yosemite national park tourist attractions

Yosemite National Park   Travel Guide

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22 Best Things to Do in Yosemite National Park, California

Yosemite was first protected in 1864 and naturalist John Muir advocated for its continued protection through his many writings. Brimming with natural wonders worth writing home about, travel experts and visitors agree spending one day at Yosemite is

• All Things To Do

Yosemite Valley Yosemite Valley free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Traffic is hectic in and out of Yosemite Valley. The National Park Service advises travelers to arrive before 8 a.m. to avoid hourslong delays. – Catherine Parker

Unless you are solely planning a backcountry expedition during your trip to Yosemite, chances are you'll end up in Yosemite Valley at one point or another. That's because Yosemite Valley features many of the park's top attractions, including Tunnel View and a handful of Yosemite's most famous waterfalls, including Vernal Fall, Nevada Fall , Bridalveil Fall and Yosemite Falls , to name a few. One of the world's largest granite monoliths, El Capitan , along with Half Dome are also located here. 

Tunnel View Tunnel View free

Tunnel View is just that, the viewpoint from the Wawona Tunnel along one of the main roads into  Yosemite Valley . Wawona Road leads visitors into the park's hub from the park's south entrance. Along with Glacier Point , Tunnel View is widely considered to be the most popular viewpoint in all of Yosemite. From its vantage point, travelers get an eyeful of the majestic Yosemite Valley, complete with views of famous park sights, such as Half Dome , El Capitan and Bridalveil Fall .

Recent visitors agreed Tunnel View is a truly amazing sight to behold and shouldn't be missed. Some even suggested visiting Tunnel View first, as many said it's the perfect introduction to Yosemite's incredible landscape. Keep in mind that the viewpoint is popular and this area is always busy with vehicles and pedestrians, especially during the summer. Several drivers said they waited for a few minutes to snag a parking spot from departing visitors.

El Capitan El Capitan free

As one of the most recognizable features of Yosemite National Park, El Capitan is one of the first features that visitors see, as it is visible even before travelers enter Yosemite Valley from Tunnel View . Called Tutokanula by the Ahwahneechee people, El Capitan is one of the greatest areas in the world for climbing. Experienced rock climbers can often be seen clinging to the side of El Capitan at all hours of the day and night from spring to fall. If you want to gaze at its 3,000 feet of sheer rock face, the El Capitan Meadow is the place. You'll find the meadow on Northside Drive, near the west end of Yosemite Valley.

El Capitan is a big climb – the NPS labels it a "Big Wall Climb." As such, overnight climbing trips require a special permit (the Wilderness Climbing Permit). The good news is it is free and climbers apply for it in person (unlike Half Dome that's only available via a lottery system). Climbers need to check in at the Climbing Management Office, located in the Yosemite Museum building. Yosemite National Park also has climbing rangers that can assist climbers with routes.  

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Mariposa Grove Mariposa Grove free

U.S. News Insider Tip: If your trip included a stop at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks , feel free to skip this area; the views are likely redundant. – Catherine Parker

"Giant" seems to be an understatement for this grove of sequoia trees in the southernmost section of Yosemite. Mariposa Grove of the Giant Sequoia is one of three groves in the park where visitors can view sequoia trees. The distinction between the Mariposa Grove and the others is that Mariposa is the largest, housing about 500 mature giant sequoia trees, each thousands of years old. Featured sights include the Fallen Monarch and the Grizzly Giant, which is estimated to be around 3,000 years old and is about 90 feet in circumference. There's also the fun California Tunnel Tree, which is the only living sequoia in Yosemite that features a human-made tunnel carved out the middle of the trunk.

Half Dome Half Dome

A prominent feature of the Yosemite Valley , this granite rock face rises up 4,737 feet above the valley floor (8,844 feet above sea level). In 1875, George Anderson scaled the rock face and drilled the holes for cabling. It is those cables that guide hikers to the summit of Half Dome. While most visitors are content to gaze at the iconic Yosemite site from the valley floor, the best viewing is at Sentinel Bridge, which features views of Half Dome and its reflection in the Merced River. You can access Sentinel Bridge, which is located on the eastern side of Yosemite Valley, on Sentinel Drive (near Cook's Meadow) from shuttle stop No. 11.

To hike Half Dome, the trail is about 14 to 16 miles long and features elevation gains totaling 4,800 feet (for reference, the elevation gain on the Mist Trail is between 1,000 and 2,000 feet, depending on which waterfall you visit). On this hike, the challenge begins immediately with a steep ascent up the Mist Trail, which serves as a good litmus test to see if you're in adequate condition for the remaining journey. The hike then continues to the top of Nevada Fall , followed by a long, flat section through Little Yosemite Valley near the Merced River. The trail then ventures up the sub dome. When you finally reach the base of the Half Dome, a steep rocky climb finally takes you up the Half Dome Cables, a vertical, exposed rock face scalable by two steel cables for the final 400 feet to the summit.

Yosemite Falls Yosemite Falls

Standing at 2,425 feet, Yosemite Falls is the tallest waterfall in the U.S. and one of the tallest in the world. Made up of three separate falls, Yosemite Falls is divided into an Upper Yosemite Fall (1,430 feet), the middle cascades (675 feet) and the Lower Yosemite Fall (320 feet). Visible around Yosemite Valley, the best places to see Yosemite Falls without a hike are Sentinel Meadow and Yosemite Chapel (home to Sunday services and wedding ceremonies).

For an up-close view of Yosemite Falls, a hike is required. Starting with an easy trail, the Lower Yosemite Fall Trail is a well-traveled 1-mile level paved loop that's partially accessible. Restrooms and potable water are available on the western portion of the loop. For optimal flow, visitors should come in the spring when snowmelt is at its peak.

Tioga Road Drive Tioga Road Drive free

For summertime visitors looking for a scenic drive with lots of Yosemite's epic scenery, then Tioga Road is a great option. The 47-mile road will take you from Crane Flat to Tioga Pass, an elevation of nearly 10,000 feet, offering beautiful panoramic views along the way. Visitors will pass Olmstead Point, Tenaya Lake and Tuolumne Meadows , along with mountain peaks, forests and summertime wildflowers. The road originates from the Tioga Pass entrance station in the east end of the park and ends near the Crane Flat campground in the west.

There are plenty of pullouts along Tioga Road, so drivers can stop to take photos of the stunning scenery. Visitors can stop at Olmsted Point to watch hikers climb the iconic Half Dome . Other top sites include swimming and sunning at Tenaya Lake, located next to Tioga Road. Tuolumne Meadows offers alpine hiking and a seasonal visitor center that's close to the east entrance.

Mist Trail Mist Trail free

Located at the eastern edge of Yosemite Valley , the Mist Trail is one of the park's most popular trails. What makes The Mist Trail so unique is not its sights – Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall – but how you get there. To get to the top of both falls, hikers must climb a 600-step granite staircase that snakes right up alongside Vernal Fall, where mist from the fall sprays out onto the trail. Hence the name, the Mist Trail.

Because the hike is predominately uphill, many hikers tend to take the Mist Trail to the top of Vernal Fall and back down – a 2.4-mile round-trip hike with a 1,000-foot elevation gain, which the NPS estimates will take three hours. For a greater challenge, you can continue your hike farther upward to Nevada Fall, a 5.4-mile round-trip hike with an elevation gain of an additional 1,000 feet. To see both falls, travelers will spend five to six hours hiking. For a peek of Vernal Fall without the stairs, consider the Vernal Fall Footbridge – a nearly 2-mile round-trip hike with a steep 500-foot elevation gain. If you don't want to hike up the often slippery Mist Trail to Vernal and Nevada falls, you can always take the John Muir Trail, which features vantage points of the falls, as well as fantastic views of the surrounding forest and valley. 

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Glacier Point Glacier Point free

U.S. News Insider Tip: With ongoing construction along Glacier Point Road, drivers can wait up to 30 minutes during their drive to the lookout point. Pack snacks and drinks for the trip. – Catherine Parker

Glacier Point is considered one of the best views accessible by car in Yosemite. From Glacier's high country vantage point, visitors are treated to panoramic views of the Yosemite Valley , including landmarks like Yosemite Falls and Half Dome . Unlike many lookout points in Yosemite, Glacier Point is accessible via roadway, allowing visitors to forego a difficult hike. This is particularly appealing if you're traveling with young children who would otherwise be unable to enjoy a scenic, high-elevation view of the Yosemite Valley.

Tuolumne Meadows Tuolumne Meadows free

In the east section of the park you'll find Tuolumne Meadows, known as one of the Sierra Nevada's largest high-elevation meadows at 8,600 feet. Noted for its scenery (and lack of crowds), the Tuolumne River runs through the subalpine, wildflower-dotted meadow with evergreen forests at its edges that give way to granite mountaintops. You can experience the scenery from the comfort of your own car, thanks to the seasonal Tioga Road – a 47-mile scenic route connecting Crane Flat and Tioga Pass with turnouts for accessing viewpoints.  

Luckily for hikers, there are a plethora of trails available. The least time-consuming trail is the flat, 1.5-mile hike from Soda Springs to Parsons Lodge, which goes right through the meadows. Another relatively flat trek is the 8-mile round-trip trail to Lyell Canyon via the John Muir Trail. Glen Aulin is an 11-mile hiking trail and offers more variety in terms of landscape, including Tuolumne Waterfall and a whitewater section of the Tuolumne River. If that's too long of a trek, consider a more moderate hike to one of the region's many alpine lakes , including the Gaylor Lakes hike, a 2-mile trail that takes visitors to a stunning collection of small, alpine lakes about 500 feet above Tioga Pass. There's also Cathedral Lakes, one of the area's most popular trails (7 miles) and Mono Pass (8 miles), the latter of which goes straight into the Sierra Nevada Mountains. For more information about hiking in Tuolumne Meadows, visit Yosemite National Park's website . 

Tenaya Lake Tenaya Lake free

If you're looking for crystal clear waters surrounded by mountain peaks away from Yosemite Valley , head to the largest lake in the park – Tenaya Lake. This mile-long lake creates a postcard-worthy scene. Named after the last chief of the Yosemite Indians, it is popular with paddleboarders, kayakers and swimmers.

In the summer heat, Tenaya Lake is a great place to cool off, as swimming is allowed. Plus, it's bordered by sandy banks, perfect for relaxing and sunbathing. If you're interested in a bit more activity, consider hiking around the lake or paddle boarding or kayaking in the water (note that you'll have to bring your own nonmotorized equipment). Fishing is also permitted (with valid California license), so bring bait and tackle if you'd like to cast a line. 

Bridalveil Fall Bridalveil Fall free

Note that an ongoing rehabilitation project may limit access to the parking lot at the Bridalveil Fall trailhead. 

For an easy, family-friendly hike with beautiful views, head to Bridalveil Fall. Located near the Yosemite Valley , it may be the first waterfall you see in the park. You'll only have to walk half a mile to the majestic waterfall, which towers at 620 feet. If you visit in the spring or early summer, the spray is at is strongest because of the snowmelt, so you can expect to feel the mist as you watch the falls.

Nevada Fall Nevada Fall free

U.S. News Insider Tip: This area is undergoing much-needed maintenance in 2023, so check its availability on the NPS website before departing. – Catherine Parker

One of Yosemite's signature waterfalls, Nevada Fall stands 594 feet tall. Its water tumbles over the edge near the granite dome, Liberty Cap, and forms part of the Giant Stairway (Vernal Fall is the lower step). Part of the Merced River system, the falls continue throughout the year (many other falls within the park run dry by mid-summer). To view the falls from afar, the high-country Glacier Viewpoint and Washburn Viewpoint offers glimpses of both.

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Taft Point Taft Point free

Often described as Glacier Point without the guardrails, Taft Point affords spectacular views of Yosemite Falls and El Capitan . The 2.2-mile round-trip hike travels through forest and summertime wildflower meadows before reaching narrow granite factures called The Fissures in an area with 2,000-foot drops. According to the National Park Service, the hike will take about two hours and features an elevation gain of about 200 feet. The NPS advises hikers to carry water and snacks, and wear hiking shoes that provide traction and support. Stay away from this area during thunderstorms as it is exposed.

According to recent hikers, the viewpoint from Taft Point is better than Glacier Point. Visitors were amazed at the view of El Capitan, directly across from Taft. Due to its outstanding and dramatic viewpoint, this is a popular hike. In fact, some reviewers reported that the parking lot was full by 8 a.m., so plan to arrive early (before 7 a.m.). Though the hike is short and relatively easy, families with young children will want to avoid this trail due to the steep drop-offs at Taft Point.

The Ahwahnee The Ahwahnee

The signature hotel of Yosemite National Park, this majestic property has welcomed U.S. presidents and it's a National Historic Landmark. Positioned to impress its guests, visitors can enjoy views of Half Dome , Yosemite Falls and Glacier Point from The Ahwahnee. Construction started in the 1920s at a time when transporting the necessary building materials – 1,000 tons of steel, 5,000 tons of stone and 30,000 feet of timber – was a feat in itself. Even if you don't have a room booked, you should still stop by to take a stroll through the public areas of The Ahwahnee, which fuse art deco, Native American and Middle Eastern art and architecture.

Another way to enjoy its interiors? With a dinner reservation. The hotel's Dining Room sports 34-foot-tall log truss ceilings and sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. Just a walk through The Ahwahnee's Great Lobby is a treat, thanks to its stone fireplace and cozy seating. Other spaces to explore include the Mural Room and the Winter Club Room.

Indian Village of the Ahwahnee Indian Village of the Ahwahnee free

A reconstructed Native American village, this area was made to look as it would have in the late 1800s. Visitors can walk around the village to get an idea of what life was like for the people who inhabited Yosemite Valley before it became a national park.

Part of the exhibit includes a Bark House, made with bark, pine and cedar and used by the Miwok people. Located in the Indian Village of the Ahwahnee, the Chief's House is bigger than the rest and it was built in the 1920s. There is also a replica of a sweathouse, which would have been used by hunters before leaving for their hunting trips. A ceremonial roundhouse used for religious purposes also sits in the village.

Yosemite Museum Yosemite Museum free

Built in 1925, the Yosemite Museum was the first museum constructed in any U.S. national park and acted as a foundation for all other park museums. The building is constructed of native logs and rocks, and it was designed to blend into its natural surroundings. Inside, visitors will learn about the area's geology. It also features exhibits and demonstrations on basket-weaving and beadwork, along with other arts and crafts from Yosemite's associated tribes. Outside, a reconstructed Ahwahnee village sits behind the museum.

Previous visitors say the museum is a must-stop for groups of all ages. Adults can admire artifacts like traditional headdresses that date back hundreds of years. Meanwhile, children can watch basket-weaving demonstrations. Visitors also rave about the landscape paintings and photographs on display. They also appreciated the opportunity to learn more about Yosemite's tribes.

Lembert Dome Lembert Dome free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Simple activities like short walks might seem overly tiring in Tuolumne Meadows. To counter the effects of altitude sickness (breathlessness, headaches, fatigue), drink lots of water (no alcohol) and find a park ranger if conditions worsen. – Catherine Parker

Thanks to its location in the high country of Tuolumne Meadows , glacier-carved Lembert Dome is a popular hike due to its spectacular views: It sits at an elevation of 9,450 feet and it overlooks the pristine Tuolumne Meadows. To reach its summit, hikers take a 3.4-mile round-trip trail that features an 850-foot elevation gain. The trail climbs through the forest before reaching the granite dome where hikers make their own trail to its summit. The views from Lembert Dome include the meadow below, dotted with wildflowers along with the Tuolumne River and Dog Lake. The NPS estimates this hike takes about three hours and rated it as moderately strenuous. This hike can be combined with a jaunt to Dog Lake to make a 5-mile loop.

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Happy Isles Art and Nature Center Happy Isles Art and Nature Center

This area is a destination for nature and art lovers and geared toward families. Outside, visitors will find short trails showcasing different environments: forest, fern, river and talus. Additionally, the Happy Isles Art and Nature Center features natural history exhibits. Between April and October, the Happy Isles Art and Nature Center offers adult art classes and drop-in kids classes in watercolor, charcoal drawing and more. Operated through the Yosemite Conservancy, a nonprofit that helps with education programs and park rehabilitation, visitors connect with the natural world via artistic expression.

Adult art lessons are held Monday through Friday and last four hours; students will get the chance to create art outdoors and learn from a trained professional. For kids, ages 4 to 11, free drop-in classes are available from June to August. If you're visiting with a group, you can also schedule a customized art lesson. For those interested in a more intense experience, opt for an overnight art retreat workshop where you'll immerse yourself in Yosemite's natural surroundings for several days.

