place to visit in yosemite national park

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

2. half dome, 3. el capitan, 4. tunnel view, 5. glacier point, 6. bridalveil falls, 8. climbing, 9. tioga road, 10. see the giant sequoias at mariposa grove, 11. camping, 12. yosemite museum and indian village, 14. ansel adams gallery, where to stay near yosemite national park, map of yosemite national park - attractions & things to do, best time to visit yosemite national park, ca, more california adventures.

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

Yosemite Itinerary: Ultimate First Time Visitor Guide (1, 2 & 3 Day Itinerary)

by Mark and Kristen Morgan

Published: July 29, 2020

Yosemite is a treasure trove of beauty and one of the crown jewels among the very best USA National Parks . This Yosemite itinerary will help you plan the most efficient way to spend your time in this spectacular corner of California. 

The spellbinding awe of Yosemite’s landscapes, smooth domed rock formations and unspeakably majestic valley have to be seen in person to be believed.

We will show you the best way to spend 1, 2 and 3 days at Yosemite to cover day trips, weekend breaks and those fortunate to have an extra day.

No matter how long you spend here, we know you will be swept off your feet – just like the great writers and photographers who immortalized Yosemite before you.

Why Visit Yosemite National Park?

Yellowstone is arguably the King of US National Parks – being the first established and immensely popular – but every King needs a Queen and Yosemite National Park’s astonishing grandeur is regal enough for our vote .

The park has something for everyone, from family vacations and couples who love hiking , to expert rock climbers and pro photographers.

Beloved panoramas of sweeping valleys, waterfalls and famous granite monoliths steal the show at Yosemite. Photography enthusiasts will be blown away.

El Capitan and Half Dome are even more impressive than you imagine but simply driving through Yosemite valley is scenic enough to justify a visit.

Various stop-off points around the valley scenic loop road are perfect for the less able or young children.

Yosemite is the gift that keeps on giving. It also happens to be a hikers paradise with hundreds of epic miles of trails with awe-inspiring climaxes to spur you on.

In summary, you should visit Yosemite National Park in California because it is a natural wonder perfect for everyone!

Yosemite National Park Factfile

Address : PO Box 577, Yosemite National Park, CA 95389 Website : nps.gov/yose Phone : (209) 372-0200 Park Hours : All day, every day Entrance Fee : US$ 35 Vehicle 7 Day Pass (or free with America the Beautiful Pass ) Campgrounds : Yes, spread across the park (see campgrounds) Accommodation : Notoriously challenging, some lodging in Yosemite Valley, more in surrounding areas Backcountry camping : Backcountry Use Permit Required Top Activities : Hiking, Camping, Rock Climbing, Stargazing, photography Annual Visitors : 4.5 million

How To Get To Yosemite National Park

Flying / Closest Airports to Yosemite

Smaller –  Fresno-Yosemite International, Merced and Modesto airports are all under 3 hours drive from the National Park.

Larger –  San Francisco, Oakland, San Jose, Sacramento and Reno-Tahoe airports are all under 5 hours drive. More flights and of course the only options for those traveling from further afield.

• We always use and recommend searching for flights with  Skyscanner  for best prices, options and user experience.
• If you plan to hire a car and drive to Yosemite, compare prices and options with Rental Cars for best value.

Related : Save money with our 15 expert tips on finding cheap flights

Driving Entrances to Yosemite

There are a total of 5 entrances to Yosemite National Park but we will focus on the 4 with access to Yosemite Valley.

Tioga Pass Entrance (East, only open May-October, crosses Sierra Nevada);  Big Oak Flat Entrance (Northwest);  Arch Rock Entrance (Southwest) and  South Entrance (South).

Hetch Hetchy is the 5th entrance to park boundaries but it is a secluded and does not lead to the main Yosemite attractions.

• Los Angeles, Sequoia, Kings Canyon, Joshua Tree and San Diego – enter via Fresno and South Entrance
• San Jose – enter via Arch Rock entrance
• San Francisco and Oakland – enter via either Arch Rock Entrance or Big Oak Flat Entrance
• Sacramento (and North to Oregon/Washington) – enter via Big Oak Flat Entrance
• Reno, Las Vegas, Death Valley (and East to all US) – enter via Tioga Pass Entrance (May-Oct)

Read about the best things to do in  San Francisco , Los Angeles and San Diego to help plan your California road trip.

Public Transport Options to Yosemite

Amtrak offer a train/bus combination from most major cities around California. Be aware there could be a number of transfers and it will take between 5-7 hours from San Francisco.

Alternatively, you can book a greyhound to Merced and hop on a Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System (YARTS).

This would pass though Mariposa, Midpines and El Portal (all places you might be forced to stay in Summer with lack of accommodation options) and enter via Arch Rock.

YARTS also runs services from Sonora (Big Oak Flat entrance), Mammoth Lakes (Tioga Pass entrance) and Fresno (South entrance). More information on YARTS .

Yosemite Valley Shuttle

Yosemite provides a free shuttle bus which loops around the valley regularly, saving on congestion and pollution.

Especially in Summer, you will need to arrive very early and if you are fortunate enough to find a parking space near Yosemite village, do not move your car until you are ready to leave!

Take the shuttle bus that you can hop on – hop off at each stop.

Need help planning your trip to Yosemite?

Our popular Yosemite travel guidebook helps you with planning every aspect of your visit, including what to see, the best hikes, where to eat and stay, itinerary ideas and map!

Best Time To Visit Yosemite National Park

Close your eyes and point to an annual calendar … it doesn’t matter which date you choose, Yosemite is going to blow you away. Every season offers its own unique take on the park and you will have to compromise one thing for another.

Summer is renowned for being unbearably packed so we advise if possible to plan your Yosemite itinerary in Spring or Fall.

• Spring – The best time to visit for waterfalls in full flow, spring bloom, fewer crowds than Summer, will need layers for hot/cold/hiking.
• Summer – Slightly longer daylight hours, warmer weather, overcrowding problem, busy trails, traffic jams, book accommodation way in advance to stand a chance.
• Fall – Gorgeous autumnal foliage colors, barely any water flowing, comfortable temperatures and crowd levels, layers required.
• Winter – Unique time to visit Yosemite with Skiing, Ice Skating and Snowshoeing very popular. Expect fewer crowds, stunning winter wonderland scenery and cold weather.

We first visited Yosemite National Park in October at the heart of the Fall season and like many places in the US at this time of year, it was beautiful. However, we were (extremely!) disappointed the postcard perfect waterfalls were bone dry.

But hey, that’s the trade off. And you can see how pretty the autumnal foliage is in this Yosemite itinerary. Next time we will visit in Spring!

Best Things To Do In Yosemite National Park

The overwhelming majority of best things for you to do on your Yosemite itinerary are within Yosemite Valley itself. However, there are other amazing places to explore away from the valley that are far less crowded.

Here are some of the top highlights for you to consider in Yosemite:

Half Dome Hike

Half Dome is Yosemite’s iconic granite dome at the far end of the valley appearing as though a meat cleaver sliced it precisely in half.

Standing proudly at just under 5,000 feet above Yosemite Valley and dominating most nearby viewpoints, Half Dome is one of the most sought after and amazing hikes in the world.

What was once considered inaccessible can now be accessed by multiple rock climbing routes and one hiking path. This hiking path is only open between Memorial Day and Columbus Day (May-Oct) and is not for the feint hearted.

Cables are inserted each May to aid hikers with the final stretch to Half Dome summit and it is steep. Extremely steep.

Many take this hike on and have to be assisted by park rangers each year because they underestimated either its difficulty or they were afraid of heights.

Half Dome Lottery Permit

In order to summit Half Dome, you will need a permit and they are not easy to acquire. To be in with a chance, you have to enter a lottery in March for the upcoming season. Only 300 hikers are permitted to summit Half Dome per day, consisting of 225 day hikers and 75 backpackers.

You can apply for up to 6 people and you can only apply once.

If you are successful, you will become the permit holder and everyone else in your party become alternates. This is important because the permit holder must be present on the day for any of the group to summit.

If you are unsuccessful, you can take your chances by applying for a permit in the daily lottery. You can apply 2 days before the date you want to hike Half Dome.

For example, you apply on Monday to hike on Wednesday. You find out the same day if you are successful. Read NPS guidelines for Half Dome to plan your hike.

Half Dome is one of the best hikes in the world but it isn’t easy. To reach the base of Half Dome, you can either take:

• John Muir trail (longer but more gradual) at 16.4 miles roundtrip
• Mist trail at 14 miles roundtrip (shorter but steeper)
• Or a combination of both trails in a loop

Most people take between 10-12 hours total time for this round trip route to Half Dome summit.

Leave at sunrise and give yourself / your group a non negotiable turn around time. For example, if you haven’t summited by 2pm, turn around.

Check Yosemite sunrise times before your visit.

The Mist Trail / John Muir Trail Loop

Half Dome is the quintessential Yosemite hike but don’t sweat it if you can’t get a permit or you visit out of season. Yosemite has a ton of awesome alternatives and here’s something to remember:

You can’t see Half Dome from the top of Half Dome!!

Mist trail is Yosemite’s signature hike and therefore the most crowded trail in the park. You will pass two of Yosemite’s rock-star status waterfalls in Vernal Falls and Nevada Falls on this fantastic hike.

Views over Yosemite Valley and the back of Half Dome from Nevada Falls are worth the effort.

• Trail Distance : 7 miles roundtrip / 8 miles roundtrip Mist up, John Muir down loop (add on 1.5 miles roundtrip if walking from Curry village and not taking park shuttle to trailhead)
• Elevation Gain : 1,900 feet to Nevada Falls
• Trail Time : 4-6 hours if loop completed
• Trail Difficulty : Moderate / Strenuous

In peak season or weekends through Spring/Fall be sure to set off either very early or later in the afternoon to avoid the mid-morning rush.

Read our complete Yosemite Mist Trail hiking guide to learn more, featuring John Muir Loop, Vernal and Nevada Fall, maps and tips to help plan your hike.

Bridalveil Fall

Bridalveil Fall will be the very first waterfall you see as you enter Yosemite Valley. It is the iconic waterfall to the right of famous valley images taken in Spring when the fall thunders.

During Summer and Fall Bridalveil Fall is wispy and a light spray trickles from 189 meters above a viewing area.

The trail is just 0.5 miles roundtrip close to a car park which makes it perfect for young children or those with less able family members.

Yosemite Falls

The mighty Yosemite Falls is the tallest waterfall in North America and the fifth tallest in the world.

However, you will only see water here between November and July – as you can see in our photo above taken in October the falls were bone dry.

You can hike to Lower Yosemite Falls, an easy 1 mile flat round trip trail (where the photo above was taken) or hike a strenuous 6-8 hour / 7 mile roundtrip trail to Upper Yosemite Falls.

“El Cap” is one of the most impressive and iconic monolithic features in all of Yosemite.

If you hadn’t heard of it a few years back, you certainly have now thanks to nail biting television productions bringing extreme rock climbing to a wider audience.

Watch The Dawn Wall and Free Solo before visiting El Capitan.

When you arrive at the base of El Cap after a short easy hike from a nearby car park, look up and you will really appreciate what these climbers achieved!

Aside from its notoriety, El Capitan is a mightily impressive granite feature in Yosemite. It is best viewed from El Capitan Meadow, Tunnel View and Valley View (more on these later).

Sunrise is the most beautiful time to photograph El Cap as the pink rays of first light illuminate its famous wall. 

For those with more time in Yosemite who want to say they’ve walked on the summit of El Cap, you can either climb it or hike a 13.5 strenuous round trip trail beginning close to Yosemite Falls.

Views are not as impressive as at the summit of Half Dome but hey, you’re standing on top of El Cap!

Tioga Pass Road

Tioga Pass Road runs from Yosemite’s Northeast entrance (near Mammoth Lakes) to Big Oak Flat Road close to Yosemite Valley entrance.

Use this entrance if also visiting Lake Tahoe, Death Valley or the best natural northern California hot springs around Mammoth Lakes.

This road is also known as CA Highway 120 and is incredibly scenic with plenty of awesome stops along the way.

Although the majority of Yosemite’s highlights are in the valley, Tioga Pass Road – known as the High Sierra – is a fantastic place to begin/end a 3 day itinerary if you have the spare time.

Here are some recommended highlights:

• Hike to Dog Lake and Lembert Dome Summit – 4 mile roundtrip with awesome views.
• Cathedral Lakes hike – 7 mile roundtrip and one of the most popular in the area.
• Olmsted Point – Fantastic viewpoint featuring huge cracked and smooth boulders.
• Others to consider include Tenaya Lake, Gaylor Lakes and Mono Pass (but you can’t do them all!).

Note : Tioga Pass Road is only open May-October. You will not be able to cross the Sierra Nevada on this road between November and April.

Sequoia Tree Groves

Although not on the scale of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park, Yosemite has its own fair share of gigantic Sequoia Trees.

There are three main areas you can walk among Yosemite’s Sequoias:

1. Tuolumne Grove – Located at the joining of Tioga Pass Road and Big Oak Flat Road. A 2.5 mile roundtrip trail with a sharp descent to the grove (and sharp ascent back to the car park) is home to around 30 mature Sequoias.

One dead Sequoia has had a tunnel cut through its base so you can pass underneath and appreciate the circumference of these enormous trees.

2. Mariposa Grove – Located near South entrance. This is the largest and best Sequoia grove in Yosemite with over 500 mature giant Sequoias.

Hike the Big Trees Loop trail if short on time, otherwise, hike the 2 mile Grizzly Giant Loop trail. There are longer trails for those with more days.

3. Merced Grove – The smallest Sequioa grove is located further up Big Oak Flat Road on the way in or out of Yosemite. There are only 20 Giant Sequoias but it is by far the least crowded of the three groves.

You know they’re going to be massive, everything you see and read tells you that, but when you see one in person you will still be shocked!

Glacier Point

Glacier Point boasts the best panorama in all of Yosemite, arguably on par with Half Dome. However, getting to Glacier Point is not the easiest or most enjoyable.

You have to drive 16 miles up Glacier Point road – a very congested, constantly winding and at times extremely narrow road. That being said, it is without question worth the drama!

Access to this road is 23 miles from South entrance and best driven either at the beginning or end of your Yosemite itinerary.

Magnificent 270 degree views over Half Dome, Yosemite Valley and the Merced River are unbelievable. Glacier Point and nearby Washburn Point are the best places in Yosemite to watch sunset.

There are a number of hikes at nearby trailheads: 

• Sentinel Dome – 2.2 mile roundtrip, moderate and find Jeffrey Pine (one of the most photographed trees in the world).
• Taft Point and the Fissures – 2.2 mile roundtrip, easy and stunning views without guardrails found at Glacier Point.
• Four Mile Trail – You can hike to Glacier Point from Yosemite Valley if you take this strenuous 9.6 mile roundtrip trail.
• Panorama – This is an extension of Mist/John Muir trail which can be joined close to Nevada Falls and hiked to Glacier Point, but its 8.5 miles one way and strenuous.

One tip for photographers is to consider the time of your visit because huge valley covering shadows appear in the later afternoon. Astrophotography would be perfect at Glacier Point.

Yosemite Valley

Do not entirely disregard Yosemite Valley in favor of hikes and domes. There are a number of fantastic photography spots around the Merced River, often with reflections of granite monoliths or beautiful autumnal foliage.

Yosemite’s one way loop means you can pull the car over as often as you like. It is perfect for families with older or younger members to enjoy the beauty of this National Park.

Some of the notable stops include Cathedral Beach, Sentinel Beach, Swinging Bridge, Sentinel Bridge, El Capitan Bridge and Valley View (the best one).

You can see the likes of El Capitan and the Three Brothers reflect perfectly on still water in Fall.

Yosemite is one of the top places to visit in the US and you will be blown away by the sheer beauty inside Yosemite Valley. Plan to spend a lot of time here.

Best Yosemite Photography Locations

Yosemite national park is a beautiful part of America, the perfect environment for landscape and nature lovers. Photography doesn’t get much easier than inside the valley, looking up at waterfalls and towering granite domes.

We truly enjoyed taking photographs around Yosemite and will definitely be back in future for many more.

If you would like to see all of our favorites from the park in more detail, read our complete guide to Yosemite Photography next.

Tunnel View

Tunnel View is the quintessential Yosemite photograph made famous by Ansel Adams.

You will see the majestic flat face of El Capitan to the left, straight ahead at the end of the valley is Half Dome on a slight angle and Bridalveil Fall to the right.

Vistas don’t get any better than this wobbly-knees-moment anywhere in the world.

Spring is the best time to capture this iconic image at its most powerful. Bridalveil fall takes the photograph to another level and you won’t get it in Summer or Fall.

Winter is another excellent time to photograph Yosemite Valley from Tunnel View as it is shrouded in mist and a light sprinkling of snow.

There is no hiking involved, you simply park at one of the lots close to Wawona/Yosemite Tunnel just a few minutes drive from the Valley. Arrive at sunrise to avoid the crowd. Sunset will inevitably be busy, particularly in Summer.

Go to Tunnel View instead of driving to Glacier Point for stars, which would be amazing but a lot of effort.

T he Milky Way will appear over the tunnel and you can get a great night shot with the tunnel in your foreground.

Also, if you take a long exposure over Yosemite Valley with a wide angle lens, you will see white streaks on El Capitan – they are rock climbers making a night climb to El Cap’s summit. Pretty cool, right?!

Valley View

Depending on the type of photography you prefer, Valley View could beat Tunnel View when you consider how much more you can capture in the foreground.

With still water at sunrise, you can compose an image with a reflecting El Capitan glowing red. This place gets busy and there’s not a lot of room to park so plan accordingly, particularly around sunset.

Take a sturdy tripod and wade out into the river – if it is safe to do so – for enhanced composition. Maybe even walk out to a rock and get a photo of yourself in the foreground?!

Various Yosemite Valley / Merced River Rest Areas

As we mentioned earlier, these Valley floor stop offs aren’t to be missed!

You will see plenty of pro photographers at various points of the day wading through the shallow Merced river (in Fall) searching for the best river reflection shots of towering granite rocks.

Yosemite Valley Meadow

Walk out into the meadows around Yosemite Valley using wooden boardwalks. You will be able to shoot different perspectives of the valley and all of the major features within it.

When we visited in Fall, the meadows had turned yellowy-brown and straw like. Barely anyone will be around and you can get creative with your images.

Yosemite Itinerary Broken Up Into Regions

Phew! That’s a lot of information to digest. Yosemite is a big park and it helps to understand the layout.

Above is a map of Yosemite broken into 3 regions: North, Valley and South. You will find each of the 4 entrances labeled to give you an idea of the routes around Yosemite.

Note : This is separate to the Interactive Map at the end of this article on which you can zoom in / out and move around to orientate yourself with Yosemite, accommodation options and itinerary highlights.

How Many Days For The Perfect Yosemite Itinerary?

Yosemite is an incredible place, if there’s ever been a true ‘bucket list’ destination, this is it. You could easily spend weeks here and not get bored. However, that is entirely unrealistic for the majority of visitors.

Personally, we believe three days is the perfect amount of time to spend at Yosemite, considering work/life/family commitments and what you can achieve here in 3 days.

However, 2 days will allow you to hit most of the major sights and even in one day you can still get through a big slice of Yosemite pie.

Let’s get stuck into the most efficient way to visit Yosemite for each of those timeframes and make the most of your trip.

Yosemite Itinerary Assumptions

The following itineraries do not include hiking Half Dome. If you are hiking Half Dome it will take one full day but you can pick up the 2 or 3 day itineraries around the big hiking day.

One and Two Day itineraries should begin and end either at Big Flat Oak, Arch Rock or South entrances; a common loop route from San Francisco.

Three day itinerary should begin at East entrance and end at South entrance or vice versa for maximum efficiency, ideally as part of a wider US road trip .

An example route would be Las Vegas – Death Valley – Yosemite – San Francisco .

Yosemite Itinerary Map

We have created a 3 day Yosemite Itinerary map to show you how we would spend 3 days in the park.

Please note the map is based on our 3 day itinerary listed below. Our 1 and 2 day Yosemite itineraries do not feature in this map.

Click into the interactive map, zoom in / out, scroll around and click on any icon to see details of attractions on days 1 -3.  Follow the points each day from morning to evening for the most efficient way to see Yosemite.

We always find that spending just a few minutes working out where things are really helps when we arrive.

One Day In Yosemite Itinerary

Morning – Day 1

• With just one day available, you will need to arrive early and expect to leave late.
• Drive straight to Yosemite Valley and watch sunrise at Tunnel View .
• Right next to Tunnel View you can park up at Bridalveil Falls trailhead and hike the short trail.
• Drive around the one way loop and take the first left as if leaving the park. Stop at El Capitan meadow/bridge to see the impressive granite tower contrast against the shadowy foreground you are standing in.
• Continue as though you are leaving the valley and stop at Valley View for the other spectacular viewpoint in the park for photography.
• Do not leave the valley, instead drive round in a loop to join back up where you were not long ago. Frustrating to be retracing steps but necessary.
• Drive past the turn you made to El Cap and stop at Cathedral Beach or Sentinel Beach to see reflections of trees and granite towers in the Merced River.
• Continue to the Visitor Center parking lot and park up. Take the shuttle to Mist/John Muir trailhead.

Afternoon – Day 1

• Hike to Vernal Falls and if you’re quicker you can make it up to Nevada Falls . Go down on whichever trail you didn’t go up on to complete the loop.
• Drive to Lower Falls trailhead and walk the short loop to see the tallest waterfall in North America. You won’t have time to hike to Upper Falls.
• On the way out of Yosemite Valley, stop at El Capitan and walk to its base so you can appreciate the sheer scale.
• Drive through Wawona Tunnel and take Glacier Point Road all the way to the end in time for sunset over Half Dome.

2 Days In Yosemite Itinerary

M orning – Day 1

• Enter via Big Flat Oak entrance before stopping at Tuolumne Grove to see Giant Sequoias.
• Drive down into Yosemite Valley, stopping first at Bridalveil Falls, then El Capitan Meadow and Valley View.
• Loop around, stop at every turn off along the valley until you reach either your hotel, lodge or campground. From your hotel or campground, make your way to Mist Trail and hike up to Vernal Falls / Nevada Falls.

A fternoon – Day 1

• Drive the loop, stopping at Cook’s Meadow Loop and Lower Yosemite Falls.
• Walk to the base of El Capitan, stop once more at Valley View and head up to Tunnel View for amazing vistas.
• Head back towards your hotel/campground but stop to watch sunset at either Stoneman Meadow near Curry Village or Sentinal Bridge close to the visitor center. You will have an excellent view of Half Dome at both.
• If you want to stargaze or take astro shots, Summer is best and head to Sentinel Dome / Glacier Point (a long drive) Valley View, Tunnel View or Sentinel Bridge (closer).

M orning – Day 2

• Grab an early start and hike to Upper Yosemite Falls or even further to El Capitan summit. In Spring definitely hike the Falls and only the quicker hikers should continue to El Capitan on the morning of day 2.
• That will take up your entire morning!
• Alternatively, spend the morning walking around the visitor center, Ansel Adams gallery (we bought an awesome astrophotography book here!) and more time in the meadows/valley floor for amazing photography.

A fternoon – Day 2

• Drive through Wawona Tunnel (stopping again at Tunnel View – time of day impacts images) and onto Glacier Point Road. Stop at Taft Point / Sentinel Dome trailhead and choose one of them to hike. Both are great choices.
• Continue to Glacier Point before the huge shadows of late afternoon arrive for the best photographs of Half Dome. It will be busy up here!
• Leave via South entrance but stop at Mariposa Grove to hike the 2 mile Grizzly Giant loop among Giant Sequoia Trees.

Yosemite 3 Day Itinerary

• Enter via South entrance, stop at Mariposa Grove and hike among Giant Sequoias including Grizzly Giant and California Tunnel Tree.
• Head North and take Glacier Point Road all the way to the end. Enjoy sweeping views over Half Dome and the 3,000 feet drop to Yosemite Valley. The views are simply stunning.
• Hike to either Sentinel Dome or Taft Point for more astounding views.
• Drive all the way into Yosemite Valley, stopping at Tunnel View, Bridalveil Fall, El Capitan Meadow/Bridge, Cathedral Beach and Sentinel Beach.
• Check in to your hotel or campground before walking around the Visitor Center and Ansel Adams gallery.
• Sunset at Sentinel Bridge or Stoneman Meadow with great views of Half Dome and stargaze at any of the places mentioned earlier.
• Wake up early to hike up Mist trail before the crowds arrive. Vernal and Nevada Falls, Liberty Cap and the backside of Half Dome await you.
• Return via the John Muir Trail to complete the loop.
• Expect between 4-6 hours of total hiking time.

Afternoon – Day 2

• Walk the Lower Yosemite Falls loop. We saw a mountain lion cub on the loop when we visited. Fortunately we avoided the mother!
• A little further round the loop, hike to the base of El Capitan to see how frightening the prospect of free climbing it would be! More than likely there will be climbers on the wall. Take a telephoto lens or binoculars.
• Spend the remainder of the afternoon around Yosmite Valley’s many meadows, special viewpoints and river reflection spots.

Morning – Day 3

• If you’re a big hiker and don’t mind early starts – wake up and hike to Upper Yosemite Falls as early as possible. Alternatively, hike Four Mile Trail to Glacier Point.
• Both are strenuous and will take a good few hours.
• For those who prefer an easier morning / if you missed Mariposa Grove at the beginning of Day 1 – drive to Mariposa Grove at the start of Tioga Pass Road to walk among Giant Sequoias.

A fternoon – Day 3

• Before lunch both of the above would converge around Mariposa Grove (hikers wouldn’t have time for the Sequoias). Begin the drive up Tioga Pass Road.
• Stop at Olmsted Point for more awesome views including Half Dome and walk around Tuolumne Meadows.
• Choose either Cathedral Lakes trail (7 mile popular roundtrip) or Dog Lake and Lembert Dome(4 mile roundtrip with excellent views from dome summit).
• Leave via East entrance.

Note: This 3 day Yosemite itinerary can easily be done in reverse (East to South entrances)

Yosemite National Park Map of Key Locations and Accommodation

Spend a few minutes studying our interactive itinerary map of Yosemite National Park and its surrounding areas.

Click on the map, zoom in / out and move around to orientate yourself with the park.

• Hotels and Campgrounds in and around the National Park – Purple Markers
• Gas Stations (don’t run out!), Entrances, Visitor Center and Car Parks – Black Markers
• Hiking Trails, Domes, Photography Locations, Major Points of Interest – Orange Markers

Learning the local geography is the best way to save time when you actually arrive into Yosemite.

Where To Stay For Your Yosemite Itinerary

Yosemite’s beauty is revered on a global scale but its popularity means finding somewhere to sleep can be a real problem, particularly in peak season.

We’ve written an extremely popular guide to the best places to stay in Yosemite National Park which we highly recommend as a very useful planning resource.

Campgrounds are notoriously difficult to book and often hotels close to the park charge exorbitant fees.

Whether you prefer camping or hotels, the earlier you know your Yosemite itinerary dates, the better. Be as organized as humanly possible – we’re talking months in advance here! 

Our example

We visited Yosemite in October and began to look for accommodation around 1 week before but barely anything was available.

We lucked out with a spot at Upper Pines campground on 1 of our 3 nights but no other spaces at any campground opened up for our other nights.

So, we spent a night in one of the top hotels in Mammoth Lakes the first night and began Day 1 very early entering from East entrance.

Night 2 we spent in a less than perfect yurt-like cabin (yes it was very cold!) between El Portal and Incline, and night 3 was in Upper Pines campground.

From experience, we can tell you how inconvenient driving in and out of the park is each day. But it will be far cheaper.

Another trade off!

Mariposa is a great place to base yourself to save money. We stayed at Best Western Plus  Mariposa on night 4 and enjoyed a pizza at Pizza Factory after a few days of camp food!

Book in advance if you don’t want to be traveling long distances or moving every night.

Yosemite Campgrounds

If you know your dates early and are certain you want to camp, book immediately. The same goes for backpackers and Half Dome hikers. The earlier the better in all circumstances at Yosemite!

Here are the 4 campgrounds in Yosemite Valley:

• Upper Pines – Reservations required, available to book 5 months in advance, 238 sites, US$ 26 / night.
• Lower Pines – Reservations required, available to book 5 months in advance, 60 sites, US$ 26 / night.
• North Pines – Reservations required, available to book 5 months in advance, 81 sites, US$ 26 / night.
• Camp 4 – Late May to early September campsites are only available through a daily lottery one day in advance ( information here ). September to May is first-come, first-served but fills early and is only US$ 6 / night.

There are more camping options North and South of Yosemite in Wawona and Tioga Pass road. Check NPS for all Yosemite campground information .

Camping Exclusive

Would you like to camp in Yosemite National Park but can’t find any campsite availability?

We have teamed up with The Dyrt to offer our readers the chance to take advantage of our exclusive  30 day free trial of The Dyrt PRO , which can help you get reservations at sold out campgrounds in Yosemite National Park by using a fantastic new feature called Dyrt Alerts.

You can create alerts to notify you of any cancelations at campgrounds in Yosemite, which is huge. When a space becomes available, you simply book it right away to snag a near impossible campsite in Yosemite.

