About This Route
The Mist Trail is a thrilling 7-mile out-and-back (extendable to 14 miles via John Muir Trail loop) from Happy Isles in Yosemite Valley to Vernal Fall (317 ft) and Nevada Fall (594 ft), gaining 2,000 feet. Favored by trail runners for its granite steps and misty spray, it connects to Liberty Cap or Clouds Rest for epics. NPS notes heavy traffic; start pre-dawn. Recent runners report slick granite year-round.
Safety Considerations
Slippery mist-soaked steps cause falls; NPS reports dozens yearly. Avoid when wet; use trekking poles. High spring runoff makes unbridged crossings deadly; check Merced River flows. Lightning risk peaks afternoons over exposed sections. Early snow lingers on upper switchbacks; carry microspikes per REI advice. Poison oak lines lower trail; learn identification. Pace conservatively to avoid altitude issues at 6,000 ft. Wildlife: coyotes and rattlesnakes; yield to hikers.
Essential Gear
Salomon Speedcross trail shoes for grip, Black Diamond distance poles, Osprey Tempest 20 pack with 3L water, Petzl headlamp, Kahtoola microspikes for snow, Buff neck gaiter against mist, Nuun electrolyte tabs, compact emergency bivy.
Emergency Tips
Fallen near falls? Do not attempt self-rescue; yell for help and use phone or whistle. Rangers patrol Happy Isles trailhead; 209-372-0286. Hypothermia from mist: change layers immediately. Evacuate downhill via granite stairs.