Bridalveil Fall

Overview: If you were paying attention when you drove into Yosemite Valley (and I hope you were), you likely would have noticed Bridalveil Fall on the right side. The waterfall is appropriately named: when there is enough wind, the mist looks like the veil a bride might wear. The Ahwahneechee tribe believed the fall to be the home of a spirit which protected the valley, and that inhaling the mist would increase ones chance of marriage (more reason for the name).

For Yosemite Waterfall standards, this 620ft fall doesn’t stand out compared to Yosemite Falls, but it is definitely worth taking the time to see this stunning waterfall as well.

Like all waterfalls in Yosemite it is best seen in spring when the snow has just begun to melt and the water levels are at their highest. The “hike” to the fall only takes a couple of minutes along a paved path if you parked at the nearby parking lot. It will take a little longer if you parked further down Hwy 140, but the walk is nice and flat.


Tips: You can park in the parking lot at the start of the trailhead, just off Hwy 140. If that is full and you don’t want to wait for a spot, park on the side of the road further down Hwy 140, and there is an alternate route to the fall (it’s a tad longer).