You can try The Dyrt PRO for free, no strings attached!

Hotels Near Yosemite

Booking hotels in and around Yosemite takes a bit of perseverance and a lot of patience. Usually, we would say being flexible gives you the best chance of grabbing a good deal.

However, unless you book a long way in advance, you might not have a choice to be flexible.

Your first step should be to take a look at  hotels and lodges in Yosemite Valley for availability and prices. These hotels and lodges are booked through the National Park Service.

Availability and prices for your selected dates may not work for you. In that case you will need to find a hotel as close to the park as possible .

Your best bet is to find any hotels that have availability for your travel dates. Here’s a complete list of all hotels near Yosemite National Park .

• Input your dates
• Search by list or better yet by map
• Find a hotel (or hotels) in the best regions of the park to suit your itinerary

Cabins / Lodges / Yurts Near Yosemite

A decent compromise between high prices in Yosemite Valley and long drives in/out from the likes of Mariposa is to stay in a yurt, lodge or tent.

There are plenty of these small lodge grounds in places like El Portal, Incline, Yosemite West, Wawona and Fish Camp.

More From Yosemite

• Yosemite Mist Trail: Fun Hike to Vernal and Nevada Falls (John Muir Loop)
• Where To Stay At Yosemite: Best Places, Hotels and Lodging Options
• Yosemite In October: 10 Important Things To Know Before You Go
• Yosemite Photography: Best Locations, Iconic Landmarks and Epic Vistas

More From California

• Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip: 23 Stops San Francisco to San Diego
• San Diego Itinerary: 9 Unmissable Things To Do In 3 Perfect Days
• San Francisco Itinerary: 15 Amazing Things To Do In 3 Awesome Days
• 10 Unmissable Things To Do In Los Angeles For First Time Visitors
• Alcatraz Tour Review: Is It Worth Your Valuable Time And Money?
• One Day In Death Valley: Perfect Day Trip Itinerary From Las Vegas

We hope this helped you plan your Yosemite National Park itinerary!

Have you been to Yosemite? What was your favorite part?

Please let us know if you have any questions or need any help planning your visit to Yosemite in the comments below.

Happy Travels ,

Mark and Kristen

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All Rights Reserved © Where Are Those Morgans, LLC. Republishing this article and/or any of its contents (text, photography, maps, graphics, etc.) in whole or in part is strictly prohibited.

Mark and Kristen Morgan are travel, hiking and photography experts. Over the last 6 years traveling full time, they have explored more than 40 countries and 30 US states.

Where Are Those Morgans has been featured in USA Today, Gestalten, Get Your Guide, CityPASS and Condé Nast Traveler along with various other publications. Read more about us .

12 thoughts on “Yosemite Itinerary: Ultimate First Time Visitor Guide (1, 2 & 3 Day Itinerary)”

Hello Mark, I want to come from San francisco to yesemite for 2 days and then go to lake taho via tioga pass from October 17th to 18 ( at yosemite) and leave either on 19th or 20th to lake taho. I just need little help to let me know how to exit the park for tioga pass to Lake taho. I have seen your maps but i just needed littel help. YOU have done such a wonderful job of visiting yosemite in october…thank you Mark

Hi Anjana, we’re glad to hear you will be visiting Yosemite in October, the valley is beautiful and a little less crowded this time of year. You should be fine leaving Yosemite via Tioga Pass Road on October 20th (the earliest they have closed that road in the last 10 years is October 21 but it is usually November). You will exit Yosemite Valley on Big Oak Flat Road and take a right turn onto Tioga Road near Tuolumne Grove. That road will take you all the way out of the park to the northeast. Once you reach Lee Vining, take a left onto US-395 N heading for South Lake Tahoe. Have a great time!

Any chance you have a similar guide for Kings Canyon/Sequoia and Joshua Tree?

Hi Kyle, Unfortunately we do not, but we hope to have more Guidebooks published later this year. In the meantime, feel free to reach out with any questions 🙂

Great article!!

We are coming in from Monterey and staying 1 night in Mariposa… Which entrance and itinerary would be best suited to us please!

Thanks, Vish! If you are coming in from Monterey, the best entrance to use is Arch Rock entrance on El Portal Road. Assuming you have 2 days including travel both ways we would suggest spending the first day exploring all of Yosemite Valley after arriving, staying in Mariposa, heading back into Yosemite via Oakhurst and Fish Camp so you can do the Mariposa Grove of Sequoias and Glacier Point, before maybe hiking another trail in Yosemite Valley. We would then leave via El Portal Road to head back to Monterey. It is a lot to drive in just 2 days and staying in Mariposa means you have to drive back out and in again then next morning, but you will still be able to see the top sights easily, especially if you don’t take on any of the longer hikes. Let us know if you have any more questions and have a great trip!

Thank you so much!! This really helps to plan our 3 day trip to Yosemite! Great information and details!

Hi Shrenik, we’re very happy to help and hope you have a fantastic trip to Yosemite!

Enjoyed this so much! My granddaughter is a ranger at Wawona. Her mom and I are hoping to travel to Yosemite this summer. Thank you for all your travel tips!

Thank you Sylvia, Yosemite is a beautiful park – your granddaughter has a great job! We really hope you are able to make it this Summer and enjoy your trip!

An amazing national picture perfect park, almost everything you could wish to see in one place. Excellent pictures once again, keep it up.

Thanks Graham! Yosemite really is difficult to beat for landscapes and photography. Hope you get to use this Yosemite itinerary one day!

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Official Guide for Yosemite First-Timers

Everyone remembers their first time.  The season, time of day, who you were with, and the pictures that were taken to preserve the memory.  Wait, pictures? Yes, when you’re talking about the first time you lay eyes on Yosemite Valley, it’s a forever moment that deserves to be framed!

Yosemite National Park offers 1,200 square miles of breathtaking natural terrain.   For a word that is oft-overused, epic is in play here.  If you’ve never been to Yosemite, words may not even be enough to prepare you for what is coming.  But we’ll do our best.  Here’s what you need to know.

Why Yosemite? 

Perhaps no other National Park is so instantly recognizable as Yosemite.  Ever since John Muir eloquently chronicled his explorations starting in the 1800s, and later when Ansel Adams trained his immortal lens on its waterfalls and granite monoliths, Yosemite National Park had occupied a treasured place in America’s imagination.  The sheer scale and level of natural grandeur are “you have to see to believe” level.  Pair that with how easy it is to get here – about three hours from the San Francisco Bay Area, just a little longer from greater Los Angeles – and there’s your short answer to why Yosemite.

When to Visit Yosemite

Yosemite is a four-season destination, with magic sprinkled over each quarter – yet most visitors choose to visit in the summer.  School is out, international travelers are taking their extended California tour, we get it.  But if you’re able to consider a different window, visit the Park anytime but the summer, and especially for your first experience.  Spring is when the waterfalls are at their peak. Autumn is splendid, with cooler days and inspiring hues.   Winter brings board sports and turns Yosemite Valley into a giant snow globe.  Winter’s turn to spring offers its own set of wonders, a weather hybrid of sun and storm .   Adding to seasonality, timing your arrival is everything. Early mornings and midweek visits will help to optimize your experience.  

Yosemite Valley Views

Nothing quite prepares you for Tunnel View’s grand reveal, as Yosemite Valley opens up with awesome scale and dimension before your very eyes.  Prepare to be awestruck! From Tunnel View , Yosemite Valley’s most familiar faces, peaks and waterfalls offer a panoramic-mode-worthy symphony:  El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Fall say hello.

Discover the Beauty that Surrounds!

Yosemite Valley packs a punch but, it represents less than 1% of the Park’s total area! Yosemite National Park is studded with iconic scenery . All along Tioga Road, Northern Yosemite offers its own jaw-dropping vistas including Olmsted Point, Tenaya Lake and Tuolumne Meadows. The austere alpine scenes along this stretch of seasonal highway are well worth the drive.  Hetch Hetchy may be the unsung hero of Northern Yosemite with Wapama Fall and relatively undiscovered hiking trails.   Southern Yosemite offers another set of historic and natural attractions including the friendly enclave of Wawona and the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias .  Above it all, Glacier Point delivers a soaring perspective over the Valley floor.  As most visitors never venture past Yosemite Valley, the rest of the Park is wide open for your adventure.  

Take a Hike

Walking or hiking up to a waterfall is perhaps Yosemite’s signature experience.  Start with Bridalveil Fall or the short but sweet hike out to Lower Yosemite Fall.   More difficult but within reach of most able walkers via the Mist Trail are Vernal and Nevada falls.  And for the win, the 7.5-mile round trip to Upper Yosemite Falls is everything.  The switchbacked trail climbs nearly 2,500 vertical feet up the waterfall’s coursing path with views all along the way.  Feeling ambitious?  Score a wilderness permit and take an overnight hike into Yosemite’s interior.  Clouds Rest is a great example of a hike that, while many do in one day, is even better when you camp and catch the sunrise.

Driving To, In and Around Yosemite

Located in Mariposa County, Yosemite is tucked into the Sierra Nevada Mountains, an easy half-day drive from the San Francisco Bay Area and greater Los Angeles.  A trio of scenic highways take you there: 41 from the south, and 120 and 140 from the northeast.  All three are generally open and passable year-round.  The higher elevation highways 41 and 120 are more likely to have snow (and chain controls) during winter storms. Highway 140, dubbed the All-Weather Highway, enters Yosemite Valley at a lower elevation and is usually snow-free.  Certain roads inside Yosemite National Park are subject to seasonal winter closure.  No need to reinvent the wheel: discover current conditions and additional driving resources with our guide to Yosemite Road Conditions .

Car Free, Carefree!  

Take advantage of the surprisingly deep line-up of Yosemite public transportation options: YARTS; the free Valley Shuttle; Tuolumne Meadows Shuttle; Glacier Point Shuttle; and Mariposa Grove Shuttle.  Two-wheelers can take advantage of Yosemite Valley’s free bike share .  For more information about Yosemite public transportation, call (877) 989-2787, or visit http://yarts.com/ .

