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Chasing Waterfalls

March 27, 2023

What is 2,425 feet high and full of water?

If you guessed Yosemite Falls before seeing this sentence, not only are you right, it’s pretty impressive that you knew that. For the rest of us who had no clue, it’s true! Yosemite Falls is the tallest waterfall in North America and after recent record shattering rainfall in California, it’s flowing more than ever.

With more waterfalls than you can count on your hands and toes, Yosemite National Park is home to Yosemite Falls. Seasonal rainfall and melting snow send water plunging to the valley floor below from November through July, but the best time to see this epic wonder in action is during the Spring before running dry by late summer.

Yosemite Falls: With three separate drops, Yosemite Falls wows visitors as they take the easy trail up to the bottom of Lower Yosemite Fall.

Yosemite Falls might be the star of the show, but there’s many lesser known waterfalls as well that are worth spending a day to discover. Back-to-back storms that continue to soak us all are providing more water than expected this season and have seemingly turned on every fall in the park which makes this the year to visit.

For those planning an adventurous getaway to Yosemite this spring, you’ve got the right idea. And with this short list of co-starring waterfalls to check out after seeing the big show Yosemite Falls, you’ll go from being a casual tourist to a cascade connoisseur in a day.

Bridalveil Fall

Bridalveil Fall: This stunner is the welcoming committee to Yosemite Valley, previewing the amazing waterfalls throughout the rest of the Valley.

The first waterfall you’ll see is this stunning 620-foot head-turner. Bridalveil Fall can be seen as you enter Yosemite Valley from Highway 140 or Highway 41, so prepare to be greeted by this beauty when you arrive.

Vernal Fall & Nevada Fall

Vernal Fall: The Mist Trail includes carved granite stairs up to stunning Vernal Fall.

Nevada Fall: The Mist Trail ends at the top of Nevada Fall, a year-round waterfall above Vernal Fall.

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Yosemite’s most famous hike, The Mist Trail, climbs up hundreds of steps carved into the side of a mountain. This is where you’ll be able to see these two waterfalls that flow year round. Nevada Fall which sits at 594 feet is directly above the 317 foot Vernal Fall and also features a pair of beautiful pools called Emerald and Silver Apron. For safety reasons, there’s no swimming permitted.

Sentinel Fall

Sentinel Falls: Be on the lookout for Sentinel Falls which ripples through the rocks near Sentinel Dome.

Located on Yosemite Valley’s southside, next to Sentinel Rock, is Sentinel Fall. A confluence of cascades that range from 50 to 500 feet make up this elusive site to see that only flows March-June during peak waterfall season. Sentinel Beach Picnic Area also allows for an extended view and a great place to linger.

Chilnualna Falls

Chilnualna Falls: At one of the five cascades along Chilnualna Falls, visitors rest on the long hike to the top.

One of Yosemite’s lesser-known waterfalls is Chilnualna Falls. Located in Wawona, this series of cascades require a strenuous 8 mile hike that begins at an elevation of 4,200 feet. Views of the small village of Wawona and Wawona Meadow can be seen after tackling this hidden gem.

Lodging within Wawona is also available. For those planning on visiting, The Redwoods in Yosemite is a great stay. With 125 fully-equipped cabins, and luxury homes within this quiet town, you’ll be conveniently located next to a variety of travel-worthy destinations including Chilnualna Falls, Mariposa Grove, and more.

The Redwoods in Yosemite: Located inside Yosemite in Wawona, The Redwoods in Yosemite includes private cabins that range from rustic to luxurious.

If lodging within the park isn’t a top priority, another great stay is Tenaya at Yosemite. This full-service resort is just 2 miles from the park’s South Gate Entrance, and offers modern suites and hotel rooms that keep you close to restaurants, activities and other amenities.

Tenaya at Yosemite: Near the southern entrance to Yosemite, Tenaya at Yosemite encompasses three different lodging experiences: Tenaya Lodge, the Cottages and the Explorer Cabins.

Orange County Register

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