Upper Yosemite Falls Trail, Yosemite National Park

"This is gonna be tough," I said to myself. I have done trails with 3,500 ft elevation gain and 7 miles in length, but it does not get much easier even if you hike often like I do. In addition, it was going to be really warm, mid 70s, and in the sun probably even high 70s. "Here I come, Upper Yosemite Falls!"

Originally, I signed up with a group that was going to El Capitan, but I decided it was not for me (17 miles round trip). I arrived at the trailhead at 7.45 AM and started the hike around 8 AM. It took me 6 hours of pretty much non-stop hiking (except 25 min at the top) and by 2 PM I was back to my car.

The way up was hard. In the blazing sun with no shade as you reach the second half of the trail (pretty steep uphill) you just hope the end will come soon. On the way down it is much easier, but now you have to be careful of where you step because some portions of the trail are pure sand, others are covered in trickling springs flowing downhill. My knees were sore and the next day I felt like I have never exercised my calves. Was it worth it? Yes!

The views on the top were really incredible, and the waterfall full with water during this time of the year. As you hike near the falls, closer to the bottom of it, you are gently sprinkled with mist coming from the powerful waterfall. It felt incredible on skin and refreshing enough to continue going.

A few tips:
1) get at least 2 L of water;
2) bring sunscreen, and reapply constantly;
3) wear hiking shoes with good traction on the soles;
4) wear a had and sunglasses;
5) bring your good camera. I didn't and some pictures came out not so great because of lots of sunlight.