Yosemite Falls in Winter

March 16, 2020

2020 February 8 - a2  Yosemite NP  Upper Yosemite Falls Trail  Upper Yosemite Falls 2

Photographer: Cindy Todd 
Summary Author: Cindy Todd 

Shown above is a view of the Upper Yosemite Falls, in Yosemite National Park, California. The Yosemite Falls Trail is approximately 7.2 miles (11.6 km), round trip, with an elevation gain of nearly 2,700 feet (823 m), according to the National Park Service.

It's a strenuous hike that should be started before sunrise. Since it’s winter, I started my hike at 6:30 a.m. and was able to do the entire trip in 4.5 hours. The trail is so steep in some areas that you’re hiking on your toes. My calves were still very sore a few days afterward.

The views from the trail of the valley, Half Dome, North Dome, etc. are amazing. As a bonus, Upper Yosemite Falls had snow and ice at its base. So, as water plunged down upon the ice, you'd hear loud cracking and booming sounds. What an experience! This trail should be on every experienced hiker's to-do list. Photo taken on February 8, 2020.

Photo Details: Camera: NIKON COOLPIX L610; Exposure Time: 0.033s (1/30); Aperture: ƒ/3.5; ISO equivalent: 200; Focal Length (35mm): 28.