What to Pack

With an elevation swing from about 1,000 to more than 13,000 feet, and with four distinct seasons of Sierra Nevada weather , your packing list will naturally vary by time of year and where in the Park you’re visiting.  The one constant: multiple layers including a quick-drying base layer and waterproof shell.  From there, tailor your packing list to the specific season – puffy parka to swimsuit – and you will wear it well.   

Where to Eat & Drink

Yosemite’s dining game is strong.  Inside the Park, options focus on Yosemite Valley with restaurants ranging from picnic table to white tablecloth .  Gateway communities like Coulterville, Midpines and Mariposa offer foodie options for those on the way in and out of the Park, perfect for visitors staying in these charming Gold Country towns.  And be sure to bring plenty of water with you, more than you think you will need; the added elevation and activities demand it!

Yosemite on a Budget

Visiting Yosemite on a budget? No worries: the beauty of “ America’s Best Idea ” National Park System is that so many of the very best experiences are free with admission.  The standard Yosemite entry pass is $35 per vehicle, valid for seven consecutive days.  Annual passes and lifetime senior discounts extend the value even greater. Check out our Yosemite on a Budget article on best deals for lodging, experiences, transportation, and food to elevate your vacation value. 

Bonus: Yosemite Vacation Planner

With just a little planning and preparation, you can make the most of your time and create indelible Yosemite memories! The Yosemite Vacation Planner will get you started with our exclusive insider tips and ideas on things to do in Yosemite Mariposa County. Download the guide to your digital device to keep it handy throughout your visit.

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The Best Places to Stay Near Yosemite, From Cozy Cabins to an Airstream

By Emily Pennington

Yosemite National Park is one of the most-visited parks in the country, and with good reason. For one thing, it’s stunning in any season—late spring brings roaring waterfalls , summer is perfect for hiking to granite domes and alpine lakes, and wintertime means ice skating and snow on the valley floor. Though the park is perhaps best known for its towering cliffs of granite and glacially polished rock domes, this 747,956-acre expanse is also home to misty alpine meadows, giant sequoia groves, and trout-filled rivers. Whether you’re hoping to cruise along the Yosemite Valley bike path on your one-speed or day hike to some of the park’s most impressive viewpoints, we’ve compiled a list of our favorite accommodations in the area, with a little something for everyone. From hot tubs under the Milky Way to fairytale castles to secluded cabins with mountain views , there’s something for travelers of all ages and interests. (If you prefer to sleep right under the stars, check out our guide to  Yosemite camping .)

Note: Yosemite has renewed its mandatory vehicle reservations this summer. For more information and to book your slot, click here .

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Firefall Ranch at Yosemite

This brand-new, 300-acre hamlet of pet-friendly private cabins and spacious villas is the definition of modern mountain living. Opened in 2024, its indoor-outdoor fireplaces make for cozy hangs on the deck’s sofa, while creature comforts like Keurig coffee and Bluetooth speakers help you feel at home—when you’re not craning your neck up at Half Dome, that is. Firefall Ranch is also a fantastic spot for families and large groups of friends, as well-appointed one-, two-, and three-bedroom casitas and villas are available.

Modern cabin with a hot tub

Don’t be fooled by the humble exterior of this one-bedroom cabin; inside, you’ll find oodles of modern elegance and thoughtful amenities. A smart TV and ultra-fast Wi-Fi make it easy to stay connected on your nature-filled excursion, and a coffee bar with a pour-over, Keurig, and flavored syrups will help you get up and greet the day before exploring Yosemite Valley’s famous waterfalls . At night before hopping into the queen bed, soak your sore post-hike muscles in the wooden hot tub and gaze up at the stars.

Hilltop haven

Views for days are the top amenity at this cozy two-bedroom that features a woodburning stove, propane grill, and lofty ceilings. It is particularly great for families since one bedroom boasts a queen, while the other sports two twins. Floor-to-ceiling windows in the living room make for gorgeous Sierra sunset viewing, even if you skip the hot tub. No matter how you choose to unwind after a day in the park, you’ll find serene solitude here.

Secluded creekside cabin

Welcome to paradise. This three-bedroom home is chock-full of unique amenities and design features, like plush velvet comforters, a stone fireplace, and a full kitchen with locally-roasted coffee. Rise with the birdsong and sip a hot beverage under the deck’s shady pergola, which overlooks a babbling brook. After cuddling up for a projector-screened film on the mid-century sofa, a massive soaking tub awaits in the primary bathroom, ideal for a nightcap and a post-hike soak.

Jahnavi Bhatt

Olivia Morelli

Kelsey Glennon

The Ahwahnee Arrow

Built in 1927, The Ahwahnee is a National Historic Landmark hotel situated amidst the towering granite cliffs and thundering waterfalls that have made Yosemite Valley a world-famous, iconic destination. This in-park lodge is famous for its antique “parkitecture,” featuring stone fireplaces, dark wood libraries, and a grand dining hall serving classic American cuisine. With recently remodeled rooms in the main building and a kitchen upgrade in the winter of 2023, it’s a timeless piece of classic park lodging ideal for hikers and bikers who want to stay as close to the action as possible.

A forested private estate

If you’re going to go big in Yosemite, there’s no better place to splurge than at this architecturally impressive creekside estate designed by Conrad Asturi , complete with a private terrace, EV charging station, open-plan chef’s kitchen, and a private waterfall. The floor-to-ceiling windows in each of the five bedrooms look out on dense forests and shine the space with bright natural light. Soak your sore post-hike legs in the custom-carved stone bathtub and watch your city stresses disappear.

AutoCamp Yosemite Arrow

For the glamping fanatic with high standards, AutoCamp Yosemite offers refined Airstream suites and custom canvas tents that immerse park-loving travelers in the Sierra Nevada—without having to rough it. Located 25 miles from Yosemite’s El Portal entrance, each of the property’s modern Airstream trailers is bedecked with crisp white linens and spa-like bathrooms with sensuous Ursa Major bath products. The safari-style tents are no less luxe, with memory foam mattresses, high thread count sheets, and private campfire seating out front. A central clubhouse boasts healthy breakfast, lunch, and dinner options, plus complimentary Wi-Fi, coffee, and tea.

Chateau du Sureau Arrow

Tucked away on nine private acres of lavishly landscaped Sierra Nevada foothills is a storybook castle that looks like it belongs in Provence. Chateau du Sureau is a boutique hotel that has been touted as “the most luxurious stay near Yosemite,” and it’s easy to see why. From its ten elegantly appointed guest rooms with fireplaces to its secluded two-bedroom villa and European-inspired spa (the lavender blossom body polish is a must), the Chateau effortlessly blends first-class service and the outdoors. After an adventurous day in the park, be sure to enjoy togarashi seared ahi and Maine diver scallops at the on-site Elderberry House restaurant.

A contemporary build right on the Merced River

The Moonstone is a newly constructed retreat on the western side of Yosemite that seamlessly blends modern comforts with the mountain splendor that brings adventurous souls to the Sierra year after year. Overlooking a gorgeous bend in the Wild and Scenic Merced River , this home is an architecture lover’s dream. Reclaimed teak wood floors lay the perfect foundation for rustic accents like sheepskin throws, Scandinavian-inspired furnishings, and boho artwork. An outdoor dining area with a brick pizza oven has enough seats for your whole crew, and the property’s sod-topped yoga studio and outdoor copper bathtub are just the icing on the cake.

Rush Creek Lodge & Spa Arrow

Five minutes outside of Yosemite’s western entrance lies a full-service lodge fit for couples and families, with a year-round heated saltwater pool, private hiking trails , and a relaxed-yet-sophisticated restaurant with an elevated cocktail program. Kids will flip for the on-site zipline and complimentary nightly s’mores, while grownups will fall in love with the property’s Yosemite-themed spa, complete with hot waterfall coves, alpine meadow aromatherapy, and warm river rock beds.

A cheerful ranch on 70 acres

Color-loving travelers rejoice; The Yellow Fish House is here to shake you out of the doldrums of contemporary white and gray while still boasting a lavish space and amenities to spare. Set near the small community of Coarsegold, this cottage oozes charm, from its canary yellow and robin’s egg blue kitchen, to its clawfoot tub and vintage park posters. At the end of the day, from the bohemian daybed swing outside, crack open a cold one and watch the sun disappear behind the mountains.

A spunky A-frame surrounded by pines

This hip A-frame cabin is full of fun design details that are sure to make even the pickiest traveler smile. Lovingly nicknamed “The Yay-Frame,” it’s a five-bedroom, two-bathroom haven brimming with mid-century living room furnishings, artwork portraying Yosemite, a woodsy game room, and colorful outdoor seating. Included in the rental is a separate, 450-square-foot in-law cabin with a vintage wood-burning stove, muted jade cabinets, a private bedroom, and a full bath.

A three-bedroom with panoramic Sierra Nevada views

Part of the Sierra Nevada Mountains’ magic is the awe of watching light dance across the mountain peaks, a joy that continues even when your day in the park is done. Just a half-hour drive from Yosemite, this peaceful, pet-friendly three-bedroom offers nearly 360-degree glimpses of the Sierra foothills. Newly renovated with clean, modern interiors, a hot tub, and an al fresco dining deck, it’s the perfect escape for mountain lovers looking to bask in the California sunshine.

Tenaya Lodge Arrow

Just a stone’s throw from Yosemite’s south entrance (the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias is a 12-minute drive away), Tenaya Lodge offers a plethora of amenities and group-friendly lodging with upscale mountain décor. This AAA four-diamond property has a little something for everyone, from spa-style soaking tubs to communal firepits and rustic cottages nestled between towering sugar pines and incense cedars. And for travelers who have a furry friend in tow, Tenaya even has a Fido-oriented upgrade, with dog bowls, a dog bed, and a “pet concierge” info sheet.

