Yosemite Falls Tours and Activities

Yosemite Falls which includes a cascade and mountains
Yosemite Falls which includes rapids
Yosemite Falls
Yosemite Falls showing mountains
Yosemite Falls showing a cascade and a gorge or canyon as well as an individual male


You may hear these thundering falls, which are among the top 10 tallest in the world, before you see them in California’s Yosemite National Park.

Yosemite National Park sets the bar high for magnificent natural beauty, but Yosemite Falls is indisputably one of its most striking features. This towering waterfall is one of the highest in North America. Water plunges a total of 2,425 feet (739 metres) from top to bottom of Yosemite Falls in three distinct sections. 

The 1,430-foot (440-metre) drop of Upper Yosemite Falls is impressive by itself. To experience its deafening power up close, follow one of several trails between its base and top. Note that the hike to the top of Yosemite Falls is strenuous and will take all day.

The Middle Cascades are a series of five small falls. These don’t have great public access so many people miss them entirely. 

Although Lower Yosemite Falls is the smallest portion, its accessibility makes it the most popular viewing point for the waterfall. Explore it via the popular 1-mile (1.6-kilometre) loop trail or take the free shuttle bus to the base of the falls.

The most dramatic time to visit Yosemite Falls is in May or June, when the runoff from snowmelt creates an impressive cascade with a deafening roar. By the end of summer, most of the snow in the high country has melted and the falls are reduced to a mere trickle. 

If you visit in the spring, look for a moonbow, also known as a lunar rainbow in the spray from the falls. In winter, a unique “snow cone” formation develops at the base of the falls. 

Yosemite Village is nestled near the foot of the falls. This quaint town is a great place to stop for a snack or souvenir. If you want to stay overnight, get a room at Yosemite Lodge. For a more rustic experience, bring your tent or RV to one of Yosemite’s many rentable campsites. Book well in advance to ensure you can get accommodation.

While visiting Yosemite National Park, seeing Yosemite Falls is a must. You might get a little wet, but it is well worth it to experience this natural wonder.  

Plan a trip to see Yosemite Falls

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The LEEF Hotel
Portofino Hotel & Marina
Glendale Hotel

Popular places to visit


Top Yosemite Falls Hotel & Accommodation Deals

Curry Village

Curry Village

2.5 out of 5
9010 Curry Village Dr., Yosemite National Park, CA
Curry Village
Yosemite Valley Lodge

Yosemite Valley Lodge

3 out of 5
9006 Yosemite Lodge Drive, Yosemite National Park, CA
Yosemite Valley Lodge
The Ahwahnee

The Ahwahnee

4 out of 5
9005 Ahwahnee Drive, Yosemite National Park, CA
The Ahwahnee
Yosemite Valley Lodge

Yosemite Valley Lodge

3 out of 5
9006 Yosemite Lodge Drive, Yosemite National Park, CA
Yosemite Valley Lodge
Curry Village

Curry Village

2 out of 5
9010 Curry Village Dr., 9010, Yosemite National Park, CA
Curry Village
Yosemite View Lodge

Yosemite View Lodge

2.5 out of 5
11136 Highway 140, El Portal, CA
Yosemite View Lodge
INSIDE YOSEMITE! Ten minutes from Yosemite Valley. SUMMER/FALL openings!

INSIDE YOSEMITE! Ten minutes from Yosemite Valley. SUMMER/FALL openings!

YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK
INSIDE YOSEMITE! Ten minutes from Yosemite Valley. SUMMER/FALL openings!
The Ahweanee in Foresta, Inside Yosemite National Park

The Ahweanee in Foresta, Inside Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park
The Ahweanee in Foresta, Inside Yosemite National Park
Yosemite Mountain Lodge

Yosemite Mountain Lodge

Yosemite
Yosemite Mountain Lodge
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Yosemite Falls

At Yosemite Falls, immerse yourself in thrilling outdoor adventures, including hiking along scenic trails that lead to breathtaking views of the stunning drop waterfall. For the more adventurous, consider overnight hiking to fully experience the beauty of the park. With various hiking options available, there's something for everyone to enjoy amidst the magnificent landscapes of Yosemite National Park.

