Yosemite National Park in northern California contains some of the most spectacular waterfalls in the United States. Most, such as Yosemite, Sentinel and Bridalveil falls, are clustered in Yosemite Valley, the heart of the park's tourism. Many flows have slowed to a trickle or stopped by late summer, barring seasonal rains, but other waterfalls flow nearly year-round.
The optimal time to visit Yosemite's waterfalls is in the spring, when flows are at their peak during the snowmelt caused by rising temperatures. Many falls have stopped or slowed tremendously by August. However, depending on the amount of winter snow, and with the aid of late summer rains, some falls may have hearty flows in September. Contact rangers at Yosemite for information before your trip.
Waterfall Best Bets
When traveling in September, head to the northeastern section of Yosemite Valley to have an almost certain guarantee of seeing picturesque waterfall views. Both Vernal and Nevada falls drain the Merced River basin. Because this river flows from the Clark mountain range and drains a 118-square-mile area, these falls rarely run dry. The watershed of Birdalveil Creek, also in Yosemite Valley, is largely forested, with deep soil, keeping Bridalveil Falls flowing year-round.
Camping & Lodging
Reserve your spot early, because September is one of the high-traffic tourist months in Yosemite, and lodging options fill quickly. Seven of Yosemite's 13 campgrounds allow reservations up to five months in advance, and the National Park Service (yosemitepark.com/lodging) says available spots sometimes fill up the day they become available. Go to recreation.gov to reserve your camping space. Six more campgrounds are first-come, first-serve and usually fill up by noon during the summer. A variety of other accommodations, from tent cabins to high-quality hotels, are also available and can sell out in September.
You can hike to many of Yosemite's waterfalls. For example, walks lead to both the base and top of the park's namesake falls, and you can also explore the top and bottom of nearby Nevada Falls. Dehydration can become an issue in September, when temperatures often rise into the 90s. The group Friends of Yosemite Search & Rescue recommends taking at least 3 liters of waters per person for all-day hikes. The group also advises wearing layered clothing in case of rain.
A veteran of the newspaper industry, Johnny Kampis has worked as a freelance writer since 2005. His articles have appeared in various publications including "The New York Times," "Atlanta-Journal Constitution" and the "San Francisco Chronicle." He currently serves as an editor of poker-based "Rounder" magazine and writer for the Alabama football publication "Crimson" magazine.