The stairmaster of Yosemite! Yosemite Falls is one of the highest waterfall in the world at a total of 2,425 ft from trailhead to Yosemite Point, which is about one mile past the falls summit. I endeavored this trail alone while Kaylyn explored Mariposa Grove with her family.
Trail specs to Yosemite Falls and Yosemite Point: 8.4 miles, 3,723 ft elevation gain
I’ve had this hike on my list for a long time! The first section of switchbacks up to Columbia Rock was quick work, giving a calming break of downhill to the base of Upper Yosemite Falls where I was greeted by cool shade and a refreshing thick mist. Things took a turn at the second leg of switchbacks that brought me to the very top of Upper Yosemite Falls. Here, I was completely exposed to the midmorning sun – HOT!
As I arrived to the top of the Upper Falls, I checked out the overlook area. This was the hairiest part of the hike with sheer drops and guardrails along the cliffside. After getting some adrenaline on the overlook, I found a secluded gap in the rocks a couple feet away from the cliff. There, I set up for a good hour with lunch and a book to rest and relax – so relaxed that I even dozed off for a bit.
The original plan was to head back after the reaching the top of the Upper Falls, but I felt so good after the break that I trekked up the extra mile to Yosemite Point and got an even higher vantage of the valley.
You might have guessed, going back down on those four miles of switchbacks was brutal on the knees and hips. Trekking poles helped, especially with how steep the sand covered rocks were.
Where were we…?
Wright Around the Bend 
I’ll never get over that rainbow shot of the waterfall!
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