to apply for a permit. If you’re one of the lucky ones to get a permit, prepare yourself for a challenging, but rewarding experience.

You’ll make your way up the Mist Trail, get up and over Sub Dome and finally grab hold of the cables to hoist yourself 400 feet to the top. If you’re preparing to hike Half Dome or are considering it, read my post below for guidance.

READ ALSO: Half Dome: The Ultimate Guide To Yosemite’s Best Day Hike

6) Ansel Adams Gallery

Located in Yosemite Village, The Ansel Adams Gallery features many photographs from one of the most famous photographers in the world. If it’s in your budget, you can even purchase some of Ansel’s most iconic works for yourself.

Ansel Adams made a name for himself on his photographic art in not just the Valley, but the park as a whole and beyond. Seeing the park through his lens is something no visit to Yosemite would be complete without.

7) Indian Village

Indian Village is located within Yosemite Village, right behind the visitor center. It features several exhibits of dwellings, a sweat house, pounding rocks, Chief’s house, and a ceremonial roundhouse that were used by the Miwok Tribe. Additionally, there are examples of cabins used by early, non-native settlers.

It is a great place to take a leisurely stroll and at the same time, learn fascinating history about the people who not only originally discovered Yosemite before anyone else, but called it home for many years before it was stolen from them.

8) Glacier Point

Even though it’s outside the bounds of the valley, I’m still going to include it as the views from it are of the Valley. From the valley, follow signs to Highway 41and drive through Wawona Tunnel, following the road for about thirty miles. You’ll reach Glacier Point at the road’s terminus.

You’ll be at an elevation of 7,214 feet above sea level and 3,200 feet above the Valley itself. There’s a short trail that makes its way along the rim, a cool geology hut and a recently renovated visitor center, to name a few things. Many come here for the epic view of Half Dome, but Glacier Point has so much more to offer, so be sure to spend time looking around.

9) Bridalveil Fall

Likely the first waterfall you’ll see after entering Yosemite Valley, Bridalveil Fall plunges 620 feet to the Valley floor and is one of the parks main attractions. You can view the fall from Tunnel View or you can utilize the paved trail that goes from the parking lot to the base.

Bridalveil flows year round but is most impressive in spring and early summer. If you visit during these times and go to the base, you will likely get wet, so be sure to protect those cameras. Bridalveil Fall has recently reopened after a multi-year renovation project of its parking lot, restrooms and trail.

READ ALSO: How to See Bridalveil Fall in Yosemite National Park

10) Cook’s Meadow Loop

Lastly, no visit to Yosemite Valley would be complete without a hike around Cook’s Meadow. It’s a short, one mile loop, but packs a punch when it comes to epic views.

Yosemite Falls, Half Dome, Sentinel Rock, Glacier Point, and the beautiful Merced River are all features found along this easy going trail. It is perfect for families or for those just wanting to take in the sights while taking it easy.

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The Ultimate Bodie State Historic Park Guide (Ghost Town)

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products or services that I believe will add value to my readers.

If you’ve ever wanted to know what life was like during the height of the California gold rush in the mid to late 1800s, there are few destinations more suitable of an example than the state’s most infamous ghost town, Bodie State Historic Park.

Regarded as the “Disneyland” of California ghost towns, Bodie contains dozens of historical structures, including the town’s former hotel, church, schoolhouse, saloon, as well as various homes, all preserved in a state of arrested decay (meaning they do nothing to improve the buildings, but just enough to prevent them from deteriorating).

Initially founded in 1849, a year after John Marshall’s first discovery of gold in California and just a couple years after the disastrous events of the infamous Donner Party saga, Bodie is steeped in history and thus, more than worthy of a visit.

If you’ve never been there, you’re likely wondering how to visit this spectacular place and see it for yourself. In this guide, I’ll cover all pertinent topics such as best time to visit, what you can expect, parking, fees and more. Let’s get into it!

Bodie - A Brief Historical Rundown

Bodie was named for Waterman S. Bodey, the man who made the initial discovery of gold in what is now known as the Bodie Hills, just north of Mono Lake. Those hills later revealed a monumental amount of gold and silver deposits, meaning the boom was now in full swing.

Word began to spread and soon, people flocked to Bodie by the thousands, transitioning it from a few structures with a couple dozen miners into a bustling municipality with over 8,000 people. At its peak, there were many saloons, gambling halls, banks, a jail, hotels, schoolhouse, hundreds of homes, brothels and more.

After its peak in 1881 and mining started diminishing due to operations becoming increasingly expensive, folks began abandoning Bodie, moving on to the next. By the early 1930’s, there was interest in getting the town running again by utilizing electrical power to operate the stamp mill and a cyanide process to work the mill tailings.

In a twist of fate, however, a fire started by a two year old playing with matches destroyed roughly ninety percent of Bodie. This incident, compounded with the 1942 presidential order ceasing all mining of gold and silver, resulted in Bodie losing its township and all hopes of a revival were dashed.

After years of negotiations between the state of California and owners of the Standard Oil company, Bodie was sold in 1962 and transformed into a state park, preserving this historically significant destination for generations to come.

Getting to Bodie, Parking, Hotel and Dining

Bodie is simple to get to as it’s located between Bridgeport and Lee Vining, two small California mountain towns. From Bridgeport, it’s seven miles south on Highway 395 to State Route 270 (left) and another 13 miles to the park itself. From Lee Vining, it’s roughly 18 miles north on Highway 395 to the turnoff (right).

The first ten miles of State Route 270 (also known as the, “road to Bodie”) is paved, with the final three miles converting to a dirt road. The is passable for most, some may just need to take it slow. There are no huge boulders or potholes to negotiate, but there are a few semi-rough washboarded areas.

As you can see, Bridgeport is much closer to Bodie than Lee Vining is, making it an obvious basecamp for visitors. However, I highly encourage you to at least visit Lee Vining after exploring the park, as it’s an incredible place to visit in its own right.

There are no major airports close to the park. The closest would be Reno International to the north and various Los Angeles-area airports to the south. The closest of which is 163-miles away. That said, bringing your own vehicle is paramount.

Parking

Parking at Bodie is relatively easy to come by. They have one, rather large gravel lot, capable of hosting quite a few vehicles. Parking is included with your entrance fee (which we’ll discuss in detail below).

Shortly after driving into the park, you’ll notice a small lot on your left. That one is for park employees. Continue straight for another thirty feet or so and you’ll come to the day-use parking lot on your right.

Accommodations

In short, there are none. Not inside of the park, anyway. In the aforementioned nearby towns of Lee Vining and Bridgeport you’ll find quite a few options. In Bridgeport, accommodations include the historic Bridgeport Inn, Virginia Creek Settlement (closest to the park) and a few Airbnb rentals.

In Lee Vining, you’ll find Lake View Lodge, El Mono Hotel, and Yosemite Gateway Hotel, along with numerous campgrounds along Tioga Pass (which are also close to the east entrance of Yosemite National Park, by the way).

Dining

Unfortunately, there aren’t dining options in the park either. Water fountains can be found in the parking lot, adjacent to the restrooms. As with accommodations, both Lee Vining and Bridgeport offer plenty of local eateries. I would advise bringing your own food with you, as you’ll easily spend half a day exploring the park.

In Bridgeport, I recommend one of my personal favorites, Virginia Creek Settlement, which is the closest eatery to the park at less than a mile from the Route 270 turn-off. Another favorite of mine, Burger Barn, is located in Bridgeport, proper.

Alternatively, Lee Vining also has a few restaurants of note. My go-to, Whoa Nelly Deli, is located at the southern end of town, just after the Tioga Pass turn-off. They offer a variety of hot sandwiches, along with burgers, seafood, and more.

Bodie State Park Fees and Hours

Park hours vary according to time of year. They are:

Summer Hours

• 9:00am - 6:00pm (March - September)

Winter Hours

• 9:00am - 4:00pm (October - February)

Although the park is open in winter, State Route 270 (the road leading to Bodie) is closed to vehicles due to heavy snowpack and the road isn’t plowed at all during winter. This means you can only access Bodie is by snow-shoeing or snowmobile.

Bodie sits at 8,375 feet in elevation (at the visitor center) and has unpredictable weather patterns, including the summer months, where afternoon thunderstorms occur regularly. Sub-zero temperatures and blistering white-out conditions occur in winter, as well.

Bodie State Park’s admission fees as of 2025 are:

• $8.00 per adult

• $5.00 per child ages 4-17

• Free for ages 3 & younger

• $3.00 per tour booklet

• $6.00 per person (Stamp Mill tour)

While cash is accepted, they prefer payments by credit card. Additionally, change isn’t always available so if you’re paying with cash, bring exact change. If there’s no ranger at the booth, you can pay at the electronic pay station just past the booth.

Something I always recommend to first-time visitors is to purchase the self-guided tour book and the cemetery tour book as well. They’re $3 a piece, but they’re worth the extra expenditure as they provide invaluable information on the various structures and cemetery plots, respectively.

As you approach a structure, look for the number (usually staked into the ground) and match it to the corresponding number in the booklet. It’ll tell you what the structure was used for, who lived there, etc. It’s highly informative and a great way to learn about the park in depth.

Best Things to do at Bodie

There a seemingly limitless amount of things to do at Bodie. For a place that never changes, there’s somehow always something new to see. That’s why I recommend taking the time to explore the park. You won’t see everything, but it’s the best way to try.

Despite that, there are a handful of notable structures and activities offered at the park and should be a priorty during your visit, especially if it’s your first. These include:

History Talks

History talks are free, ranger or staff-guided mini tours, conducted once or twice daily, depending on time of year. They meet in front of the museum and a member of park staff will walk with you to a couple buildings, discussing the park’s history.

Methodist Church

Bodie’s Methodist church is perhaps the most recognizable, iconic structure in the park. It was built in 1882 and was one of only two churches in town. It’s the park’s sole surviving house of worship and conducted its final service in 1932, after the devastating fire that destroyed ninety percent of the town.

Bodie Museum and Visitor Center

The museum is free to enter and explore. It’s packed full of historical artifacts discovered inside the various structures and around the park. Since people traveled almost exclusively in covered wagons, they could only take what they could travel with. Consequently, folks abandoned most of their items when leaving town.

There’s also a small gift shop located inside. There, you can purchase a variety of items, including Bodie’s famous calendar, t-shirts, patches and pins, history books, random trinkets, and more. Additionally, you can purchase stamp mill tour tickets and self-guided booklets. All sales benefit the Friends of Bodie Foundation.

