Waterfall flow this year into August?

Question

Here’s my question: how are the waterfalls holding out this year? Would they still be flowing end of July/ early August? I know normally they are not.

Husband and I ( mid 70’s) have a top-of-the-bucket list trip planned for 7/11 - 7/25 with 4 days in Yosemite and 3 in SEKI, driving from OK, stopping in Sedona on way and monument valley coming home. I have worked so hard on itinerary and reservations. Now we are going to have to cancel or postpone the trip due to so much bad weather delaying wheat harvest. Latest harvest in 52 years. I love waterfalls and definitely want to see them when we come. Should we wait for next year? We are in pretty good shape now but hikes are not as easy as they used to be. Looks like Cedar Lodge has some availability later on.

Answer

Yosemite’s waterfalls are highly dependent on winter snowpack and spring runoff. In years with a very wet winter and ample snow, waterfalls like Yosemite, Bridalveil, and Vernal Falls can remain strong into July. However, in drier years or when snow melts early, many of the falls diminish significantly by late July and early August.

For your planned trip in mid-July to late July, here’s what you can generally expect:

Lower Yosemite Fall: This is the lowest and often dries up earliest. By mid-July, it may be reduced to a trickle unless it’s been a heavy snow year.
Upper Yosemite Fall: The upper portion may still have some flow, but often much reduced compared to spring.
Bridalveil Fall: Flow can last a bit longer than Yosemite Fall but may also be light in late July.
Vernal and Nevada Falls along the Mist Trail: These waterfalls are fed by snowmelt from higher elevations. Early July can still have good flow, but by late July it might be less impressive, depending on the season.

Given your concern about hikes and wanting to see strong waterfalls, here are some considerations:

If seeing waterfalls at peak flow is a top priority, it may be worth postponing until a year with above-average snowpack, or planning your visit for late May to early June.
If you proceed with July, focus on shorter, accessible viewpoints like Yosemite Valley floor locations (e.g., Cook’s Meadow, Lower Yosemite Fall viewpoint) where you can still see some water flow without strenuous hikes.
Check Yosemite National Park’s current waterfall conditions online or call the visitor center before your trip. They often post live updates about waterfall flows.
SEKI (Sequoia & Kings Canyon NP) may have some streams and waterfalls running longer into July, but again, flow is seasonal.

In summary, waterfalls may be significantly reduced by mid-July, especially if it has been a dry year. If seeing fully flowing waterfalls is essential, waiting until next year or planning your trip earlier in the season might provide a better experience. If your heart is set on this summer, you can still enjoy Yosemite’s scenery, giant sequoias, and other natural beauty, even if waterfalls are lighter than usual.

Waterfall flow this year into August?

More Yosemite National Park Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions