Bridalveil Falls – Yosemite – Hiking California

Bridalveil Falls is one of the most easily accessible and busiest tourist attractions near the entrance to Yosemite Valley.  Mel and I approach Yosemite National Park from Oakhurst, California in the south, and stop at Tunnel View, on our exit from Wawona Tunnel, for the spectacular vistas.

The view into smokey Yosemite Valley from Tunnel View at Wawona Tunnel

The entrance to the large Bridalveil Fall parking area is clearly signed off Wawona Road. The wide paved trail to the base of Bridalveil Fall is a round trip of 1.2 miles (1.9 KM) with an elevation gain of 100 ft (30.5 m).  The approach along Bridalveil Creek is a very scenic  introduction to 620 ft (189 m) Bridalveil Fall plunging from the ‘hanging valley’ between Cathedral Rocks and Leaning Tower.  The impressive waterfall takes its name from the appearance of a veil as the breeze creates a misty fall to the massive boulders at the bottom.  Prepare to get wet.  I wait for a break in the direction of the mist before I can capture an unblemished lens image.  It is a challenge.

Bridalveil Falls free-falling from the 'hanging valley' between Cathedral Rocks and Leaning Tower

The short trail ends at Vista Point where a boulder field separates spectators from the base of Bridalveil Fall.  The short hike back to the parking area is picturesque and peaceful in spite of the crowds.

Lush, scenic and aromatic Bridalveil Creek rushes from the base of Bridalveil Falls alongside the access trail.

There are a variety of trail options along and across Bridalveil Creek but Mel and I choose to focus on highlights and move on to our next objective.