Stamp Mill Tour

The park’s historic stamp mill is the best preserved stamp mill in the state and only surviving ore-processing mill in Bodie. Ranger or park staff-guided tours are conducted two to three times daily throughout the season and cost $6.00 per person.

Bodie Cemetery

Bodie’s cemetery is located across the main road that leads to the parking lot and overlooks the town. In it are several dozen headstones and unmarked graves, with a few notables buried here as well. Two of which are Evelyn, known as the “Angel of Bodie” and Waterman S. Bodey, the town’s founding Father and namesake.

The Miller House

The Miller House is notable not so much for its previous occupants, but for its uniqueness in that it’s the only former home in the park where visitors can enter and explore. The bedroom and kitchen are fenced off, but you’re free to explore the living quarters and dining room.

These are just a small handful of things to do at Bodie. As stated above, the best way to get the full experience is by purchasing the self-guided tour book. You’ll gain so much knowledge from spending just a few bucks.

Best Time To Visit Bodie

Bodie is open throughout the year and is perfectly accessible throughout most of it. However, as stated above, the road to Bodie is closed to vehicles in Winter. For most people that leaves Spring, Summer and Fall.

• Spring: If you get here right at the beginning of the tourist season, you’ll typically experience mild weather and lighter crowds. Weekends are busy but not to the point of being miserable.

• Summer: This is the height of the tourist season and with it, brings hot days with semi-regular afternoon thunderstorms. Crowds are at their heaviest during this time so if you must come during summer, arriving on a weekday and being there early would be your best bet.

• Fall: By this time, crowds begin to thin and temperatures start cooling back down. Until the end of October, weekends will still have a decent turn out with weekdays reverting to light. This is far and away my favorite and preferred time of year to go.

• Winter: Crowds are non-existent. Aside from the on-site park staff, you’ll likely have the park to yourself. The museum and stamp mill are closed, but you’ll have the chance to see a side of Bodie most never do. Get your hands on a snowmobile and you’re set (if you happen to have one and would be willing to transport me out there, be sure to hit me up!).

The Bodie Curse

As previously mentioned, Bodie’s a protected site and as such, stealing and/or damaging items or structures in the park is prohibited. You’ll face fines, be trespassed, arrested or something a bit more sinister…get cursed.

The story varies wildly from person to person but they all seem to agree on one thing, bringing anything home from Bodie could bring you misfortune. Per local legend, rangers often receive packages containing stolen items such as dolls, old cans and rocks, accompanied by letters from apologetic senders.

The letters typically state that they’ve had nothing but bad luck since returning home with the stolen item. After sending the item back, however, life returns to normal. Regardless of whether you believe the curse is real or not, it’s important to respect Bodie, and everything in it, to ensure its longevity.

“Take nothing but pictures…leave nothing but footprints”.

Things to do Near Bodie

There are many other attractions and destinations both near Bodie and within a couple hours drive. In fact, most people visit Bodie as a stop on their overall road trip along the famed Highway 395. If that’s you, or you’re staying nearby, there are plenty of other wonderful sights to see.

If you’re using Lee Vining or Bridgeport as your base, you’re close to the majority of these (tap/click the link to read my guides on these destinations):

• Yosemite National Park (east gate)*

• Mono Lake South Tufa Reserve*

• June Lake Loop*

• Convict Lake*

• Hot Creek Geologic Site*

• Devil’s Postpile National Monument*

• Virginia Lakes*

• Barney Lake*

• Travertine Hot Springs*

• Conway Summit

• Mono County Historic Jail*

• Twin Lakes

• Sierra Strange - Coffee and Oddities

* Denotes a link to a separate post

This post was originally published in 2021 and has been recently updated for accuracy and additions.

Half Dome Permit: The Ultimate Permit Lottery Guide

2026 Information!

• While this post was written in 2020, the information below has been updated for 2026

• The Half Dome lottery will run from March 1st - March 31st

• The National Park Service announced that they anticipate the cables to be up from May 24 - October 15, however, these dates can change at any time

• If your desired date falls within that timeframe, you’ll need a permit

Click or tap ad to view offer

Why You Need a Permit for Half Dome

No one likes having to get a permit to go hiking. However, due to the increasing popularity of our National Parks over the years, it has become a necessity.

Prior to the implementation of the permit system in 2010, there were as many as 1200 hikers on Half Dome on any given day. There would be a literal queue to go up the cables. This not only presented safety issues, but it also caused damage to the trail.

So as of 2010, a permit would be needed to hike Half Dome while the cables are up, limiting the amount of hikers on Half Dome to just 300 per day. While bottlenecking still occurs, it’s far more manageable and the impact to the environment has been reduced.

If you’ve never hiked Half Dome (and since you’re reading this article chances are good that you haven't), be sure to read my detailed article that shows you what to expect on this epic hike.

So, how do you get your hands on one of these elusive permits? Read on below to find out!

Half Dome Pre Season Lottery 2026

As stated above, the Half Dome cables will be up between May 25 and October 16 in 2026. If your desired date falls within that timeline, you’ll need to enter the permit lottery via Recreation.gov or by calling 877/444-6777 between the hours of 7am and 9pm (PST).

The Half Dome pre season lottery runs throughout March (the 1st through 31st), every year. There is no advantage to submitting your application early. Those who enter the lottery on the 31st have just as much of a chance as those who have entered on the 1st.

The applicant can list up to six people on a single application. Keep in mind that your name (as either Trip Leader or Alternate) can only appear on ONE application. If your name appears on multiple applications, ALL of them will be canceled.

You can apply for a specific day or a range of dates, but your permit will only be rewarded if there is space available on at least one of the dates listed on your application.

You must select a trip leader (yourself) and can also select an alternate (if applicable). Either the trip leader or alternate MUST be present at Subdome with permit and ID in hand, and your group must be together. Permits are not transferable.

The fee to submit the application is $10. This is per application, NOT per person. This fee is non-refundable regardless of whether you win permit or not.

Judgment Day

If you’re one of the lucky winners, you’ll be notified via email on April 10th. Alternatively, you can call the number listed above for results. Be sure to verify that the email you used to sign up on Recreation.gov is current.

Once notified, you’ll be given two weeks (April 24th) to accept the permit and pay the $10 per person, refundable fee. If you don’t, your application will be canceled. This $10 per person fee is in addition to the fee you paid when you entered the lottery.

If you didn’t win a permit, you’ll still receive an email on the same day. If this happens, don’t get discouraged. There’s still a couple more ways to get one.

Half Dome Daily Lottery

Yosemite sets aside 50 permits for a daily lottery with an application period of two days. The actual amount they give out depends on estimated under-use and cancellations.

*For example: If you wanted to hike Half Dome on Sunday, you would submit the application on Friday and receive your results that same evening.

To get one of the daily permits, simply head to recreation.gov and submit an application two days prior to your desired date. You can only submit one application per desired date, but there is no limit to how many daily lottery permits you can apply for (and win) throughout the season.

Improving your Odds

There’s no magic formula. It works like any other lottery. You just submit your application and hope for the best. However, there are a few things you can do to move the odds to your favor (a little bit, at least).

1. Apply for a weekday instead of a weekend. Your chances are significantly better if you choose a weekday over a weekend day. It may be difficult for you because of work schedules, but take it from someone who’s been there, using a vacation day (or two) is more than worth it.

2. September & October. If you can, plan for September or the first couple weeks of October. These months offer a better chance than July or August. The downfall to this is Vernal and Nevada Falls flow will be low. However, your focus here is Half Dome.

3. The less hikers in your group, the better. I know it would be epic for you and your entire squad to conquer Half Dome together but remember, Yosemite only allows 300 people a day on Half Dome, NOT 300 permits. So the larger your group, the greater the odds.

I hiked it in 2017 and there were 26,943 applications with a total success rate of 19%. The year prior had a success rate of 25% and 2015 saw a 35% success rate.

• The 2023 Half Dome permit success rate was at a mere 22%

As you can see, the odds increase annually. The more popular Half Dome gets, the less likely you are to secure a permit. So anything you can do to give yourself even the slightest edge can make all the difference.

Hiking Half Dome During A Backpacking Trip

While the majority of hikers do this as a day hike, many choose to turn their adventure into a 2-3 day trek. This method would allow you more time to take in the views.

To do this, you’ll not only need a permit for Half Dome, but a wilderness permit as well. Having only one or the other will not suffice. The fees for a wilderness permit are $5 plus $5 per person and can be applied for below.

• Tap/click here for the application

While applying for a wilderness permit, you need to check the box stating that you also want a Half Dome permit. If any are available during the days listed on your application AND Half Dome is reasonably part of your itinerary, you’ll receive one.

Securing a Half Dome permit in this manner will make you eligible to go up the cables on any of the dates listed on your wilderness permit.

However, ff you’re on a backpacking trip that started OUTSIDE of Yosemite and you want to climb Half Dome during your trip, you will need to apply for a permit through either the regular preseason or daily lotteries.

Hiking Half Dome Without A Permit

Let’s say you’ve done everything you could to get a permit. You weren’t successful in the pre-season lottery and the daily lotteries haven’t been kind to you either. What do you do?

Currently, the only way to hike Half Dome without a permit is to do it during the off season in winter or early spring. Yosemite officials don’t outright ban it, but they strongly discourage it for one big reason:

*The cables are down and the potential for injury or death rises exponentially.

During the off season, the poles and wooden planks are removed to avoid getting too weathered. The steel cables are left flat on the dome throughout the entirety of the climb. In theory, you could hike to the cables, grab hold of them and hoist yourself up.

The advantages to this are not needing a permit and the near certainty that you’ll be the only one up there. However, in my opinion, the advantages are far outweighed by the hazards.

We’re siding with park officials and advise against this (unless you have climbing experience and have the gear). It’s 100% your decision, though. If you do decide to go for it, please be safe and don’t take unnecessary risks.

READ NEXT: “15 Tips For Your First Time Hiking Half Dome”

This post was originally published in 2020 and was recently updated for accuracy.

2025 McArthur-Burney Falls State Park Guide

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products or services that I believe will add value to my readers.

Located within the Cascade Range and outside the town of Burney, McArthur-Burney Falls State Park features quite possibly the most beautiful waterfall in the state; the eighth wonder of the world, Burney Falls.

Burney Falls is one of California’s many must-see natural attractions. It’s worth a trip all in itself as well as an easy add-on if you’re already in the Shasta region.

We have been to this park a few times and have amassed all the information we could find to put together a comprehensive guide to help you plan a successful visit.

Quick Stats

• Location: Burney, CA.

• Fee/Permit: $10 per vehicle.

