Can you swim here today?
Yosemite Falls
Yosemite Valley, California · Waterfall
Cold water — serious cold-shock risk today
Cold waterAs of October 20, 2026, the water temperature at Yosemite Falls is 49°F (9°C), measured by USGS gauge 11264500, 2.7 miles away.
Cold water — serious cold-shock risk today: water temperature is 49°F, cold enough to cause cold-water shock on sudden immersion.
- Water temperature is 49°F, cold enough to cause cold-water shock on sudden immersion. — USGS gauge 11264500, as of Oct 20, 12:30 AM gauge-local time
- No official beach advisory posted (California Water Boards — FHAB Reports checked).
- Flow is below the 25th percentile for Oct 20 (median 16 ft³/s over 111 years). — USGS daily streamflow statistics, as of Oct 20, 12:30 AM gauge-local time
Flow is low for this date — below the 25th percentile for Oct 20 (median 16 ft³/s over 111 years).
Official advisories
Checked against California Water Boards — FHAB Reports — no advisory posted.
Live, provisional data from USGS gauge MERCED R A HAPPY ISLES BRIDGE NR YOSEMITE CA (2.7 mi away), as of Oct 20, 12:30 AM gauge-local time.
Before you get in
- Never swim alone — and keep weaker swimmers within arm's reach.
- Scout depth and entry/exit points before you get in.
- Read the current: avoid fast, rising, or murky water.
- Check the forecast — get out well before storms or lightning.
- Obey posted signs, flags, and lifeguard guidance.
Read next
Conditions are for general information only and can change quickly. Always judge the water in person and follow posted advisories and local guidance before swimming or paddling.