View more places in California
Yosemite National Park, located in California, is a remarkable natural destination that spans almost 1,200 square miles. It offers breathtaking sights such as majestic waterfalls, ancient sequoia trees, impressive cliff faces, and extraordinary rock formations. Although the park is extensive, the main tourist attractions are concentrated in an 8-square-mile region known as Yosemite Valley. This area is home to iconic landmarks like Half Dome and El Capitan, along with fantastic hiking trails that lead you through these marvelous natural wonders.
Yosemite is a great place for inexperienced hikers too. You can join guided tours or take climbing lessons from local adventure outfitters, which we have listed as the best California tours. However, keep in mind that you won’t be alone. Like many other popular tourist spots in America, Yosemite attracts around 4 million visitors annually. But if you choose the right time to visit and start your day a bit earlier, you’ll be able to witness the breathtaking beauty of nature in a peaceful and magical setting.
One of the most favorable periods to visit Yosemite National Park is during the months of May and September. During these times, the park is easily reachable and generally less crowded. However, it’s crucial to be aware that certain roads and trails within Yosemite are closed for a significant portion of the year due to heavy snowfall. The arrival of snowstorms can begin as early as October and continue through November, with snow coverage lasting until around March. It’s important to note that even when the snowstorms cease in March, the closed sections of the park may not immediately reopen. Depending on the prevailing conditions, these seasonally closed roads and trails typically become accessible in either May or June.
Here are some of our recommended things to do in Yosemite National Park. Choose away!
Looking for a simple hike that the whole family can enjoy? Look no further than Bridalveil Fall! Situated close to Yosemite’s west entrance, this stunning waterfall might be the first one you encounter in the park. A leisurely half-mile walk will …
Clouds Rest offers breathtaking panoramic views that will delight experienced hikers. This trail takes you on a nearly 15-mile roundtrip journey to the summit of a slender granite peak. As you ascend, you’ll notice how the clouds appear to rest atop …
Glacier Point in Yosemite is known for offering one of the best and most extensive views in the park. People often describe the sweeping panoramic vistas from Glacier Point as “breathtaking,” making it a must-visit location. From this vantage point, …
Hiking the Half Dome Cables Route in Yosemite is an incredible and potentially life-changing experience. However, it’s important to note that this endeavor requires physical and mental strength. The trail itself spans around 14 to 16 miles and …
During your visit to Yosemite between April and October, make sure to take a break and visit the Happy Isles Art and Nature Center. This wonderful attraction is run by the Yosemite Conservancy, an organization dedicated to preserving the park’s …
Step back in time and explore a fascinating attraction nestled near the Yosemite Museum. Immerse yourself in a reconstructed Native American village that captures the essence of the late 1800s. This village offers visitors a unique opportunity to …
In the southernmost part of Yosemite, you’ll find a vast grove of sequoia trees that can only be described as “giant.” Mariposa Grove is one of three groves in the park where visitors can witness these magnificent trees. What sets Mariposa Grove …
The Mist Trail is a highly popular trail in the park. What sets this trail apart is not just the breathtaking views of Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall, but also the unique way of reaching them. To reach the top of the falls, hikers need to climb a …
Tenaya Lake is a delightful water attraction that offers a serene experience away from the bustling crowds of Yosemite Falls. Situated approximately 40 miles east of Yosemite Valley, this picturesque lake receives fewer visitors compared to other …
If you’re looking to admire stunning vistas in Yosemite National Park without putting in a lot of effort, consider taking a scenic drive along Tioga Road. This road stretches from the lower part of Yosemite Valley to a high elevation of almost …
One of the most popular viewpoints in Yosemite is Tunnel View, alongside Glacier Point. From this spot, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of Yosemite Valley, including iconic landmarks like Half Dome, El Capitan, and Bridalveil Fall. Getting to …
Welcome to the eastern section of the park, where you’ll discover Tuolumne Meadows. This place is renowned for being one of the largest high-elevation meadows in the Sierra Nevada, located at an impressive elevation of 8,600 feet. Prepare to be awed …
The Yosemite Museum, established in 1925, holds the distinction of being the inaugural museum built within a national park in the United States. It served as a model for other museums in parks across the country. The museum’s structure is crafted …
During your visit to Yosemite, it’s highly likely that you’ll find yourself in Yosemite Valley at some point. This is because many of the park’s main attractions are situated in the valley, such as Tunnel View Outlook and several renowned waterfalls …