• Open: Year round.

• Parking: Medium sized paved lot.

• Restroom: Yes. At the visitor center and campground.

• EV Stations: None.

• Drone Use: Not allowed.

• Difficulty: Easy.

• Popularity: High.

• Time: One hour to a full day.

• Milage: 0.3 - 2.5 miles (depending on the trail you take).

• Trail Condition: Well maintained.

• Main Feature(s): The 129-foot Burney Falls, scenic trails and Lake Britton.

• Pets: Allowed in the campground but not on any park trails or at the fall’s pool.

• Special Notes/Hazards: This is a bear-heavy area.

• Our Visit(s): 2016, 2019, 2022, 2023, & 2025

Directions to Burney Falls

Getting to Burney Falls is easy and straightforward. There’s no off-roading or miles of hiking involved. Simply park your car at the visitor center and either view the falls from the upper deck or take the trail down to the pool.

To get there:

From Reno

1. Take US 395 North for 90 miles.

2. Turn right onto CA-44 West for 46 miles.

3. Turn right onto CA-89 North for 28 miles.

4. Turn left on Lake road.

5. Turn left into McArthur-Burney Falls State Park

6. Total drive time is around 3 hours.

From Sacramento

1. Take I-5 North for 161 miles towards Redding.

2. Merge onto CA-299 East for 59 miles.

3. Turn left onto CA-89 North for 6 miles.

4. Turn left onto Lake road.

5. Turn left into the park.

6. Total drive time is around 3.5 - 4 hours.

Burney Falls is close to many large cities. Keep in mind that if you decide to drive here during the winter months, road conditions can be rough. This region gets a healthy amount of snow annually.

Burney Falls Campground & Entry Fees

Camp Sites & Cabins

The Burney Falls Campground is open year round and features 102 campsites. Each holds a max of eight people and includes one vehicle. Each additional vehicle will incur a fee.

Fees for campsites begin at $35 per night and include a picnic table, fire ring, and food locker. Bathrooms and showers are located near the entrance of the campground with tap water spigots positioned throughout.

Seventeen of the sites are designated for tent camping only with the remaining accommodating tents, trailers, and RV’s (up to 32 feet in length).

Additionally, the Burney Falls campground features 24 cabins. There are two types of cabins, each with their own features and sizes:

• 18-foot: Can accommodate up to 4 people and comes with one bunk bed and two extra mattresses.

• 24-foot: Can accommodate up to 6 people and comes with two bunk beds and two extra mattresses.

Reservations

As stated above, the Burney Falls campground is open throughout the year, but how you go about securing a site varies depending on time of year:

• Labor Day to mid-May: Campsites are available on a first come, first serve basis and are payable by cash at the kiosk at the entrance. The park is near empty during this time with sites being easy to come by.

• Mid-May to mid-September: You must make a reservation through ReserveAmerica.com or by calling 1-800-444-7275. You can reserve a site up to 6-months in advance. It’s during this time where crowd levels soar and the park regularly fills to capacity.

All cabins come with a covered porch and room outside for tents and/or a campfire. They do NOT come with electricity or plumbing. The cabin is heated by propane (included) and you’ll have a bathroom with showers located nearby.

• To make a campsite or cabin reservation, head over to reserveamerica.com or call 800-444-7275. (Cabins are NOT available between Labor Day and mid-May).

2025 Camping & Day-Use Fees

The following are fees you can expect to pay at the park in 2025:

• Day Use Entry: $10 per vehicle.

• Campsite: $35 per night, per site (one vehicle included).

• Cabin: $85-$105 per night (depending on group size).

If you have a campsite or cabin reservation, then the day-use fee is included in your nightly rate. However, they do not allow early arrivals (before 2pm). If you arrive before then, you may be subject to the day-use fee.

If the booth at the entrance is unstaffed, use the electronic pay station near the picnic tables in the visitor center parking lot to pay your fees. If you’re paying cash, do so with exact change as it does not give back change.

Now, you’re able to pay day-use, camping, and boat launch fees via the pay station pictured above. It’s located outside, adjacent to the visitor center.

Simply make your selection, pay the fees (cash or credit/debit card), enter your license plate, and place your receipt on your dashboard.

Additional Lodging Options

Dusty Campground

Just thirteen miles away from the park, “Dusty Campground”, is located on the north shore of Lake Britton. The six available sites are available on a first come, first serve basis and include picnic tables. Bathrooms and coin operated showers are provided.

Hotels

Alternatively, the town of Burney is just ten miles away from the park and has multiple hotels, as well as a variety of restaurants and grocery options. My personal recommendation is Shasta Pines Motel & Suites.

I stayed there during my visits in 2022 and 2025. It’s an older property and there are little in the way of amenities but the rooms were clean, the bedding was comfortable, and the rate was reasonable at just over $100 per night.

Hiking Trails and Amenities

Inside the park, you’ll find a few trails to enjoy. All of them are on the shorter side, mostly flat, well maintained, and are perfect for families with little ones who don’t have a lot of hiking experience.

Burney Falls Scenic Loop

The Burney Falls Scenic Loop is a 1.2 mile loop that begins at the rim, loops around to a bridge that crosses Burney Creek upstream from the edge of the falls and concludes at the base of the falls.

It is a well-maintained trail but throughout much of it, you won’t have a view of the falls. You’ll see it at the beginning and end, but you’ll only see it sporadically through the rest of it.

Regardless of the lack of view, it’s a serene trail. Along the way you’ll find interpretive signs detailing the history and development of Burney Falls. You’ll also enjoy an abundance of shade and seating along the way.

To get more details, check out trail guide about it here.

Burney Creek Loop

This trail is around the two mile mark. We started from our campsite, worked our way down to Lake Britton, to the base of the falls, then back up to our campsite.

If you’re not staying at the campground, you’ll begin at the Rim. You’ll either go right and through the campground or go left on the Rim Trail, cross the bridge, and go left towards Lake Britton.

You’ll follow the creek the entire way, passing a beautiful wooden bridge and non-stop serene beauty before reaching the lake. You’ll also see evidence of Burney’s volcanic past.

The Pool of Burney Falls

This is the trail most people utilize. It’s a third of a mile, beginning at the rim and terminating at the base of the falls.

The “trail” is paved and you’ll need to navigate a series of stairs near the beginning. Due to this, the trail is not handicap accessible.

The trail consists of three switchbacks on a fairly even decline. It’s easy going down but due to elevation, you’ll definitely feel it going back up (though it isn’t hard).

When you’re done looking at the falls, you can head back up to the rim or continue down the trail along Burney Creek.

Visitor Center and Pioneer Cemetery

The trail to the cemetery begins near the campground restrooms and is 2.5 miles, out and back. It’s well maintained, but the trail can be difficult to follow durning winter. The cemetery itself has a lot of overgrowth and isn’t overly impressive, but still worth checking out.

The visitor center is located to the right of the entrance as you drive in. It’s small, but it features a lot of informative displays explaining Burney Fall’s development and history.

It opens at 9am and closed at 5pm. It closes on major holidays and due to staffing issues, could close at random times.

If it’s open during your visit, we highly recommend stopping in. The staff inside are very knowledgable and can answer any questions you have.

Further down the road is the park general store. This is where you can pick up some last minute camping essentials, limited hot food, and souvenirs.

What is the Best Time to go to Burney Falls?

McArthur-Burney Falls State Park and its campground are open year round and thus, each time of year brings its own positives and negatives.

• Spring (March - May): While snow is possible in March, it drops considerably from the month prior with April and May seeing virtually none. March is also the month with the most spring rainfall. Crowd levels begin to pick up in April, especially on weekends and holidays.

• Summer (June - August): Hot and crowded sums it up. Rain is rare. Both the parking lot and campground fill quickly and crowds at the base of the falls have been known to be dense. If you must come during this time, mid-week and early morning is best.

• Fall (September - November): It starts to cool down but not to the point where you’ll be freezing. Crowds have tapered off and you’ll be able to enjoy the falls without fighting for a spot. We camped here in October and it was fantastic! This is, in our opinion, is the best time to go.

• Winter (December - February): Cold, icy, and no shortage of snow. However, there are virtually no crowds. You’ll probably have it to yourself, especially if you arrive on a weekday. If you can tolerate the cold and have the vehicle to navigate the snow and ice, this is the time for you.

My first visit was in October 2016. Crowds were low and while it was chilly at night, the weather during the day was mild. My second visit in August 2019 was far different. Unbearably hot and there were people shoulder-to-shoulder at the falls.

My subsequent visits in 2022, 2023 and 2025 were during the first week of May. Each time, I stopped by the park on a weekday and arrived a couple hours prior to sunset. Each time, I either had Burney Falls to myself or shared it with just a few others.

Therefore, I recommend going in the beginning of May and on a weekday, if you can help it. You don’t necessarily have to go close to sunset, but you will be contending with more people in the middle of the day.

Additional Information

Dogs are permitted. You may bring your dog with you into the park and the campground. However, they are not allowed inside the visitor center or on any trails (except the cemetery trail).

Buy local wood. If you’re camping at Burney, the park sells wood bundles near the entrance (cash only). You can also buy wood in town. The reason for this is so people don’t unintentionally introduce diseases from outside the area.

Parking can be a pain. During the summer, it isn’t uncommon for the parking lot to fill quickly. Your best bet is to arrive early. If you try to park along the road outside the park you risk a fine and tow. If it fills, come back after 4pm and you should be fine.

No restaurants in the park. The nearest restaurants are located in the town of Burney 12 miles away. Each campsite features a grill, so your best bet is to bring your own food, charcoal, and lighter fluid.

You can swim in the pool. The pool below the falls is ok to swim in. In the fall and winter months, however, the water gets very cold.

There is wheelchair access. The main trail leading down to the falls is unfortunately NOT wheelchair accessible due to stairs and a steep decline in some places. However, the visitor center and observation decks are!

EV Charging is not available. This includes the park itself and the town of Burney. The closest charging stations are located in the towns of Dunsmuir (ChargePoint) and Shingletown (Tesla), respectively.

Drone use not permitted. As is the case in most parks of this nature, the use of Drones are not allowed.

Things To Do Nearby

While Burney Falls is the main attraction in the area, there are still plenty of other attractions to check out. You could easily spend a few days or more here. Below, I’ll cover a handful of my favorites. Some are within a few minutes drive while others are further out, but still in the same vicinity.

McCloud River Falls

McCloud Falls is a series of three beautiful waterfalls (lower, middle, and upper) located about 45-minutes north from Burney right off Highway 89. You can start at either the Lower Falls or Upper Falls and hike the 3.5-mile trail that connects all three. The trail is considered easy for most.

