After a steady drenching climb up slick rocks to the top of Vernal Fall, we took a couple of minutes to sit on a log, take in the view and munch on some trail mix. An engaging little Steller’s Jay hopped around hoping a bit of fruit would miss the journey from hand to mouth. His confidence suggested he’d had decent success with the carry-out menu there before.
An unassuming, steady stream slipped by and then abruptly vanished over slicked rock. Peering over the edge, we watched the water plummet 317 feet in a free fall that gathered in momentum and power with each fraction of motion.
A short walk further upstream brought us to a cooled oasis of calm, the Emerald Pool. It’s a tempting swimming hole lined with ponderosa pines and surrounded by smooth white rocks that grow into cliff ledges, 
but it has a swift and surprising current beneath its placid surface.
The Silver Apron, a small fall spilling into the east of the Pool sprayed a frothy white water that made the green of the Emerald shine even greener in the sunlight.
Updated from March 25, 2010.
Thanks for bringing back memories of my hike at Yosemite. Such a beautiful hike except for the slippery climb up those slick rock stairs.
I wonder how many people have got into trouble in that seemingly tranquil pool.
It reminds me of a few “swimming” holes we hiked to in the White Mountains. But you could actually swim in those. So cool.
Hope you’re enjoying your weekend.
What a pool paradise. Very tempting to swim in it.
What a great post, Heather. I bet, that green water is pretty cold, it looks like. Great shots!
Susanne
Sue’s Daily Photography
Donna: I watched each foot plant pretty carefully on that climb!
Suzanne: From what I’ve read, far too many. No one thinks they’ll be the one to lose their footing or be overpowered by an invisible current.
One of the Guys: A swimming hole without a major waterfall attached would be a much safer bet. Your White Mtn pools sound wonderful!
Graham: It was really refreshing just to sit beside those deep green waters for a few minutes.
Thanks Susanne. Yes, the water is always a little cooler than you expect at that altitude! The spray from the fall as we hiked up and then back down was bone chilling!
Every one of your posts is like a mini-novel. So descriptive. I love going with you on these little excursions.