Yosemite National Park Live Webcams
Web Cams
This view, from 8,000'/2,438m, shows Half Dome and to the left is Clouds Rest. Courtesy of Yosemite Conservancy.
View of El Capitan and Half Dome soaring over the Yosemite Valley. Courtesy of the Yosemite Conservancy
View of Happy Isles Bridge, near the trailhead to Half Dome (picture does not refresh constantly)
Southwest view from Turtleback dome
Live Web Cam of Yosemite Falls. Follow link below
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 across 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
Ninety-five percent of the park is designated Wilderness and there over 800 miles of trails in Yosemite National Park. The NPS website has more information on all hikes plus a mileage chart. Below are some of the most popular and my favorites.
Half Dome. 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. Trailhead is at Happy Isles.
If you decided to take the Mist Trail up, 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 is2,000 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 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 mile (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 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 climbers paradise. I am not personally a rock climber but it is incredible watching the 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, sented 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.
Camping There are 13 campgrounds located within the park. They are reservable from recreation. gov. You have three options in Yosemite Valley. All of them are within shuttle range and bike trails. Food and restaurants are close by.
Upper Pines has 235 sites, 5 are tent only and 32 are reserved for RVs. The campsite is at an elevation of 4,000 feet (1,219 m). Campsites can accommodate RVs up to 40 feet (10.6 m) in lenght.
Lower Pine has 73 sites and 9 are reserved for RVs. The campsite is at an elevation of 4,000 feet (1,219 m). Campsites can accommodate RVs up to 40 feet (12.1 m) in lenght.
North Pines has 80 sites and 13 are reserved for RVs. The campsite is at an elevation of 4,000 feet (1,219 m). Campsites can accommodate RVs up to 40 feet (12.1 m) in lenght.
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 Ahwanee 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 thru 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 (738m) 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.