Clouds Rest Clouds Rest free

Experienced hikers will revel in awe from Clouds Rest as they take in Yosemite's iconic attractions, including Half Dome , Tenaya Lake and Sentinel Dome. The 12.2-mile round-trip hiking trail with a 3,100-foot elevation gain brings you to the top of a thin granite peak. To get to a view 1,000 feet higher than Half Dome (and without those cables), you'll have to scramble up rocks at its ridge, where it seems as if the clouds sit upon the top of this mountain, hence the trail name.

Several recent hikers used Clouds Rest as a backup plan after failing to secure a permit for Half Dome. For the hikers able to do both, most said the 360-degree views were better at Clouds Rest. According to visitors, the hike alternates between steep inclines and flat sections and the spine at the end is wider than some expected. Most advised lots of water for this hike.

Wapama Falls Wapama Falls free

A bit off the typical Yosemite road trip itinerary, a trip to the Hetch Hetchy Valley in the northwest corner of the park surrounds visitors in solitude. One if its signature features is Wapama Falls, a towering 1,400-foot year-round waterfall near the O'Shaughnessy Dam. To get an up-close view of the falls, you can take a 5-mile round-trip hiking trail that hugs the reservoir's shore. Visitors will be hiking up and down along the Wapama Falls Trail, which features a 507-foot elevation gain and loss (downhill hiking). Additionally, hikers will see Tueeulala Falls during the hike. Located at a lower elevation than the majority of Yosemite (3,300 feet), this area is free of snow earlier in the season.

According to recent visitors, the water flow off Wapama Falls is the greatest in spring. Many reported the falls had dried up by October and November. All mentioned this area was quiet in contrast to Yosemite Valley . Many hikers enjoyed the scenery, the falls and the views of the reservoir. Several mentioned that the campground had availability during their visit and was located close to the parking lot.

Wawona Hotel Wawona Hotel

U.S. News Insider Tip : If visiting Mariposa Grove or entering the park from the south entrance, the Wawona Hotel is a convenient stop. Otherwise, to save time, visitors can continue to Yosemite Valley. – Catherine Parker

Where The Ahwahnee offers refinement in the middle of the rugged Yosemite Valley, the Wawona Hotel is a Victorian-era outpost located near the south entrance. The first establishment on the spot opened in the Gold Rush era. The present Wawona Hotel opened in 1879 and attracted the likes of President Theodore Roosevelt. Along with its six whitewashed Victorian buildings, the Wawona Hotel still sports its open-air veranda, outfitted with Adirondack chairs for enjoying the surrounding landscape. Though it is the most developed lodging inside of the south entrance, half of its rooms share a bathroom, some of which are located down the hall. Park visitors can arrange a round of golf on its nine-hole golf course (green fees start at $20 with clubs and carts available for rent). The Wawona Hotel also features horse stables with seasonal two-hour rides available from May until September from $85 a person. There is even a tennis court at the Wawona, the only one in Yosemite (available for $5 an hour for nonguests).

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14 Top Attractions & Things to Do in Yosemite National Park

Written by Lana Law Updated Mar 20, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Lana Law has spent many happy days hiking and camping in Yosemite National Park.

Yosemite has long been a place of inspiration for artists, climbers, and nature lovers, and remains one of California's most popular places to visit . Beginning in the 1920s, Ansel Adams' stunning black-and-white photographs of Yosemite drew attention to the park's breathtaking landscapes and iconic sights like never before.

For the adventurous, climbing has always been one of the most popular things to do in Yosemite. Following WWII, climbers descended on the park and agonized over how to ascend the magnificent sheer walls. In their attempts, failures, and eventual successes, they created a cult following in Yosemite like no other climbing area in history.

And all along, campers and hikers have been coming here to lose themselves in the park's magnificent mountains and valleys.

The most famous and beautiful section of the park is Yosemite Valley , home to big-name tourist attractions, like Half Dome, El Capitan, and Yosemite Falls.

Outside the valley, Glacier Point Road and Tioga Road provide seasonal access to other areas of the park. Glacier Point Road allows access to stunning views over the Yosemite Valley. Tioga Road crosses the park in an east-west direction and runs through alpine scenery, where you can find lovely, and often less busy, hiking trails . Due to the altitude, Tioga Road opens later in the spring than Glacier Point Road.

For more details, have a look at our list of the top attractions and things to do in Yosemite National Park.

See also: Where to Stay near Yosemite National Park

1. Yosemite Falls

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Tumbling over a granite wall and pounding the rocks at the base of the cliff, Yosemite Falls is one of the most memorable and striking features in Yosemite Valley. It's also among the best waterfalls in California .

Repeatedly popping into view over treetops and around corners as you drive through the valley, the falls look different from every angle, and it's impossible to take your eyes off.

You don't have to hike or even get out of your car to appreciate this waterfall, but the most complete view, and one of the best views , of the falls is from the start of the Yosemite Falls hike , along the non-handicapped route on the left side of the river. You can walk right to the base of the falls with minimal effort and feel the mist sweeping over you.

Another outstanding perspective is from the picnic site at the Swing Bridge .

Half Dome is one of Yosemite's most famous sites and particularly well-known in the climbing world for being one of the first "big climbs."

This granite icon looks much different depending on the angle you are viewing it from. Looking up at the sheer rock face from the valley, the enormity of the wall is obvious, and you can appreciate why climbers have been drawn here.

You can also see Half Dome in the distance from Tunnel View, but the best place to view it is from the lookout at Glacier Point . From here, you get a true picture of the rock, how it looms over the valley, and how much higher it stands than the surrounding mountains. The dome shape is clearly evident, and you can easily see why it's called Half Dome.

For close-up views, the Mirror Lake hike is the best option. From this trail, you look almost straight up the rock face.

Adventurous souls can hike up Half Dome . The last portion of this hike takes you up the bald back side of the formation. This isn't your average hike, and it's not for everyone. It is considered one of the best hikes in Yosemite , but be sure to look into the details before attempting it.

Legendary among climbers, El Capitan is a 3,000-foot sheer rock face on the north side of Yosemite Valley. Although it may not seem like it, El Capitan is actually 1,000 feet higher than the face of Half Dome.

El Capitan gained interest with the free solo climb of Alex Honnold in June of 2017, and the Academy Award winning documentary film, Free Solo . He became the first person to climb El Capitan without ropes, and completely unaided. The climb took three hours and 56 minutes.

From the Tunnel View lookout, El Capitan is the massive cliff on the left side of the valley, standing notably higher than everything else in view from this vantage point.

You can see the wall as you drive through the valley, but many people stop and view it or photograph it from El Capitan Meadow off the North Drive through Yosemite Valley. Since this is a one-way road, it's best to view it on your way out of the valley. At certain times of day, rangers set up in the meadow and offer talks on El Capitan.

If you want to get up close to the wall or even touch it, you can park on the right side of this same road, beyond the El Capitan picnic area, and walk up to the wall .

The short trail is marked as far as an open field, not far from the face, and rudimentary trails from here lead up through trees and boulders to the base of the wall. Climbers are almost always set up here. This trail is not promoted by the park.

The most classic view of Yosemite Valley is from Tunnel View. This vista, which will feel very familiar to most visitors, stretches out to El Capitan on the left, Bridalveil Fall on the right, Half Dome in the distance, and also takes in the lush valley at the base of the huge granite walls.

Although it's an incredible sight at any time of day, in the morning, the walls are mostly in shadow. The best time to appreciate this scene is in the afternoon , when the walls are bathed in sunlight.

The parking area is just beyond the tunnel as you enter Yosemite Valley from Wawona Road. If you are heading out to Glacier Point from the valley, you will pass Tunnel View just before you enter the tunnel.

A drive through Yosemite Valley generally entails looking up to see the sites. Glacier Point, at an elevation of more than 7,200 feet , gives you the grand view over the entire valley, as well as many other sites beyond, and provides a whole new perspective.

This is one of the most incredible views in Yosemite National Park and is an absolute must-see sight.

In 2022, the Glacier Point Road closed for a massive construction project. The road, dating from 1936, requires significant structural rehabilitation. The work continues into 2023, however, vehicles will be allowed on the road but significant delays of 30 minutes or more are expected from January through to October. The portion of the road leading to Badger Pass Ski Resort will be open during the ski season.

Typically, the drive from Yosemite Village to Glacier Point takes about an hour, but you'll also find hikes and other lookouts in the area worth exploring.

Four Mile Trail hike runs from Glacier Point down 3,200 feet to Yosemite Valley, coming out near Sentinel Rock. Despite the name, the trail is almost five miles. It's also a steep grade and in relatively poor condition.

Not far from Glacier Point, Washburn Point is an equally spectacular lookout with incredible views over Vernal Fall.

Another classic sight in Yosemite National Park is Bridalveil Fall, on the south side of Yosemite Valley.

In 2019 the park undertook a two-year but long-overdue project to rehabilitate and revitalize this trail, which was truly showing the signs of overuse. It's expected that the new trails will still deliver you to the base of the falls where you can feel the spray hitting you and hear the pounding water as it crashes on the boulders.

From Tunnel View, you can also get a good look at the falls from a higher vantage point.

Read More: Best Waterfalls in California

It's hard to imagine visiting Yosemite without hitting some of the best hiking trails .

The park has a full range of hikes, from quick and easy, including some with wheelchair accessible paths, to full-day or multi-day hikes. The most popular trails involve hiking to waterfalls or out to high overlooks, but you can also hike to alpine lakes and meadows.

The shorter and easier trails in the valley are always the busiest, but it is possible to escape the crowds if you tackle some of the longer hikes, or those with more elevation gain. Hikes along the Tioga Road are also less busy, but only accessible in summer.

One of the park's most well-known hikes is the hike up Half Dome ; a huge day hike with 4,800 feet of elevation gain and an open section with cables (reservations required).

Easier, more family friendly hikes include Mirror Lakes , the hike to the Vernal Fall Footbridge , and beyond the footbridge to the Mist Trail .

In summer, when the Tioga Road is open, you can hike through some beautiful alpine scenery. Also seasonal, but usually with a longer season, the Sentinel Dome and Taft Point hikes along the Glacier Road are popular sunset trails.

If you don't want to hike alone or would prefer to go with a guide, you can sign up for a Yosemite Hiking Excursion designed to meet your ability .

Read More: Top-Rated Hiking Trails in California

Yosemite is the most famous rock climbing destination in the United States , and for many climbers, it is the pinnacle of their climbing careers. Half Dome and El Capitan have been luring climbers for decades.

Climbing legends and leaders in the sport, like Royal Robbins, Warren Harding, Jim Bridwell, and Alex Honnold, all made names for themselves on Yosemite's walls.

Camp 4 campground , the place where climbers have been pitching their tents since the 1950s, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places for its significance in the sport of climbing. It's hard to imagine another location so closely associated with the sport of climbing.

Rock climbing is still as popular as ever in Yosemite, even more so since the release of the documentary film Free Solo , following Alex Honnold's historic free solo climb of El Capitan in June of 2017.

The stunning alpine scenery along Tioga Road, Highway 120, running in an east-west direction through Yosemite, is a wonderful place to visit for summer hiking and camping. Wildflowers bloom in the open meadows, and pristine lakes reflect the mountain peaks.

Due to the elevation, this road is only open in the summer , and it opens later than Glacier Point Road. At the east entrance to the park is Tioga Pass, with an elevation of 9,945 feet.

Highlights along here include the views from Olmsted Point, and Tenaya Lake and the surrounding hiking trails.

Near Tuolumne Meadows , you can hike to Lembert Dome and walk up the swooping back side of the dome.

Although Mariposa Grove is located quite a distance from the main attractions in Yosemite, it's well worth the effort to get there. The size and grandeur of the trees, many of which are over 2,500 years old , is hard to explain unless you've actually seen them.

A variety of trails wind their way through the grove and past iconic trees like the Grizzly Giant, the California Tunnel, and Telescope Trees.

If you are up for it, consider hiking the seven-mile round-trip all the way to Wawona Point . Along the way, you'll pass stunning trees that most people never get to see and be rewarded with incredible views at the end.

To avoid congestion, a shuttle system has been put in place from the main parking area to the trailhead, a distance of two miles.

Tourists, families, and climbers have been camping in Yosemite for decades. It's a great way to experience the park, and it allows you to wake up on-location, ready for a day of exploration or hiking.

The park has some excellent campgrounds to choose from. The most popular campgrounds for visitors are North Pines, Upper Pines , and Lower Pines . Climbers head to the infamous Camp 4. It's also possible to rent tents and cabins at Curry Village .

If you have your heart set on camping but can't get a campsite in the park, you can find a few good campgrounds or RV parks outside the gates. For complete details on campgrounds in the park and nearby, see our guide to the best campgrounds at Yosemite National Park .

While most people only think of Yosemite's natural wonders, the Sierra Nevada region in and around Yosemite has been inhabited for more than 3,000 years.

You can learn all about the first peoples of the valley at the Yosemite Museum and Indian Village . The museum displays artifacts, and docents are on hand to give demonstrations and answer questions.

Behind the building are some bark-covered dwellings, built in the traditional style used by the Miwok people, who once lived in the area, as well as their later, Euro-American-style buildings.

The museum is free and conveniently located in Yosemite Village.

Families looking for things to do in Yosemite may want to consider some easy bike riding. In addition to biking on the roads, the park offers 12 miles of paved paths .

One of the most popular areas for casual biking is along the paved service road on the north side of the river, which leads to Mirror Lake . Many people walk this stretch, but you can easily bike in to the start of the lake and walk the final short portion to the upper section of the lake.

Another loop, east of Curry Village (formerly Half Dome Village), skirts the Upper Pines Campground and runs past the trailhead for Vernal Fall, Nevada Fall, and the John Muir Trail. This road is only open to bikes, pedestrians, shuttle buses, and wheelchair-transporting vehicles. Bicycle rentals are available at Curry Village.

Although Ansel Adams' photography went far beyond Yosemite, his name and works are closely associated with this park, where he created many famous images. His powerful black and white images of Half Dome, Yosemite Valley, and Jeffrey Pine are some of his most well-known works.

The small Ansel Adams Gallery makes an interesting stop if you are in Yosemite Village. Even if you are not looking to buy a piece of art, you may be inspired to create your own masterpieces after seeing some of the artwork on display in this store. The shop sells Ansel Adams original photos, reproductions, posters, books, and more.

The best place to stay, if it falls within your budget, is right in the park. This allows you to bypass the traffic getting in and out of the park, forget about having to find a parking spot, and it takes the stress out of almost every aspect of a visit to Yosemite.

If staying in the park doesn't suit your spending plan, you will have to commute. Hotel options near Yosemite are surprisingly limited, but you can find a few good hotels in the nearby small towns.

In the Park:

• For a combination of luxury, convenience, and history, you can't beat The Ahwahnee , classified by the National Parks system as a Premier Lodge. Built in 1927, this outstanding property, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and also a National Historic Landmark, is set in the heart of the Yosemite Valley, surrounded by the iconic sites of the park. The stone façade and open-beamed ceilings blend beautifully with the scenery, while the rooms offer modern comfort and elegance.
• Another classic choice is the Wawona Hotel. The hotel was built in 1876 and has been in operation ever since. The rooms are decorated in Victorian style, and many of the 104 rooms have balconies. A nine-hole golf course is across the street.

El Portal :

• One of the best options for people day tripping to Yosemite is the Cedar Lodge in the small town of El Portal, just 30 minutes from Yosemite Village, along Highway 140. This is a mid-range motel-style property with a pool. Rooms are large, and some come with full kitchens and a separate bedroom.

Highway 120 and Groveland:

• Rush Creek Lodge at Yosemite is located along Highway 120, about 50 minutes west of Yosemite Valley. The hotel features rooms and suites with balconies, a large outdoor pool, games room, and restaurant.
• Farther on, in Groveland, The Groveland Hotel is modest but cute.
• Although commuting this far makes for a long day trip, you can find some decent hotels in Oakhurst, about a 1.5-hour drive from the main section of the park. Two good options here include the Best Western Plus Yosemite Gateway Inn and the Yosemite Southgate Hotel & Suites .

Showcasing the splendor of the Sierra Nevada Mountains in California, Yosemite National Park is a beautiful place to visit no matter the time of year. The months between Memorial Day and Labor Day are the peak visiting season at Yosemite . Between June, July, and August, the park receives over a million-and-a-half visitors each year.

Yosemite's high country and Tuolumne Meadows are snowcapped throughout the winter. Tioga Road, which accesses this northern part of the park, is generally open to vehicles between May and November. Places at lower elevations of the park, like the illustrious Yosemite Valley, are open the entire year. Looming rock formations like El Capitan and Half Dome are also impressive features to see no matter the season.

Perfect summer weather and the full accessibility of a snow-free park make summer a great time to go to Yosemite. Visitors in summer will need to pack some patience and plan for crowded conditions. Spring and fall in Yosemite feature fewer crowds and pleasant weather, and the months of May and September are some of the best times to visit Yosemite .

