Opinions please on (strenuous) day hikes

Question

Trying to plan a first trip to Yosemite, and am getting bogged down in the details. We’re mostly interested in scenery (love waterfalls!) and those great wide-open vistas. We want to go in the spring so the waterfalls are rushing, maybe late May?

1. The Mist/Panorama/Glacier point/Four mile trail combination, @15 miles. Is there a certain way to do this route for best scenery?

2. The Pohono trail @ 13 miles. Is it worth walking all day on this trail when you can drive to the points and see them with a short hike? (Glacier, Taft, Sentinal dome, Artist, etc)

3. Upper Yosemite falls, 8 miles

4. Cloud’s rest, 14.5 miles

They all look great, but can anyone help me rank them in order of importance? We won’t have four days there, probably only two, (these 4 hikes back to back would be rather ambitious even with 4 days)so please help me decide. Thanks!

Answer

Visiting Yosemite in late May is an excellent choice for waterfalls, as snowmelt will be at its peak, making Yosemite Falls, Vernal, and Nevada Falls particularly spectacular. Since you only have two days and are considering some strenuous hikes, it’s important to prioritize for maximum scenery while managing fatigue.

Ranking and advice for your four proposed hikes:

Mist Trail + Panorama Trail + Glacier Point + Four Mile Trail (~15 miles): This combination offers incredible vistas, including Vernal and Nevada Falls, and panoramic views from Glacier Point. For best experience, consider starting from the Mist Trail early in the morning to enjoy the waterfalls with morning light, then continue to Panorama Trail to Glacier Point. Descend via Four Mile Trail if you want a loop back toward the valley. This is arguably the most scenic and waterfall-heavy route.
Upper Yosemite Falls Trail (8 miles round trip): A strenuous climb, but you are rewarded with the view of the tallest waterfall in North America. If you only pick one hike for waterfall and summit views, this is a strong contender. Early morning start helps avoid crowds.
Cloud’s Rest (14.5 miles): This is longer and challenging, with some of the best panoramic views in Yosemite, including a perspective of Half Dome from the top. However, it requires a full day and is less waterfall-focused. If you prefer waterfalls over summit views, this may be secondary.
Pohono Trail (13 miles): While the trail offers great vistas and connects multiple points along the valley rim, much of it can be seen by driving to Glacier Point, Taft Point, Sentinel Dome, and Artist Point. Unless you really want the continuous hiking experience, you may prioritize the other hikes for your limited two days.

Suggested 2-day approach:

Day 1: Mist Trail + Panorama Trail loop to Glacier Point. Optional Four Mile Trail descent if you want a longer loop. Focus on waterfalls and valley views.
Day 2: Upper Yosemite Falls Trail for the waterfall summit experience, or Cloud’s Rest if your priority is sweeping valley and mountain panoramas.

Other tips:

Start hikes early to avoid midday crowds and maximize light for photography.
Carry plenty of water, snacks, and layers, as temperatures vary in May.
Be realistic about stamina: Mist Trail + Panorama + Four Mile is already a full day. Pairing that with Upper Yosemite Falls is ambitious; better to save Cloud’s Rest for another trip if possible.

In summary, for two days focused on scenery and waterfalls, the Mist + Panorama + Glacier Point route and Upper Yosemite Falls trail are the top priorities. Cloud’s Rest is incredible but longer and more tiring, and Pohono Trail is more for those seeking extended hiking rather than unique viewpoints.

Opinions please on (strenuous) day hikes

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