Mist Trail

The granite steps of the Mist Trail below Vernal Falls are best travelled upward toward the falls because they are steep, wet, and crowded with other hikers. The return is best done as a clockwise loop via the Clark Point Trail connector to the John Muir Trail because the descent is more gradual, switchbacked and less crowded. Clark Point Trail also offers a great view of Half Dome and a view from from a spur overlook of both Vernal Falls and Nevada Falls.

An all time classic. Everyone should do this hike at least once. Begins with an extremely easy paved path that climbs steep enough to get most folks winded. You will pass all kinds of characters on your way to the first bridge. After the footbridge and water station the path is paved a little while longer and then turns into granite stair steps. The views of Vernal Fall are fantastic. The stairs can be wet and treacherous. Usually a bit crowded as well as people start to lose steam and freak out about how steep the climb is.

As of 2020 the park has made a new rule where you cannot descend on the Mist Trail from 9 am to 4 pm. You must go back down to the valley via John Muir Trail.

I started my hike later in the day so I could descend the Mist Trail, not a fan of the John Muir Trail at all.