Winter visits are often deterred by road closures, variable driving conditions, and cold weather. With the right preparation and warm layers, though, the winter is the best time to visit Yosemite to avoid the crowds . Alongside a fraction of park visitors, Yosemite in winter provides scenic appeal with fresh layers of snow.

Looking for inspirational travel ideas to add to your bucket list? How about hiking below the tallest trees on the planet in Redwood National and State Parks or camping with the largest trees on Earth in Sequoia National Park and Kings Canyon National Park ? These are experiences you won't forget!

Hit the hiking trails at Lake Tahoe to wander along the shores of the deepest alpine lake in the United States.

To discover the wonders of the desert , head over to the fascinating landscape of Joshua Tree National Park . This park is a true gem, and one that people often forget to include on their itinerary. The park is home to outstanding hiking trails of varying length, perfect for all levels of hikers. Or, plan a bit of time here and camping under the star-filled sky

More on California

31 Things to do in Yosemite National Park (Ultimate Bucket List)

* This article contains affiliate links, which help run this site at no extra cost to you.

TL;DR: The best things to do in Yosemite National Park are hiking to Upper Yosemite Falls and the Mist Trail to Vernal and Nevada Falls; taking a scenic drive to glacier viewpoints like Glacier Point and the iconic Tunnel View; and walking among ancient giant sequoias in Mariposa Grove.

We’ve all been there – you’ve spent years dreaming up a vacation. You finally make it happen, start planning, and book the trip. 

Finally, the time comes to actually enjoy it, and you want to maximize every second of your hard-earned vacation. 

Or maybe your vacation rolls around, and suddenly the weather doesn’t cooperate, or the visitor center is closed, or your knee hurts, and you can’t do the big hike you planned. 

Maybe you’ve never been to Yosemite and want to know what the must-dos are, or perhaps you’re a long-time visitor looking for something new to do. 

No matter which camp you fall in, we’ve rounded up the top and unique things to do in Yosemite. 

Not only will this article help you maximize your long-awaited trip, but we’ve included links directly to the Yosemite National Park webpages most relevant to you. 

By the end of it, you’ll get vacay inspo AND have all the most updated and accurate information at your fingertips. 

So go ahead, bookmark this site, and use it for all your Yosemite planning needs. This is the ultimate bucket list for the best things to do in Yosemite National Park!  

Note: this article contains affiliate links, which help run this site at no extra cost to you so I can keep providing free travel advice and tips.

Table of Contents

Map of Things to do in Yosemite

Get your FREE California Travel Planner – including printable checklists and my favorite two-week itinerary for the state. 

Practical Info

Yosemite National Park is located in the heart of the Sierra Nevada Mountains in Northern California . 

It’s home to famous sights like El Capitan, Half Dome, and Yosemite Falls and is one of America’s first national parks. 

And Yosemite National Park is huge! With 800,000 acres (aka about the size of Rhode Island), there are a million fun things to do here. 

Yosemite is most easily accessed by car or public transportation. San Francisco International Airport and Reno-Tahoe International Airport are the two biggest airports near Yosemite. 

There are several entrances to the park, which you can read more about in our complete guide to California National Parks . 

Top Things to do in Yosemite National Park

Take in the majestic viewpoints on a scenic drive, tunnel view.

Hands down, one of the top things to see in Yosemite National Park is the vista from Tunnel View . 

I remember the first time I emerged from the tunnel and saw Yosemite Valley for the first time – I literally gasped. 

Tunnel View is perhaps one of the most iconic landscapes in America. It overlooks beautiful Yosemite Valley and is accessible from Highway 41 towards Fresno, CA . 

Tunnel View also offers one of the best vantage points to see El Capitan, Bridal Veil Falls, and Half Dome. 

Glacier Point

Another excellent location for Yosemite sightseeing is Glacier Point . 

Glacier Point is located at the end of Glacier Point Road, off Highway 41, and gives an unparalleled view of the iconic Half Dome. 

Glacier Point not only features some of the most dramatic drop-offs in the park but also the Geology Hut, with informational signs about the incredible geology of Yosemite. 

Glacier Point is also a particularly good spot to watch the sunset or sunrise in Yosemite. 

Olmsted Point

Olmsted Point is located along Tioga Road in the Tuolumne District of Yosemite. 

From Olmsted Point, you’ll get to see Yosemite Valley from the back, with Half Dome in the distance. 

Olmsted Point is also a great place to get out and stretch your legs if you’re on a long road trip around the park. 

Yosemite Valley View

Yosemite Valley View is another beautiful location to see El Capitan and Bridal Veil Falls, but a little closer than you would see them at Tunnel View. 

Valley View is a small, unmarked pullout on Northside Drive in Yosemite Valley. It’s located just before the Northside Drive splits into Highway 140/Southside Drive. 

Taft Point is not accessible by car, but it’s only a 2.2-mile round trip hike with minimal elevation gain to another stunning vista in the park. 

You can look across Yosemite Valley to El Capitan from this vantage point. 

Another cool thing you’ll see if you hike Taft Point is “the fissures,” which are large cracks in the rock along the edge. 

These are neat geological features, but, of course, be careful near the edge!

You can access the Taft Point trailhead from the Sentinel Dome parking lot on Glacier Point Road. 

Walk Along Cooks Meadow

One of the best views of Yosemite Falls is from Cooks Meadow . 

Walking along Cooks Meadow is one of those fun things to do in Yosemite that many people miss out on because they’re set on hiking mountain peaks. 

Cooks Meadow is located near the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center and is a combination of paved sidewalk and wooden boardwalk with interpretive signs. 

Chase Some Waterfalls

Although Yosemite might be best known for its breathtaking viewpoints and mountainscapes, it’s also home to many stunning waterfalls. 

Yosemite is the perfect place to do a waterfall hike to immerse yourself in the natural misty beauty. 

These are a few of the waterfall hikes I’d recommend (usually best seen in the spring when the snow starts melting).

Vernal Falls

The Vernal Falls hike is one of the top things to do in Yosemite Valley because it takes you to a giant, beautiful waterfall – Vernal Falls!

Vernal Falls is located on the Mist Trail and is a 2.4 mile round trip with 1,000 feet of elevation gain (it’s strenuous!). 

The Mist Trail is very heavily trafficked in the peak summer months, so the best time to see Vernal Falls is in the spring, early summer, or late winter. 

Always check for trail closures before you plan your hike!

Nevada Falls

Nevada Falls is another one of the most popular waterfall hiking trails in Yosemite and is also located on the Mist Trail past Vernal Falls. 

To get to the top of Nevada Falls is a 5.4-mile round trip hike with 2,000 feet of elevation gain.

This is a very strenuous hike, but if you go prepared with enough water and the proper footwear, the views of the waterfall are spectacular. 

The route to Nevada Falls is not open year-round due to icy, dangerous trail conditions; the best time to hike it is early summer or late fall. 

Remember to check the trail conditions before you go!

Yosemite Falls

Yosemite Falls is one of the top Yosemite attractions because it takes you to the top of one of the tallest waterfalls in North America!

The Yosemite Falls trail, also sometimes called the Upper Yosemite Falls Trail, happens to be one of the oldest historic trails in Yosemite (1877). 

The top of Yosemite Falls gives a unique vantage point of Yosemite Valley in that you can see the valley from the north side (whereas most other viewpoints are from the south side). 

This trail is not for the faint of heart or knees. It’s 7.2 miles round trip with 2,700 feet of elevation gain and is rated as strenuous. 

Lower Yosemite Falls

The Lower Yosemite Falls trail is one of the best things to do in Yosemite with a dog or young kids because the trail is entirely paved. 

This is an easy, 1-mile loop trail located directly across from the Yosemite Valley Lodge that offers a close-up vantage point of the lower and upper portion of Yosemite Falls. 

The best time to walk the Lower Yosemite Falls trail is early spring, when the lower falls are roaring.

Bridalveil Falls

Bridalveil Falls is undoubtedly one of the most iconic waterfalls in Yosemite National Park, but as of December 2021, this short, 0.5-mile round trip hike was closed to rehabilitate the area. 

Once this trail reopens, it’s a sight to see. It’s rated easy and usually takes people about 20 minutes to enjoy. 

The best part is that you can enjoy Bridalveil Falls any time of year; just be aware that the mist from the waterfall makes the trail very icy in the winter. 

With that said, the best time to walk the Bridalveil Falls trail is early spring, when runoff is at its highest. 

Keep an eye out for the trail opening date here . 

Tackle an All-Day Hike

There are plenty of amazing hikes to enjoy in Yosemite. However, if you’re looking for a bucket list hike that’s as challenging as it is rewarding, these are the top two all-day hikes in Yosemite. 

Hike Half Dome

If you’re lucky enough to score a permit, hiking Half Dome is an experience of a lifetime. 

The Half Dome trail is a 16-mile round trip hike with 4,800 feet of elevation gain (in other words, it’s extremely strenuous). 

Much of the hike takes place in designated wilderness, and while beautiful, it should only be hiked by those in good shape. 

Permits to hike Half Dome are available for the year starting in March, but there are a few permits available two days in advance as well.  

Rangers at the base of Half Dome will check permits to make sure you have the proper paperwork. 

The route to the top of the dome takes place on the Half Dome cables, which are thick metal cables strung up on either side of wooden boards. 

The only time to hike Half Dome is between late May/early June and early October when the cables are up. 

Learn more about the permit system and how to prepare for a Half Dome hike here . 

Clouds Rest

The Clouds Rest Trail is said to rival Half Dome in terms of views, and you don’t need a permit to do it. 

This 14-mile out-and-back trail begins at the Sunrise Creek Trailhead, adjacent to Tenaya Lake on Tioga Road. 

The trail for Clouds Rest features 3,166 feet of elevation gain and is rated as strenuous. 

The reward for all your hard work is a stunning 360-degree view of Yosemite’s granite peaks and the lush Yosemite Valley. 

The best time to hike Clouds Rest is early summer to early fall due to some exposed parts of the trail that may become icy during the colder months. 

Explore the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias

The Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias is Yosemite’s largest grove of giant sequoia trees and is located near the south entrance to the park, near Fish Camp, CA. 

Mariposa Grove is home to over 500 giant sequoias and walking among them is truly an awe-inspiring experience. 

The Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias is typically accessed via shuttle bus. 

However, due to the pandemic, you must park your car at the Mariposa Grove Welcome Center and walk the rest of the way on a paved road. 

The total trip is 5.5 miles round trip with 1,000 feet of elevation gain and is considered moderately difficult. 

Road Trip Along Tioga Road to Tuolumne Meadows

Tuolumne Meadows is one of the best places to visit in Yosemite National Park by car because it’s about an hour and a half from Yosemite Valley. 

This section of the park is located along Tioga Road and is situated at the highest elevation in the park – making it much cooler than the valley during the summer. 

Tuolumne Meadows also has a much quieter and peaceful atmosphere than Yosemite Valley, so it’s an excellent place to get away from the bulk of the crowds.  

Tioga Road, also known as Tioga Pass, is one of the few roads that cross the Sierra Nevada from east to west and is the only way to access Tuolumne Meadows. 

Along Tioga Pass to Tuolumne Meadows, you’ll take in stunning scenery, including sparkling alpine lakes and white granite mountains. 

There are many hiking trails, picnic areas, parking areas, and trailheads along the way. 

To make a day out of your trip to Tuolumne Meadows, make a stop at the Olmsted Point parking area and read about the geology of the Sierra Nevada. 

Next, take a dip in Tenaya Lake, then grab a burger at the Tuolumne Meadows Grill.  

Hike to a Lake

If you’re looking for more water-focused hikes, hiking around a lake is another must in Yosemite. These are two of my favorite lake hikes.

Mirror Lake

If you want a close-up view of Half Dome, Mirror Lake is your destination. 

Mirror Lake is a 2-mile round trip, flat hike located on the east end of Yosemite Valley, right at the base of Half Dome. 

The trail is named “Mirror Lake,” after the fact that you used to see the reflection of Half Dome in the lake. 

Over the years, the dam that once created the lake has eroded, and today the gully features more of a peaceful river than a standing lake. 

Cathedral Lakes

Cathedral Lakes are located at the base of the majestic Cathedral Peak in the Tuolumne District of Yosemite. 

The hike is moderately strenuous, at 7 miles round trip with 1,000 feet of elevation gain. The trailhead is just west of the Tuolumne Meadows Visitor Center. 

Take the Valley Floor Tour

Do you want to immerse yourself in the deeply complex history of Yosemite while sitting in the comfort of an open air-tram? 

How about avoiding the confusing valley traffic while still getting to see all the best sights? If all of this sounds good, the Valley Floor Tour is for you. 

The tour takes you to all the icons of Yosemite Valley, including El Capitan and Tunnel View, while being guided by an expert park ranger. 

Yosemite Valley traffic is notoriously confusing and congested, but you can avoid the worst parts of road tripping this area of the park with a tour. 

Have a Drink at the Ahwahnee Hotel

Unwind from the day and grab an El Capitini at the historic Ahwahnee Hotel . 

The Ahwahnee Hotel is a uniquely elegant lodge that was designed to highlight the beauty of Yosemite Valley. 

The Ahwahnee is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and has had both queens and presidents as guests!

To boot, the Ahwahnee is within walking distance of Yosemite Village and Curry Village, two bustling areas in the park.  

Watch Climbers from El Capitan Meadow

Since the movies Dawn Wall and Free Solo came out, watching climbers from El Capitan Meadow has become one of the top things to do in Yosemite. 

You can see little blobs of color against the giant granite wall, see them make progress, or gasp as they take short falls. 

El Capitan Meadow is located on Northside Drive in Yosemite Valley. Be sure to bring your binoculars and a camp chair . 

And remember to be respectful of the vegetation while you watch. The meadow is closed to foot traffic, so be sure to stay on the sidewalk. 

Explore Hetch Hetchy

Hetch Hetchy and the Hetch Hetchy Reservoir are located in the northwest corner of the park, one of the least visited areas of the park. 

The stunning valley, which is part of the Tuolumne River, has been dammed and is a source of drinking water for the Bay Area. 

The area is definitely worth visiting; it’s known for its gorgeous spring wildflowers and excellent birdwatching. 

Attend a Ranger Program

Ranger Programs at Yosemite National Park are excellent. The programs are sometimes called “interpretive” programs because the rangers help “interpret” nature for visitors. 

Yosemite has ranger programs on all sorts of topics, including nature and history, as well as photography programs, which you can learn more about here .  

And don’t forget the best part – programs led by park rangers are entirely free!

Go on a Yosemite Naturalist Walk

Are you looking for things to do with kids in Yosemite National Park? In addition to ranger programs, you can also participate in a Yosemite Naturalist Walk . 

A naturalist walk is led by an expert naturalist with the Yosemite Conservancy, the partner organization for Yosemite National Park. 

The Yosemite Conservancy helps raise money to fund Yosemite’s critical operations, so while a naturalist walk comes with a small fee, the money goes directly towards keeping Yosemite beautiful. 

The Yosemite Conservancy also runs several tours that feature park icons like El Capitan and Half Dome. 

Visit the Ansel Adams Gallery

The Ansel Adams Gallery is located in Yosemite Village and is a great place to pick up unique gifts and keepsakes. 

The gallery is dedicated to the work of photographer Ansel Adams, who is famous for capturing breathtaking black and white photos of the park in the mid 20th century. They even have some of his originals for sale!  

The gallery also features books and other fine art mediums from local artists. 

Visit the Yosemite Museum & the Pioneer Yosemite History Center

The Yosemite Museum is located in Yosemite Valley and is primarily focused on historical artifacts and stories from indigenous cultures. 

And the Yosemite Museum was actually the first building constructed as a museum in the national parks system in 1925.

The Pioneer Yosemite History Center is located in the Wawona District of Yosemite, near the south entrance to the park, and highlights the history of the first European-American immigrants. 

As a bonus, the Pioneer Yosemite History Center offers blacksmith demonstrations and horse-drawn carriage rides during the summer. 

Enjoy a Picnic with a View

Picnicking in Yosemite next to the Merced River can be a peaceful respite on a hot day. 

Just remember that Yosemite is home to many wild animals, including bears, so it’s essential to keep your food stored properly at all times. 

All picnic areas in Yosemite National Park are on a first-come, first-served basis and are open from dawn to dusk. 

Cascade Picnic Area

The Cascade Picnic Area is located on Highway 140 between the Arch Rock entrance station and Yosemite Valley, next to the Merced River. 

This picnic area offers tables and grills and is situated in the most tumultuous section of the Merced River. 

Cathedral Beach Picnic Area

The Cathedral Beach Picnic Area is another picnic location along the Merced River on Southside Drive in Yosemite. 

From Cathedral Beach, you can watch the sunlight off El Capitan and, of course, take a dip in the Merced. 

Swinging Bridge Picnic Area

The Swinging Bridge Picnic Area is located on Southside Drive in Yosemite Valley and features excellent views of Yosemite Falls and a large beach area.

