Yosemite National Park - Waterfalls

Wednesday, 21 May, through Friday, 23 May 2025

As glaciers grind their way down the mountains, the scouring to make U-shaped valleys leave a lot of "hanging valleys" at the former edge of the glaciers. These laid the ground (literally) for the spectacular waterfalls that cascade over the sheer cliffs of Yosemite. Meltwater from winter snows typically peaks in May, so we got to see the falls at their best.

Bridalveil Fall

Bridalveil Fall is the first prominent waterfall seen when entering Yosemite Valley.

Yosemite Falls

Yosemite Falls is farther up the valley and is visible from many locations. It has two main falls (upper and lower) with a cascade in between

A short trail leads up to the base of the lower fall. On a warm day, the mist is refreshing.

Upper fall.

Yosemite Falls as seen from Glacier Point.

Ribbon Fall

Horsetail Fall

Horsetail Fall, like many of the smaller waterfalls can be difficult to see at first. In the photo above, it's a white patch in the center of the photo, totally dwarfed by the mountains and landscape.

The waterfall is easier to see from other vantage points.

As seen with a telephoto lens (or binoculars).

Nevada and Vernal Falls

Nevada Fall (top) and Vernal Fall (bottom) as seen from Glacier Point.

The best view of these falls is from Washburn Point.

Vernal Fall

Nevada Fall

We think that this is brief glimpse of Nevada Fall from Happy Isles Road.

Sentinel Fall

Sentinel Fall