Introduction
Yosemite National Park, located in the Sierra Nevada mountains of California, is one of the United States' most iconic and beloved national parks. Yosemite National Park spans 1,187 square miles (3,080 square kilometers), making it roughly the size of the state of Rhode Island. Yosemite is renowned for its stunning granite cliffs, waterfalls, clear streams, giant sequoia groves, and biological diversity. The park was established on October 1, 1890, and it was a cornerstone in the development of the national park idea, which has since been adopted worldwide. The park is one of the most visited national parks in the United States, with over 4 million visitors annually. The majority of visitors spend their time in the 7 square miles of Yosemite Valley, which is the most accessible and developed part of the park. The park is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The area that is now Yosemite National Park has been inhabited by Native American tribes for thousands of years. The park's name, "Yosemite," originates from the Native American tribe, the Ahwahneechee, who called the area "Ahwahnee," meaning "big mouth." The name "Yosemite" is a mispronunciation by early non-Native visitors. The park gained federal protection in 1864 when President Abraham Lincoln signed the Yosemite Grant, and it was officially designated a national park in 1890.
The park is home to more than 400 species of vertebrates, including mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fish. Notable wildlife includes black bears, mule deer, mountain lions, and various bird species. Yosemite's diverse habitats support a wide range of animal life, and the park's efforts in conservation help protect these species.
Yosemite is famous for its natural attractions. Yosemite Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in North America, with a total drop of 2,425 feet. Half Dome is a granite dome, carved by glaciers, at the eastern end of Yosemite Valley, it is a well-known rock formation and popular hiking destination. Mariposa Grove is home to over 500 mature giant sequoias, some of the largest trees on Earth. Glacier Point overlook with a commanding view of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and Yosemite's high country. For more information go to the park's Wikipedia site.
Top Hikes
These three hikes are good starting points for planning, with at least one more difficult option. Distances and elevation gain are rounded; check the official park trail page for current closures, permits, weather, and trail conditions.
Mirror Lake Loop (easy to moderate) - 5.0 miles (8.0 km); elevation gain 100 feet (30 m). A flexible Valley route with views of cliffs, forest, and seasonal water.
Mist Trail to Vernal and Nevada Falls (difficult) - 6.4 miles (10.3 km); elevation gain 2,000 feet (610 m). A classic waterfall route with steep stone steps and wet, slippery sections in season.
Upper Yosemite Fall Trail (difficult) - 7.2 miles (11.6 km); elevation gain 2,700 feet (823 m). A strenuous climb from Yosemite Valley to the top of North America's tallest waterfall.
Day Hikes:
Half Dome Trail. The Half Dome hike is a challenging and rewarding adventure in Yosemite National Park. It is a 17 mile (27 km) round-trip hike that takes you to the top of one of the parks most iconic landmarks, including Vernal and Nevada falls. Along the way, enjoy the stunning views of the valley and the High Sierra. The hike involves a steep ascent of 4,800 feet (1,463 m), passing by scenic waterfalls, forests, and granite cliffs. The most difficult and thrilling part of the hike is the final climb on the Half Dome cables, where you have to use metal cables and wooden planks to scale the nearly 400 feet(121m) of vertical rock face. This section requires a permit, which you can obtain through a lottery system. The hike usually takes 10 to 14 hours, so you need to start early and be well-prepared. The trailhead is at Happy Isles.
If you choose that route, be prepared to climb stairs and possibly get wet.
Yosemite Valley Loop Trail The Yosemite Valley Loop Trail is a 20.3 mile (32.6 km) hike that follows the Merced River and offers views of many of the park's landmarks, such as El Capitan, Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, and Bridalveil Fall. The trail is mostly flat and easy, but it can be shortened to a half loop of 11.5 miles (18.5 km) or less by using bridges or shuttle stops. The trail is open year-round, but some sections may be snowy or icy in winter. Another option is to rent a bike at Yosemite Valley Biking.
Glacier Point to Yosemite Valley Floor The trail from Glacier Point to Yosemite Valley is a popular and scenic hike that descends 3,200 feet (975 m) over 4.8 miles (7.7 km). You will see amazing views of Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, Nevada Fall, and Vernal Fall along the way. The trail is moderately challenging and takes about 2.5 hours to complete.
