Bridalveil Falls, 188-meter waterfall in Yosemite National Park, United States
Bridalveil Falls is a waterfall in Yosemite Valley that drops from Ostrander Lake in one continuous flow, falling 188 meters before reaching the valley floor. The water creates a veil-like appearance as it descends the cliff face.
This waterfall was formed during the last ice age when glaciers carved hanging valleys throughout the Yosemite region. As the ice retreated, water from higher elevations found its path down these steep cliffs.
The Ahwahneechee Native Americans called this waterfall Pohono, meaning Spirit of the Puffing Wind, because air currents interact with the descending water in a distinctive way.
A paved path leads from the parking area to the waterfall base, covering about 800 meters round trip with minimal elevation change. This makes the visit accessible to most people throughout the year, though conditions can vary with weather.
Strong winds can push the water column sideways, creating a misty spray that extends away from the cliff before reaching the ground. This transformation happens unpredictably depending on wind strength and direction, making the experience different on each visit.
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