Swinging Bridge is the most popular picnic area in the valley, and for that reason, you can expect it to fill up quickly on nice days.  

View the Wildlife

No trip to Yosemite is complete without some wildlife viewing! For some people seeing wildlife is the highlight of their trip to the park. 

Yosemite is home to a huge variety of animals , including some endangered species. 

Some common species you may see include mule deer, coyotes, bears , foxes, and peregrine falcons. 

While it can be very exciting to see wildlife, never approach or follow wildlife. Wildlife that loses its fear of humans sometimes has to be killed by rangers, which no one wants.  

To view wildlife safely , always give animals at least half a football field of space (even if the animal seems to be ignoring you), and come prepared with binoculars and a camera with a zoom lens. 

Ski at Badger Pass Ski Area

Look no further than the Badger Pass Ski area if you’re looking for Yosemite winter activities. 

The ski area includes groomed trails for cross-country skiing, as well as downhill skiing areas and a lift. 

The Ski School at Badger Pass offers lessons for new winter sports lovers, as well as a shuttle.

Unique Things to do in Yosemite National Park

Take a climbing class with yosemite mountain school.

Do you want to learn to rock climb in the home of the greatest outdoor climbing on earth? 

Take a class with the Yosemite Mountaineering School and Guide Service . These guys are the only official climbing guides in Yosemite, and every instructor is an expert climber. 

As an added safety precaution, every instructor is also a certified Wilderness EMT or Wilderness First Responder. 

Learn About Indigenous Culture at Indian Village

Behind the Yosemite Museum in Yosemite Village is a reconstruction of an Ahwahneechee Indian village . 

In fact, one of the biggest indigenous villages in the valley is located where the modern Yosemite Village is today. 

You can walk among reconstructed structures and learn how indigenous Southern Sierra Miwok and Northern Paiute people lived. 

Take a Jeep Tour

If you don’t want to waste a second of your day in Yosemite, consider booking a 4×4 Jeep Tour , which picks up at select locations outside the park. 

The tours can be customized to cater to your personal interests. They also have an all-inclusive option with a picnic lunch included. 

Take an Art Class

Many people throughout history have felt inspired by the majesty of the valley, so taking an art class isn’t really an unusual thing to do in Yosemite National Park. 

That said, you might be surprised to learn that the park offers daily art classes. 

Classes must be booked online ahead of time and are open to anyone 12 years old and up. The classes cost a small fee but remember that these fees support the park. 

If you didn’t come prepared with art supplies, you can purchase them at the Ansel Adams Gallery. 

Bike Yosemite Valley

Biking is one of the best things to do around Yosemite if you want to see the sights but don’t want to wait in traffic or walk everywhere. 

There are a few ways to bike in Yosemite . You can rent a bike at Curry Village, you can bring your own bike, or you can take part in the pilot bike share program. 

Bikes are only allowed on fully paved surfaces, you must wear a helmet, and biking on the road is not advised during peak traffic for safety reasons. 

Snowshoe the Merced Grove of Giant Sequoias

The Merced Grove of Giant Sequoias is located off Highway 120 and features a smaller but less trafficked grove of giant sequoias. 

The grove is located on a closed road, but you can travel it via snowshoe or cross-country skiing during the winter. 

The trail is three miles round trip and includes 500 feet of elevation gain on the way back. 

This is an excellent trail for those who don’t want a strenuous hike but still want to see giant sequoias in the snow .  

Make Your Dog a BARK Ranger

The honest truth is that there aren’t many things to do with dogs in Yosemite. 

National parks are set aside in part to preserve scenery and wildlife, and pets can be a direct threat to the health and safety of wildlife and other visitors. 

Dogs in Yosemite are only allowed on completely paved surfaces. They aren’t allowed on any trails except the Lower Yosemite Falls Trail, and they’re also not allowed on beaches. 

If you want to bring your dog to Yosemite, though, you can learn how to be a respectful visitor by making your dog a BARK Ranger ! 

BARK stands for:

• B ag your waste
• A lways leash your pet
• R espect wildlife
• K now where you can go

You can complete a short activity card to understand the rules around pets, and then your dog will get sworn in by a real ranger as a BARK Ranger. 

Being a BARK Ranger means setting an example for other dog owners by following all the rules.

Yosemite Valley Chapel

The Yosemite Valley Chapel is a picturesque, scenic chapel built in the 1870s that’s the oldest European structure in Yosemite Valley. The chapel still holds nondenominational church services and weddings. 

The chapel is located on Southside Drive just before Sentinel Bridge and might be one of the most charming places to visit in Yosemite National Park. 

Experience Yosemite Firefall

The Yosemite Firefall is a naturally occurring event that usually happens around the last two weeks in February. 

A combination of sunlight hitting a small, ephemeral waterfall causes the waterfall to look like it’s on fire, hence the name, “Firefall.”

If you want to learn more about this beautiful natural phenomenon, you can read our complete guide to Yosemite Firefall . 

Go Fishing in the Merced River

Fishing is one of those outdoor activities many people (including myself) consider fun and relaxing, and great news, you can fish in Yosemite National Park .

Just like anywhere else, you must have a valid California fishing license to fish in the park, and you cannot use live, dead, or scented baits of any type. 

You can fish almost anywhere in Yosemite except from bridges. 

See Hill’s Studio at the Wawona Visitor Center

The Wawona Visitor Center, located directly adjacent to the Wawona Hotel, contains Hill’s Studio . 

This space is dedicated to the fantastic floor-to-ceiling artwork of Thomas Hill, an American artist during the 19th century. 

Hill is most famous for his California landscapes, including, of course, Yosemite Valley. 

Enjoy a Night of Stargazing

What better activity to do on your Yosemite vacation than stargazing? If you’re from a city, take advantage of the dark night skies to enjoy the wonders of a dark night in Yosemite. 

You can do your own stargazing in places like Glacier Point, Tuolumne Meadows, or really anywhere there aren’t trees in the way. 

If you’d like a more curated stargazing experience, you can sign up for any number of night sky programs offered by the park concessionaire. 

Volunteer During Facelift

If you have a day in September and love giving back, you can volunteer for Yosemite Facelift . 

Facelift is a service day organized by Yosemite Climbing Association and the National Park Service to help clean ol’ Yosemite up. 

Volunteers walk around Yosemite Valley to pick up trash and enter to win giveaways. 

The event was inspired by the fact that, well dangit, with millions of people visiting the park every year, trash and micro-trash can accumulate quickly. 

Take a Private Winter Tour

In addition to the million different things to do in Yosemite, there are also a million different times of the year to do them. 

Yosemite in winter is a special time. With fewer crowds, and snow dusting the granite cliffs, the park has a different and unique feel. 

One way to take advantage of this time of year is to book a customizable winter tour . 

This allows you to enjoy the park with a knowledgeable guide without having to worry about driving on the park’s winding mountain roads in the snow. 

Looking for an already planned out itinerary? Read our two days in Yosemite itinerary .

Where to Eat & Drink in Yosemite National Park

Lots of people bring food in with them to the park, but if you need a snack, check out one of these places to eat at Yosemite. 

• Degnan’s Deli
• Ahwahnee Hotel
• Base Camp Eatery
• Mountain Room
• Village Store
• Village Grill
• Curry Village
• Glacier Point Gift Shop and Snack Stand
• Wawona Hotel
• Wawona Store
• Tuolumne Meadows Grill (open summer only)
• Tuolumne Meadows Lodge (open summer only)
• Crane Flat Gas Station (open summer only)

Where to Stay in Yosemite National Park

For more information on hotel-style lodging in Yosemite, click here.  

My picks for hotels include:

• The Ahwahnee
• Yosemite Valley Lodge

Click for more information on camping, including canvas-sided tent cabins and campgrounds . 

Note that many campgrounds are only open seasonally and some campgrounds have remained closed during the pandemic. 

Canvas-Sided Tent Cabins

• Housekeeping Camp
• White Wolf Lodge
• Tuolumne Meadows Lodge
• High Sierra Camps
• Glacier Point Ski Hut

Tent Campgrounds

• Upper Pines
• Lower Pines
• North Pines
• Bridalveil Creek
• Hodgdon Meadow
• Tamarack Flat
• Yosemite Creek
• Porcupine Flat
• Tuolumne Meadows

Where to Stay Near Yosemite National Park

• Hotel at Black Oak Casino Resort in Tuolumne, CA
• Sierra Sky Ranch , in Oakhurst, CA
• Autocamp Yosemite , in Midpines, CA

See more about Autocamp Yosemite in our article on uniquely beautiful Glamping Spots in California. 

Best Time to Visit Yosemite National Park

The best time to visit Yosemite National Park depends on what you want out of your trip. 

If you want to hike Half Dome and other trails, you should visit between May and October for warmer weather and more open trailheads. 

If you’re looking for a quiet getaway , try a January trip to Yosemite. 

There’s really no wrong time to visit the park as long as you plan ahead and prepare for the season.

How to Get Around Yosemite National Park

There are several ways to get around Yosemite National Park. Check out the park website on getting around for the most up-to-date and accurate information.

You can use your own vehicle to get around Yosemite, and this is especially recommended for visiting anywhere outside of Yosemite Valley. 

Note that some national park roads close during the winter, and tire chains may be required at any time. 

Also, note that traffic in Yosemite Valley is notoriously bad during the summer and the rest of the year on weekends and holidays. 

Traffic is known to back up for hours as thousands of private vehicles attempt to enter or exit the park simultaneously. 

To avoid this, you can use public transportation to get in the park any time of year. 

Yosemite offered a free shuttle around Yosemite Valley before the pandemic. It’s currently not operating, but keep an eye on the park website for updates on when the shuttle will return. 

Tips for Visiting Yosemite National Park

Don’t let surprises ruin your Yosemite vacation! Follow these tips for a smooth national park adventure. 

Reservations

Yosemite National Park required entrance reservations between May and October during the pandemic. 

As of October 31, 2021, the park no longer requires reservations; however, this may be subject to change depending on public health guidelines. 

Entrance Fee

The park always collects entrance fees at each park entrance station. 

If the station is closed when you arrive, you must fill out a self-registration card and submit your payment into a box (bring cash and a pen). 

The fee for a private vehicle is $35 for a seven-day pass. Click here for detailed fee information for other types of vehicle entrances . 

Read our guide on how to get from San Francisco to Yos emite .

Expect crowds

Yosemite National Park is routinely listed as one of the most visited national parks in the country. 

On top of that, most of the park’s visitors want to visit Yosemite Valley, which is a relatively small portion of the park. 

For this reason, expect very crowded facilities and congested traffic, especially in the summer months. 

Help keep Yosemite wildlife wild by following these tips.

• Keep 25 yards from deer and 50 yards (half a football field) from bears and all other wildlife.
• Even if wildlife appears to be ignoring you, or walks towards you, keep your distance.
• Store food and trash properly. Always keep food and trash within arms reach or in a locked vehicle or food storage locker.
• Obey the speed limit! Every year up to 30 bears are hit by vehicles in Yosemite.
• Know what to do if you see a bear . 

We’ve all seen amazing footage of beautiful outdoor spaces taken with drones, so I understand the appeal of a drone. 

However, national parks , and especially Yosemite, are not the place for drones. 

First and foremost, Yosemite regularly uses helicopters for emergency rescue operations, and if there’s a drone flying, the helicopter can’t fly. The same goes for wildfire emergencies using aircraft. 

Second, people have used drones to locate wildlife, and in the process of getting their amazing shot, have harassed and disturbed the wildlife. Don’t be that person!

What to Pack for Yosemite National Park

When you’re ready to gear up for your Yosemite vacation, be sure to pack all the necessary gear to keep you safe and comfortable. 

• A map and a navigation device (remember phones don’t always work in the wilderness)
• Hiking backpack
• Sturdy, comfortable shoes
• Camera with a zoom lens or binoculars to help you view wildlife safely
• Sun protection, including sunscreen and sunglasses
• Food and water
• Bear canister , if you plan to backpack in the park
• Extra layers , including a waterproof layer
• Light source (e.g., headlamp , flashlight , extra batteries )
• Outdoor watch (like a Garmin watch ), handheld GPS (if you plan to do some backcountry exploring), and a downloaded hiking app
• First-aid kit (bonus points if you know how to use it)
• Your national park passport

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Mimi McFadden Founder & Editor-In-Chief

Mimi McFadden initially started The Atlas Heart in 2013 to write about her adventures abroad. But since 2019, The Atlas Heart has become a love letter to the Golden State. Mimi enjoys sharing her first-hand knowledge and expertise with the places she knows so well and making the most comprehensive travel guides possible. When she’s not hiking and exploring new places in California, she loves to travel abroad, read in her cozy chaise lounge, play basketball, and connect with friends and family over board games. Over her 28 years in California, she has lived in Santa Cruz (18 years), San Diego (5 years), and the San Francisco Bay Area (5 years), where she currently resides.

Looking for more California parks and Sierra Nevada travel inspiration? Check out my related posts below!

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Hi, I'm Mimi! I'm an outdoorsy Californian who has spent over 28 years immersed in the incredible natural beauty that California has to offer. My goal is to inspire others to get out and find their next adventure in California. Whether it’s escaping to an alpine lake in the Sierras, finding peace among the giant redwoods, or road tripping down the PCH, there’s always more to explore in this beautiful state.

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Must-see attractions in Yosemite National Park

Mariposa Grove

Yosemite National Park

With their massive stature and multi-millennium maturity, the chunky high-rise sequoias of Mariposa Grove will make you feel rather insignificant. The…

Glacier Point

If you drove, the views from 7214ft Glacier Point might make you feel like you cheated – superstar sights present themselves without your having made…

Yosemite's most distinctive natural monument, Half Dome is 87 million years old and has a 93% vertical grade – the sheerest cliff in North America…

At nearly 3600ft from base to summit, El Capitan ranks as one of the world’s largest granite monoliths. Its sheer face makes it a world-class destination…

Olmsted Point

This ‘honey, hit the brakes!’ viewpoint, midway between the May Lake turnoff and Tenaya Lake, is a lunar landscape of glaciated granite with a stunning…

Bridalveil Fall

At the southwestern end of the valley, Bridalveil Fall tumbles 620ft. The Ahwahneechee people call it Pohono (Spirit of the Puffing Wind), as gusts often…

Yosemite Falls

West of Yosemite Village, Yosemite Falls is considered the tallest waterfall in North America, dropping 2425ft (740m) in three tiers. A slick trail leads…

Inspiration Point

Some of Yosemite's best vistas are granted to those who hike the steep, 1.3-mile trail up to this viewpoint. Inspiration Point used to be a spot along an…

Sentinel Dome

The hike to Sentinel’s summit (8122ft) is the shortest and easiest trail up one of Yosemite’s granite domes. For those unable to visit Half Dome’s summit,…

Main Meadow

Stretching nearly 3 miles from Pothole Dome in the west to Lembert Dome in the east, Tuolumne’s main meadow is beautiful to behold, especially at sunset,…

Tenaya Lake

Just east of Olmsted Point, the shiny blue surface of Tenaya Lake (8150ft) looks absolutely stunning framed by thick stands of pine and a series of smooth…

Lembert Dome

Prominently marking the eastern end of the main meadow, Lembert Dome towers about 800ft above the Tuolumne River. Its summit, which chalks in at 9450ft…

Vernal Fall

At one of Yosemite's iconic falls, the thundering waters of the Merced River tumble 317ft down on the way to meet Yosemite Valley below. Mist Trail, the…

Tunnel View

Just off Hwy 41, immediately east of Wawona Tunnel, is the parking lot for this spectacular viewpoint where you can take in much of the valley floor,…

Nevada Fall

Spectacular views await from these falls, ricocheting 594ft as part of the 'Giant Staircase' leading the Merced River down into Yosemite Valley. Most…

Merced Grove

A dirt road, closed to cars, dips steeply down the smallest, densest and quietest sequoia grove in the park.

Tuolumne Grove

Small grove of towering giant sequoias.