Shopping

If you're up for a drive, El Portal Market, located 19.3km from Yosemite Falls, offers a variety of local gifts and souvenirs. It’s a charming spot to pick up unique items that capture the spirit of the national park.

Recreation

Unwind at Swinging Bridge Picnic Area, just 1.6km from Yosemite Falls, where you can enjoy a serene picnic surrounded by nature. For rejuvenation, visit Ascent at Tenaya Lodge, 32.2km away, offering luxurious body treatments. Alternatively, hit a few holes at Wawona Golf Course, 25.7km distant, amidst stunning landscapes.

Adventure

Embark on the Yosemite Falls Trailhead for a thrilling hike, just 1.6km from the falls, offering breathtaking scenery. Explore Cook's Meadow, located 1.4km away, for a family-friendly outdoor experience, or relax at the Sentinel Beach Picnic Area, 3.2km from the falls, surrounded by nature.

Nightlife

Experience the enchanting nightlife at Yosemite Lodge Amphitheater, just 1.6km from Yosemite Falls, where family-friendly entertainment and romance come alive. Alternatively, enjoy a charming evening at the Golden Chain Theater, 43.5km away, offering a delightful blend of culture and fun for all ages.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Yosemite Falls

Yosemite Falls, nestled in the stunning Yosemite National Park, offers a wealth of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and breathtaking views. Visitors can explore the majestic Yosemite Valley, hike to nearby peaks, and enjoy the natural beauty of the park. For a comfortable stay, consider the various accommodations, such as cabins, available within the park to enhance your visit to this iconic destination.

  • Yosemite Valley: This stunning valley, located 1.3km from Yosemite Falls, offers a remarkable outdoor experience with its breathtaking landscapes and adventure opportunities. Ideal for hiking, picnicking, and photography, it's the perfect spot to immerse yourself in nature's beauty.
  • Yosemite National Park: Situated 1.6km away from Yosemite Falls, this iconic national park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. With its diverse scenery and range of activities from rock climbing to wildlife viewing, it showcases the grandeur of nature in all its glory.
  • Yosemite Visitor Center: Located 1.3km from Yosemite Falls, this visitor centre is a great starting point for families. It provides informative exhibits and helpful staff to guide you in planning your adventures while embracing the park's outdoor vibes.

Best time to go to Yosemite Falls

The best time to visit Yosemite Falls is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is sunny with no rain. December and February are its coolest month on average. At the time of February, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January27.7°F (-2.4°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
February26.6°F (-3.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
March28.9°F (-1.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
April35.1°F (1.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighAverage
May42.8°F (6.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June54.3°F (12.4°C)No RainSunnyModerately HighSlightly High
July62.8°F (17.1°C)No RainSunnyModerately HighSlightly High
August61.0°F (16.1°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
September55.6°F (13.1°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
October45.0°F (7.2°C)Light RainSunnyModerately LowAverage
November33.6°F (0.9°C)Light RainSunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
December26.6°F (-3.0°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyModerately LowAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Yosemite Falls

To save money on your trip to Yosemite Falls, consider visiting during the off-peak months of January, March, or November, when accommodation prices are lower. Book your hotel about a month in advance for the best rates, and look for last-minute deals on platforms like Expedia, especially on Tuesdays. Combining your hotel, flights, and activities into a package can also save you money. Be sure to use Expedia's filters to find eco-friendly options and sort results by price to secure the best deals without hidden fees.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Yosemite Falls are January, March and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Yosemite Falls is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Yosemite Falls is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Yosemite Falls is Friday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, preferred location, and additional criteria. You can sort the results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to find the most affordable accommodation first. Additionally, you can refine your options by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that you can book.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You might consider saving some money by combining your hotel booking near Yosemite Falls with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.