Standing at 1612 ft tall, Ribbon Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in Yosemite Valley and the longest single-drop waterfall in North America.

It's visible from El Capitan road as you enter the valley. There is turn out for parking available just outside the turn for Bridalveil Falls.

While there is no park designated trail to Ribbon Falls, there is a rough trail that is unmarked. If you prefer a less adventurous hike to see the falls, the Bridalveil Falls viewing spot also offers views of Ribbon Falls as well. Bridalveil Falls is a short, .5 mile walk from Southside drive to the base of the falls. Once you reach the viewing point at the end of the walk, Ribbon Falls is on the opposite side of the valley, across from Bridalveil.

Ribbon Fall is a seasonal waterfall, meaning it is usually flowing in early spring after the snow melts, but it dries up pretty quickly, usually by mid-summer. It is also sometimes difficult to see if you go too late in the afternoon or too early in the morning, due to the shadows that cause the fall to make it look shorter than it actually is. The best time to go is late morning and early afternoon, when the sun is hitting the falls directly.

There IS a trail to the base of Ribbon Falls, and it is not difficult to follow; it fact, it's almost easy. It isn't paved, it isn't graded, and there are no signs to guide you. After you leave the trailhead, as seen in the previous photo, just follow the informal, well-worn trail, which is clearly visible about 98% of the way to the base of the falls. There are stategically placed rock cairns to guide you. If by some slight chance you lose the trail - highly unlikely - just head uphill, and keep Ribbon Creek within listening distance, and within seconds, you'll see the trail or a rock cairn...Courtesy of erench.com