‘Prepare to be enthralled’: How to see Yosemite’s enchanting rainbows that form at night

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We met Brian Hawkins, a Redondo Beach mechanical engineer-turned-videographer, in the near-empty lobby of the Yosemite Valley Lodge. It was just after 9 on a Tuesday night in late April. Our hunt was about to begin, but the weather augured poorly.

“It’s cloudy, clearing later,” he said. “I would not expect to see anything yet.”

This was no chance meeting. A couple of years before I had discovered Hawkins’ website , where he posts photos, videos and very precise predictions of the phenomenon that had lured us to this place, at exactly this time: moonbows.

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Naturalist John Muir called them lunar rainbows, or spraybows, revealed by a full moon’s light. Roaring spring and early summer waterfalls in Yosemite National Park make the central California destination one of the few spots on Earth to see them. The next viewing opportunity is May 21 to 25.

Moonbows haven’t realized the popularity of the park’s firefall each February, but visitors are gaining awareness. As we navigated the paved trail in darkness to Lower Yosemite Fall , we passed clumps of walkers going in the other direction, evidently discouraged by persistent clouds. At the base, some 25 were gathered in small groups, many behind a bend sheltering onlookers from the falls’ jet-loud spray.

Muir described the Yosemite Falls’ roar as “fine, savage music,” and Hawkins spoke movingly of how the falls, especially in the upper stretch, maintained a voice, even a presence. Having seen spectacular photos by him and others, my wife, Mica, and I impatiently waited for the moon to reflect the sun’s light on the falls. As did others.

One photographer showed me a quarter-moonbow image he had captured 20 minutes before during a cloud break. Another, Eric Krapil, 28, from Laurel, Md., shared a full-arc moonbow photo from the night before, captured on his cellular phone.

“We got lucky,” he said. “Some guy walking past us at the lodge said, ‘Do you want to see a moonbow?’”

We certainly did on this night. And a few minutes later, as the yellowish moon briefly shouldered through the haze, Hawkins pointed to a rock. There, he said, a corner of the moonbow begins.

And I saw it: A quarter arc at best, ghostly white in the moon’s faint light. Not everything I had hoped for, but as we walked back later I thanked Hawkins for helping us see that glimmer — a hint of what might come the following nights.

Yeah, he said. A thoughtful pause ensued.

“That was,” he continued, “the most pathetic moonbow I’ve ever seen.”

Before 2007, nobody was precisely sure when and where moonbows would appear at Yosemite. But a team of researchers from Texas State University harnessed computers to meld topography, geometry and astronomy to accurately predict the moonbows’ appearance and published their findings.

Hawkins first visited the park that same year and became mesmerized by its beauty — particularly after seeing a moonbow in 2011. He started doing his own modeling, and his website debuted in 2018. It’s a labor of love — there are no ads, and he doesn’t do tours or hawk T-shirts.

What he does do is help other seekers. Anna Smits, who lives and works in the Yosemite Valley, saw her first moonbow during the pandemic. The park was closed to visitors, but Hawkins still shared his calculations. Now, Smits — both an avid photographer and outdoorswoman — occasionally pushes the envelope to find more elusive moonbow shots.

One of the best hikes in Yosemite is in this hidden valley of waterfalls

Less crowded than Yosemite Valley, whose roads have been choked with visitors, Hetch Hetchy Valley is a half-forgotten realm filled with granite walls, tall falls and wildflowers.

July 21, 2023

What does that entail? One night, that involved setting an anchor and rappelling about 15 feet to a ledge near Upper Yosemite Fall. Another time, she set her alarm for 1:30 a.m. for a hike in bright moonlight to Vernal Fall. It was so cold that the condensed spray solidly froze her tripod.

“It’s such a rewarding experience,” she said. “It really lights me up just thinking about sitting in the spray and watching this moonbow cross in front of you.”

That visual reward eluded us on the subsequent two nights of our visit last month. Daytime blue skies surrendered to clouds at night. Hawkins had warned me that first night that nothing was guaranteed.

“Prepare to be enthralled by the scene before you but also frustrated by how difficult it is to shoot,” he said. “A lot of things are working against you — it’s cold, it’s wet, the lens has to be dried off, you can’t use auto focus. You just have to be patient and work through solving all the problems.”

And when the moon is hidden by a curtain of clouds, you comfort yourself with the memory of the falls’ voice and a glimmer of the show waiting when you return.

What is a moonbow?

Simply put, it’s a rainbow seen at night, produced by the light of a full moon reflecting off droplets of water suspended in the air. But humans struggle to detect color at night, so — as with the northern lights — they usually appear white to the naked eye. Photographs, especially with timed exposures to allow more light, render them in full color, just like a rainbow.

Is Yosemite the only place to see moonbows?

No, but there are very few waterfall sites where they can consistently be seen. They include Cumberland Falls in Kentucky and Africa’s Victoria Falls, at the Zambia-Zimbabwe border.

When are the best dates, times and locations to see Yosemite moonbows?

They are best observed on the five nights around the full moon. Hawkins has calculated peak 2024 viewing dates and specific hours by location (Upper and Lower Yosemite falls and Glacier Point) for the next viewing window of May 21 to 25 at his website . Best dates for the following full moon, with his time calculations to follow later, are June 19 to 23.

Is any special gear needed?

Useful items include comfortable walking shoes, a rain poncho if viewing near a fall’s base, cloths to dry lenses and cameras, a tripod for longer camera or smartphone exposures and a headlamp or flashlight (red-light settings are preferable for not disrupting night vision). Weather apps such as Clear Outside predict hourly cloud cover. For the super-advanced, apps such as Photo Ephemeris and Planit Pro will help precisely calculate moon positions (and much more).

Are Yosemite National Park reservations required?

Sometimes. Until June 30, daytime (5 a.m. to 4 p.m.) park entry reservations are required on weekends and holidays. From July 1 to Aug. 16, they are required daily for the same time periods. Those with in-park camping or lodging reservations will be granted park entry. Full rules and a reservation link can be found at the National Park Service’s website .

Is it risky looking for Yosemite moonbows at night?

We didn’t find it daunting. Lower Yosemite Fall is just a 10-minute walk from Yosemite Valley Lodge , where we stayed. Cook’s Meadow, with its broad view of Yosemite Falls, is also nearby, but we decided to drive, largely because dense cloud cover obscured the moonlight. Both Hawkins and Smits counseled using common sense in seeking more remote locations. It’s worth noting that the intrepid Muir, who never shrank from a challenge, almost died one night while chasing moonbows behind Yosemite Falls near Fern Ledge; he escaped drenched and numb from a “wild bath in moonlit spray.”

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Alex Pulaski is a former travel editor at The Oregonian. Since 2013 he has written freelance travel articles for a number of regional and national publications. He has twice been honored in the Lowell Thomas Travel Journalist of the Year awards. Pulaski lives in West Linn, Ore., and often writes about cruising, the outdoors and cultural travel.

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Take an epic trip along the West Coast in 2024. Here are the top 10 places

Making summer travel plans? Here are the top 10 places to take an epic trip along the West Coast in 2024.

LOS ANGELES — I couldn’t help it. In the course of scouting out great adventures for West Coast 101 — our new guide to essential destinations in Baja, California, Oregon, Washington and British Columbia — I found myself compiling a personal top 10.

I’ll get to that list shortly. But first, an honorable mention.

Even if you’ve never seen “The Big Lebowski,” you’ve probably heard someone mention the rug that tied Lebowski’s room together. Well, Harris Ranch does that for California.

This I-5 stop for food, gas, lodging and bathrooms (not necessarily in that order) might not make anyone’s bucket list. And I’ll admit that if the wind blows the wrong way, it smells like cattle. But if you’re driving north-south through the San Joaquin Valley, which just about every Californian does sooner or later, you’re going to need to stop somewhere.

Harris Ranch faithfully awaits, 184 miles south of San Francisco and 200 miles north of L.A. City Hall, the pride of Coalinga. Over the years, I’ve pumped gas at its Shell station, slept in its comfortable hotel (no resort fee or room tax), conducted interviews in its Horseshoe Lounge, lingered over breakfast in its Ranch Kitchen (excellent) and grabbed a sandwich from its Express BBQ (adequate). I’ve even bought bonsai from Hyo Kim, who peddles delicately coiffed junipers, olive and pine trees ($25-$500) from a stand on the dirt shoulder across the street.

I’m not saying cattle ranches are good for the planet’s future — definitely not. But I’m just realizing that for about 45 years now, Harris Ranch has been the rug tying together my adventures in the vast living room that is our West Coast.

Your rug might be different. After all, these lists are subjective.

Of our 101 best West Coast experiences, these 10 resonate most for me. I’d recommend them to just about any California newbie and I’d grab at a chance to visit them again — some for basic beauty, others for the stories they tell or the memories they tie together.

10. Rady Shell, San Diego

I have a hard time imagining a more pleasant place to see an outdoor concert. Well, maybe the Red Rocks Amphitheater outside Denver. But on the West Coast? I’ll take this sleek bayside shell in downtown San Diego. And I’ll try not to be resentful that nobody thought of this while I lived down there.

9. Deetjen’s Big Sur Inn, California

What are we going to do about Highway 1? Since that coast road was built on the slopes of Big Sur in the 1930s, we’ve treasured it. But as any acrophobe, geologist or engineer could tell you, those slopes crumble and slide relentlessly. Year after year, Caltrans moves mountains to keep that two-lane road navigable. Then comes another slide. Since January 2023 it’s been impossible to drive from San Simeon to Big Sur via the coastal route. (Caltrans has forecast a reopening, with some delays, on May 27.) Whenever I worry about the highway, I think of Deetjen’s, which is basically a roadside time capsule clad in weathered wood. It opened about the time the highway did and won over generations of road-trippers with its rustic rooms and restaurant. Before Helmuth Deetjen died in 1972, he set up a nonprofit organization to keep the place running in old-school fashion. I’ve been stopping there since the 1980s. You have to call to make a reservation. And when you get there, you have to expect paper-thin walls along with the Norwegian woodwork, the crackle of the fireplace and the portrait of Deetjen on the wall. It’s a priceless place. And Nepenthe and the Henry Miller Memorial Library are just down the road. We just can’t take Deetjen’s or that road for granted.

