Photographing Bridalveil Fall, located in Yosemite Valley, offers a remarkable opportunity to capture one of Yosemite National Park’s most iconic waterfalls. At 620 feet tall, this stunning cascade flows year-round, creating a dramatic backdrop for any photo. Bridalveil Fall is especially famous for its ethereal mist, which often creates striking rainbows when sunlight hits at the right angle. Due to its proximity to the Bridalveil Fall Parking Area, this spot is easily accessible, making it ideal for photographers of all skill levels to capture breathtaking images. Whether you're aiming for long exposure shots or high-contrast compositions, the viewing areas and surrounding trails provide diverse vantage points tailored to a variety of artistic preferences.
Adventure Guide to Photographing Bridalveil Fall
Southside Drive Viewpoint
Located a short walk from the Bridalveil Fall Parking Area, this viewpoint offers a direct perspective of the fall, framed by nearby granite cliffs.
Ideal for close-range shots, highlighting the powerful flow of water and the mist at its base.
Pro tip: Use a polarizing filter to minimize glare and enhance colors, particularly around sunset.
Tunnel View Lookout
Just a 5-minute drive west from the parking area, Tunnel View provides a wide-angle vista that includes Bridalveil Fall along with El Capitan and Half Dome.
This spot is perfect for golden-hour shots, offering depth and context to Bridalveil Fall’s position in Yosemite Valley.
Bring a telephoto lens to zoom in on the waterfall for a detailed composition.
Below the Footbridge
Follow the paved trail from the parking lot, stopping at the base of Bridalveil Fall near the footbridge.
The up-close access allows photographers to capture the dynamic interplay of mist and rock textures.
Key tip: Protect your camera from mist by using a lens hood or waterproof cover.
Local Insights
Bridalveil Fall derives its name from the thin, wispy stream of water, resembling a bride’s veil. Indigenous tribes, such as the Ahwahnechee, revered it, believing its mist carried blessings. During spring, runoff from snowmelt significantly increases the fall's intensity, making April through June particularly photogenic.
Visitor Tips
Best Time: Morning or late afternoon for softer lighting; spring for peak water flow.
What to Bring: Tripod for long exposure shots, waterproof gear for mist, and sturdy shoes for uneven trails.
Directions: From Yosemite Valley, Bridalveil Fall Parking Area is a 10-minute drive southwest on Southside Drive.
Adventure Map
Reviews
Jonathan Phana month ago
Bridalveil Fall is one of Yosemite's most famous waterfalls, known for its ethereal beauty and the mist that creates rainbows on sunny days. The waterfall plunges 620 feet and is easily accessible via a short, paved trail from the parking area. The sound of the roaring water and the cool mist provide a refreshing experience, especially during the warmer months.
The fall is particularly stunning in the spring when the snowmelt is at its peak, but it remains a captivating sight year-round. Bridalveil Fall is a must-see for anyone visiting Yosemite, offering a serene and picturesque setting that embodies the park's natural splendor.
Riley6 months ago
Amazing waterfall, absolutely beautiful. The view from ground level was amazing, but the view once you climb up the rocks near the waterfall is even better. Absolutely worth it. If you are nearby, you should definitely visit this fall.
SP Reviewer3 months ago
These falls are stunningly beautiful! While they're not accessible by bus, you can either drive or walk there. We chose to walk, and the experience was incredibly rewarding. As you get closer to the falls, you'll be enveloped in a refreshing mist. It can be challenging to take photos due to the moisture, but the sensation of the mist is amazing. Some of the most beautiful aspects can’t be captured in pictures, but they can definitely be felt.
Roman Over3 weeks ago
Bridalveil Falls is absolutely breathtaking! Visiting this iconic Yosemite spot was an unforgettable experience. The waterfall plunges dramatically from a height of over 600 feet, creating a misty veil that glimmers in the sunlight—truly living up to its name. We loved the short, scenic trail leading to the base; it's easy for all ages and offers amazing views along the way. The roaring sound of the water combined with the surrounding lush greenery made it feel like a magical escape. Don't miss the rainbows in the mist if you visit on a sunny day. A must-see!
Nook H4 months ago
Bridalveil Fall is one of those iconic spots in Yosemite you’ve got to check out. It's one of the first waterfalls you see when entering Yosemite Valley, and it’s pretty stunning, especially in the spring when the water flow is at its peak.
The trail to the base of the falls is a super easy walk—just a short, paved path that’s about half a mile round trip. You’ll probably get a little misted from the falls, which is refreshing on a hot day, but if the wind’s strong, be ready to get a bit wet!
Even though the fall isn’t the tallest in Yosemite, the way it drops gracefully over the cliff, with the mist often creating little rainbows, makes it a magical sight. If you’re into photography, you’ll definitely want to snap a few shots here.
It can get pretty crowded, especially during peak seasons, so if you want to avoid the crowds, try to visit early in the morning or later in the evening.
