Top 49 things to do and attractions in Yosemite National Park

A spectacular view of Half Dome, the waterfalls and Yosemite Valley below. We worth the hour drive before entering the valley. Can get fairly cool in the fall but seeing the traditional reds, yellow, orange and brown foliage is so beautiful. Food, drinks and gifts are available.

We went to Glacier Point to watch the sunset. Really awesome experience. There is a large parking lot with three sets of restrooms. There is a wheelchair accessible route to Glacier Point. From Glacier Point there are 2 trails that lead back to the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center. Some nights, there are nighttime ranger talks where you can view the Milky Way with guidance.

Glacier Point in Yosemite National Park is truly one of the most breathtaking places you’ll ever visit in your lifetime! The view from the top is simply magical — you can see the majestic Half Dome, endless mountain ranges, and the beauty of Yosemite stretching across the horizon. Standing here feels like being on top of the world, surrounded by peace, nature, and pure wonder. If you ever get a chance to visit the United States, make sure Glacier Point is on your list — it’s an experience you’ll never forget!

This place lives up to the hype. Thank goodness we planned and prepared for our visit. The drive up to this point is super fun and your views are rewarded should you survive. You could also hike up there but those days are over for me.

Breathtaking views of the Yosemite valley and half dome. Can be easily accessed during summer when the roads are open. During winter, you have to hike to this place.

Hello Everyone — We visited Glacier Point around June 2025 around morning time. We travelled from Yosemite view lodge and overall exp. was amazing. Driving experience (4/5) — We travelled from Yosemite view lodge to the Glacier point. Road was clean but of-course you have to be very carefully drive since there are plenty of loops in the road and it’s stressful! Parking (4/5) — When we reached around 10:30 AM in the morning there were plenty of parking available. Restroom (3/5) — Not maintained and super smelly. Gift Shop (3/5) — high price and rarely you can get a good fridge magnate with glacier point logo! View of Glacier Point (5/5) — wow!! What an amazing beauty, breathtaking!! Half-Dome (Rock ages — 93 Myr), Yosemite Falls, Vernal + Nevada Falls view from the top was mesmerizing!! I can’t forget that in my lifetime. Important point to note — Pl download offline Google Maps for Navigation, signal strengths are pathetic.

On this day we had sun shine, rain, and hail. We rode our motorcycles up from Clovis and even saw traces of snow still on ground as we made our way over the top before dropping down to Glacier point. Light attendance, easy parking, and clean skies. Fall time in October is a great time for a visit.

Visiting Yosemite is not complete without seeing the tunnel view. This is a breath taking view of Yosemite valley. I spent almost an hour just sitting and looking at this view. It can be quite busy as it is one of the most popular spots in the park. It's worth every second. Don't forget to come here while you are visiting Yosemite.

Tunnel View in Yosemite basically looks like nature decided to flex on every other national park in existence. You stand there for two seconds and suddenly you understand why your phone storage is full. It is that good. The moment you walk up to the viewpoint you get El Capitan staring at you like a giant granite bouncer. Half Dome lurking in the distance pretending to be subtle. Bridalveil Fall doing its whole dramatic “look at me” thing. The entire valley opens up like a postcard that got hit with a cheat code. And you loved it for a reason. Yosemite just rocks. Literally and spiritually. It feels like the planet invited you to look at its highlight reel. Even the air smells like it knows it belongs in a screensaver. Tunnel View is one of those spots where you take a photo, look at it, and immediately think “this doesn’t even come close”. Your eyes win every time. Perfect view. Perfect valley. Yosemite is a showoff and it knows it. Totally worth every second.

Definitely a must see in Yosemite NP! This is the iconic view of Yosemite Valley, and you can drive right up to it and take a picture. You will want to come back to this spot multiple times so you can catch the view of the valley under different lighting conditions. Parking is difficult to find, but a little bit of patience goes a long way. You can also park across the street in the overflow lot. The view is amazing, so take lots of pictures, but don't forget to sit and enjoy it as well. You can see El Capitan, Half Dome, and a couple of waterfalls in the valley. At night, a lot of people come here to take pictures of the night sky, but there are many other places in the park better suited for astrophotography. The large mountain to the south blocks most of the Milky Way, so it's not ideal. If you look down the valley at night, you can easily spot satellites in the night sky.

Beautiful shot as you come through the tunnel. Nightmare of a tourist trap during the season, quite possibly the worst tourist trap of any NPS site! But during offseason or when it is not busy, absolutely breathtaking!