Alternatively, if you’re short on time, you can simply drive to each waterfall and take the short trails to view each one. To get more information of these beautiful waterfalls, go here.

The ‘Stand By Me’ Bridge

If you’ve seen the classic 80’s movie, ‘Stand By Me’, you'll no doubt remember the scene where the boys had to run for their lives across the bridge. Most don’t realize that you can visit the actual bridge where that scene was filmed. It’s is just a few short miles from Burney Falls.

Due to a death that occurred in 2021, the bridge is barricaded off and walking on it is no longer allowed. However, it’s still worth checking out. (you can read my post about it here.)

Subway Cave

You can put this one in the super cool, but a bit freaky column. Subway Cave is one of the largest, but easily accessible lava caves in the world. You’ll need to bring a flashlight with you as there are no natural or artificial light sources inside the cave. It’s literally pitch black.

You can explore the cave at your leisure or take part in one of the free, guided tours that take place during the summer months. To get further details on Subway Cave, check out our article here.

Junk Art Sculptures

Located about 15-minutes from Burney in Cassel, you’ll find one of the coolest roadside attractions you’ll ever see. There’s about a dozen or so giant sculptures made from old vehicle parts and other pieces of metal. There’s a couple tin mans, a dog, a spider, and more!

For some reason, Google has this listed as permanently closed but we decided to go anyway and found it to be 100% open. (you can read my post about this place here.)

Hedge Creek Falls

You’ll have to drive for about an hour to see this one as it’s located in Dunsmuir, but trust us when we say it’s worth it. The parking lot and trailhead can be found right off Interstate-5 and it’s an easy, third of a mile hike down to the falls.

The coolest feature to this one (aside from the waterfall itself), is that you’re able to walk behind it along the basalt rock walls. Read my comprehensive guide about Hedge Creek Falls here.

While you’re in Dunsmuir, be sure to take a hike the awe-inspiring Mossbrea Falls! It’s like stepping into the pages of a fairytale novel. Afterwards, head further down the street for delicious artisan burgers at Yaks on the 5.

If you’ll be traveling between Burney and Dunsmuir, give my Northern California waterfall road trip itinerary a read. In it, you’ll discover my recommendations to see SIX gorgeous waterfalls in one 60-mile drive!

This post was originally published in 2021 and was recently updated for accuracy.

How To Hike Half Dome: The Complete First Timers Guide

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products or services that I believe will add value to my readers.

Towering nearly 5,000 feet above the valley, Half Dome is considered one of the top day hikes in the country. In 1865 it was considered, “perfectly inaccessible”.

In 1875 a man by the name of George Anderson proved that theory wrong. Not only did he reach the summit, but he installed the predecessor to what we now know as the cables.

These days, you’ll see hundreds of people summiting Half Dome on a daily basis and it can be viewed prominently at various locations throughout the park. I hiked Half Dome on September 11th, 2017. It’s a day that will live in my memory forever because even to this day, it was my most rewarding experience.

If you’re considering hiking Half Dome, this guide will provide you with everything you’ll need to know.

READ ALSO: “Hiking Half Dome In Yosemite: My Journey In 30 Pictures”

2026 Half Dome Permit

Before hiking Half Dome, you’ll first need to apply for and win a permit. The extreme popularity of this hike has made it a necessary evil. The NPS limits the amount of permits issued for the season to 300 per day, with 225 going to day hikers and the remaining 75 to backpackers.

I can’t speak from experience exactly how your permit is checked as when I hiked it, there was no one checking. What I do know is you can hike without a permit up until (at least) the sign just before the start of Sub Dome (pictured above).

From what I hear, there is usually a ranger either on Sub Dome or just below it checking permits. If you do not have one, you will be turned around.

READ ALSO: “Half Dome Permit: The Ultimate 2026 Permit Lottery Guide”

Begin at Happy Isles Trailhead

Depending on your starting point, the miles you hike will vary greatly. This guide covers the Happy Isles trailhead as it’s the starting point for most hikers. Starting at Happy Isles, your milage will be 16.2 miles, round trip. Your elevation gain will be 4800 feet and it will be a strenuous, full-day hike. Plan for 8-12 hours.

You can find parking in the Yosemite Valley Trailhead lot just past Curry Village. From there, it’s a quarter mile from the trailhead. You should seriously consider beginning your hike as early. Pre-dawn is ideal. The reason for this is because you will be racing to beat the afternoon storms and crowds.

If your plan is to utilize the shuttle, keep in mind that they do not start running until 7am. Also, the parking lot is known to fill quickly.

The Mist Trail

My brother and I arrived to a fairly empty parking lot at 2:45am, ate a super quick breakfast and were at the trailhead by 3am. You’ll start out on a paved path that works its way to Vernal Falls. From the trailhead, it’s just 1.5 miles to Vernal but don’t underestimate it, because it is steep.

As you arrive to the Vernal Fall footbridge, you’ll see a restroom and water fountain (the one source of filtered water on this trail). Past the footbridge, the trail again climbs steeply and is also where you are introduced to the brutal, stone steps that lead to Vernal and beyond.

Vernal Falls

Here is where you’ll receive the first fruit of your labor. The chance to stare in awe and amazement at Vernal Falls. When I got to Vernal it was still pitch black. Once my eyes adjusted, the view of Vernal with stars sparkling above was breathtaking.

The time of year you do this hike will determine how “misty” it will be. Early in the season, it isn’t unusual to see hikers donning ponchos. Be sure to take pictures but don’t spend too much time as you still have hundreds of steps to climb to get to the top of Vernal. Once there, you’ll get a commanding view.

Nevada Falls

From the top of Vernal, you have another 1.5 miles or so to the top of Nevada Falls and the official end of the Mist Trail. You initially start out on relatively flat terrain through shady pines along the Merced. Soon, it’ll transition into another series of rocky switchbacks.

As you make your approach you’ll come across another footbridge and take notice of, “Liberty Cap”, A large piece of granite that is often mistaken for Half Dome. As you reach the base, you’ll work your way up the switchbacks mentioned above. Once there, you’ve reached the end of the Mist Trail and the first milestone of your hike.

Here, you will find an opportunity to use the provided facilities and take advantage of the many logs/rocks to sit on while enjoying a snack (or two). You could also detour to the right (away from the restrooms) for 0.2 miles to see the top of Nevada Fall from yet another footbridge.

READ ALSO: “The Mist Trail: Hike One Of Yosemite’s Most Beautiful Trails”

Onward to Half Dome

Once you’ve taken in the sights at Nevada Fall and feel rested enough, it’s time to continue your journey. From here, you’ll enjoy a brief flat section of trail. The next point of interest you’ll reach is Little Yosemite Valley (and a backcountry campground of the same name).

Securing a spot here allows you to break your hike up into two or more days. To do this, you’ll need a wilderness permit in addition to your Half Dome permit. I highly recommend going this route to get the most out of your experience.

After passing through Little Yosemite Valley, the trail begins to climb again. Tall sequoias provide shade from the sun as you work your way up the mountain. This climb isn’t overly difficult, but it is constant and steady. Occasionally, you’ll get sneak peaks of Half Dome between the trees.

Sub-Dome

I fully believe that Sub-Dome’s sole purpose is to wreck whatever’s left of your legs. At this point, you’re at 8,000+ feet and just hiked for nearly 8 miles. Half Dome’s base is within reach and Sub-Dome will make you question how badly you actually want to do this.

Take your time and pace yourself here. Not only is Sub-Dome difficult to ascend, but it could also be dangerous as there’s little room for error. You’ll know you’re near the top when you see the lone tree sticking out of the granite, providing the only shade on this section.

Once you get over the hump just beyond this tree, the cables are just a short distance ahead of you.

The Half Dome Cables

Two steel poles are placed (not exactly secured) into the granite rock, roughly six feet apart (length wise) with a wooden plank between each pair. Running the length of the dome from top to bottom are two steel cables running parallel to one another.

As stated above, the poles are not secured. Hikers have accidentally pulled them out. If that happens, don’t panic, just place it back in. As you work your way up, you’ll notice it get steeper with each step. From my perspective, it wasn’t that bad. In fact, I felt it to be fairly simple and straight forward.

Keep a firm grip on the cables and use the wooden planks as a goal to work towards. Once you get to each plank, use them as a resting point if you need to. While on the planks, keep your fellow hikers in mind and consider their speed. If someone behind you wants to pass, let them.

From the base to the top, you’ll climb a total of 400 feet. It took me around 20 minutes to do it. That’s with stopping to rest and taking a few pictures. The granite is slick from the thousands of hiking boots that have traversed it over the years, so sturdy hiking boots with excellent tread are a must!

The Summit

To reach the summit, you would’ve hiked 8+ miles, gone up several hundred stone steps, inclined nearly the entire way, felt the pain of subdome and completed a fear inducing 400 foot climb.

The area of the summit is roughly the same size as seven combined football fields. There’s plenty of room for everyone to explore. The views from Half Dome’s summit are unsurpassed. You can see Yosemite Valley, Tenaya Canyon, North Dome, Cloud’s Rest and more.

It’s important to note that if you see storm clouds in the area, it’s best to head back down asap. Trying to navigate the cables in the rain is dangerous. To me, going down was more difficult for me than going up was. I tried both forward and backwards. In my opinion, descending backwards was easier.

When you’re back the base, collect your packs, take a few more pictures and start your way back.

Decide Which Route To Take Back

Once you’ve made it back to the top of Nevada Fall, you’ll now have to decide which direction you want to go. Your options are:

• Back down the Mist Trail: This option is just you going down the same way you came up. The drawback are the steep, slick steps that make the process of going down a slow one.

• Take the John Muir Trail: This option will add a mile and a half to your decent but will allow you to skip the steps on a relatively smooth path.

My brother and I chose the Mist Trail because it was pitch black during our way up and we wanted to see the waterfalls. However, the rain made me regret that decision.

Those steps were now ultra slick and forced us to move painfully slow. Suddenly, dealing with more mileage but smoother terrain felt like the better option. By the time we made it back to the car my legs were jello, my shoulders were screaming and I was dehydrated (I didn’t bring nearly enough water).

Despite all that, it was an epic adventure and I would do all over again in a heartbeat.

Alternate Routes To Consider

Happy Isles is just one of a few starting points for Half Dome. Other trailheads include:

• Tenaya Lake: You’re looking at 23 miles round trip. Next time I hike Half Dome, this is where I plan to leave from.

