Yosemite Falls is a tiered waterfall in Yosemite National Park (Sierra Nevada, California), with a total drop of 2,425 feet (739 metres) from the top of the upper fall to the base of the lower fall. It was carved by the action of glaciers: Yosemite Creek plunges from a hanging valley, formed by glacial erosion, to the plunge pool below. This geological formation makes Yosemite Falls one of the highest waterfalls in North America. During spring, the falls become a spectacular attraction as snowmelt transforms them into a roaring cascade, drawing millions of visitors each year. Its immense height, dramatic geology, and reliable seasonal flow cement its status as Yosemite’s crown jewel.
- How did Yosemite Falls form geologically?
- How does Yosemite Falls compare to other U.S. waterfalls?
- What is the seasonal pattern in the flow of Yosemite Falls?
- What makes the Yosemite Falls viewing experience unique?
- How many tourists visit Yosemite Falls each year?
- How many tourists visit Yosemite Falls each year?
- What are the dangers of Yosemite Falls?
- What sets Yosemite Falls apart from other Yosemite waterfalls?
- Practical Visitor Information
How did Yosemite Falls form geologically?
Yosemite Falls flows from Yosemite Creek, which drains a hanging valley carved by ancient glaciers. The main valley was eroded deeper than its tributaries, leaving the smaller valleys suspended high above. Water plunges over the edge of this hanging valley, creating a sheer drop over granite bedrock. The surrounding cliffs, made of granitic rock, were steepened by glaciation, resulting in the waterfall’s dramatic vertical drop. Essentially, Yosemite’s glacial history shaped the towering cliffs that allow Yosemite Creek to become such a spectacular waterfall.
How does Yosemite Falls compare to other U.S. waterfalls?
At 2,425 feet (739 m), Yosemite Falls is the tallest measured waterfall in the United States. For perspective, it dwarfs Niagara Falls (167 ft / 51 m) and ranks among the tallest waterfalls in the world. Only a few waterfalls, like Venezuela’s Angel Falls, surpass it in height. Within the U.S., no other major waterfall comes close—Alaska’s Colonial Creek Falls is unmeasured and lacks Yosemite’s free-falling cascade. This extraordinary height—over three times that of Bridalveil Fall (620 ft)—makes Yosemite Falls truly iconic.
What is the seasonal pattern in the flow of Yosemite Falls?
Yosemite Falls is highly seasonal, fed primarily by snowmelt. According to the National Park Service (NPS), peak flow occurs in May or June, making late spring the best time to visit. By August, the upper falls often reduce to a trickle or dry up completely. In winter, freezing temperatures create ice formations at the base, and the falls may freeze intermittently. For the most powerful flows, plan a visit between April and early June.
What makes the Yosemite Falls viewing experience unique?
The falls offer multiple vantage points, from the 1-mile loop trail at Lower Yosemite Fall (where visitors feel the mist) to panoramic views from Yosemite Village. Photographers love the rainbows that form in the spray on sunny days and the rare “moonbow” (lunar rainbow) under a full moon. Winter visitors may see the famous ice cone at the base. The sheer scale of the falls against Yosemite’s granite cliffs creates an unforgettable spectacle.
How many tourists visit Yosemite Falls each year?
As one of the park’s top attractions, Yosemite Falls draws nearly all of Yosemite Valley’s visitors. The park itself welcomes over 4 million visitors annually, with most stopping to see the falls due to its easy accessibility from Yosemite Village and Yosemite Valley Lodge.
How many tourists visit Yosemite Falls each year?
As one of the park’s top attractions, Yosemite Falls draws nearly all of Yosemite Valley’s visitors. The park itself welcomes over 4 million visitors annually, with most stopping to see the falls due to its easy accessibility from Yosemite Village and Yosemite Valley Lodge.
What are the dangers of Yosemite Falls?
Despite its beauty, Yosemite Falls poses risks:
- Slippery granite rocks (polished by water and covered in algae)
- Strong currents in the plunge pool and nearby Merced River
- Falling ice in winter and steep drop-offs along trails
The NPS warns visitors to stay on marked paths, as accidents—including drownings and falls—have occurred.
What sets Yosemite Falls apart from other Yosemite waterfalls?
Yosemite Falls stands out due to its:
- Unmatched height (2,425 ft vs. Bridalveil’s 620 ft)
- Three-tiered cascade, which flows consistently through spring
- Visibility from across the valley (unlike hidden falls in side canyons)
Its combination of scale, power, and accessibility makes it Yosemite’s most iconic waterfall.
Practical Visitor Information
What is the best month to see Yosemite Falls?
Late spring (April–May) offers the most impressive flows, though peak runoff occurs in May–June. By late summer, the falls often dry up.
How close is Yosemite Falls to El Capitan?
The base of Yosemite Falls is roughly 2.5 miles (4 km) east of El Capitan along the valley floor.
Where are the best photo spots for Yosemite Falls?
- Lower Yosemite Fall Trail (close-up views)
- Yosemite Village/Yosemite Valley Lodge (panoramic perspective)
- Swinging Bridge/Cook’s Meadow (reflections in the Merced River)
Can you swim near Yosemite Falls?
No. The NPS prohibits swimming due to dangerous currents and slippery rocks.
Is Yosemite Falls taller than Niagara Falls?
Yes—by a huge margin. Yosemite Falls (2,425 ft) is over 14 times taller than Niagara Falls (167 ft).
Yosemite Falls remains a must-see natural wonder, blending breathtaking beauty with fascinating geology. Plan a spring visit for the fullest experience!