Yosemite Conservation Heritage Center

Built by the Sierra Club in 1903, this small, rustic, granite-and-wood lodge offers a glimpse of a relatively unknown chapter of California architecture…

Chilnualna Falls

Chilnualna Creek tumbles around 2200ft over the north shoulder of forested Wawona Dome in an almost continuous series of cascades. The largest and most…

Ansel Adams Gallery

Few know about it, but original Ansel Adams photographic prints are shown at Yosemite Valley's Ansel Adams Gallery. A number of walks and classes are also…

Yosemite Museum

The Yosemite Museum has Miwok and Paiute artifacts, including woven baskets, beaded buckskin dresses and dance capes made from feathers. Native American…

Soda Springs

Above the north shore of the Tuolumne River, carbonated mineral water burbles silently out of Soda Springs, a small natural spring that turns its…

The Ahwahnee Hotel

About a quarter-mile east of Yosemite Village, The Ahwahnee is a picture of rustic elegance, dating back to 1927. You don’t need to be a…

Parsons Memorial Lodge

This simple but beautifully rugged cabin was built in 1915 from local granite. It initially served as a Sierra Club meeting room and was named for Edward…

Happy Isles

Where the Merced River courses around two small islands lies Happy Isles, a popular area for picnics, swimming and strolls on marked paths and a small…

Pothole Dome

Pothole Dome marks the western end of Tuolumne Meadows. It’s small by Yosemite standards, but the short, 200ft climb to the top offers great views of the…

Ribbon Falls

At 1600 ft, Ribbon Falls, only seen from the west side of El Capitan, is the highest single drop falls in North America. There's no signage and no real…

Wawona Swinging Bridge

Metal cables anchored to boulders on both ends of this 40 ft span over the South Fork of the Merced River keep the wobbling relatively light. Nice spot…

Stoneman Bridge

An iconic spot, both as a perfect foreground structure for photos of Half Dome in the distance and for its simple, elegant single-arch stone design over…

Wapama Falls

These falls, on the north side of the Hetch Hetchy reservoir, fall more than 1000ft and are a worthy destination for a 5-mile round-trip hike from the O…

Washburn Point

On the way to Glacier Point, less than a mile away, this viewpoint faces east toward the Clark Range, so no sweeping view of Yosemite Valley. Still,…

Tueeulala Falls

These falls, pronounced twee-lala, drop more than 1000ft over a sheer granite cliff on the north side of the Hetch Hetchy reservoir.

Lyell Canyon

This lovely canyon, which includes a section that is part of the John Muir Trail, follows the Lyell Fork of the Tuolumne River.

McGurk Meadow

Lush wildflower-strewn meadow with a historic log cabin. Makes for a nice, leisurely stroll.

Sentinel Bridge

This bridge over the Merced River has fantastic views of Half Dome and Yosemite Falls.

Valley View

Views of El Capitan and Bridalveil Fall can be had from this valley-floor turnout.

Dewey Point Lookout

There are panoramic views of Yosemite Valley from this 7385ft ridge lookout.

Pioneer Yosemite History Center

Off Wawona Rd, about 6 miles north of Mariposa Grove, you can take in the manicured grounds of the elegant Big Trees Lodge and cross a covered bridge to…

Yosemite Community Church

Built in 1879, this chapel is Yosemite’s oldest structure that still remains in use, including for weddings. In 1885, President Ulysses Grant's memorial…

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Not just a great valley, but a shrine to human foresight, the strength of granite, the power of glaciers, the persistence of life, and the tranquility of the High Sierra. First protected in 1864, Yosemite National Park is best known for its waterfalls, but within its nearly 1,200 square miles, you can find deep valleys, grand meadows, ancient giant sequoias, a vast wilderness area, and much more.

Find out when reservations are required to provide entry to Yosemite and how to get them for specific dates in 2024.

What is there to do in Yosemite? This common question is a difficult one to answer... because there are so many options.

Learn more about current conditions in Yosemite such as roads, trails, campgrounds, fire, rivers and waterfalls, snowpack, etc.

If you're planning a trip to Yosemite in winter, make sure you plan ahead for what's open and what preparations you should take.

Come prepared! When snowy or icy conditions exist on park roads, chains can be required.

Find activities that fit into your Yosemite adventure!

So many places to go and so little time! Learn more about all the areas and attractions in Yosemite.

Camping is extremely popular in Yosemite. Plan ahead and figure out what options you have for this enjoyable activity.

Looking for lodging? Learn more about our popular overnight accommodations.

Find your route to Yosemite, check the status of roads, and view park maps.

One app, every park at your fingertips. The NPS App offers tools to explore more than 400 national parks nationwide.

Wilderness permits are required for all overnight hikes. Learn how and when to apply for a permit.

Permits to hike to the top of Half Dome are required seven days per week when the cables are up and are distributed by lottery.

Yosemite is home to countless waterfalls. The best time to see waterfalls is during spring, when most of the snowmelt occurs.

Last updated: February 27, 2024

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The Ultimate Yosemite Guide, from a National Park Aficionado

It may be crowded, but It's iconic for a reason—and truly worth a visit.

The first time I hiked in Yosemite National Park , I was blown away. Sure, you see Yosemite in pictures and videos on YouTube, but that's nothing compared to experiencing it in person. The vast size of the park, the granite cliffs, stunning waterfalls—including Yosemite Falls, the tallest waterfall in North America—and sprawling meadows astounded me.

Yosemite National Park has since become my favorite national park (and place!) in the U.S. I've made it my vow to visit it every year, and it sparked my mission of visiting all of the national parks in America. (I'm currently at 18 of 63!)

Located in the Sierra Nevada mountains of California, Yosemite offers visitors an enticing blend of natural wonders and outdoor activities. It's home to iconic landmarks like Half Dome and El Capitan , which attract climbers and photographers from around the world.

Whether you're seeking hiking trails, camping spots, or simply a peaceful retreat in nature, Yosemite National Park has something to offer everyone. Ready to plan your visit? Consider this your ultimate guide to optimizing your trip to Yosemite.

What Should You Visit Yosemite?

Kendra Tustin for Wide Open Spaces

The fascinating topography of Yosemite National Park formed through a series of geological processes over millions of years. The park's iconic features, such as its granite cliffs and deep valleys, can be traced to the uplift and erosion of the Sierra Nevada mountain range.

Around 10 million years ago, tectonic forces caused the uplifting of the Sierra Nevada, creating a high plateau. Over time, erosion from ice, water, and wind shaped the landscape.

During the last Ice Age, approximately 2 million years ago, glaciers sculpted the valleys and carved out U-shaped canyons. The immense pressure and movement of the glaciers resulted in the iconic features seen today, including Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and El Capitan.

The exposed granite cliffs, such as those in Yosemite Valley, are the result of erosion stripping away the surrounding rock layers.

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The ultimate adventure guide to yosemite national park, the kid-friendly itinerary to yosemite national park, 18 awe-inspiring trails in yosemite national park for hikers at all levels.

Yosemite's diverse landscape is a testament to the complex geological history that has shaped the park into the natural wonder it is today.

Where Is Yosemite National Park Located?

National Park Service

Yosemite National Park is located in the western Sierra Nevada mountains of California. The park covers an area of about 1,200 square miles and is primarily located in Mariposa County but extends into Tuolumne and Madera counties as well.

It's about four hours from San Francisco, three hours from Sacramento, and eight hours from Las Vegas.

How Do You Get to Yosemite?

Arch rock entrance (highway 140).

This entrance is located northwest of Mariposa and is accessed via Highway 140 from Merced. It provides direct access to Yosemite Valley.

South Entrance (Highway 41)

Located near the town of Fish Camp, this entrance is accessed via Highway 41 from Fresno. It provides access to Wawona, Yosemite Valley, and Glacier Point.

Tioga Pass Entrance (Highway 120)

Situated east of Groveland, this entrance is accessed via Highway 120 from the west or east. It provides access to Tuolumne Meadows, Tioga Pass, and other high-country areas. (FYI: Tioga Pass road is typically closed during winter months due to snow. Sometimes it can remain closed into July!)

Fresno Yosemite International Airports (FAT)

Located in Fresno, California, FAT is the closest airport to the south entrance of Yosemite National Park. It's approximately a 1.5- to 2-hour drive to the park. This airport is served directly by public transportation in the form of Yosemite Area Regional Transit System (YARTS) .

Merced Regional Airport (MCE)

Located in Merced, California, MCE is the closest airport to the Arch Rock Entrance of Yosemite National Park. From there, it's approximately a 2-hour drive to the park.

Sacramento International Airport (SMF)

Located in between Sacramento and Woodland, California, Sacramento International Airport is another option when traveling to Yosemite National Park. The airport is roughly three hours to the south entrance of the park.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Yosemite?

The best time to visit Yosemite National Park largely depends on your own preferences. Each season has its own charm, so it's important to consider your preferred activities, weather conditions, and crowd levels when choosing when to visit Yosemite. Here's what you might expect, by the seasons:

March to May: Spring brings blooming wildflowers and rushing waterfalls as the snow melts. The park is less crowded during this time, and you can enjoy moderate temperatures. However, some higher-elevation areas may still have snow, limiting access to certain trails.

June to August: Summer is the peak tourist season with warm temperatures, open trails, and longer days. The valley is bustling with visitors, and popular attractions can get crowded. You'll need to make reservations for accommodations and activities well in advance.

September to November: Fall is a beautiful time to visit Yosemite as the foliage transforms into vibrant hues of red, orange, and gold. The weather remains pleasant, and the park sees fewer crowds compared to summer. September is a great time for hiking and rock climbing.

December to February: Yosemite's winter offers a serene and snowy landscape. Some roads and facilities may be closed due to snowfall, but you can enjoy winter activities like snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and ice skating (at Curry Village). Just keep in mind that Yosemite Valley may experience occasional closures due to storms.

Yosemite Reservations, Passes, and Entrance Fees

Some good news: Yosemite National Park no longer requires reservations . However, keep in mind that does mean more crowds, particularly during the peak summer season.

There are five days throughout the year that you can visit any national park for free —make sure to check the NPS website for the most up-to-date information. But, otherwise, you'll need to pay an entrance fee to Yosemite . The current rates for a pass good for seven consecutive days are $35 to enter by private vehicle, $30 for a motorcycle, and $20 per person if entering on foot, by bicycle, or on horseback.

If you want to visit Yosemite numerous times throughout the year, you can purchase an annual pass to visit the park for $70. You can also purchase an America the Beautiful annual pass for $80 for access to all of the national parks for 365 days.

Where to Stay in Yosemite National Park

Yosemite is so vast, which means that there are a ton of options for accommodations. Keep in mind that the hotels in Yosemite National Park are pricey and get booked up extremely fast, especially during the summer, so try to get a reservation at least 2-3 months in advance.

Best Places to Stay While Visiting Yosemite

Located near the park's southern entrance, Wawona features the historic Wawona Hotel. It offers a rustic charm and is close to the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias.

Yosemite West

Situated just outside the park's western boundary, Yosemite West offers vacation rental homes and condos with easy access to Yosemite Valley, Glacier Point, and Badger Pass Ski Area.

Located just outside the western entrance, El Portal is home to a few hotels and lodges, providing a convenient base for exploring the park.

Mariposa and Oakhurst

These nearby towns offer a range of accommodation options, including hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and vacation rentals. They are within a reasonable driving distance from the park's entrances.

Campgrounds in Yosemite

Yosemite National Park has several campgrounds within the park, including Upper Pines, Lower Pines, and North Pines. These can be reserved in advance—an absolute must if you want to camp in the summer—and provide a more immersive camping experience.

Getting Around Yosemite National Park

You can easily drive your vehicle into the park, which has tradeoffs. As I learned on a trip to Yosemite this summer, if you visit during the busy season, parking fills up fast . Because Yosemite did away with the reservation entry system, that means more people vying for spots. The biggest tip I can give you is to get to the park as early as you can—I arrived at 5:45 A.M. and had plenty of parking to choose from.

The caveat: You may want your vehicle to get to other parts of the park. And if you leave your parking spot, you could have a difficult time finding another. My advice is to leave your car once you find parking. Luckily, there are a few ways of getting around the valley without moving your car from your parking space.

Yosemite National Park offers a free shuttle system that provides transportation around Yosemite Valley, the busiest area of the park.

• If you're looking to visit Mariposa Grove, the free shuttle is the primary way to get there. It provides service from the Mariposa Grove Welcome Plaza near the park's south entrance to the Mariposa Grove. The shuttle is seasonal, starting around April 2 and ending November 30.
• The Yosemite Valley Shuttle System takes visitors through various points in the valley including lodges, food services, campgrounds, and trailheads. It's available year-round, subject to weather, and with shorter hours come winter. During peak season, the buses arrive every 12 to 22 minutes from 7 A.M. to 10 P.M.
• The East Valley Shuttle connects Yosemite Village, Curry Village, Pines Campgrounds, and Trailheads in eastern Yosemite Valley. Buses arrive every 8 to 12 minutes and from 7 A.M. to 10 P.M.

I used the shuttle and while it was convenient, it got packed very quickly in July, which could mean waiting up to 30 minutes in line for the next one. (Somehow, I got lucky and never had to wait longer than 10 minutes!)

You also have the option to bike around the park! You can bring your own or you can rent a bike from any of the three locations in the park: Yosemite Valley Lodge, Curry Village, or Yosemite Village. The rental locations are open from 8 A.M  to 7 P.M., with the last bike rental of the day at 5:45 P.M.

You can choose among a few options in terms of your needs. Current rates include a full day for $40 for a standard bike or $75 for a bike with trailer to haul your gear.

Things to Do In Yosemite National Park

Probably the most sought hike in Yosemite National Park, Half Dome is the one visitors descend upon from all over the world to trek. It's not for the faint of heart, however. This hike requires a permit to tackle the steep ascent using cables near the summit. (If the cables are down, or you don't want to attempt them, no permit is required.) At the top, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of the valley.

• Duration: 10 to 14 hours
• Length: 14 to 16 miles round-trip
• Skill Level: Very strenuous
• Elevation Gain: 4,800 feet

Yosemite Falls

The Falls trails are broken up into two sections. Lower Yosemite Falls is a quick easy walk through the forest until you reach a bridge, where you can watch the falls thundering down over giant rocks. If you don't mind getting wet, you can even climb the rocks to get close to it.

Upper Yosemite Falls is strenuous, but it takes you to the very top of the falls and you are rewarded with amazing views of the valley. FYI, Yosemite Falls is very popular and gets crowded quickly during peak season.

• Duration: 3 to 6 hours
• Length: 1-mile loop for Lower Falls, 7.2 miles round-trip for Upper Yosemite Fall Trail
• Skill Level: Easy (Lower) to strenuous (Upper)
• Elevation gain: 2,700 feet (Upper)

This iconic trail takes you up close to two breathtaking waterfalls, Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall, with misty sprays and scenic vistas. This hike is beautiful, but take your time. It gets steep and the rocks are very slippery due to the mist from the falls.

• Duration: 3 to 5 hours
• Length: 7.2 miles round-trip
• Skill Level: Moderate
• Elevation gain: 1,000 feet to Vernal Falls, 1,900 feet to Nevada Fall

Glacier Point

My favorite spot by far in Yosemite is Glacier Point. Starting at the Glacier Point trailhead or via the Four Mile Trail (see below), arriving at Glacier Point rewards you with panoramic views of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and the High Sierra. You'll find a stunning view of Half Dome smack dab in the center—it's so close, you feel like you can jump on it. If you're like me, it might just bring you to tears!

• Duration: 4 to 6 hours
• Length: 9.6 miles round-trip
• Elevation Gain: 3,200 feet

Tuolumne Meadows and Lembert Dome

This hike takes you through the scenic Tuolumne Meadows and offers a climb to the top of Lembert Dome, providing sweeping views of the surrounding mountains.

• Duration: 2 to 4 hours
• Length: 2 to 5 miles round-trip
• Skill Level: Easy to moderate
• Elevation gain: 900 feet (if you climb to Lembert)

Four Mile Trail

This trail starts at Yosemite Valley and leads to Glacier Point where you'll enjoy breathtaking views of Yosemite Valley, El Capitan, and Half Dome.

• Skill level: Moderate to strenuous
• Elevation gain: 3,200 feet

Mariposa Grove

This trail explores the giant sequoias in Mariposa Grove, home to some of the largest trees on earth, including the famous Grizzly Giant and California Tunnel Tree.

• Duration: 2 to 3 hours
• Length: 0.3 to 7 miles round-trip
• Skill Level: Easy
• Elevation gain: Varies

Cathedral Lakes

This hike takes you to the stunning Cathedral Lakes, nestled beneath granite peaks. You'll encounter pristine alpine lakes and scenic vistas along the way.

• Duration: 5 to 7 hours
• Skill level: Moderate
• Elevation Gain: 1,000 feet

Clouds Rest

This challenging hike rewards you with 360-degree views of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and the surrounding peaks from the summit of Clouds Rest. Some choose this hike as a worthwhile consolation prize if they cannot obtain permits to hike Half Dome.

• Duration: 7 to 10 hours
• Length: 14.5 miles round-trip
• Skill level: Strenuous
• Elevation gain: 3,100 feet

Panorama Trail

This trail offers an unforgettable journey from Glacier Point to Yosemite Valley, passing through (yes) panoramic viewpoints, waterfalls, and diverse landscapes.

