Commonly the first waterfall visitors see when they enter Yosemite National Park, Bridalveil Fall is the perfect introduction to the region’s vast and monumental wilderness. Take the short and paved pathway to this breathtaking cascade and feel the invigorating spray of crisp mountain water on your face. Snap photographs of the drifting mists against a backdrop of glacially carved rocks.
Lace up your walking shoes and embark on the hike along the tree-lined path. As you wander along the paved trail, you’ll hear the sound of the water cascading over the cliff’s edge and into the pool below. See the 620-foot (189-meter) plunging fall coming into view as you reach the viewing platform.
During springtime, glacial melt bursts forth from the valley’s edge and creates a thunderous cascade. For the rest of the year, Bridalveil Fall is a wind-swept spray that flows like a pillar of mist. Seeing this phenomenon, Native Americans called the fall Pohono, which means “Spirit of the Puffing Wind.”
Choose from one of two shaded trails that lead to the stunning Bridalveil Fall viewpoint. The primary trail provides easy access to the breathtaking waterfall and is a 0.5-mile (0.8-kilometer) round trip. A slightly longer trail passing through pleasant meadows and over Bridalveil Creek presents views of majestic El Capitan along the way.
Be sure to pack a rain jacket during spring and early summer sometimes the spray can be so strong it prevents access to the viewing platform. Wear sturdy shoes and take care when conditions are especially wet and slippery. Although the trail is paved, it is somewhat steep, limiting wheelchair access.
Bridalveil Fall is located in the central western part of Yosemite National Park. Yosemite Village is 5 miles (8 kilometers) east of the fall. Parking is available at the trailhead parking lot. This trailhead has a restroom. Reach the longer trail by driving a few hundred yards into Yosemite Valley and parking on the side of the road near the trailhead.