• Glacier Point: You’re looking at 20 miles round trip. Essentially, you’ll work your way down the Panorama Trail to Nevada Fall, then from there to Half Dome (on the way out, you could simply exit at Happy Isles instead of going back up to Glacier Point. That’ll save you some milage).

• Little Yosemite Valley: This is the backcountry campground I mentioned earlier. You’ll hike 4.3 miles from the Mist Trail to here, then 7 miles round trip from Little Yosemite to Half Dome and back.

Alternate Hikes In Yosemite

Half Dome isn’t for everyone. Thankfully, Yosemite is jam packed with incredible hikes you can do if you didn’t obtain a permit or if it’s too much for you.

Some of these include:

• 4-Mile Trail (Yosemite Valley/Glacier Point road)

• Upper Yosemite Falls (Yosemite Valley)

• The Mist Trail (Yosemite Valley)

• Pohono Trail (Yosemite Valley/Glacier Point road)

• Cathedral Lakes (Tioga road)

• Cloud’s Rest (Tioga road)

• Glen Aulin/Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne (Tioga road)

• North Dome (Tioga road)

These are just a handful of the amazing hikes Yosemite has to offer. So if you didn’t get a permit, there’s no need to cancel your trip to Yosemite.

READ ALSO: “10 Awesome Things To Do In Yosemite Valley”

Stats And Additional Tips

• Total mileage: 17 miles round trip if you utilize the Mist Trail (the most commonly used trailhead).

• Length of time: This will vary from person to person and highly depends on your level of fitness. Typically, expect an 8-12 hour hike.

• Location: Yosemite Valley.

• Water intake: Bring more than what you think you’ll need. You’ll have an opportunity for more water at the Vernal Footbridge via the filtered fountain, but that’s it. 4-5 liters or more would be wise.

• Permit required: As stated above, a permit is required for this hike. The only time a permit isn’t needed is when the cables are down during winter (not recommended).

• Avoid weather: If you see dark clouds or if it’s activity raining or snowing, do not climb up the cables. It is not worth the risk!

READ ALSO: “15 Tips For Your First Time Hiking Half Dome”

Essential Gear To Bring

This depends on if you’re doing it as a day hike or over 2-3 days. For simplicity sake, I’m going to assume you’re like most people and doing it as a day hike. Some essential gear includes:

• Daypack

• Full-fingered gloves (to grip the cables)

• Hiking boots/shoes with excellent tread

• Hydration bladder insert (preferably 3+ liters)

• Moisture wicking socks

• Sunglasses and hat

• Camera

• Trekking poles

• Sunscreen

• Moleskin (for blisters)

• Rain jacket/poncho

This post was originally published in 2020 and has been recently updated for accuracy.

15 Tips For Your First Time Hiking Half Dome

3 minute read | contains affiliate links

Each year, thousands of hikers summit Half Dome, many of them for the first time. In 2017, I was one of those first timers and though I felt like I was fully prepared, truth is, I wasn't.

In fact, I’m confident that if you polled others who’ve hiked Half Dome, I’m willing to bet that many of them would agree.

If you’re hiking Half Dome for the first time this season (or just mildly curious), this post is for you. I’m giving you 15 tips I feel all Half Dome hikers should be aware of going in. Let’s get into it.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting us!

1) Get An Early Start

This is especially true if, like most people, you’re doing this as a day hike. You’ll want to arrive to the trailhead as early as possible.

When my brother and I hiked it, we arrived at the Happy Isles trailhead at 3am. We didn’t see any daylight until we got past Nevada Fall.

The reasons you’ll want to start early are:

1. You’ll beat the crowds to the cables and avoid bottlenecks

2. You’ll likely avoid the afternoon storms that are notorious in Yosemite

3. You’ll beat the mid-day heat

If you’re doing this hike as a multi-day and you’re just hiking to your camping spot the first day, you won’t have to worry about it as much.

If you’re doing this as a day hike, however, definitely get started as soon as you can. It doesn’t have to be 3am, but pre-dawn is ideal.

2) Bring Gloves With You

Surprisingly, many people don’t think of this. The Half Dome cables are made of steel and they get hot. They’re also blister inducing.

Using gloves on the cables will help prevent blisters, protect you from burns and most importantly, provide you with good grip.

Sometimes, a pile of discarded gloves forms near the base. You’re welcome to use a pair but you shouldn’t count on the pile being there.

While it’s thoughtful, Rangers will collect and throw the gloves away as it’s technically littering. So bring your own. Full fingered preferably.

SEE MY TOP RECOMMENDATION FOR GLOVES TO USE ON HALF DOME HERE!

3) Bring More Water Than You Think You’ll Need

I cannot stress this enough. It’s always important to bring water with you on a hike but it’s especially true on this one.

I recommend 3-4 liters, per person. I only brought two liters with me and ran out on the way back (with over six miles left to go).

The only filtered water source is the fountain at the Vernal Fall footbridge (just about a mile into the hike). After that, you’re on your own.

SEE MY TOP RECOMMENDATION FOR A WATER BLADDER!

4) Trekking Poles Are A Must!

My knees were killing me on the way back. If it weren’t for my trekking poles helping to off-set the weight, my brother would’ve had to carry me out.

If you’re someone who’s prone to knee pain or you know you usually require trekking poles on normal hikes, you’ll definitely want to bring them along on this one.

SEE OUR TOP RECOMMENDATION FOR TREKKING POLES!

5) Wear Shoes/Boots With Excellent Grip

While granite usually has excellent natural grip, years of hikers traversing it has caused that section to become smooth and slick.

Seriously, normal shoes or ones that are worn down will not suffice. You’ll definitely want to break them in prior to your hike, but the tread should be as new as possible.

SEE OUR TOP RECOMMENDATION FOR HIKING BOOTS HERE!

6) Leave Your Backpack At The Base

It may be tempting to bring your backpack with you as you climb up the cables but take it from me, make it easier on yourself (and others) and ditch it at the base.

The reason I say this is twofold:

1. There isn’t a lot of space between the cables, so if everyone’s wearing a bulky backpack, that space only becomes more restrictive

2. For some, it’s already challenging enough to climb the cables. Adding the weight/balance of a backpack only complicates matters

If you must bring a backpack to the top, bring a smaller day bag and leave the bulky one behind. No one’s going to mess with your stuff.

Do be sure to seal your bag before leaving, though. You don’t want Marmots and other critters getting in there.

SEE OUR TOP RECOMMENDATION FOR A LIGHTWEIGHT DAY BAG!

7) Take As Long As You Need On The Cables

There’s no shame in taking it slow. This isn’t a race and there’s no prize at the top for the fastest climber. Go at your own pace.

Every six feet or so (at each set of steel poles) are wooden planks. Use those as a guide and focus on them if the heights start getting to you.

Rest at each one if necessary. No one will make fun of you. Just be mindful of those who may want to go faster and let them pass.

8) If You See Dark Clouds, Don’t Attempt It

Yosemite is infamous for its afternoon storms. It isn’t uncommon to go from clear blue sky to rain and lightning in the blink of an eye.

Bad weather and climbing Half Dome isn’t a good mix. If lightning decides to strike, there’s a good chance Half Dome will be where it hits.

If you get to the base and it starts to rain, don’t risk it. If you’re at the summit and see black clouds rolling in, get back down pronto.

In the 1980’s, numerous people were killed and injured on the summit when a sudden storm came in. It’s always best to er on the side of caution when it comes to storms.

HERE’S A GREAT BOOK ABOUT THAT UNFORTUNATE INCIDENT!

9) You Can Use A Climbing Harness If You Want

Some opt to utilize a harness to secure themselves to the cables, reducing their chance of falling.

It’s a device that you wear around your waist and legs, with the other end connecting to the cables via a carabiner.

Personally, I don’t think it’s necessary. However, if it’ll make you feel better and help you fulfill your dream, go for it.

You will need to unclip and clip back in every six feet or so, so it will slow you down a bit. The peace of mind it provides may be worth it, though.

SEE OUR TOP RECOMMENDATION FOR A HARNESS!

10) Get Into The Best Shape You Can

There’s no need to be a top-level athlete or master climber, but the better shape you’re in, the easier time you’ll have.

The cables themselves are more upper strength than leg strength and the hike itself will test your cardiovascular endurance.

Hitting a stair master will prepare you for the Mist Trail portion of the hike. Likewise, a strength training routine would be beneficial.

Most importantly, hike as much and as often as you can prior to your trip. The higher the elevation, the better.

11) Bring Extra Socks

This is one I wish I’d thought about. You should always take care of your feet…always. That means bringing a fresh pair of socks (or two).

If you don’t and get soaked on the Mist Trail, you’ll be forced to hike the rest of the way with soggy socks.

If the Mist Trail doesn’t get you, then your socks will most definitely be soaked in sweat by the time you make it to the summit.

Packing extra socks will allow you to swap out the nasty ones for a fresh pair for the hike back down.

SEE OUR TOP RECOMMENDATION FOR WATERPROOF SOCKS!

12) Have A Hard Copy Of Your Permit Available

Some hikers spend 8-10 hours or more doing this hike. Consequently, if you’re taking a lot of pictures, your phone battery will almost certainly die.

If that happens and all you have is a digital copy of your permit, you’ll have nothing to show the ranger when asked. Guess what that means? Off you go.

It wouldn’t hurt to have a printed copy in a plastic bag inside your backpack. That way, you won’t risk getting turned around.

13) Bring Ibuprofen & Moleskin

You can add this one to the, “wish I thought of it”, category. As stated above, my legs and feet were wrecked by the time we got back to the car.

It was only then that I realized my mistake. I had absolutely nothing to help mask the pain and had a long drive home ahead of me.

Bring some Ibuprofen (or an alternate pain killer) with you. Take a couple at the summit, if needed, to reduce the discomfort on the way back down.

Also, moleskin does wonders for covering and preventing blisters. If you don’t know what it is, it’s a dense, woven cotton fabric that acts as a shield between your skin and shoes in areas where blisters are most common. Highly recommended for ANY hike.

SEE MY TOP RECOMMENDATION FOR MOLESKIN!

14) Eat, Eat And Eat Some More

This is a long, demanding hike and for most people, will take a full day. You will burn a serious amount of calories and energy.

Due to this, you’ll need to replenish your body with as many nutrient dense foods as you can.

Foods with complex carbs, low amounts of sugar, decent level of healthy fats and high amount of protein will do the trick.

Also, salty snacks, such as beef jerky and sunflower seeds, will help you retain water and keep you hydrated for longer.