• Duration: 6 to 8 hours
• Length: 8.5 miles round-trip

Additional Hikes

Craving more exploration? These Yosemite hikes are also worth your consideration:

• Mirror Lake Loop : 2 miles round-trip | Skill level: Easy
• Sentinel Dome : 2.2 miles round-trip | Skill level: Moderate
• Upper Gaylor Lake : 3.5 miles round-trip | Skill level: Moderate
• May Lake and Mount Hoffman : 5.2 miles round-trip | Skill level: Moderate to strenuous
• Chilnualna Falls : 8.2 miles round-trip | Skill level: Strenuous
• Hetch Hetchy Reservoir and Wapama Falls : 5.6 miles round-trip | Skill level: Moderate
• Taft Point and The Fissures : 2.2 miles round-trip | Skill level: Easy to moderate

Scenic Viewpoints and Drives

Tioga Road (Highway 120)

This scenic drive spans approximately 46 miles and takes you through the high country of Yosemite. You'll pass through meadows, alpine lakes, and granite peaks, and enjoy panoramic views along the way. Some of the notable viewpoints on Tioga Road include Olmsted Point and Tenaya Lake.

Keep in mind, this road always closes for winter. Make sure to double check the NPS website for the most up-to-date road closures.

Glacier Point Road

This 16-mile road takes you to Glacier Point, one of the most famous viewpoints in Yosemite. From here, you can admire stunning panoramic views of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and the surrounding mountains. The road is typically open from late spring through fall.

Tunnel View

Have you ever seen a picture of Yosemite that shows all the granite rocks with a bunch of trees below? This is the spot and it's a must on your itinerary when visiting Yosemite National park.

Located near the Wawona Tunnel entrance, this viewpoint offers an awe-inspiring view of Yosemite Valley. From Tunnel view, you can see El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall, Half Dome, and the valley's granite cliffs.

El Capitan is a massive granite monolith located in Yosemite National Park. It's one of the most famous landmarks in Yosemite and attracts climbers and sightseers from around the world. El Capitan stands approximately 3,000 feet above the floor of Yosemite Valley, and its sheer rock face is considered one of the ultimate challenges for rock climbers.

One of the best locations to get a cool view of El Capitan from below in Yosemite National Park is the El Capitan Meadow. It offers a relatively close vantage point and provides a stunning perspective of the sheer rock face.

To access the El Capitan Meadow, drive or take the free shuttle bus to the El Capitan Picnic Area parking lot. From there, take a short walk to the meadow. It's especially impressive during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset when the granite catches the beautiful light. Bring some chairs, sit back, and relax. You may see a few people climbing, so bring some binoculars as well!

Valley View

This viewpoint, located on Northside Drive near El Capitan, offers a picturesque scene of the Merced River flowing through Yosemite Valley. It's a great spot for capturing reflections of the surrounding cliffs and foliage.

Valley Floor Loop

The 13-mile Valley Floor Loop is a scenic drive that takes you around Yosemite Valley. You can experience the park's iconic landmarks, meadows, and forests from the comfort of your vehicle.

Other Activities in Yosemite

Visitor Centers

Yosemite National Park has several visitor centers that provide information exhibits, and educational resources to visitors.

• Yosemite Valley Visitor Center : Located in Yosemite Valley, this is the park's main visitor center.
• Tuolumne Meadows Visitor Center : This visitor center in Tuolumne Meadows provides information specifically for the high country of Yosemite.
• Big Oak Flat Information Station : Situated near the Big Oak Flat entrance, this information station offers general park information, maps, and guidance for visitors entering Yosemite from the northwest.
• Wawona Visitor Center : If you enter Yosemite from the south, the Wawona center is the one that will greet you.

Rock Climbing

Yosemite is a renowned destination for rock climbing. Experienced climbers can challenge themselves on iconic granite formations such as El Capitan, Half Dome, and Cathedral Peak. Beginners should take advantage of the climbing schools and guides available for hire.

Yosemite Valley offers bike rentals and several paved trails within the park where you can enjoy cycling. Biking is a great way to explore the valley floor and its beautiful surroundings.

Ranger-Led Programs

Joining the many ranger-led programs is a fantastic way to learn more about the park's natural and cultural history. Options include guided walks, campfire programs, stargazing sessions, and educational presentations offered by park rangers.

Winter Sports

During the cold season, Yosemite transforms into a winter wonderland. Visitors can enjoy activities such as snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and ice skating (conditions permitting) in designated areas.

Water Activities

When things thaw out, the Merced River and various lakes within Yosemite offer opportunities for swimming, fishing, and rafting during certain seasons and water conditions. Remember to check for any restrictions or permits required for fishing.

Picnicking and Relaxation

Numerous picnic areas are available throughout Yosemite, providing peaceful spots to enjoy a meal amidst nature. Relax, unwind, and savor your lunch in the tranquility of the park.

What to Pack for Visiting Yosemite

There are some hiking essentials you'll want to bring, as you would on any hiking trip—such as a good backpack or daypack , first aid kit , sunscreen , and insect repellent —to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

After three visits to Yosemite, here are some other things I suggest you bring along.

• Clothing you can layer: Yosemite's temperatures can vary throughout the day and at different elevations, so dress in layers to accommodate changing weather conditions. Include items such as a lightweight jacket, long-sleeved shirts, pants, a hat, sunglasses, and sturdy footwear suitable for hiking or walking.
• Plenty of water and snacks : Don't forget to carry an adequate supply of water to stay hydrated during your visit. Snacks and/or a packed lunch are also recommended, especially if you plan on spending a significant amount of time exploring the park. If you don't bring enough or forgot, there are several stores in the valley where you can purchase additional water and snacks, but my advice is to bring your own as the valley store can be expensive!
• Park pass: Ensure you have a valid Yosemite National Park pass or pay the entrance fee when you arrive. This pass provides access to the park and supports its conservation efforts. FYI, some facilities within the park may accept only cash, so it's recommended to carry some cash for small purchases. However, major credit and debit cards are generally accepted in most locations.
• Navigation tools : Cell service is poor, so I recommend carrying a detailed map or guidebook of the park and a compass to help you navigate trails and find points of interest. (I bring a whistle that has a built-in compass.) A GPS device or smartphone with offline maps can also be useful; be sure to download them before entering the park.

Can I Bring My Dog to Yosemite?

Pets are allowed in Yosemite, but with limitations in order to protect them, other people, and wildlife. Dogs are permitted in developed areas, on fully paved roads, sidewalks, and bicycle paths (except when signage says otherwise), and in some campgrounds but not walk-in or group campsites.

Keep in mind that pets are not allowed:

• On many trails, including the trail to Vernal Fall, even if carried (Pets are allowed on the Wawona Meadow Loop)
• On unplowed roads covered in snow
• In undeveloped and wilderness areas
• In public buildings
• On shuttle buses
• In lodging areas
• In all walk-in and group campgrounds/campsites, including camp 4
• In any other areas, as signed

Is a Trip to Yosemite National Park Worth It?

Without a doubt, it's  so worth it! I've found Yosemite's beauty unparalleled and it truly inspires awe and appreciation for the wonders of the natural world.

With so many trails, viewpoints, and activities, there's something for everyone at this park. As noted, Yosemite's popularity means that certain areas and trails can become crowded, especially during peak seasons. Planning ahead, making reservations when required, and exploring lesser-known areas of the park can help enhance your experience.

READ MORE: The Ultimate Guide To Visiting Arches National Park

You might also like.

8 National Parks Will Require Reservations in 2024

The Best Yosemite Valley Day Hikes Worth Your Time

The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Rocky Mountain National Park

California National Parks: The Top Destinations for Summer Wilderness Adventure

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The best things to do in Yosemite

You can't go wrong in this gorgeous national park, but here are the best things to do in Yosemite, according to people who know

There are national parks , and then there are NATIONAL PARKS. Yosemite’s one of these, with instant name recognition—and with inclusion on many people’s lifetime bucket list. It’s a walker’s paradise, but also enjoyable by car, guided bus or tram tour, so long as you take time to pull over and really inhale the views and the scents of fragrant incense cedar and sequoia. Climbers love the granite face of El Capitan, an impressive monolith, and brave hikers can tackle the seasonal cable climb of Half Dome. Wildflowers abound and wildlife roams free, including bears right in the valley. Striking waterfalls, an amazing February phenomenon called the Firefall , and beauty in all four seasons appeal to photographers—Ansel Adams spent significant time here, and there’s a gallery in his name you can visit. Learn about the Miwok at the Indian Village of the Ahwahnee, which includes, among other structures, a roundhouse still used for ceremonies by the local community. Stay in a tent or upscale your stay at the Ahwahnee, an iconic example of “parkitecture.” Above all, take a few deep breaths and marvel at the incredible natural beauty of America’s third national park.

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Best things to do in Yosemite

1.  Mist Trail

The quintessential Yosemite experience is this three or seven mile hike with up close, feel-the-spray views of two of Yosemite’s most magnificent waterfalls. This signature hike has amazing views, including one that encompasses Nevada Fall, Liberty Cap, and the back of Half Dome. If you’re not up for a five-hour hike, turn around at Vernal Fall (approximately two hours total), although the crowds thin out if you keep going. The best time to go is in the spring and early summer and as early in the morning as you can manage.

2.  The Ahwahnee

This grand hotel is known for its dining room complete with 24-foot windows and luxe dining experience. (Note: Dinner requires ‘proper attire’—even kids must dress up.) Make time to roam the stunning grounds and admire the magnificent architecture known as National Park Service rustic, a style developed to make buildings harmonize with their surroundings—in this case, a sheer granite cliff behind the hotel. You can now take a 360-degree virtual tour of the hotel; don’t forget to “turn right” after the check-in desk to see the red elevators that inspired Stanley Kubrick’s choices in The Shining .

3.  Skydive Yosemite

This is the only skydiving center with views of Yosemite National Park. You’ll take a Cessna 10-14,000 feet into the sky and see Half Dome, El Capitan and Yosemite Valley in a completely new way. Oh, and the part where you jump out of a plane and free fall with views of the Sierra for 40-60 seconds isn’t too bad either. You’ll land where you started, at the Mariposa-Yosemite Airport in Mariposa, outside of park limits. You can order a big ‘marry me’ banner in the landing area for marriage proposals when your intended is already breathless.

4.  Mariposa Grove

This beautiful part of the park is home to 500 mature giant sequoias, which is why the idea of national parks came to be. President Abraham Lincoln signed legislation protecting the Mariposa Grove and Yosemite Valley for 'public use, resort, and recreation' in 1864, the first time the federal government set aside scenic areas to be protected. Here, the trees are so big that they have their own names on the map, like the ‘Faithful Couple’ trees and the ‘Bachelor and Three Graces.’ You can even walk through the ‘California Tunnel Tree,’ which was carved into in 1895 to permit horse-drawn stagecoaches to pass through.

5.  Gold Rush BBQ at Tenaya Lodge

Enjoy a summer barbecue at a beautiful hotel property right outside of the park in the tiny town of Fish Camp. Reopening Memorial Day 2024 for the season, the barbecue takes place in a conifer forest clearing and is all about getting a taste of the Old West. There’s live music and a hearty menu, and if past pricing holds true at $59 for adults and $29 for kids, it’s a good deal for a fun evening activity. (If you’re going to Yosemite in colder weather, check out the hotel’s Jackalope’s Bar & Grill, which offers tasty burgers and sandwiches and house specialties like carnitas sheet pan nachos.)

6.  Yosemite Trails Horseback Adventures

This family-run pack station offers one- and two-hour horseback rides departing daily. Experienced riders can also take the five-hour round-trip ride to Grizzly Giant, a 2,000-year-old redwood tree visited by President Theodore Roosevelt and naturalist John Muir in this same equine way. The trail horses are all ‘sure-footed’ American Quarter Horses trained while young to travel in the high Sierra. You’ll have the pleasure of riding with these calm horses through water whenever the trails cross through streams. All trail rides start with a hands-on lesson in the arena before departing and are not offered in winter.

7.  Yosemite Falls Trail

Here’s your chance to hike 7.2 miles round trip to the top of mainland North America’s tallest waterfall . You’ll follow switchbacks through oak woodland on a steep trail that gains 2,700 feet in elevation, taking six to eight hours round trip. You start with a one-mile climb to Columbia Rock, which has beautiful views of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and Sentinel Rock, and after another half-mile, you can see Upper Yosemite Falls. The remaining two miles are even more strenuous but worth it for the vistas and to see the relatively small creek responsible for the roaring runoff in spring and early summer.

8.  South Gate Brewing Company

This small-batch brewery and restaurant sits 10 minutes from Yosemite’s South Gate in Oakhurst, CA. South Gate rolls out beautiful beer while offering a wide range of core house brews. With views of Deadwood Mountain from the dining room’s large windows and excellent pub grub, this place makes the trip to Yosemite even sweeter. Try to make it for events like Oktoberfest to make the visit even more memorable.

9.  Happy Isles Art and Nature Center

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This f amily-friendly space has natural history exhibits, interactive displays and art workshops. The center also includes the Yosemite Conservancy Bookstore. Outside, you can travel short trails for short legs, and see evidence of a horrific rockfall in 1996 that sent 90,000 tons of rock tumbling from the Glacier Point cliff above the center—the equivalent of 2,000 SUVs landing on the valley floor simultaneously. It knocked down hundreds of trees! You can paint that massive cliff with daily art classes for anyone 12 and up held outside during the summer months, for a fee, while younger kids can have free lessons. The center is open from April through October.

10.  Glacier Point

This jaw-dropping overlook perches 3,200 feet above the floor of Yosemite Valley with gorgeous views of Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, and the High Sierra. All Yosemite views are impressive, but this one is beyond special. You’ll be staring right at Half Dome’s monumental curve almost at eye level. Glacier Point provides a great starting or finishing point for three strenuous hikes: the Four Mile Trail, the Panorama Trail, and the Pohono Trail. Glacier Point is open for cars from late May through October or November, depending on snow melt, and is accessible in winter by snowshoeing or skiing. 

11.  Yosemite Wine Tails

That’s right; it’s not ‘trails’ but ‘tails’... like on the dog that will accompany you to this dog-friendly wine bar in Oakhurst, near Yosemite’s southern entrance. This establishment serves one-of-a-kind drinks you can’t find in the grocery store, an excellent selection of California wine and beer, and locally-made snacks. The owners require that every winery, brewery and other vendor they work with donates a percentage to a pet-centered nonprofit. Need we say more?

12.  Yosemite Health Spa

Part of the Yosemite Bug Rustic Mountain Resort in Midpines, CA, just outside the park limits, this spa boasts its own garden deck overlooking the valley below. You can do yoga here or get a massage, step into a locally made herbal steep bath, and enjoy the hot rocks sauna. The huge stainless steel hot tub uses UV light and oxygen-infusing food-grade hydrogen peroxide. Does going to the spa seem a little indulgent for a trip centered on the outdoors? Maybe. Will you care when you’re completely blissed out? Absolutely not.

13.  Hetch Hetchy Valley

This beautiful (and less visited) glacial valley in the park's northwest corner offers hiking, fishing, waterfalls, and wildflowers. It has one of the longest hiking seasons in the park and is dotted with remote lakes and hidden canyons. It’s also home to the 430-foot O’Shaughnessy Dam that creates the reservoir, giving San Francisco some of the cleanest municipal water in the United States. There’s no swimming or boating in the reservoir for that reason, but you can fish it year-round. Before the dam was built, John Muir—who fought its construction—called Hetch Hetchy ‘a wonderfully exact counterpart of the great Yosemite.’

14.  Iron Door Saloon & Grill

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This place claims to be the oldest continuously operating saloon in California, established in 1852 (maybe). If you’re entering or exiting Yosemite through the Big Oak Flat Entrance, stop in Groveland (a 30-minute drive) for breakfast, lunch or dinner and ‘free drinks tomorrow.’ Their Bloody Mary mix is so in demand that they sell it in 32oz Mason jars to go. This historic structure has walls made out of solid granite and a sod roof covered in tin. The iron doors were made in England, brought around the tip of South America by ship and hauled in by mule to their present location.

15.  Half Dome

If you can manage to climb Half Dome , it’s one of those memorable adventures you’ll never forget. The 14-mile (10- to 12-hour) round trip hike gains 5,000 feet in elevation—and you’re at 8,800 feet above sea level where the air is thin. The infamous cables you’ll need for the last, steepest 400-foot stretch are metal ropes you hang onto while widely spaced wooden slats provide ‘resting stops’ for your feet. You have to get a permit in advance for this experience, which is open from late May through mid-October. Note: this winter’s incredible snowpack means the cables may not open until June.

16.  Golden Crown Mine

Before the park was set aside for preservation, silver miners excavated here, and you can hike to five log cabins that were part of a mining camp near the Golden Crown Mine . The mine operated from 1879 to 1890 at Mono Pass, at a dizzying 11,000 feet elevation. The fragile mine complex has been nominated to the National Register of Historic Places, and the park encourages visitors to make the challenging hike to increase awareness of its historic importance. Start at the Dana meadows side of Mt. Gibbs to hike to Mono Pass, with an even more difficult hike up Bloody Canyon to the mine.

