Panorama Trail: Glacier Point to Happy Isles

This longer route to Yosemite Valley brings hikers past Illilouette, Nevada, and Vernal Falls with incredible views across the valley to North Dome and Half Dome. After descending 1,300 ft (400 m) to Illilouette Fall during the first 2 miles, the trail climbs nearly 800 ft (240 m) to Panorama Point and the higher ridgeling. Next, a 600 ft (175 m) descent leads you to the intersection with the John Muir Trail above the top of Nevada Fall. Note that you can take the John Muir Trail as a quicker (and drier) descent to the valley that skips the Mist Trail.The climb down the 600 steps of the Mist Trail descends directly alongside 594-foot Nevada Fall and 317-foot Vernal Fall. While the up-close walk by the waterfalls is spectacular, it should be noted that spray can make these stairs very slick, and you may get soaked--bring a rain jacket if hiking in spring or early summer when the falls are strongest. You'll likely be sharing this part of the trail with many other people, as the Mist Trail is among the most popular hikes anywhere in the park, for good reason.