Vernal Fall

This trail gradually gains 400 feet of elevation along the Merced River by the time it reaches a footbridge offering an excellent view of the 317 foot (97 m) high Vernal Fall. From the footbridge the trail quickly gains another 600 feet of elevation as it traverses steep and often slippery granite steps to the top of the waterfall, but the view is hugely impressive and worth the exertion. From the top of Vernal Fall hikers can continue on to Nevada Fall.