Bridalveil Falls Trailhead

Bridalveil Fall is the first waterfall most visitors see driving into Yosemite Valley, and the trail to its base is one of the easiest walks in the park. From the parking area off Wawona Road, a paved path climbs gently to a viewing area near the base of the 620-foot fall. Round trip the whole outing runs about 0.5 mile with roughly 80 feet of elevation gain, and most people are back at their car in 20 to 30 minutes.

What You'll See

Bridalveil Fall runs year-round, but its character shifts with the season. In spring and early summer, snowmelt sends it crashing down hard enough to throw a fine mist across the lower trail, so expect wet rocks and a light soaking near the viewing platform. By late summer and into fall the flow thins to a much quieter ribbon. Either way, the short paved approach and the close-up view of a 620-foot drop make it one of the most rewarding quick stops in the Valley.

Accessibility and Access

A restoration project completed in fall 2023 rebuilt the parking area, trail surface, and boardwalks. The lower section of the trail up to a viewing platform is wheelchair accessible; beyond that point the grade steepens and the path is no longer ADA accessible, though it stays paved to the final overlook. The parking area includes a wheelchair-accessible family restroom, and the trailhead is reachable year-round from Wawona Road/Southside Drive. In winter, the National Park Service notes the trail surface can turn icy and very slick, so plan footwear accordingly.

• Distance: 0.5 mile round trip
• Elevation gain: about 80 feet
• Time: 20-30 minutes
• Difficulty: Easy, paved