Stop as often as you need if you’re feeling hungry or low on energy. Trust me, you don’t want to tackle the cables with nothing in the tank.

SEE MY TOP RECOMMENDATION FOR PREPARING FOOD IN THE WILDERNESS!

15) There’s No Shame In Turning Around

More hikers do it than you might think. I’d wager a guess that for every ten hikers that make it to the cables, at least one decides against it.

Whether it’s due to bad weather or simply a gut-feeling on your part, there’s no shame in turning around. The cables are intimidating.

So don’t succumb to peer pressure or allow pride to take over. If you get there and it doesn’t feel right, then don’t do it. You still had an amazing adventure!

BONUS: Peak Design Camera Clip

This camera clip by Peak Design is a MUST for anyone using their DSLR or point-and-shoot camera while out on a hike or are just out and about on a shoot.

As shown in the image above, it securely attaches to your backpack strap and firmly holds your camera in place. Allowing you to be hands free while not in use.

When inspiration strikes, a quick button press is all it takes to remove it. When done, simply snap back into place and you’re done.

CHECK OUT THIS SOLID CAMERA CLIP BY PEAK DESIGN ON AMAZON HERE!

If you’re serious about hiking Half Dome, be sure to read my other Half Dome related posts…

• “Hiking Half Dome In Yosemite: My Journey In 30 Pictures”

• “How To Hike Half Dome: The Complete First Timers Guide”

• “Half Dome Permit: The Ultimate Permit Lottery Guide”

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting us!

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Thanks for reading.

5 Incredible Lake Tahoe Waterfalls You Need To See

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products or services that I believe will add value to my readers.

Waterfalls are a huge attraction to nature enthusiasts. No matter the size or accompanying surroundings, people flock to these nature-made wonders.

Lake Tahoe has many waterfalls. Some you drive up to while others require a bit of effort. The effort to see the waterfalls on this list is minimal, making it possible to see each one in a single day.

The best time of year to see waterfalls in Lake Tahoe is spring or early summer, due to them being fed by snowmelt in the mountains. So plan accordingly.

So which Lake Tahoe waterfalls made the list? Read on to find out.

1) Glen Alpine Falls

Glen Alpine Falls is a beautiful 65-foot waterfall with multiple layered drops. It’s located at the southern end of famed Fallen Leaf Lake at the end of a narrow, bumpy road.

Thankfully, driving to the falls in the hardest part as it’s just a stones throw away from the parking area. Check out my article on Glen Alpine Falls for more details.

• “Glen Alpine Falls: A Beautiful Lake Tahoe Waterfall”

2) Lower Eagle Falls

Most people see the upper section of Eagle Falls (which we’ll get to in a moment) but many don’t realize that you can see the lower section as well.

To see it, you’ll need to hike the steep(ish) one mile trail into Emerald Bay State Park, as the trailhead for the falls is behind the visitor center.

• “How To Hike To Lower Eagle Falls in Lake Tahoe”

3) Upper Eagle Falls

Just because it’s popular and requires some logistical planning to find a place to park, doesn’t mean you shouldn’t make the effort.

When you are able to find a spot, seeing the upper section requires minimal effort as it’s only a quarter-mile hike from the parking lot.

While you’re at it, continue another mile or so up a moderately easy trail to the picturesque, Eagle Lake. To read about that, check out my post below.

• “Hike To Eagle Falls and Eagle Lake in Lake Tahoe”

4) Horsetail Falls

If you’ve driven into (or out of) Lake Tahoe on highway 50, you’ve undoubtedly took notice of the 800-foot tall, Horsetail Falls. Technically, it’s located in the tiny town of Twin Bridges, but it’s only a few miles from Lake Tahoe, proper.

It’s height makes it the tallest waterfall in the Tahoe region and while you can see it from the highway, you’ll need to hike it to truly appreciate it.

The trail is steep, sun exposed, and difficult to follow. If you decide to do this, take your time. You’ll gain roughly 1,300 feet in two miles.

5) Cascade Falls

Cascade Falls can be found at the end of a one-mile trail. I would rate the trail as easy, as there’s little elevation gain/loss, but the last half is incredibly rocky.

To see it in its full glory, definitely make it a point to go in the spring. If you get there later in the season, though, you’ll be treated to dozens of mini-waterfalls.

At the crest of the falls, you’ll be treated to a fantastic view of Cascade Lake in the foreground and the indelible Lake Tahoe in the background.

• “Hiking To Cascade Falls In South Lake Tahoe”

I hope you’ll consider visiting these waterfalls during your Lake Tahoe trip. It’s definitely possible to see them all in one day but to truly enjoy yourself, try to spread them out over at least two days.

To save you from scrolling up again, here are the links to the waterfalls mentioned in this list:

• Glen Alpine Falls

• Lower Eagle Falls

• Upper Eagle Falls

• Cascade Falls

Also, if you’re planning a trip to Lake Tahoe, check out our list of 25 lake and beach day essentials!

• “25 Beach and Lake Day Essentials For Your Summer Vacation”

How To Hike To Lower Eagle Falls In Lake Tahoe

2 minute read | contains affiliate links

Nestled within the captivating natural beauty of the iconic Emerald Bay State Park, the trail to Lower Eagle Falls offers an awe-inspiring experience for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Most are aware of the upper section of Eagle Falls just outside the park and how you can traverse the crest of lower falls across the highway.

If you want to see Lower Eagle Falls straight on, though, you’ll need to hike down into Emerald Bay via the short, but steep, one mile trail.

In this guide, we’ll discuss the parking situation, fees, what to expect on the trail and more. Let’s get into it!

Trail Stats

• Location: Emerald Bay State Park, Lake Tahoe

• Fee: $3 - $10 parking fee

• Permit: None

• Open: Seasonally

• For: Hikers

• Restroom: At the trailhead and in Emerald Bay

• Parking: Medium sized paved lot

• EV Stations: None

• Difficulty: Easy going in, moderate going out

• Popularity: Mega High

• Mileage: About 2.5 miles total, RT

• Time: 2-3 hours

• Condition: Maintained, easy to follow

• Features: Waterfall, Island, Visitor Center, Beach

• Best Time: Spring/early summer

• Pets: Not allowed

• Drones: Not allowed

• Hazards: Trail is steep going back out. Can be difficult for some

• Our Visit(s): August 2022 & July 2023

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Emerald Bay Parking Lot

Your trip to Lower Eagle Falls begins and ends in the Emerald Bay parking lot. To avoid the hassle of having to wait for a spot to open, you should arrive as early as possible as it’s known to fill up quickly.

There are pay stations near the trailhead that accept credit or debit cards. The parking fees are:

• $3.00 for one hour (select this option if all you want to do is go to the viewing deck)

• $10.00 for day use

To begin your hike, head towards the wooden booth past the pay station. To your right, there’s a viewing deck that provides a great view of Emerald Bay and your destination, Lower Eagle Falls.

The Trail To Emerald Bay

Going into Emerald Bay, the trail is all downhill and easy going. Just prepare yourself for the way out because it’s fairly steep and can be difficult for some. So come prepared.

It’s slightly less than a mile along a wider than usual dirt path. Near the bottom you’ll arrive at a junction. Head right to continue to the waterfall.

After this junction, you’ll officially be in Emerald Bay State Park. Continue straight as you pass the restroom, beach access and the Vikingsholm Castle.

Keep straight on the trail until you reach the visitor center. The incredibly short trail to Lower Eagle Falls begins just behind it.

Lower Eagle Falls

Facing the visitor center, the tail to the waterfall begins on the right. It starts out as gravel but as you get closer the falls, it’ll turn to dirt and stone.

When the trail aligns with the water, your first glimpse will be off two mini-waterfalls split between rocks and brush.

Further up, you’ll work your way up several granite rock steps before arriving at the Rubicon trail footbridge.

Go ahead and take in the views of the creek from the bridge, but don’t cross it to the other side as that’ll take you along the Rubicon Trail.

To continue towards Lower Eagle Falls, head up the trail for another 2/10’s of a mile while keeping the creek to your left.

You’ll encounter several more flights of granite steps just before reaching the falls. When you reach the top of those steps, the viewing deck and waterfall come into view.

The viewing deck is split in two by a tree and provides a straight-on view of Lower Eagle. There’s a fair amount of room but it doesn’t take many people to feel cramped.

There’s no access to Highway 89 from here. The viewing deck is the literal dead end of the trail. So when you’re finished taking it in, simply head back the same way you came.

I hope you’ll consider checking out Lower Eagle Falls. It’s a beautiful waterfall and worth the effort to see. If you’re interested in other sites nearby, check out our articles below.

• “Glen Alpine Falls: A Beautiful Lake Tahoe Waterfall”

• “Hike To Upper Eagle Falls and Eagle Lake In Lake Tahoe”

• “How To Kayak To The Fannette Island Tea House In Emerald Bay”

• “Hiking To Cascade Falls In South Lake Tahoe”

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Unveiling The Magic: Visit The Walt Disney Museum In San Francisco

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Welcome to the enchanting world of the Walt Disney Family Museum, nestled in the heart of San Francisco’s historic Presidio.

Stepping through its doors is like embarking on a journey through the life and legacy of one of the greatest visionaries of our time. As you explore the exhibits, you'll be transported to a time where imagination knew no bounds.

From the earliest sketches of beloved characters to groundbreaking technological advancements in animation, this museum offers a truly immersive and multimodal experience that engages all your senses.

Join us as we delve into the magical realms created by Walt Disney and unravel the extraordinary story behind the man who forever changed the landscape of animation.

Get ready to be inspired, amazed and filled with childlike wonder as we embark on a tour of the Walt Disney Family Museum in San Francisco.

I’m going to be somewhat vague in the descriptions of exhibits and the museum itself, as I highly encourage you to see it for yourself and I don’t want to spoil it.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting us!

Location, Parking & Admission Fees

The Walt Disney Family Museum is located in the historic Presidio in beautiful San Francisco, just a stone’s throw from the Golden Gate Bridge.

The museum’s address is:

• 104 Montgomery Street

Entering that address (or simply the museum’s name) into any GPS device will place you directly in front of the museum, where the closest available parking is.

If there’s no parking available there, you can try the Main Post Parking Lot (across the Main Post Lawn) or behind the museum in the Taylor Road Parking Lot.

Keep in mind that parking is metered credit/debit cards (as well as cash) is accepted.

