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Photo: Yosemite Falls, view from top. Hiking trail is visible on right at the base of the wall. - panoramio by Richard Wood (CC BY-SA 3.0) License

Yosemite Falls

Waterfall · Yosemite Valley, California

4.9(1234 reviews)
Great conditions todayHiking Trailscamping-nearby
Editor's Notes
Yosemite Falls is the tallest waterfall in North America, plunging 2,425 feet in three dramatic tiers. Fed by snowmelt, it thunders in spring and early summer — then often slows to a trickle or vanishes entirely by late August.

Iconic 2,425-foot waterfall in Yosemite National Park, featuring upper fall, middle cascades, and lower fall. Best viewing in spring during snowmelt.

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Current water conditions

Cool
Water temp
62°F
17°C
Streamflow
20 ft³/s
discharge
Gage height
1.11 ft
water level
Cool water. Cool enough to cause cold-water shock on sudden entry. Get in gradually, let your breathing settle, and keep an eye on weaker swimmers.

Live, provisional data from USGS gauge MERCED R A HAPPY ISLES BRIDGE NR YOSEMITE CA (2.7 mi away), as of Aug 20, 2:30 PM gauge-local time. 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.

Weather at Yosemite Falls

H: 78° L: 53°
Cloudy
Cloudy
78°
|
Feels like 68°
Precipitation
4%
Humidity
19%
Wind
11 mph
UV Index
10.2
Water Conditions:
🏊Perfect for swimming🧴High UV - use sunscreen
12 AM
Overcast
56°
3 AM
Overcast
55°
6 AM
Clear
53°
9 AM
Sunny
69°
12 PM
Overcast
76°
3 PM
Cloudy
77°
6 PM
Sunny
72°
9 PM
Clear
55°

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Frequently asked questions

Where is Yosemite Falls?
Yosemite Falls is a waterfall in Yosemite Valley, California.
What is the water temperature at Yosemite Falls?
As of August 20, 2026, the water temperature at Yosemite Falls in Yosemite Valley, California is 62°F (17°C), measured by USGS gauge 11264500, 2.7 miles away.
Can you swim at Yosemite Falls?
There is no fixed answer for Yosemite Falls: whether it is safe to swim there on a given day depends on the water temperature, recent rainfall, and any advisories posted at Yosemite Falls in Yosemite Valley, California. Check current water conditions before you go, and follow posted signs and local guidance.
How is Yosemite Falls rated?
Yosemite Falls in Yosemite Valley, California has an average visitor rating of 4.9 out of 5, based on 1234 reviews.
What amenities does Yosemite Falls have?
Visitor-listed amenities at Yosemite Falls include Hiking Trails, Viewing Areas, Photography Spots, Visitor Center, Shuttle Service, camping-nearby.

Visitor Reviews

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Best Times to Visit

Right Now
Perfect conditions right now!
💧 Waterfalls Tips:
  • Visit after rainfall for best water flow
  • Wear sturdy hiking boots with good traction
  • Bring a waterproof camera or phone case
  • Stay on designated trails and viewing areas
Best Seasons:
☀️ Summer (Jun-Aug)🍂 Fall (Sep-Nov)🌸 Spring (Mar-May)

Location & Contact

Yosemite National Park, CA

Yosemite Valley, California 95389

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People Talk About

💬 waterfall💬 hiking💬 photography💬 national park💬 trails💬 scenic

Highlights

Tallest in North AmericaThree-tiered FallsIconic Yosemite Landmark

Amenities

🥾 Hiking Trails Viewing Areas Photography Spots Visitor Center Shuttle Service Camping nearby