8. Yosemite Valley, California

Does this need explaining? Probably not. If you’re arriving from the south, you emerge from the long, dark Wawona Tunnel to see El Capitan and Half Dome looming above a green, wet world of its own. Waterfalls roar left and right. The valley stretches for seven miles, framed by granite walls that Ansel Adams had to shoot and Alex Honnold had to climb. The Merced River meanders through. Even if you don’t have $600 to spend a night in the Ahwahnee Hotel, you can pop by for a snack, gaze up at painted rafters that go back to 1927 and warm yourself by one of the big fireplaces.

7. Venice Beach, Los Angeles

Yeah, I know. There’s plenty to lament in Venice. But when you hit that beach at the right time on the right day, it feels so emblematic of Southern California. On my last visit, the sun was just setting. My wife, Mary Frances, and I checked out the skateboarders, chatted with a few artists who were selling work along the sidewalk and did a double take at the Shul on the Beach (a.k.a. Pacific Jewish Center), an Orthodox synagogue where worshipers were just gathering for a Friday night Shabbat meal.

6. The whales of Baja’s lagoons

It’s one thing to watch migrating gray whales off the Southern California coast, standing at the rail of a big boat, looking for spouts in the distance and perhaps drawing within 100 yards. It’s something else when you’re in a panga on the waters of a southern Baja lagoon — usually Ojo de Liebre (Scammon’s) or San Ignacio. These immense creatures, the cows and and the calves, get so close sometimes, it feels intimate. And maybe a little scary. The adults weigh up to 90,000 pounds.

5. Ferry Building and waterfront, San Francisco

I’m trying to think of a more successful architectural resurrection than San Francisco’s Ferry Building. And failing. Picture that 1898 waterfront building in the 1920s, when there was no Bay Bridge and no Golden Gate Bridge and up to 50,000 people per day were commuting by ferry. The Ferry Building at the foot of Market Street was the center of the Bay Area’s nervous system. Then the bridges went up, commuters abandoned the ferries, the building was rehabbed into ugly offices and decades passed. Finally, in the aftermath of the 1989 Loma Prieta quake, San Francisco leaders launched a plan to revive the building. It reopened in 2003 as a foodie-oriented restaurant and retail space, a thousand times more interesting to me than the souvenir shops of Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39 (although at least you get the sight and sound of sea lions there). Apart from the food, it’s got great views of the Bay Bridge. (And with luck, that bridge’s nightly light show, which went dark last year, will resume in early 2025.) I think of the Ferry Building and the Golden Gate Bridge as the bookends of the waterfront.

4. Hidden Valley, Joshua Tree National Park

I’m not a rock climber or a boulderer. But I’m a sucker for sunrises and sunsets in the desert. And when that golden-hour light hits the jumbled boulders in Hidden Valley, it’s hard to resist.

3. Pike Place Market, Seattle

This is always the first place I want to go in Seattle, a spot where people, colors, flavors and scents all come together. I walk past the mirrored bar of the Athenian restaurant, where my buddy Rick and I had beers in 1986, my first time in town. I go down below to make sure the bubble-gum wall is still in place. I mourn at the spot where the newsstand used to be. I kick myself for failing to buy an incredibly cool cigar-box guitar from the Soul Cat Guitar guy when I had the chance. (I thought I’d have another chance at his market stall when I visited in January, but he wasn’t there that day.) I listen to buskers and eat unhealthy snacks. I stick my head in the anarchist collective bookshop ( Left Bank Books ), which has somehow lasted 51 years. And like every other tourist, I linger near the fishmongers so I can see them flinging fish and hollering at each other.

2. Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, Vancouver

On my first visit, a few years ago, it was raining and the park was packed. I wondered if the bridge would be closed. Nope. Open, and prone to slightly jiggle as I stood 230 feet above the Capilano River, surrounded by tall trees and mist. When I returned in February, it was snowing, the park was nearly empty and the bridge was still open. The vibe was part “Twin Peaks,” part “Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom.”

1. Badwater, Death Valley

Badwater is hot and dry enough to kill you pretty quickly, but as long as you have water to drink, a little shade and a way out, you’ll probably live and have a story to tell. On my first visit, a summer day about 30 years ago, Death Valley was even hotter than usual, around 115 degrees. The power had gone out at our Furnace Creek hotel. Rather than crowd into the marginally cooler hotel pool with scores of young children (and their urine, most likely), I headed with my wife and friends for the vast, flat, salty, dry lake floor of Badwater with a Wiffle ball and bat. The game didn’t last long, but there are photos: Except for our 20th century leisurewear, we looked like biblical figures in the process of being turned to pillars of salt. So last year, when rains washed out roads, closed Death Valley National Park for months, refilled the lake bed and transformed the basin into a great big mirror, I was eager to get back there.

Within days of the park’s reopening, I got to Badwater for sunrise and came back again at sunset. No Wiffle ball. Just the big sky, the mountains reflected in the lake and a handful of fellow travelers in silhouette at water’s edge. To those bold few who managed to kayak in Death Valley for the three winter weeks that it was possible, I envy you. I don’t know if I’ll ever see that lake again — as of May 1, it was just a few inches deep and shrinking fast — but now I have two layers of Badwater memories to carry with me.

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11 of the most stunning waterfalls to see at Yosemite National Park and how to see them

Mar 10, 2022 • 8 min read

The first waterfall most park visitors see is one of the park's most stunning: Bridalveil Fall in Yosemite Valley, Yosemite National Park © soumitrapendse / Getty

For outdoor adventurers who want to chase waterfalls, there are few destinations that deliver like Yosemite National Park .

The park in Northern California is home to dozens of falls both large and small. While some require backcountry hiking skills to reach, a number of waterfalls are visible from accessible viewpoints or along easy trails.

In order to see waterfalls at their peak, timing is everything. Most flow fastest as the Sierra snow begins to melt. That means spring and early summer are the best times to visit the park if waterfalls are a priority. Thankfully for visitors in other times of year, a number of Yosemite’s waterfalls flow continuously, offering year-round displays.

How many waterfalls are there in Yosemite? 

There are more than two dozen waterfalls in Yosemite National Park. For completists attempting to see them all, however, counting them is more complicated than one might expect. Some waterfalls in Yosemite are well-established and officially named, but there are a number of spots where snowmelt can create temporary or ephemeral falls. Additionally, there are some named waterfalls that are technically several falls in one. So Yosemite visitors may forever have to quibble over whether seeing 24, 25, 26 or more waterfalls gets the job done.

These are the best waterfalls in Yosemite National Park: 

1. Bridalveil Fall: best for the iconic Yosemite backdrop

Height: 620 feet The fastest way to see the falls: Pullover at Tunnel View to view from afar or take the easy hike from the parking area.

The first waterfall most Yosemite visitors spot is Bridalveil Fall , visible from the popular car turnout at Tunnel View along with El Capitan and Half Dome . It flows fastest in spring but is sometimes just as impressive in lower flow times when the wind catches the water and sets it aloft.

Hikers can get up close to the fall’s base from the Valley floor via a short paved trail from the nearby parking area (note that the trail to Bridalveil Fall is closed through Fall 2022 for renovations). This lot often fills quickly during peak times, so consider parking along the side of the road on Southside Drive for more space. 

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2. Vernal Fall: best for families 

Height: 317 feet The fastest way to see the falls: Hike from Happy Isles up the very first part of the Panorama Trail (also known as the Mist Trail).

Vernal Fall is located on one of the most trafficked hikes in the park, where it helps give the route (the Mist Trail) its name. When hikers reach the fall, they ascend a rock staircase adjacent to it and are often sprayed with mist while climbing. 

The first part of the hike to the footbridge that crosses the Merced River beneath the fall is less than a mile. While it is a bit of a steep climb, most kids of elementary school age and above can tackle this path, making the trail one families often enjoy doing together.

3. Nevada Fall: best for day hikers

Height: 594 feet The fastest way to see the falls: Hike 3 uphill miles from Happy Isles beyond Vernal Fall.

Just upriver from Vernal Fall is Nevada Fall , the second and more strenuous half of one of the most popular day hikes in Yosemite . Here, the roaring Merced River crashes onto the rocks into a pool below. Consider taking the parallel route on the John Muir Trail back down to the Valley for alternate views and a downhill hike that is a little easier on the knees.

If climbing the switchbacks to get to this fall is too strenuous, both Vernal and Nevada Falls are visible from afar from the top of Glacier Point . Note, however, that the road to Glacier Point is closed for construction in 2022 and will open only partially with delays in 2023.

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4. Yosemite Falls: best for accessibility

Height: 2425 feet The fastest way to see the falls: Take the park’s shuttle system to stop 7, and stroll on a flat paved one-mile path to the base.

Yosemite Falls is the tallest waterfall in America and is technically three waterfalls in one, so you get triple the payoff. Located in the heart of the Valley and flowing nearly year-round, it’s also one of the easiest falls to access for visitors of all ages and abilities.

Part of the loop trail to Lower Yosemite Falls is paved and mostly flat, making it accessible for strollers and wheelchairs alike. For a more strenuous all-day hike, the trail to the top of Upper Yosemite Falls is a 7.6-mile roundtrip climb. 

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5. Horsetail Fall: best for photographers

Height: 1570 feet The fastest way to see the falls: Park at the El Capitan Picnic Area or nearby turnouts along Northside Drive.

Horsetail Fall only flows during a few months in winter, but its brief existence is well-documented by photographers each year. Horsetail Fall is where the famed Yosemite Firefall happens in February when the setting sun illuminates the fall at just the right angle on clear evenings making the water glow like fire. 