Admission fees to the museum are as follows:

• Adults: $25

• Senior (65 and up): $20

• Student (w/ ID): $20

• Youth (6-17): $15

• Child (5 and under): Free

• Military (active, veteran, or retired): Free

• Military Spouse/Dependent: Free

These prices pertain to the main museum only. The museum features regular special exhibits on a rotating basis. If you want to tour those exhibits, add $5 to the prices above.

When buying your tickets, you’ll be asked to select an arrival date and entry window. This is to help the museum with over-crowding.

I had no issue getting tickets the day before and even though we arrived past our entry window, we were still able to get in. I can’t guarantee they’ll be lenient every time, though.

The Walt Disney Museum

When you walk inside you’ll be greeted, be asked to show your tickets and be given a quick breakdown of the museum and where everything is.

To the left of the entrance is the cafe and gift shop. To the right are some exhibits to see while you wait for your entry time if you arrive early.

At the podium, you’ll present your tickets and be given a quick explanation of the camera/filming policy before proceeding into the first room.

*I was told that pictures and video were fine, but that flash photography was prohibited. Most cameras, including those with detachable lenses, are good to go.

The first room you’ll enter is on the ground floor and details Walt’s early life. You’ll learn about where he was born, his earliest entry into the world of cartoons and his service in the Red Cross during World War One.

When you’re done looking around, head to the elevator in the next room and take it to the next floor where the remaining museum exhibits are located.

Coming out of the elevator, the next few rooms are a treasure trove of the early works of Disney animation and the equipment Walt and his animators used.

The first room heavily focuses on the musical animated classic series, Silly Symphonies. These musical shorts were the bread and butter for Disney at the time and would pave the way for musicals we all love such as, Beauty and the Beast and Frozen.

The next room details the beginning stages of the development of Disney’s first full-length animated move, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.

The walls are adorned with early sketches, rough drafts of the script, props, images and more. It’s a literal treasure trove of all things Snow White.

You’ll also see the multi-pane camera Walt and his animators invented in order to create the multi-dimensional look of their films.

This gave their movies depth rather than having that “flat” look that other animated features of the time had. Past that, you’ll see examples of how Disney began diversifying their character roster.

Next, you’ll learn about the Hollywood writer’s strike of 1941 and how it affected the relationship Walt had with his animators.

The exhibits also detail the events of World War Two and how Disney did his part to help keep the moral of the troops up.

From here, you’ll make your way into what I refer to as the, “transition room”. The walls are lined with screens where clips from some of Disney’s most beloved films play.

It’s a dark room with plush seating in the center, allowing you to rest and comfortably view the clips and images that rotate on the screens.

After the transition room, you enter a beautifully lit hallway with floor to ceiling windows allowing for a commanding view of the Golden Gate Bridge.

At the end of this hallway is one of the actual benches from Los Angelas’s Griffith Park. Walt brought his kids to this park numerous times and sat on this very bench (and others).

It is these benches where Walt’s idea for Disneyland first came about. He was watching his kids ride the carousel and thought to himself, “there outta be a place where kids and their parents could have fun together”.

As you move past the Griffith Park bench you’ll enter the final and perhaps most popular exhibit in the museum; the development of Disneyland.

As you work your way down the spiral ramp you’re surrounded with images and props used during creative sessions and the construction phase of Disneyland.

At the end of the ramp is a beautifully rendered model of Disneyland called, “The Disneyland of Walt’s Imagination”.

The model isn’t an exact representation of the park, but more of a, “fun map-style”, model. This allows for each of the park’s most popular aspects to be highlighted without regard to scale. Tony Baxter, a famed Disney Imagineer, is responsible for the idea.

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The model was easily the most popular exhibit. Not just in this room, but in the museum as a whole. After admiring the model, your visit to the museum concludes with a touching tribute to Walt.

The final room covers his final days and the impact his death had on not just the entertainment idustry, but the world. It’s easy to see how special Walt was and how we’ll never have another one quite like him.

I hope you’ll consider paying a visit to the Walt Disney Family Museum. If you’re a Disney fan, particularly of its history, you’ll enjoy it immensely.

If you’re considering a vacation to Disneyland, doing proper research is imperative. Head over to our Disneyland section for many planning resources.

Recommended photography products (opens new link to Amazon)…

• Sony Alpha 7 IV Full Frame Mirrorless Camera

• Peak Design V3 Camera Clip

• K&F Concept Variable Fader

• Tarion Camera Bag

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Glen Alpine Falls: A Beautiful Lake Tahoe Waterfall

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products or services that I believe will add value to my readers.

In Lake Tahoe, not too far from Emerald Bay and located on the southern end of Fallen Leaf Lake is a somewhat-hidden waterfall named Glen Alpine Falls.

Glen Alpine Falls is about 80-feet and cascades over multiple rocks and outcroppings. Additionally, there’s no hiking involved to see it. Simply exit your car and walk a few feet.

So how do you get there? What should you expect? I answer all these question (and more) in the guide below. Let’s get into it.

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Quick Stats

• Location: South Lake Tahoe at the sound end of Fallen Leaf Lake

• Fee: None

• Permit: None

• Open: Seasonally (Fallen Leaf Lake road is closed in winter)

• Best Time of Year: Spring through early summer

• Restroom: None at the falls

• Parking: Multiple pull-out style lots around the falls

• EV Stations: None

• Difficulty: Easy

• Popularity: High

• Time: One hour or less

• Pets: Allowed

• Drones: No signage stating you can’t

• Hazards: Watch your footing around the falls

• Our Visit(s): 2023

Getting There & Parking

The parking lot for Glen Alpine Falls can be found at the terminus of Fallen Leaf Lake road, itself being located off Highway 89, south of Emerald Bay State Park.

From the turn-off to the falls, it’s about four miles along a narrow, bumpy road with several tire-busting potholes. The recent record snowfall did a number on this road.

Most of the road cannot accommodate two vehicles passing each other without one pulling over to the side. If you’re driving an RV - forget it.

Fallen Leaf Lake road runs parallel to the namesake lake between many gorgeous cabins. It would be amazing to rent one of these for a weekend.

After passing the lake, you’ll come to fork in the road with the Fallen Leaf Lake Fire Station in front of you. Turn left and you’ll arrive at the falls after a quarter of a mile or so.

There’s no proper parking lot. Just multiple pull-out style lots of varying sizes. Some can accommodate half a dozen vehicles while others can only fit one or two.

You should have Glen Alpine Falls in sight after exiting your vehicle (or hear it, at minimum). Simply walk towards to the main viewing point located just off the parking area.

Glen Alpine Falls

Glen Alpine Falls is large and wide so no matter where you’re viewing it from, you’ll get a great view. The main viewing area is on a large, rocky outcropping perfect for viewing the falls straight on.

You can also do a little scrambling down some boulders to get an even closer view of the falls or the river it feeds. It was easy doing so as I was able to do it while holding a camera and tripod.

Additionally, you can easily reach and see the falls along its crest. Just walk a little further up the road and turn right towards the waterfall.

The best time to see Glen Alpine Falls is in the spring as it ebbs and flows with the snowpack melt. The waterfall reduces to a trickle as summer progresses.

Plan to visit by the end of May to see it at peak flow. All in all, it’s awesome to be able to get so close to a waterfall like this with no effort required. It’s definitely worth a stop.

If you’re interested, check out my guides below to see three other beautiful waterfalls nearby…

• “Hike The Waterfall Trail in Grover Hot Springs State Park”

• “Hiking To Cascade Falls In South Lake Tahoe”

• “Hike To Eagle Falls and Eagle Lake In Lake Tahoe”

Hike The Waterfall Trail In Grover Hot Springs State Park

3 minute read | contains affiliate links

Nestled within a quiet corner of the eastern Sierra Nevada mountains lies an underrated, little-known gem in the California state park system; Grover Hot Springs.

Grover doesn’t have the same notoriety as Yosemite or even nearby Lake Tahoe, but that’s where it gets its charm. It isn’t dense in crowds, so it’s incredibly easy to spend a serene day (or two) in its pristine setting.

In 2021, the park was shuttered due to damage sustained by the Tamarack Fire. Many trees and other shrubbery were charred, in addition to the parks infrastructure (including the hot springs complex).

Thanks to the efforts of park staff, the park’s campground and hiking trails reopened in time for the 2022 summer season. The hot springs, unfortunately, did not reopen and remain closed at the time of this writing.

In June 2023, I returned to the park to hike the Waterfall Trail. It’s a short and sweet hike terminating at an incredible 50-foot waterfall with multiple cascades.

The trail is perfect for families as there’s little elevation gain, it’s easy to follow and you’re treated to an amazing award with little effort required. Additionally, your furry, four-legged kids can join you.

So how do you get there? How many miles are involved? Is parking available? I answer all these questions and more below. Let’s get into it!

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Trail Stats

• Location: Grover Hot Springs State Park. Markleeville, CA

• Fee: $8 day-use fee

• Payment Type: Cash only. No digital pay stations

• Open: Seasonally

• For: Hikers

• Restroom: In the campground and near the hot springs complex

• Parking: Small lot near the campground, large lot near the hot springs (currently inaccessible)

• EV Stations: None

• Difficulty: Easy

• Popularity: Medium to low

• Mileage: 1.5 miles, one way

• Time: 45 minutes to one hour

• Elevation Gain: 90 feet

• Condition: Maintained, but damaged from the Tamarack Fire

• Features: 50-foot water, alpine meadows, craggy peaks

• Pets: Allowed on leash

• Drones: Not allowed

• Hazards: Soft soil, downed trees and trees with potential to fall are still present. Additionally, this area sees heavy bear activity

• My Visit(s): 2017, 2018 and 2023

Getting to Grover Hot Springs SP

As stated above, Grover is located in the beautiful eastern pocket of the Sierra Nevada mountain range so no matter which route you take, the drive is going to be scenic.

There are multiple routes to take depending on which direction you’re coming from:

• Lake Tahoe: You’ll simply go south on CA-89

• Sacramento: Travel east on US-50 and then south on CA-89

• Bridgeport: Go north on US-395 and then north on CA-89

• Reno: Head south of US-395/US-88, before going south on CA-89

My recommendation, unless you’re coming the opposite side, is to choose a route that traverses over Monitor Pass (pictured above). It’s a jaw-dropping, beautiful drive and my personal favorite.

Even if you’re coming from the opposite side, try to build driving through Monitor Pass into your travel plans. Trust me, it’s worth it.

Once you’re in Markleeville proper (you’ll pass numerous shops and restaurants), turn onto Montgomery street and continue straight until it terminates at Grover Hot Springs.