Panorama Trail The Panorama Trail is a 9.1 mile (14.6 km) hike that starts at Glacier Point and ends at Happy Isles in Yosemite Valley. Total elevation is 2,000 feet (610 m ). It offers amazing views of Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, and other landmarks along the way. The trail passes by Illilouette Falls and Panorama Point, and crosses the bridge over Nevada Fall. The trail is considered hard and takes about 5 hours to complete.
Mist Trail This is a 5.4 mile (9 KM) and an elevation gain of 2,000 feet (610 m). The Mist Trail is one of the most popular short hikes in Yosemite National Park, California, USA. The steep hike follows the Merced River, starting at Happy Isles in Yosemite Valley, past Vernal Fall and Emerald Pool, to Nevada Fall. The hike takes 4 to 6 hours to complete. You may get wet from the waterfall spray and encounter many stairs along the way. The trail is open year-round, but some sections may be icy or closed in winter.
Backpacking
Backpacking in Yosemite is extremely popular. Portable bear cansiters are required. Below are my personal three favorites. Any overnight hiking permits
Little Yosemite Valley and Campground The hike and campground at Little Yosemite Valley are popular destinations for backpackers and hikers who want to explore the Yosemite Wilderness and Half Dome. The hike is about 4 miles (6.4 km) from Happy Isles Trailhead in Yosemite Valley, passing by Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall along the way. The campground is a minimally developed site with communal bear lockers, fire rings, and a composting toilet. There is no potable water, but the Merced River and Sunrise Creek are nearby for filtering. The campground is first-come, first-served and requires a wilderness permit.
Clouds Rest One of my favorite hikes. You have two options. Either way you can do a round trip or hike from one trailhead to another.
1) From Tioga Road The hike to Clouds Rest is a 13.5 mile (21 km) round-trip trail that starts from the Sunrise Lakes trailhead on Tioga Road near Tenaya Lake. The trail climbs 3,152 feet (961 m) to the summit of Clouds Rest, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of Half Dome, Yosemite Valley, and the High Sierra. The trail is considered hard and takes about 5 hours to complete. You need a permit.
2) From Happy Isle trailhead. The hike to Clouds Rest from Happy Isle is a long and strenuous trail that covers 10.4 miles (16.7 km), one way, and 6,348 feet (1934 m) of elevation gain. It follows the Mist Trail and the John Muir Trail to reach the summit of Clouds Rest, where you can enjoy panoramic views of Half Dome and the Yosemite Valley. The hike takes about 12 hours to complete and requires a permit.
John Muir Trail (JMT) The JMT hike from Yosemite National Park is a 211 miles (339 km) trail that follows the John Muir Trail from Yosemite Valley to Mount Whitney, the highest point in the contiguous United States. The hike passes through scenic landscapes, such as waterfalls, granite cliffs, alpine lakes, and mountain peaks. The hike is considered hard and takes about 3 to 4 weeks to complete. You need a wilderness permit to start the hike from Yosemite.
For those of you who want an adventure but not the hassle of carrying a tent, the High Sierra Camps are a great alternative. There are five camps and reservations are made in a lottery.
Biking
Riding a bike or scooter is a great way to experience the sights of Yosemite Valley. There are 12 miles (19.3 km) of trails with incredible views of El Capitan, Half Dome, and all the falls. Helmets are required for everyone. Bikes can be rented in Yosemite Valley at Curry Village, Yosemite Village, and Yosemite Valley Lodge.
Rock Climbing
Yosemite is considered a climber's paradise. I am not personally a rock climber, but it is incredible watching climbers go up the rock faces. The three most popular climbs are El Capitan, Half Dome, and Royal Arches. A favorite spot to watch El Capitan is from the middle of the valley floor. Bring a chair and a very good pair of spotting scopes to watch them do "The Nose" and "The Salathe Wall." To see more information, including overnight permits, visit the NPS website.
Fishing
Fishing anywhere in Yosemite is an incredible experience. In the valley floor you will enjoy sites including Half Dome, El Capitan and the various falls. Outside the valley, the views of the sheer granite rock faces make it a surreal experience. Yosemite is home to pristine lakes, rivers, and streams. Some popular fishing spots include Tenaya Lake, Merced River, Tuolumne River, and Lyell Fork. Rainbow trout, brown trout, and brook trout are commonly found in these waters. You'll need a valid California fishing license to fish within the park. Licenses can be purchased online or at local vendors. Keep in mind that you may not use scented or flavored liquid gel or paste, scented natural or artificially manufactured fish eggs, worms, grubs, crickets, leeches, stink baits, insects, crayfish, human food, pet food, fish, fish parts, and fish eggs
In addition to bait fishing, fly fishing enthusiasts will appreciate the clear waters and challenging conditions in Yosemite. Catch limits and other regulations can be found at the NPS website. Consider using catch and release to preserve the fishery. Also, use barbless hooks to minimize harm to the fish.