During the few weeks when the Firefall is most likely to occur, the park operates under strict restrictions in the afternoons and evenings to control crowds. To access the best viewing area, be prepared to walk 1.5 miles each way from the Yosemite Falls parking area (shuttle stop 7).

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6. Sentinel Falls: best for spring viewing

Height: 1920 feet The fastest way to see the falls: Stop either at Sentinel Beach or near the Four Mile Trailhead for the best vantage points.

One of the taller falls in Yosemite, Sentinel Falls flows in spring and early summer from Sentinel Rock on the south side of the park to the Yosemite Valley below. The falls are made up of six separate drop sections. When flowing, the falls are visible from several points along Southside Drive in the Valley.

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7. Ribbon Fall: best for big drops

Height: 1612 feet The fastest way to see the falls: Park along Southside Drive just beyond Bridalveil Fall.

Like Sentinel Falls, Ribbon Fall’s life each year is short, flowing only from approximately March through June. It has the distinction of being the tallest single-drop waterfall in America. It also has an exceptionally majestic setting, flowing just to the west of El Capitan . In the winter months, look for the ice cone that often forms at its base.

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8. Illilouette Fall: best for serious hikers

Height: 370 feet The fastest way to see the falls: Hike down the Panorama Trail from Glacier Point .

Illilouette Fall is one of the lesser-known falls in Yosemite, likely because it is not visible from any easily accessible vantage points within the Valley. Instead, it’s a reward for hikers who venture out on one of the more strenuous trails. It’s visible from a side angle in higher flow months from the hiking path en route to Vernal Fall but is best viewed closer to Glacier Point along the Panorama Trail.

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9. Chilnualna Falls: best near the park’s south entrance

Height: 690 feet The fastest way to see the falls: Take the strenuous hike from the Chilnualna Falls Road parking area. 

While most Yosemite travelers spend all their time in the Yosemite Valley, quite a few also visit the Wawona area near the park’s south entrance. This region of the park is more known for its giant trees, but Chilnualna Falls gives waterfall chasers one worthy option, particularly in the late spring and early summer when the water levels are highest. The hike to view the falls is fairly strenuous at 8.4 miles with significant switchback climbs, so it’s not for everyone. 

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10. Wapama Falls: best for spontaneous visitors

Height: 1400 feet The fastest way to see the falls: View from the parking lot at the O’Shaughnessy Dam.

Few Yosemite travelers venture into the Hetch Hetchy Valley, but those that do will be rewarded by several more impressive waterfall views. Wapama Falls is the best known in the area. Reach it via a moderate 5-mile hike on the Hetch Hetchy Reservoir Trail from O'Shaughnessy Dam. Hikers on the trail will also pass Tueeulala Falls en route, making this hike a two-for-one reward.

Hetch Hetchy is the only part of Yosemite that doesn’t require a park reservation to enter during peak months , making it a smart option for travelers planning a spontaneous visit to the park unable to get reservations.

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11. Lehamite Falls: best-overlooked fall

Height: 1180 feet The fastest way to see the falls: View from Cook Meadow

Often overshadowed by its nearby waterfall neighbor, Yosemite Falls, Lehamite Falls is a series of narrow cascades that tumble down Indian Canyon to the Yosemite Valley. The falls are also some of the most unpredictable and variable, often only flowing for a short few weeks in spring. The best vantage point is from Cook Meadow in the early afternoon before shadows obscure the views. 

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Safety recommendations and restrictions during a pandemic can change rapidly. Lonely Planet recommends that travelers always check with local authorities for up-to-date guidance before  traveling during Covid-19 .

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Strategy for Booking in park Lodging - Yosemite National Park Forum

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Strategy for Booking in park Lodging

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I hope someone can offer some guidance and strategies on how to accomplish this!

6 replies to this topic

How is it that you are not successful? What is your strategy? What is not working?

If there is a specific type of room you want that is limited, you could book an earlier arrival date. For example, if you want to arrive July 10 for 4 nights, you could reserve 7 nights beginning July 7. Then later modify your reservation busy canceling the first 3 nights.

Only use the official website, TravelYosemite

First, you have to understand that rooms are released in the middle of the night. Typically closer to early morning. I remember last year(2023) it ranged from 2am PST - 6:30 PST. Second, they are not released at the same time every night/morning. Third, when they are released, the cabins are first to go, especially for summer travel.

If you're just waking up in the morning and hoping the cabins are there...you will be very unsuccessful. You'll have better luck grabing a room at the lodge, which doesn't have cabins.

In terms of strategies, with a range of 4 hours in release time...be creative and expect less sleep for a few days.

If you’re looking now, you’re probably looking on or around the very busy Memorial Day holiday weekend. Mind you I can book the Ahwahnee for several nights on various dates next May although weekends are tougher to find. As well as the above strategy, try looking for single nights and once you have your dates all booked, ask the hotel to put them onto one booking.

If you’re looking for a large group, book each room on a seperate booking.

And advantage, or disadvantage, is that for each rservation you need to make a one night deposite. So if you book all rooms at the same time you just pay for one night. But with 5 separate reservations (like me) you have to pay for each room when it is booked. So with one reservation you only have a one room deposite (pay the balance on checking in), but with single night reservations you are all paid up, so you don't have to pay when you get there.

And don't forget you are competing with people from around the world for those rooms, but some of those people don't have flights yet, and may be booking multiple rooms at multiple places while they finalize their travel agendas, and will likely be canceling some of those reservations down the road. That is why need to ALWAYS keep checking.

Oh my goodness, I just posted almost the same question! I think I'll delete it and follow this post.

If by chance you don’t get what you want 366 days out. Start trying for the rooms you want from 20-40 days out. I was able to secure 4 consecutive nights at YVL for this June in the last two weeks. If you call to link the reservations, they will refund you the deposit. Booked each room separately.

Happy room hunting and trip planning!

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Need travel inspiration? These are the best places to visit in June

With its mix of spring and summer, June is an ideal time to get away. There’s a lingering freshness in the air, but there’s also a sweet warmth inching in. It’s a time to be outside , experience nature, and take in new places. Not only that, but since peak crowds haven’t arrived, you could score a deal on airfare and lodging.

Ketchikan, Alaska

Provence, france, lake como, italy, yosemite national park, welcome summer with a june getaway.

Whether at home in the U.S. or across the globe, options abound for a June trip that’ll dazzle your senses and help you recharge. Here are the best places to visit in June.

Alaska should be on every traveler’s list for truly unspoiled wilderness. Ketchikan —  the “salmon capital of the world” — puts you in the middle of the last frontier, where the water’s clear and the forests untouched. Only a 2-hour flight from Seattle, it’s also easy to get to.

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Located on the southern entrance of the Inside Passage — a series of waterways that meander through pristine settings — Ketchikan lets you get away from it all. A deep Alaska Native culture provides a fascinating window to the past. Surrounding mountains tower over the surroundings. Lastly, the annual salmon migration is a natural wonder you have to experience.

Though Bali’s amazing any time of year, June offers lower crowds, reasonable pricing, and mellower temps. It also rains less. That makes the month perfect for outdoor activities like surfing or hiking. You can also take a food tour through Denpasar, with eclectic foods like lawar (a seasoned mixture of vegetables, eggs, coconut, and lime) and es kelapa muda (a drink made from coconut flesh, iced coconut water, and syrup).

We’d stay at Further , a modern space designed by Studio Wenden. Besides elegant earth-toned buildings and interiors, there’s an on-site surf shop by Thomas Surfboards and a tropical-Parisian bistro to savor. After a day on the water, it’s the perfect place to relax and recharge.

France is a cultural epicenter with a deep heritage of art, cuisine, and architecture. But in June, there’s another reason to visit the home of the Eiffel Tower and beef bourguignon: lavender. As spring blends into summer, vast fields of lavender blossom form row upon row of purple bliss. It’s the perfect setting against historic buildings and open countrysides.

In particular, Coquillade Provence puts you in the middle of the lavender bounty while taking you back to 11th-century rural life. The small village is home to an estate containing centuries-old olive groves and cypress trees, and a 63-room resort is luxurious yet quaint. Additionally, there’s a winery, spa, and three restaurants.

This Northern Italy destination is a classic choice, with its historic villas, aquamarine waters, and surrounding mountains. Take in the warm air on a speedboat cruise, or try nuanced cuisine at local restaurants. The lake is a mix of peace and vibrancy, with still waters and Italian culture providing the flavor.

We’d stay at Passalacqua , a 1787 villa with a lakeside swimming terrace and curated artwork. At sunset, we’d go for a swim, enjoy a drink, and watch the sun disappear behind the Alps.

In June, the Yosemite landscape comes alive with blooming wildflowers like redbud, Mariposa lily, and lupine. With most of the snow gone, you can hike from Wawona or Hetchy Hetchy and take in the park’s stunning panoramas. Majestic waterfalls continue to flow, like Yosemite Falls (2,425 ft), Sentinel Falls (2,000 ft), and Ribbon Falls (1,612 ft).

We’d stay at AutoCamp Yosemite , with its Airstream suites, a central clubhouse, and intimate gatherings. From there, we’d take a backpacking trip to Ostrander Lake, with views of the Clark Range and many domes.

In spring, the surroundings start to renew, and by summer, they reach full bloom. June puts you in the middle of the process, with the natural world at its peak — a perfect time to seek out new places. The destinations here let you live it up in luxury or rough it in a rugged environment, but no matter your choice, you’ll experience nature’s bounty. 

Where would we go? Ketchikan, Alaska, to view the salmon spawn and learn about Alaska Natives . As the last frontier, the 49th state offers a look into the past, where unspoiled wilderness and untouched wildlife existed and thrived. For refreshment and recharge, it’s an environment that’s hard to beat. 

So, peruse these options and make your reservations because the world’s waiting for you to explore. June’s traits only make it better.

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