Grover Hot Springs Parking & Fees

Presently, there is only one option for parking at the park; near the campground (or in it if you’re camping). Assuming you’re just hiking, you’ll park in a small dirt lot with enough room to accommodate a dozen or so vehicles.

Once the hot springs reopens there’s a much larger lot you could utilize there. The trail to the waterfall can be accessed from either, though, and neither one is any longer than the other.

To use the hiking trail, you’ll need to pay an $8 day-use fee. There are no digital pay stations, so fees must be paid in cash via the yellow envelopes. Be sure to keep the receipt on your dash.

If you purchase a pass to the hot springs once they reopen, that pass includes the park’s day-use fee, FYI.

Where Does The Waterfall Trail Begin?

The trail goes by a few names but for all intents and purposes, I’ll refer to it as the, “Waterfall Trail”, in this post as it is the main (and only) trail in the park proper.

There’s a trailhead near the day-use parking lot by the campground and another just past the hot springs complex. They both eventually intersect.

I have taken both routes but in order to present the most current information, this post will focus on the trailhead near the campground.

The Waterfall Trail

The trail begins along an accessible wooden boardwalk through a beautiful alpine meadow. It’s one of the few areas of the park that wasn’t heavily affected by the fire.

Along the boardwalk, there are numerous informational boards detailing the park’s history and development as well as benches to relax and take in the scenery on.

It’s quick, though, as you’ll soon reach a cluster of pine trees where the boardwalk ends and becomes a gravel/dirt path.

You’ll soon approach the only un-jumpable stream crossing of the trail. At worst, it’s ankle deep and will undoubtedly evaporate as snow-melt eases.

Shortly after this stream crossing, you’ll come to a slight fork. Coming from the direction of the campground, you’ll want to continue straight towards the charred trees.

This will be your first real example of the damage done by the Tamarack Fire. Many trees remain standing, but just as many were reduced to ash and/or had to be downed.

On the forest floor, you’ll see greenery sprouting through, trying to breathe new life into the area. You can also see trees shedding charred bark.

You’ll get an up-close-and-personal look at not only the ugly, destructive side of a fire, but the beauty and new life it brings about as well.

Soon, the trail will align with the creek on your left and that’ll continue throughout the rest of your hike until you reach the waterfall.

Shortly after aligning with the river, you’ll come to another fork. Continuing straight will take you to the falls while going right will take to Burnside Lake (5-miles).

From here, you’re only half-a-mile away from the falls. However, you’ll first have to negotiate the one and only “adventurous” section of this trail; the boulder field.

Initially, the trail appears to vanish, but fret not. Simply look to your right and you’ll notice a trail heading up and into the boulder field in front of you.

Negotiating it isn’t difficult and doesn’t require any rock climbing know-how. A little bit of boulder hopping and common sense will get you through just fine.

I’ve always found that keeping to the left side of the boulder field offers the path of least resistance. However, any route you decide to go with will get you there.

Once you get to the other side of the boulders, you’ll get your first glimpse of the waterfall ahead of you. Actually, you’ll likely hear it long before you see it.

Continue straight and you’ll soon reach the waterfall.

To view the falls from the base, you’ll need to break away from the trail proper and take a spur trail down. There isn’t a lot room down there so plan to arrive early if you want it to yourself.

If you continue further up the trail, you’ll get much closer the waterfall’s crest and have considerably more elbow room if you’re hear on a particularly busy day.

While this is the official conclusion of this portion of the trail, you can continue to explore further up and find more waterfalls.

If you’re not feeling up to it, though, spend as much time here as you please and when ready, go back the same way you came.

I hope you’ll consider hiking this trail. Whether solo, with a partner, or your family. I have no doubt you’ll love it as much as I do.

Travel safe, travel responsibly.

Check Out These Amazing Nearly Destinations!

• “Emerald Bay State Park: Hiking, Camping, Vikingsholm and More!”

• “How To Visit Vikingsholm Castle in Emerald Bay State Park”

• “How To Kayak To The Fannette Island Tea House in Emerald Bay”

• “Hiking To Cascade Falls in South Lake Tahoe”

• “Hike To Eagle Falls and Eagle Lake in Lake Tahoe”

• “Burger Barn: The Best Cheeseburgers in Mono County”

• “Barney Lake: A Beautiful Day Hike Near Bridgeport”

• “7 Things You Will Love About Bridgeport”

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Fort Point National Historic Site: Parking, History, Fees and More

3 minute read | contains affiliate links

Nestled at the entrance to Golden Gate Bay in San Francisco lies a hidden gem of American history - Fort Point National Historic Site.

Steeped in military heritage and offering breathtaking views, this site transports visitors back to the era of the Civil War.

In this post, we'll delve into the captivating history of Fort Point, exploring its significance and the unique experiences it offers to those who visit.

Topics such as parking, the fort’s history, fees, how to get there and more will be discussed. Let’s get into it!

Exciting news for our readers!

We’re excited to Introduce the all-new "Inked with Wanderlust" online store!

We're thrilled to bring you a fantastic collection of wanderlust-inspired merchandise. Celebrate your love for travel and exploration with our stylish apparel and accessories, designed to ignite your sense of adventure.

Discover a range of unique designs that capture the spirit of wanderlust, from cozy hiking-themed t-shirts to charming accessories that make your wanderlust spirit soar!

Visit our online store today and start your journey of style and adventure. Happy exploring!

Fort Point History

Constructed between 1853 and 1861, Fort Point stands as a testament to the nation's military defense strategies during the mid-19th century.

Its primary purpose was to protect San Francisco Bay from potential attacks. Named after the rocky promontory on which it was built, Fort Point was initially armed with hundreds of cannons and a garrison of soldiers.

During the American Civil War, Fort Point played a vital role in safeguarding the Pacific Coast. Despite its strategic significance, it never saw direct combat during the conflict.

Its mere presence deterred Confederate vessels from venturing too close to the Bay Area, thereby safeguarding the Union's interests until 1886, when all troops were withdrawn.

In the mid-20th century, there were plans to demolish the fort in order to make way for the construction of the Golden Gate Bridge.

However, due to the efforts of preservationists, the fort was spared and bridge was purposely built around it. In 1970, it was designated a National Historic Site, ensuring its protection.

Today, the fort serves as a tangible reminder of the nation's turbulent past and the enduring strength of the United States.

Parking at Fort Point

Fort Point National Historic Site, located underneath the southern end of the Golden Gate Bridge, offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into the city's rich history.

As you plan your visit, a key consideration is parking. As I’m sure you know, parking anywhere in San Francisco can be quite the task. Thankfully, at Fort Point, there are a few viable options.

On-Site Parking

Fort Point National Historic Site has dedicated on-site parking for visitors. There’s a handful of spaces directly adjacent to the fort.

Limited street parking is also available along Marine Drive, just outside the entrance. I suggest arriving early to secure a spot.

If you intend to park here and are utilizing GPS, be sure to punch in the exact address OR its full name (Fort Point National Historic Site). The address is:

• 201 Marine Drive, San Francisco, CA, 94129

If you only punch in, “Fort Point”, like I did, it’ll likely take you to the Battery East parking lot (which isn’t necessarily a bad thing).

By inputting the address or full name, it’ll take you to the parking spaces along Marine drive.

Crissy Field Parking Lot

Situated a short walk away from the fort, the Crissy Field parking lot offers ample space. It provides easy access to the site and is often a preferred choice due to its proximity.

Parking here is free on weekdays but there is a fee on weekends. They are:

• $1.20 per hour

• $7.00 for the day

The payment kiosks accept credit or debit cards, as well as coins.

From this parking lot, it’s 1.6-miles to the fort and takes roughly thirty minutes by foot.

While it isn’t the closest lot, it’s situated near many other attractions in the Presidio. If you’re visiting them as well, parking here may be the most strategic option.

Battery East Parking Lot

Located east of Fort Point, the Battery East parking lot is another viable option. Although it requires a short downhill hike to get to the fort.

If you feel up to hiking, I highly suggest parking here. The views of the Golden Gate Bridge from this trail are outstanding. Especially in the spring when local floral is in bloom.

There are parking fees at this location. They are:

• $3.00 per hour

• $10.00 for the day

There are two pay stations located at each end of the lot and they only accept credit or debit cards. Be sure to place your receipt on your dashboard.

It’s about 3/4’s of a mile (one-way) to the fort and takes roughly 15-minutes to get there.

Fort Point Fees & Hours of Operation

At Fort Point, there are no admission fees (or parking fees if you park along Marine drive).

That’s the good news. The bad news? The fort isn’t open every day of the week. The fort’s hours of operation are:

• Open Thursday - Monday, 10am - 5pm (roof access closes at 4:30)

• Closed Tuesday, Wednesday and on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day

These hours pertain to the interior of the fort. The exterior can be accessed seven days a week.

If you’ll be here on a day when the fort is closed, I still recommend going as the views of the bridge from here are amazing.

However, I highly suggest timing your visit to a day when the interior is open to get the most out of Fort Point.

The Interior of Fort Point

When you step through the iron gates of Fort Point, the first thing you’ll likely take notice of is the beautiful contrast of 1800’s and 1900’s architecture as the Golden Gate Bridge intersects with the fort nearly directly above you.

There are several levels to the fort, most of which (including the open top roof) are accessible to visitors.

Something to note is that only the bottom level is wheelchair accessible. The remaining levels must be accessed via the spiral staircase leading up to the guard towers.

There are many artifacts on display, such as canons and several images showing what the fort looked like prior to the construction of the bridge.

As you move up the levels, you’ll find several rooms that were once living quarters for the soldiers and officers with exhibits on display.

You’ll also notice dozens of look-out holes along the brick walls that once allowed soldiers to maintain surveillance of the bay and utilize artillery, if needed.

Make your way up to the roof and treat yourself to amazing views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the bay. Dotted along the roof are foundations that once housed artillery batteries.

If you can, try to picture the bay without the bridge and put yourself in the point of view of the soldiers as they wondered if that would be the day the Confederacy attacked.

When you’re finished exploring, simply make your way outside the fort and move on to your next adventure of the day.

If you’re interested in additional sites that detail the area’s rich military history, consider reading a few more of our posts to help map out your trip. They are:

• “Explore Sutro Baths and Hike The Lands End Trail”*

• “The Ultimate Guide To Visiting and Touring Alcatraz Island”*

• “San Francisco’s Embarcadero: Best Things To Do, Getting Around and More”*

• “Muir Beach Overlook: A Breathtaking View Of The Pacific Ocean”*

• “Kirby Cove: The Most Gorgeous View Of The Golden Gate Bridge”*

*Denotes a link to a separate post

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