Where to Stay
There are different types of sleeping accommodations in Yosemite Valley, depending on your preferences and budget. You can choose from hotels, motels, cabins, vacation rentals, bed and breakfasts, or campgrounds. Some of these options are located inside the park, while others are nearby in the surrounding communities.
Campgrounds
Yosemite has 13 campgrounds, and NPS notes that reservations are required for all campgrounds from approximately April through October. Only Upper Pines is reservable year-round. There are no electrical, water, or sewer hookups in Yosemite campgrounds, though dump stations are available at Upper Pines all year and seasonally near Wawona and Tuolumne Meadows.
Yosemite Valley Campgrounds
Upper Pines Campground is open all year in Yosemite Valley near Curry Village and the Happy Isles trailheads. It has tap water, restrooms, and a dump station nearby, and it is the only Yosemite campground that NPS lists as reservable year-round.
Lower Pines Campground is a seasonal Yosemite Valley campground near the Merced River. It has tap water, restrooms, and some of the Valley's larger RV and trailer sites, though only a limited number fit the maximum posted lengths.
North Pines Campground is a seasonal Yosemite Valley campground near the Merced River and Tenaya Creek. NPS lists some sites through the North Pines lottery and the rest on the regular reservation release schedule.
Camp 4 is a historic walk-in, tents-only campground in Yosemite Valley that is closely tied to Yosemite climbing history. NPS notes that pets are not allowed and RVs or trailers are not permitted because it is walk-in camping.
South of Yosemite Valley
Wawona Campground is open all year near the South Entrance and the Mariposa Grove area. It has tap water and restrooms, and NPS lists group and horse camping options at Wawona.
Bridalveil Creek Campground is a seasonal campground along Glacier Point Road at about 7,200 feet. It is useful for visitors focusing on Glacier Point Road, Taft Point, Sentinel Dome, and the high-country side of the park south of Yosemite Valley.
North of Yosemite Valley
Hodgdon Meadow Campground is open all year near the Big Oak Flat Entrance. It has tap water and restrooms and is a practical base for visitors entering from Highway 120 on the west side of the park.
Crane Flat Campground is a seasonal campground north of Yosemite Valley near the Tioga Road and Big Oak Flat Road junction. It works well for visitors splitting time between Yosemite Valley, Tuolumne Meadows, and the park's northwest approaches.
Tamarack Flat Campground is a more rustic seasonal campground off Tioga Road. NPS lists creek water that must be boiled and no RVs or trailers, so it is best suited to tent campers looking for a quieter forest setting.
White Wolf Campground is a seasonal campground along Tioga Road at about 8,000 feet. It offers a higher-elevation base for exploring the Tioga Road corridor and Yosemite's northern high country.
Yosemite Creek Campground is a rustic seasonal campground off Tioga Road. NPS lists creek water that must be boiled and notes that RVs and trailers are not recommended.
Porcupine Flat Campground is a seasonal campground near the high country along Tioga Road. It is a simpler campground with creek water that must be boiled and only a few sites that can accommodate small RVs.
Tuolumne Meadows Campground is Yosemite's largest campground and sits at about 8,600 feet in the high country. It is seasonal and gives visitors a base for Tuolumne Meadows, Lyell Canyon, and Tioga Road hiking.
Hotels
The Ahwahnee Hotel The Ahwahnee Hotel is your most expensive option. It was built by the Yosemite Park and Curry Company and opened for business in 1927 The hotel is constructed of steel, stone, concrete, wood, and glass, and is a premier example of National Park Service rustic architecture The hotel has hosted several famous personalities within its walls, including presidents and royalty The hotel offers hotel rooms, suites, parlors, and cottages. The Ahwahnee Dining Room is a must-see. The 34-foot-high beamed ceilings soar above floor to ceiling windows that showcase the beauty of the surroundings The hotel also has a gift shop with a focus on local artisans, a sweet shop, a bar, and a heated outdoor swimming pool on the premises. You can make reservations by visiting the Ahwahnee Hotel website (link below)
Yosemite Valley Lodge The lodge offers 241 recently remodeled traditional rooms with different available bed options, and family rooms The lodge provides a gift shop, multiple dining options, a bar, and an outdoor swimming pool on the premises. The lodge is located in close proximity to Yosemite Falls, making it an ideal base camp for exploring Yosemite National Park 3. The lodge also offers free bikes, a shuttle service, an ATM, and free WiFi. Link to reservations is below.
