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Mist Trail closure some days, 2025

As the NPS has done over the past few years, they will be resuming the trail work project on the Mist Trail.

The closure section is from the gate w/ the JMT junction (just above the footbridge) to the top of Vernal Fall. This is the part with the granite steps along the waterfall.

Closure runs June 30 to October 30 (at least, that's the plan.)

Closure will be Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 7:00 am to 3:30 pm. It is possible that the trail will be closed overnight if the trail crew needs access without hikers.

The trail will remain open Fridays, weekends, and holidays.

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If you want to hike to the top of Vernal Fall, here are some options:

-- hike past the gate BEFORE 7 am. This is probably just over a mile from the trailhead in Happy Isles. And you'll also need time to hike from another destination as the trailhead does not have parking and the shuttle starts later.

-- hike up to the gate, arriving AFTER 3:30 pm. Continue up.

-- hike the JMT to Clark Point, then go down to the top of Vernal Fall. Go back up.

-- hike up the JMT to Clark Point or on to Nevada Fall, then come down the Mist Trail, arriving at the top of Vernal Fall AFTER 3:30 pm.

No guarantee that the trail will reopen at 3:30. It's a goal.

The Mist Trail in Yosemite National Park will be undergoing trail work from June 30 to October 30, 2025, affecting the section from the gate near the JMT junction (just above the footbridge) to the top of Vernal Fall. This section includes the granite steps along the waterfall and will be closed Monday through Thursday from 7:00 am to 3:30 pm, with possible overnight closures if needed by the trail crew.

Visitors who want to reach the top of Vernal Fall during the closure period have several options:

  • Start your hike past the gate before 7:00 am. This section is just over a mile from the Happy Isles trailhead. Keep in mind that shuttle services begin later, and parking near the trailhead is limited, so plan accordingly.
  • Hike up to the gate and arrive after 3:30 pm when the closure ends, allowing you to continue to the top.
  • Use the John Muir Trail (JMT) to reach Clark Point, then descend to the top of Vernal Fall and return via the same route.
  • Hike up the JMT to Clark Point or continue on to Nevada Fall, then descend the Mist Trail to reach the top of Vernal Fall after 3:30 pm. Note that reopening at 3:30 pm is a target, not a guaranteed time.

Planning your hike around these times allows you to still experience the top of Vernal Fall despite the trail closures. Make sure to bring sufficient water, wear sturdy shoes, and be aware that crowds may shift to the available open times.

Alternative trails, like using the JMT for access to viewpoints, can provide equally stunning scenery while avoiding the closed section during work hours.

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