17.  Sierra Nevada Bighorn Sheep

Try to capture a glimpse of one of these majestic mammals by visiting Cathedral Range, where they have been repopulating after an absence of 100 years. The bighorns were once abundant in Yosemite, but hunting and disease brought them near extinction. Now, there are three herds thanks to a state-funded recovery plan that relocated ewes and rams from Inyo National Forest and Sequoia National Park to the Yosemite wilderness (they wear GPS collars and can be tracked). From Tuolumne Meadows, you can view the steep cliffs and rocky outcroppings of Cathedral Range —and hopefully bighorns.

18.  Indian Village of the Ahwahnee

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It’s important to spend some time thinking about how the entirety of the Yosemite Valley was land that belonged to the Miwok people and that violence and even murder accompanied the seizing of it. The last authentic Indian village was removed in the 1960s, while today’s recreation village was created in the 1920s during a period of overlap. The ceremonial roundhouse built in 1992 is used by local members of the Native American community for ceremonies, while you can also see a sweathouse, chief’s house, bark house, food storage systems like acorn granaries and other items that help give insight into what the valley used to look like.

19.  Wawona Hotel

This historic hotel is in the European style (most rooms don’t have a private bath and you share one down the hall) and is open seasonally. It’s just a short walk to the golf course and to the Pioneer History Center—and best of all, it’s close to the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias. You can eat all three meals in this 1856 structure with wonderful piano performances in the lounge in the evenings. Barbecues in summer, a crackling fireplace in winter: this place is memorable. Plus, Wawona is really fun to say.

20.  Bridalveil Fall

A timeless, classic waterfall easy to find in the valley, Bridalveil Fall usually flows year-round. The National Park Service recently completed a construction project that updated the visitor experience and viewing area. No more yucky vault toilets, congested parking, and unclear walkways. Most importantly, there’s now an accessible trail to the primary viewing platform. Previously, the path was paved but at such a steep grade that it was not wheelchair accessible.

21.  Balanced Rock

This health & wellness organization offers customized retreats and adventures, yoga, hiking, Ayurveda, and more, right within the national park. For instance, join the Summer Solstice Backpack in June for five days of hiking and backcountry yoga with Ayurvedic-inspired meals, guided meditations, and refreshing alpine lake or river swims. The founders are Heather Sullivan and Eliza Kerr, and one-time instructor Chelsea Griffie was the first Black woman to climb El Capitan. Balanced Rock continues to run Women of Color Retreats annually to support inclusivity and celebrate diversity for women of color in the outdoor space. This year, it takes place in early October as a camping retreat in Yosemite Valley.

22.  Elderberry House

The Elderberry House is the only fine dining restaurant in the Yosemite area, serving up French fare at the Château du Sureau, a castle resort just a half-hour from the south entrance of Yosemite. After a day of hiking and seeing incredible vistas, you can wind down with a three or five-course tasting menu and world-class wines. Along with European standouts, their list showcases California’s robust wine production offerings—for instance, just their Chardonnay list features close to 30 wines from Napa, Sonoma, the Russian River Valley and others.

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Things to do in Yosemite National Park

Written By: The Planet D

United States

Updated On: February 11, 2024

Looking for things to do in Yosemite National Park? Keep reading! When taking one of our many  road trips through California , one of our favorite stops was Yosemite National Park. We had heard so much about it for years and couldn’t wait to see the Half Dome and El Capitan with our own eyes.

Located in the Central Sierra Nevada of California Yosemite is known for its mountain peaks, waterfalls, and hiking trails. There are so many things to do in Yosemite National Park, it requires a few days to really take it in.

Table of Contents

Closures: Yosemite is open year-round but some roads are closed in winter due to snow. There are some areas of the park that are closed due to rock falls. Also, Glacier Point Road was closed in 2022 to improve the road. It should reopen in 2023 but there will be 30-minute delays. Visit the National Parks Service Government Website for road closures and updates.

We have rounded up some of the  best hiking trails and viewpoints to help you plan your vacation to this bucket list destination. So break out the  camping gear,  stock up on supplies, and let’s visit Yosemite National Park.

Best Way to See Yosemite

Yosemite National Park is a 4 1/2-hour drive from Los Angeles and a 3-hour drive from San Francisco. You can rent a car in either San Francisco or Los Angeles. We drove one way each time returning our car at the end in the opposite city. Get car rental prices at  CarRentals.com

We toured Yosemite National Park on a self-drive trip, but be warned, you need to get out early to see the sights.

Parking lots fill up quickly so you will want to make your way to the trails or lookouts early in the morning.

Yosemite National Park is huge at 1200 square miles (3,027 km²). However, most of the top things to do in Yosemite are situated around Yosemite Valley. Yosemite has a good shuttle service to take you to the top attractions.

You can park at Yosemite Village you can take the shuttle from the visitors center to see a lot of the top attractions. The YARTS public transit system offers shuttles.

You can also book this highly-rated tour of Yosemite. It includes a stop at Tunnel View to see Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and El Capitan, plus Vernal Falls and Nevada Falls.

Enjoy a boxed lunch included at Cathedral Beach before setting off on a hike at Tuolumne Grove of Giant Sequoias. And there are ride-share bikes set up around the park as well.

1. Yosemite Valley

Yosemite Valley is the main area of the national park where you will most likely spend most of your time. It contains the top tourist attractions including El Capitan, Half Dome and Yosemite Falls.

2. Half Dome

One of the most famous attractions in Yosemite National Park has to be the Half Dome.

Avid rock climbers put this at the top of their list as one of the great climbs on earth and park visitors can watch them tackle their routes from the safety of its lookouts.

Glacier Point offers the best view of the Half Dome but there are plenty of chances to see it as well as climb it yourself.

3. Half Dome Hike

The Half Dome Hike is a 14-mile round trip hike that takes you 5000 feet above the Yosemite Valley floor.

It takes 10 – 12 hours so make sure to leave before dawn. Be prepared for a challenging hike with the last 400 feet requires the use of the half dome cables to allow hikers to summit without climbing equipment. Read our complete guide to climbing Half Dome

4. Mariposa Grove

One of our favorite stops in Yosemite was Mariposa Grove. We took a guided tour to see the forest of 500 Giant Sequoias.

Mariposa Grove is the birthplace of the National Parks system. In 1864 President Lincoln set aside this natural area to be preserved for future generations. Now that is some kind of foresight.

There is parking available at the Mariposa Grove welcome plaza and then it requires a two-mile hike (each way) on the Washburn Trail or the Mariposa Grove Road. 

5. Ansel Adams Gallery

One of our main reasons for visiting Yosemite National Park is because of seeing the photography of Ansel Adams.

Having the chance to see his iconic images in person was at the top of our bucket list. The Ansel Adams Gallery is located in the heart of Yosemite between the Visitor Center and Post Office.

It’s in a prime location with views of Yosemite Falls, Half Dome, and Glacier Point. It showcases the photography of Ansel Adams and the people who work in the gallery who love Yosemite. Their staff includes climbers, photographers, and hikers.

You can book camera walks, photography classes, and workshops at the gallery.

6. El Capitan

Dominating the view of the west end of Yosemite Valley is the mammoth El Capitan.

Climbers come from around the world visit yosemite to climb the Nose of El Capitan. It’s a huge undertaking climbing 3000 feet up its sheer wall, but superstars Alex Honnold and Tommy Caldwell set a record climbing to its peak in under 2 hours.

Another crazy fact is that Alex Honnold was the first person to climb El Capitan without rope inspiring the documentary Free Solo.

Tunnel View offers great views of El Capitan but our favorite spot was at El Cap Meadow located directly in front of El Capitan.

• You can take rock climbing courses in Yosemite – Yosemite mountaineering school offers guided hikes and climbing as the only authorized climbing school in Yosemite. Visit their website for details.

7. Tunnel View

Tunnel view is most certainly the most recognizable scene of Yosemite National Park.

It is the top spot for photographers and a must-stop for anyone visiting Yosemite. Make your way to the Tunnel View parking lots located at the Wawona Tunnel on State Highway 41 for this iconic valley view features El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Fall. Go here for sunrise to beat the crowds.

8. Bridalveil Fall

The Bridalveil Fall trail is closed due to the  Bridalveil Fall Rehabilitation Project but should reopen in 2023. The project includes an updated viewing platform and trails and should reduce crowds at one of Yosemite’s most popular attractions.

Bridalveil Fall is the first waterfall you’ll see when entering Yosemite Valley. Bridalveil Fall plunges 620 feet (189 meters) into the valley and the hike to the waterfall is an easy 0.5 mi (0.8 km) round trip with only an 80 ft (24 m) elevation gain. It is about a 20 minute easy walk from the Bridalveil Fall Parking lot.

9. Yosemite Falls

Another must-see waterfall in Yosemite is Yosemite Falls. There are great views of Yosemite Falls from Yosemite Village.

But being one of the highest waterfalls in the world, (the world’s fifth tallest to be exact) you can see them from several places throughout Yosemite Valley.

The waterfall is actually made up of three different waterfalls creating a total cascade of 2425 feet.

Upper Yosemite Falls (1,430 feet), the middle cascades (675 feet), and Lower Yosemite Falls (320 feet). Hiking to the top of Yosemite Falls is 7.2 miles round trip, but be prepared, there is a 2,700-foot elevation gain. 

10. Mist Trail

The mist trail is considered the Yosemite national park signature hike.

There are two waterfalls to hike to along the Mist Trail, Vernal Falls is a 3-mile (4.8 km) round trip and Nevada Falls is a 7 miles (11 km) round trip.

The first part of the Mist Trail takes you to the Vernal Fall Footbridge to see the falls and then you can continue on to the top of Vernal Falls to a lookout above the waterfall.

The Mist trail then continues on to the John Muir Trail as you make your way to Nevada Falls for one of the best views in Yosemite National Park. Going to Nevada Falls is worth it.

• Make sure to arrive early to beat the crowds and find a spot in the parking lot.
• See our complete guide  to hiking the John Muir Trail.

11. Mirror Lake Trail

Another popular hike in Yosemite NP is to Mirror Lake. It is an easy hike to mirror lake and it is known for its reflections of the Yosemite Valley.

Mirror Lake will also take you right to the base of Half Dome for a close up view.

12. Tioga Road

If you have a car, make sure to take a drive on Tioga Road (Highway 120).

It is only open from late May to November as it sits in Sierra Nevada’s high country. Up here you’ll see meadows, lakes, and a great view of Half Dome from Olmsted Point.

There is a short hiking trail at Olmsted Point offering views of Tenaya Peak, Tenaya Lake, and Mount Conness.

13. Tenaya Lake

While driving on Tioga Road, an easy lake to access from the road is Tenaya Lake.

Tenaya Lake is the largest lake in Yosemite and makes for a great place to go kayaking or canoeing. You can also make a base here for a picnic.

14. Tuolumne Meadows

This interesting stop is one of the highest-elevation meadows in the Sierra Nevada Mountains.

There are a few different easy hikes such as Lyell Canyon from the John Muir Trail, Soda Springs, Parsons Lodge, Gaylor Lake, and Elizabeth Lake.

You can get to the Tuolumne Meadows by taking Tioga Road (which opens from late May to November) and there are shuttles.

A popular day hike is Cathedral Lakes which takes 4 to 6 hours to complete the 7-mile round trip. (11.3 km) 1,000-foot elevation gain.

15. Cycling Yosemite

If you are into cycling, Yosemite not only allows cyclists on the roads but there are paved paths as well.

The Yosemite Valley Bike Share program was launched in 2018. This is a great idea to help ease traffic congestion. The bikes are set up near Valley campgrounds to allow people to bike to nearby attractions rather than drive.

16. Yosemite Museum

For a little break from the outdoors, be sure to stop into the Yosemite Museum to learn of the indigenous people who first settled in Yosemite Valley and of the national parks’ history.

17. Glacier Point

Note: Glacier Point Road was closed in 2022 to improve the road. Access to Glacier Point is now accessible from  Four Mile ,  Panorama , and Pohono Trails. It should reopen in 2023 but there will be 30-minute delays.

Glacier point would normally be at the top of our list of things to see in Yosemite, but with the rehabilitation project, it may need to wait one more year. However things may change for 2022.

The best place to see a good overview of the Yosemite National Park is from here. It includes views of Yosemite Valley, the and the Half Dome standing s tall over the other mountain peaks. Glacier point is an excellent stop when it is open. As of now, you cannot drive up to it, but if you are determined to see it there are a couple of strenuous hikes you can take.

• Glacier Point:  9 miles (14 km) round-trip with 3,200 feet (975 meters) of elevation gain.
• Sentinel Dome: 12 miles (19km) and over 4,000 feet (1200) of elevation gain.
• Taft Point:  14 miles (22km) and about 5,000 (1500 meters) feet of elevation gain.

18. Sentinel Dome

The Sentinel Dome Hike is usually quite easy, but with the Glacier Point road closure, you will have added extra time because the regular trail head is inaccessible. In 2022, the hike starts with a 4.7-mile (7.5 km) hike to Glacier Point and then follow the Pohono Trail to Sentinel Dome for 1.5 miles (2.5 km). One way, so you are looking at about a 12 mile (20km hike return so allow time)

The hike is about 2.2 miles roundtrip and should take about 1- 2 hours. It is one of the easiest domes to access and hence one of the most popular sunset trails in Yosemite.

At its 4,150 feet peak, you’re rewarded with a stunning 360-degree view of the valley without the adrenaline rush of having to climb up El Capitan. The summit is wide and flat making it easy to enjoy the view.

The view is incredibly beautiful in every direction. Here you can see it all and much more. The three brothers, half done, and river canyon, it’s all there.

19. Hiking Trails

You could spend an entire summer exploring the hiking trails of Yosemite National Park.

In fact, hiking is one of the best things to do in Yosemite, so make sure you get out on at least one trail. While the Half Dome Hike is the bucket list hike of Yosemite, there are several other hikes to explore.

• Lower Yosemite Falls – You can take a 1-mile loop trail to see the lower Yosemite Falls. You can hike here from Yosemite Village.
• The Sentinal Dome Trail – This 2-mile hike takes you above the Yosemite Valle and the Merced River Canyon. It is also an easy way to see views of the Sierra Nevada Peaks, the Half Dome, and Yosemite Falls. But it is Jeffrey Pine made famous by Ansel Adams that is the real attraction.

Where to Stay in Yosemite National Park

Curry Village (formerly known as half dome village)has a range of canvas tents and wooden cabins plus hotel rooms.

Accommodation range from basic tents with shared bathrooms to private hotel rooms with bathrooms. Check out  TripAdvisor for prices .

Yosemite Valley Lodge  is a great location to make a base in Yosemite. There’s free parking, free Internet and a pool.

And these are some of the best things to do in Yosemite National Park. You could spend an entire summer here and never see it all, but it’s fun to try!

Read our full guide of Where to Stay in Yosemite National Park

Did you enjoy this article on the best things to do in Yosemite? Save it to Pinterest for future travel planning.

Check out more National Parks in the USA

• Colorado: 15 Best Hikes In Rocky Mountain National Park
• South Dakota; Badlands National Park Hikes And Things To Do
• Utah: 10 Best Hikes In Zion National Park, Utah
• Montana: 9 Of The Best Glacier National Park Hikes
• USA: Best National Parks – USA Edition
• Arizona: The Absolute Best Things To Do In The Grand Canyon
• Wyoming: 15 Best Hikes In Grand Teton National Park
• Wyoming: Where to Stay in Yellowstone National Park – Guide to the Best Hotels
• Wyoming: 27 Things to do in Yellowstone – Plus Tips for First-time Visitors
• Montana: 12 Best Hikes In Yellowstone National Park

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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3 thoughts on “Things to do in Yosemite National Park”

Hi! I love Yosemite and really visit the park again. Thank for sharing this post I like your photos!

I ran into your blog while doing research for my brand new National Parks USA forum.

Hope you like to visit it and share some of your experiences. Thanks and good luck!

I am very happy to have completed your national park tour . A trip to the park must be taken out with a lot of time on hand which you mentioned . But we must always be careful .

I watched Tommy Caldwell’s The Dawn Wall a year back. Loved the landscapes and views of El Capitan. The waterfalls seem to be quite famous too. My favourite would be the Mirror Lake Trail and Tenaya Lake. Such landscapes are my favourite.

Touropia Travel

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10 Top Attractions in Yosemite National Park

By Fiona Fiorentino · Last updated on October 3, 2023

A monument to the power of nature and a shrine to conservation, Yosemite is one of America’s grandest and most popular national parks. Carved by ancient glaciers, the park features massive granite rock formations, roaring waterfalls, meandering rivers, lushly forested valleys and grassy meadows. Located around 200 miles (320 km) east of San Francisco, the wilderness area was first protected in 1864, thanks to the tireless efforts of Scottish-American naturalist John Muir.