Curry Village You have a number of options when staying at Curry Village. Please note, it can get fairly cold from October through April. You may not want to rent an unheated cabin during that time.
Canvas Tent Cabins - Unheated: These cabins can accommodate 2 to 5 guests and feature wooden frames wrapped and covered with canvas, wooden floors, and wooden doors. They have shared central shower and bath facilities. Guests are provided with sheets, wool blankets, pillows, and towels during their stay.
Canvas Tent Cabins - Heated: These cabins can accommodate 2 to 4 guests and are available only during the winter months. They feature wooden frames wrapped and covered with canvas, wooden floors, and doors. These cabins offer heaters, which keep the entire tent cabin warm. They also have shared central shower and bath facilities.
Wooden Cabins with Private Bathrooms: These cabins can accommodate 2 to 4 guests and feature private bathrooms, electric wall heaters, electrical outlets, and lighting.
Wooden Cabins without Private Bathrooms: These cabins can accommodate 2 to 4 guests and feature shared central shower and bath facilities, electric wall heaters, electrical outlets, and lighting.
Standard Motel Rooms: These rooms can accommodate 2 to 4 guests and feature private bathrooms, air conditioning, televisions, and telephones.
House Keeping offers a canvas tent setup. It is centrally located next to the Merced River and is perfect for those who do not want to pitch a tent but want the outdoor feeling. Restaurants are close by.
Dining Options
There are many places to eat in Yosemite Valley.
Curry Village Pizza Patio and Bar This is definitely our favorite during the summer. The restaurant offers hand-tossed pizza, fresh salads, and cold drinks on the outdoor deck, surrounded by great views of Glacier Point and Royal Arches. The restaurant is open from January through November and during holidays when Curry Village is open.
The Ahwahnee Dining Room The restaurant is a destination dining spot that evokes a feeling of grandness and opulence. The restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as Sunday brunch. The restaurant offers a buffet-style service featuring many classic menu favorites including hand-carved Prime Rib and more for dinner. For breakfast, a self-serve buffet is offered in the dining room. The dress code is enforced for dinner. For dinner, gentlemen are required to wear long pants and a shirt with a collar, and women are asked to wear a dress, skirt, or long pants with a blouse. Children over the age of four are asked to dress for the occasion as well
Base Camp Eatery The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and offers a variety of choices that include recipes using local/seasonal ingredients. The restaurant also includes a Starbucks coffee bar. Seated dining as well as grab-and-go selections are available.
Mountain Room The restaurant offers a variety of dishes, including sizzling steaks, fresh seafood, and vegetarian options. The restaurant boasts striking views of the 2,424 foot (738 m) high Yosemite Falls. The chef’s specialties include local, organic, and seasonal preparations, including sustainable fish and seafood in accordance with the Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch List. The restaurant is open year-round for dinner from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm. Reservations are highly recommended.
The Loft at Degnan's The restaurant offers delicious BBQ, chicken wings, and ribs as well as a variety of wines and beer on tap. The restaurant is located upstairs from the Degnan’s Kitchen in Yosemite Village and features numerous TVs to enjoy sports and other entertainment.
Village Grill The restaurant offers grilled sandwiches, burgers, hot dogs, and veggie options daily. The restaurant features outside seating on an expansive deck, and it is conveniently located near the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center and Village Store. The restaurant is open seasonally from spring to early fall.
Curry Village Pavillion The restaurant offers a variety of dining options, including hand-tossed pizza, fresh salads, and cold drinks served on the outdoor deck, surrounded by great views of Glacier Point and Royal Arches. The restaurant is open seasonally from January through November and during holidays when Curry Village is open.
Meadow Grill The restaurant offers a variety of dining options, including grilled sandwiches, burgers, hot dogs, and veggie options. The restaurant features outside seating on an expansive deck, and it is conveniently located near the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center and Village Store. The restaurant is open seasonally from spring to early fall.