Little Yosemite Valley Trail

Little Yosemite Valley Trail is a 9.6-mile out-and-back from Happy Isles with about 2,150 feet of climbing. Follow the John Muir Trail past Vernal and Nevada Falls, then continue into the forested glacial valley beside the Merced River. This is a full-day hike; allow about 6–8 hours with time for the falls and the valley. The mapped route uses the JMT’s longer, lower-angle climb. The Mist Trail is a shorter, steeper alternative around Vernal Fall, but it is not the route shown here.

The first paved mile is the busiest part of the approach, and the Vernal Fall Footbridge is about 0.8 mile from Happy Isles. Stay on the JMT at the junction; its switchbacks climb more gradually toward Nevada Fall. From the bridge above Nevada Fall, you can look down on the Merced as it drops 594 feet and across toward Liberty Cap. The Mist Trail gives a closer, much steeper climb beside Vernal Fall, with more than 600 stone steps and slippery spray in spring and early summer.

Beyond Nevada Fall, the JMT continues through forest and granite into Little Yosemite Valley. The turnaround is near the backpackers’ campground by the Merced, not at Half Dome or a summit. This glacial valley is a good place to pause before retracing the same route. A composting toilet is available near camp, but there is no potable water; the nearby river is the only source and its water must be treated. Bears frequent the area, so secure food and toiletries in a locker or bear canister.

Park just beyond Curry Village, about a half-mile from Happy Isles, or take the free Yosemite Valley shuttle to stop 16; there is no parking at Happy Isles. Overnight camping in Little Yosemite Valley requires a wilderness permit, and demand is very high. A separate permit is required if you continue to Half Dome. Pets are not allowed on Yosemite hiking trails. In winter, the upper JMT between Clark Point and Nevada Fall closes for ice; open sections can also be icy or snowy, so check current trail conditions before setting out.