Today, nearly 4 million people come to Yosemite each year to explore the majestic park. Although many of the best-known attractions in Yosemite can be viewed from Yosemite Valley, walks and hikes on the more than 800 miles (1,300 km) of park trails reward visitors with scenes of breathtaking beauty, from high-country meadows to ancient sequoia forests.

10. Tuolumne Meadows [SEE MAP]

The region around Yosemite features landscapes of great diversity, including the high plateau of Tuolumne Meadows. Located around an hour’s drive northeast of Yosemite Valley, Tuolomne’s flat basin is surrounded by steep granite rock formations and domes. An ideal destination for family vacations, Tuolumne Meadows is a favorite spot for camping, fishing and swimming in the Tuolumne River. Easy hikes to the Soda Springs natural springs and along the John Muir Trail are popular pastimes. Day trips to the region’s beautiful lakes are can’t-miss activities as well.

9. Bridalveil Falls [SEE MAP]

Bridalveil Falls is one of the first things people see when entering Yosemite from the west. Standing more than 60 stories high, the falls are most impressive in the spring when snowmelt swells the flow into a thundering roar. Bridalveil Falls is subject to the wind in any season, and the way the falls blow from side to side is part of what makes this water feature so distinctive. A 20-minute walk from the Bridalveil Fall parking area brings visitors to the base of the falls. Despite a steep ascent at the end of the trail, it’s one of the easiest hikes in the park.

8. Sentinel Dome [SEE MAP]

Located on the southern side of Yosemite Valley, Sentinel Dome is best known for a photograph Ansel Adams took of the summit in 1940, which featured a wind-swept pine tree seemingly growing out of the rock. Although the 400-year-old tree toppled in 2003, the rocky peak remains a popular hiking destination. An hour-long trek takes visitors over the northeast granite slope of the dome to the top to enjoy picture-perfect views of the park. During the winter, the dome can be reach via ski tours from Badger Pass.

7. El Capitan [SEE MAP]

One of the most famous sights in Yosemite National Park, the granite monolith El Capitan rises almost 910 meter (3,000 foot) vertically from Yosemite Valey. It is is a favorite challenge among expert rock climbers. In 1958, Warren J. Harding, Wayne Merry and George Whitmore were the first to climb the Nose of El Capitan using ropes, pitons and expansion bolts. This famous Yosemite attraction is best seen from the roads in western Yosemite Valley, including Tunnel View, Bridalveil Fall area, and El Capitan Meadow.

6. Mariposa Grove [SEE MAP]

Located in the southernmost part of Yosemite National Park, the Mariposa Grove is a protected forest of giant sequoias, some of which have been growing for more than 2,000 years. Star sequoia specimens include the Washington tree, the grove’s largest, and the California Tunnel tree, which was cut in the 1800s to allow horse-drawn carriages to pass through. Toppled giants like the Fallen Monarch are notable as well. Open-air trams offer engaging tours of Mariposa Grove, and visitors can hop on and off the tram to walk around the mammoth trees.

5. Half Dome [SEE MAP]

Yosemite’s most recognized geological feature, Half Dome’s near-vertical northern face has enticed rock climbers for more than a century, but intrepid visitors can also reach the top by way of a long and arduous trail from the floor of Yosemite Valley. The last section of the trail has two cable handrails that offer support for the steep ascent. Visitors who don’t find the idea of a day-long trek up Half Dome appealing can enjoy beautiful views of the park’s most famous landmark from dozens of valley locations and viewpoints in the park.

4. Vernal Falls [SEE MAP]

Situated in the eastern section of Yosemite Valley, the 317-foot (97-meter) high Vernal Falls flows into the Merced River all year, even when other waterfalls in the park go dry. Climbing the more than 500 granite steps to the top of the falls is one of the park’s most popular hikes. Mist from the falls make the trail slick, and hikers can expert to get wet along the way, but the vistas offered from the summit are truly spectacular. For less adventurous visitors, a footbridge located around halfway up the climb provides scenic views of the falls and the valley.

3. Yosemite Falls [SEE MAP]

The tallest waterfall in the United States, Yosemite Falls pours down a cliff side in three cascades and provides picturesque views from multiple locations within Yosemite National Park in California. A challenging all-day hike takes visitors to the summit for panoramic vistas of the majestic park and the towering Sierra Mountains beyond. The falls vary in water flow, however, and sometimes disappear entirely during drought conditions. The best time to enjoy the splashing water and thunderous roar of the falls is in the spring after the winter thaw.

2. Tunnel View [SEE MAP]

Located in Yosemite National Park in the Sierra Nevada Mountains of central eastern California, Tunnel View is an overlook where visitors can enjoy amazing views of El Capital, Bridalveil Falls, Half Dome and the gorgeous Yosemite Valley. The overlook, which was first built in 1993, was renovated in 2008. Tunnel View is very popular with park visitors, and it attracts between 5,000 and 7,000 visitors a day during the tourist high season. Travelers can find Tunnel View at the east end of the Wawona Tunnel off of Wawona Road.

1. Glacier Point [SEE MAP]

An overlook that offers sweeping views of Yosemite Valley, Glacier Point is accessible by foot, car or bus during the long warm-weather season and by cross-country skiing in winter. Because the four-mile trek to the point is steep and arduous, most visitors prefer to drive or take a tour bus on Wawona Road. It takes around one hour to drive the winding road to the summit. Glacier Point not only commands panoramic views of the valley but brings visitors eye level with the park’s iconic Half Dome as well.

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Yosemite Mariposa County

Plan your trip to Yosemite

Welcome to MARIPOSA COUNTY

Home of yosemite national park.

Experience four majestic seasons in Yosemite National Park, accessed through historic Mariposa County.

Mariposa County

When you travel to Yosemite Mariposa County, you’re free to roam thousands of square miles in and out of Yosemite National Park filled with photogenic and historic small towns, fishing, rafting, mountain biking and more.

• Nature Watching
• Hiking Trails
• Wildflower Spotting

• Landscape Photography
• Driving Tours
• Waterfall Chasing

• Cross Country Skiing
• Snowshoeing
• Photography

• Horseback Riding
• Historic Tours

• Exploring History
• Architecture Tours
• River Rafting

• General Store

If you’re coming to Yosemite in 2024, there’s a chance you may have heard something about needing a reservation to enter the park. But don’t fret! We’ve got all the information needed to make visiting Yosemite this year an easy and carefree experience.

Things to Do

Hit the hiking trails, connect with nature on Yosemite tours and dig into California arts and culture with these can’t-miss things to do.

Stay in style or rough it under the stars. Whatever you choose, Yosemite Mariposa County’s accommodations await.

Special Offers

Planning a trip to Yosemite Mariposa County? Book now and extend your savings with these lodging offers.

No driving required

Stay in the heart of yosemite.

Want to wake up and see Yosemite Falls, Half Dome or Glacier Point from your room? It’s possible. Book now and stay in the heart of the park, no driving required. From casual family-friendly lodging options to the Crown Jewel Hotel of the National Parks, you can have it all on your Yosemite National Park adventure.

Yosemite Mariposa County Events

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Featured Story

Covert cascades: lesser-known yosemite waterfalls.

Although not as famous as some, these lesser-known Yosemite waterfalls still carry a lot of drama and beauty in their flowing cascades and misty waters. If you’re on the hunt for waterfalls that are a little off the beaten path, this is your cast and crew.

#YOSEMITENATION

The magic is strong on bright spring mornings in Yosemite Valley. The sound of waterfalls drifts through the valley. Gorgeous video by @wildernessbadass Please note: 2024 Temporary Vehicle Reservations will be required to enter Yosemite this year on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays until June 30th, then 7 days per week from July 1 to Aug. 16, and finally weekends and Monday holidays until Oct. 27th. Half-day reservations are also available this year and are easier to obtain. #yosemite #yosemitenationalpark #yosemitevalley #yosemitenation #yosemitenp #yosemite_national_park #yosemitenps #yosemitepark #california #californialove❤️ #californialove #roadtrip @YosemiteNation @yosemitenps @visitcalifornia @cahighsierra @visitgoldcountry

Did you know: the Merced River is the only river that flows through Yosemite Valley. From canoeing to swimming to sitting on its beautiful banks and enjoying views like this, it`s an iconic part of the Yosemite experience. And it`s hard to miss! Reel by: @citizenoftheskyy Please note: 2024 Temporary Vehicle Reservations will be required to enter Yosemite this year on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays until June 30th, then 7 days per week from July 1 to Aug. 16, and finally weekends and monday holidays until Oct. 27th. Half-day reservations are also available this year and are easier to obtain. #yosemite #yosemitenationalpark #yosemitevalley #yosemitenation #yosemitenp #yosemite_national_park #yosemitenps #yosemitepark #california #californialove❤️ #californialove #roadtrip @YosemiteNation @yosemitenps @visitcalifornia @cahighsierra @visitgoldcountry

Wildlife, waterfalls, and rainbows all over! Spring in Yosemite is exciting, to say the least. Photos and videos by: @_mikeywright_ Please note: 2024 Temporary Vehicle Reservations will be required to enter Yosemite this year on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays until June 30th, then 7 days per week from July 1 to Aug. 16, and finally weekends and monday holidays until Oct. 27th. Half-day reservations are also available this year and are easier to obtain. #yosemite #yosemitenationalpark #yosemitevalley #yosemitenation #yosemitenp #yosemite_national_park #yosemitenps #yosemitepark #california #californialove❤️ #californialove #roadtrip @YosemiteNation @yosemitenps @visitcalifornia @cahighsierra @visitgoldcountry

It`s not just the towering granite giants and massive waterfalls that make Yosemite magical--it`s the small moments too. Get away this weekend and find out for yourself! Reel by: @sandrasophietravels Please note: 2024 Temporary Vehicle Reservations will be required to enter Yosemite this year on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays until June 30th, then 7 days per week from July 1 to Aug. 16, and finally weekends and monday holidays until Oct. 27th. Half-day reservations are also available this year and are easier to obtain. #yosemite #yosemitenationalpark #yosemitevalley #yosemitenation #yosemitenp #yosemite_national_park #yosemitenps #yosemitepark #california #californialove❤️ #californialove #roadtrip @YosemiteNation @yosemitenps @visitcalifornia @cahighsierra @visitgoldcountry

Throwback to a snowy moment a few weeks ago at Lower Yosemite Falls. It doesn`t always snow in April in Yosemite, but when it does, it`s a good time! Reel by: @andosfauxtos Please note: 2024 Temporary Vehicle Reservations will be required to enter Yosemite this year on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays until June 30th, then 7 days per week from July 1 to Aug. 16, and finally weekends and monday holidays until Oct. 27th. Half-day reservations are also available this year and are easier to obtain. #yosemite #yosemitenationalpark #yosemitevalley #yosemitenation #yosemitenp #yosemite_national_park #yosemitenps #yosemitepark #california #californialove❤️ #californialove #roadtrip @YosemiteNation @yosemitenps @visitcalifornia @cahighsierra @visitgoldcountry

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Yosemite National Park Tourism Attractions

Yosemite National Park

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Yosemite National Park is one of the most visited parks in the nation and for good reason. Explore its many attractions including abundant waterfalls like Yosemite and Vernal Falls , numerous short and overnight trails , and massive rock formations like Half Dome and El Capitan .

Questions & answers.

Stay at a Cabin

Regional area attractions, mammoth attractions, lake tahoe attractions.

Escape to a Perfect Cabin Getaway in Yosemite National Park

Visit allcabins.com.

Other Area Attractions Resources

The Wild Wonderful King Vintage Museum specializes in exhibits on vintage clothing.

The Mono Basin Historical Society maintains the Old Schoolhouse Museum and the Upside Down house for visitors to enjoy in Lee Vining, California.

This National Park Is One Of The Cheapest "Cities" To Visit In The US

• Budget-friendly attractions: Save money on activities and attractions at national parks, like Yosemite, where families can enjoy the outdoors for free.
• Yosemite as a "city" destination: With its own ecosystem of hotels, restaurants, and amenities, Yosemite rivals major cities in terms of popularity and convenience.
• Cheapest national parks: Yosemite ranks as the second-lowest among the top 20 low-cost family vacations, making it an affordable option for outdoor enthusiasts.

There are many extraordinarily distinctive locations in the United States to discover, ranging from magnificent New York City to the California coast. Even thinking about these amazing tourist destinations makes travelers picture big sums of money disappearing from their bank accounts. However, things don't have to be that way. The United States offers many budget-friendly attractions for a getaway , including stunning national parks .

10 Things To Know Before Pitching A Tent & Camping In Yosemite National Park

If travelers arrange their vacation plans, they can save a few bucks on a low-cost national park trip. First, they may save money on activities and attractions since their families can enjoy the wonderful outdoors for free.

The breathtaking beauty of these locations is another cost-effective feature of a trip to a national park creating memories that last a lifetime without the need for souvenir purchases. Which national park is lovelier than Yosemite? In addition to being one of the most beautiful cities in the US, Yosemite is also one of the cheapest to visit .

Yosemite National Park Offers Affordable Adventures

Splendid beauty, free activities, affordable entrance fees, and budget-friendly hotels.

Yosemite is one of the best national parks in California, and no matter how many times tourists visit, they are never disappointed. With its massive ancient sequoia groves, glacially carved granite domes, roaring waterfalls, and over 800 miles (1287.4 km) of developed trails , Yosemite is often credited with being the inspiration behind the idea of national parks.

• Entrance fee: $20 per person, $35 per vehicle, and $30 per motorcycle
• Free entrance days: Martin Luther King Jr. Day, First Day of National Park Week, Juneteenth, The Great American Outdoors Act, National Public Lands Day, and Veterans Day
• Opening hours: 24/7

Yosemite Checks All The Boxes For A "City" Destination

The national park has its own ecosystem of hotels, restaurants, and more.

What makes Yosemite National Park qualify as a "city"? While Statista didn't give specific criteria for its comparison, Yosemite ranked third on the list of cheapest US "cities," suggesting that the area compares to bigger cities in multiple ways.

Yosemite National Park attracts approximately 3.5 million visitors annually , and in comparison, Rapid City — Statista's second-cheapest city — draws around 3.8 million visitors each year . This intriguing parallel underscores Yosemite's significance as a sought-after travel destination, placing it in the ranks of major cities in terms of popularity.

What makes Yosemite particularly impressive is its expansive size; the park spans an impressive 1,169 square miles . To put this into perspective, it surpasses the land area of many urban centers; for instance, Los Angeles covers 502.7 square miles .

10 Amazing Facts About Yosemite's Firefall (Including When To See It)

Yosemite not only captivates visitors with its breathtaking natural beauty but also offers an array of on-site amenities to ensure a memorable experience. The park boasts a plethora of dining options, with restaurants scattered throughout the area, providing a diverse culinary experience.

Visitors have their choice of accommodation, too, ranging from hotels for those seeking a touch of luxury to camping facilities for those eager to immerse themselves in the park's pristine wilderness. This blend of size, natural splendor, and on-site conveniences positions Yosemite as a multifaceted destination, rivaling even the allure of bustling cities.

Yosemite Is One Of The Cheapest National Parks In The US

Yosemite was ranked #2 on us news' list of low-cost vacation destinations.

According to US News Travel, Yosemite secures an impressive position as the second-lowest among the top 20 low-cost family vacations .

Families seeking an exciting, outdoor vacation are drawn to Yosemite because of its many hiking paths, tumbling waterfalls, and enormous sequoia trees. Seven days is the duration of the entry pass, so there is plenty of time for activities.

Although the summer months are the busiest for Yosemite, travelers may still enjoy fantastic weather and avoid the crowds if they visit in May or September. Despite being a popular activity, camping is reasonably priced, so visitors should book their campsite months in advance. It is common knowledge that campsites fill up quickly when they are made available for reservations.

Winter is the greatest season to visit Yosemite if tourists are searching for a deal on lodging.

• Nearby affordable hotels: Curry Village , a unique lodging option ($77 per night), El Dorado Motel ($69 per night), Yosemite Bug Rustic Mountain Resort ($55 per night)

Yosemite Vs. Acadia National Park

According to Budget Your Trip , Yosemite National Park costs $129 per person per day, whereas Acadia National Park costs $173. These expenses cover lodging, meals, transit, and entertainment. Although each person is unique, these prices represent the average of previous visitors to each location.

Best Time To Visit Yosemite

The off-season is the cheapest time to visit yosemite.

Travelers can discover Yosemite National Park's beauty at any time of year , seeing the park come to life in the spring with blossoming wildflowers and tumbling waterfalls, and in the summer, trekking to Glacier Point for breathtaking panoramic vistas.

They will experience vivid shades of scarlet and amber as the leaves transform in the fall. They can also ice skate in Curry Village with the Half Dome looming overhead or schuss down the slopes of Badger Pass.

• The most popular time to visit Yosemite: May through September

However, in terms of affordability, the best time to book hotels might be winter. Plus, crowds tend to disperse in the chillier months , making your affordable trip to Yosemite National Park even more enjoyable.