Granite valley setting
The waterfall is tied to Yosemite Valley's steep granite walls and glacial trough form. The drop records the contrast between hanging drainage and the main valley floor.
Snowmelt, plunge zones, and talus
Seasonal meltwater feeds the falls. Falling water, rockfall, and talus slopes all shape the base of the cliff.
Rock
Granite cliff
Hard valley walls support the vertical fall.
Water
Snowmelt flow
Spring and early summer runoff strengthen discharge.
Valley
Glacial form
The falls descend into a glacially carved trough.