TIL how to go up one directory in macOS Finder

June 26, 2025 (Last Modified: June 26, 2025)

While working in macOS Finder (especially in list view), I found myself wanting a fast way to navigate up one folder level — like you would with cd .. in the terminal.

Answer:

Use Cmd + ↑ (Up Arrow) to go up one directory.
Use Cmd + ↓ (Down Arrow) to enter the selected folder.

I am a developer, cybersecurity expert and co-founder of NowSecure. I enjoy developing useful tools and have recently started publishing public cybersecurity data online. I have three patents, authored two books and am on the Board of Directors at NowSecure and the Board of Trustees at Saint Louis University.