Merced River behind the Yosemite Valley Lodge

Ready to unleash your inner Ansel Adams? The Merced River near Yosemite Valley Lodge offers some incredible photography opportunities that will make your photos the envy of all your friends! 📸

Walking Directions from Yosemite Valley Lodge

  1. Start at Yosemite Valley Lodge: Exit the lodge and head south towards the Merced River.

  2. Follow the Path: There’s a well-marked path that leads directly to the riverbank. It’s about a 5-minute walk, so no need to pack a lunch unless you're planning an extended photo session.

Photography Opportunities

Upper and Lower Falls: Capture the full height of North America’s tallest waterfall. Both the upper and lower sections are photogenic, with the upper fall being a dramatic 1,430-foot drop. Capture the reflections in the Merced River!

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Serene Waters of the Merced River: The river provides a calm and reflective surface that mirrors the surrounding granite cliffs and lush forest. Perfect for long exposure shots to get that silky water effect.

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So grab your camera, put on your waterproof shoes, and head down to the Merced River near Yosemite Valley Lodge for some unforgettable photo ops. Happy snapping! 📷🏞

And when you’re done, you can grub down at the Yosemite Lodge Food Court! (Mmmm…. Foooooood….)