Came here two days in a row and finally got to see Tunnel View without the heavy fog — absolutely worth the wait. Now I totally understand why Apple chose this as a wallpaper. The view is pure magic, a true masterpiece carved by nature.

We've been to several National Parks and the Tunnel View at Yosemite is by far the prettiest that we've seen .... so far!!

Truly magical coming out of that tunnel, there’s nothing like the view you get there. Truly breathe taking everytime

We visited this place on December 25th and it was an amazing experience, if you want a fantastic experience wait until it's covered with snow, you can visit with all the family but consider that the public transportation int the park doesn't work because of the icy roads so you have to consider a long walking distance, get a back pack with snacks and water. Wear comfy and warm clothes and shoes and just enjoy the amazing landscapes and the amazing sequoias they are out of this world experience.

Free shuttle to 1.5 mile round trip trail to see tons of dinosaur size sequoias including the legendary grizzly and tunnel tree that you can walk under. Amazing!

This place is absolutely gorgeous. I suggest you go here if you like the sights and sounds of mother nature. I didn't realize that there is such beauty everywhere you go on our beautiful planet.

My wife and I love nature and being amongst the largest living organisms in the world is a thrill. Walking among these giants in this quiet and calm setting is a wonderful way to relax and recharge.

Mariposa Grove in Yosemite National Park is a fantastic and free place to visit. Free that is once you have purchased your pass and/or park access reservation. Only a few minutes drive from the South entrance to Yosemite, Mariposa Grove is serviced by a large carpark and, a free shuttle bus that takes visitors up to the starting point of the Sequoia Trail. Once off the shuttle bus you are free to roam around a broad selection of long and short walks around the forest. At the bus drop off point there are also public toilets should the need arise. A trail map is available to enable you to choose your route then off you go. The giant sequoias are world famous and when in Yosemite, it would be criminal not to come and see these majestical giants of nature. They really are a sight to see and you are certainly standing in the presence of giants during your time here. The California Tunnel Tree and the Giant Grizzly are two of the famous sequoias and these are spectacular to see however, as you continue to walk, many more equally wonderful trees present themselves around every corner. Sadly, fires regularly tear through these woodlands but as tragic as this seems, this is all part of the sequoias life cycle enabling them to keep growing stronger and stronger. Mariposa Grove is a great place to visit and I would highly recommend you spend some time here enjoying nature.

Very beautiful trail. If you take the trail and not the bus (the bus service begins from May) it will take you up to one hour and a half (1:30) from the parking to reach the Grizzly Giant. I recommend to take the trail although the time you will spend. We will love it. If you go off season it is not well cleaned and maybe you will find difficulties with the ice and the fallen trees. Stay in the trail and be aware of mountain lions (cougars). They are shy with the humans but if you go close to their nest they roar

Giant Sequoia tree 2 mile loop trail through Mariposa Grove, located at the South entrance of Yosemite National Park. Try the free ranger guided 1 1/2 hour tour everyday at 9:30 AM. . if you have been to Sequoia National Park to see these trees, you probably do not need to go here. It is repetitive with far fewer trees.

Wonderful day and one of the best ways to experience Yosemite. The views from the top and along the way are breathtaking. Some tips I found useful: Start very early in the morning so you can take your time and enjoy the views. Bring a lot of water (at least 5 liters per person) or a filter bottle. Don’t miss it! Register to the lottery as many times as needed until you get the permit, you won’t regret it.

If you’re planning to hike Half Dome, here’s what you’ll need: sturdy hiking shoes with excellent grip, gloves for the cables (no need to spend $$ on some fancy gloves - inexpensive ones from Home Depot work great), plenty of water, and an early start around 3:30a. The hike is very doable if you’re reasonably fit and not afraid of heights, but preparation makes all the difference.

Made it to the top of HALF DOME 😳⛰️☀️👏🏼🥵 Successfully- Challenge YESS! Start time 4am - End time-1pm 8 miles up - 8 miles down = 16 miles Elevation - 8,839 - backpacking Out of Breath- Adventure is Wild - worth it

My wife and I hiked Half Dome on 10/24/25. We spent the night at Lower Pines Campground and started the trail at 4:30 a.m. We reached Subdome around 10:30 a.m. The hike wasn’t too difficult until the last two hours. Crampons helped a lot since the final section had snow and icy rock. The cables were much steeper than I expected. They were down, so we put on our harnesses and prepared for the climb. It took us longer than anticipated. You really need to be both physically and mentally prepared; it’s a very dangerous hike, and you shouldn’t attempt it unless you feel fully capable. We used harnesses with double hooks so we were attached to the cables the entire time. I would definitely do it again, but probably in the summer—and I’d still use the harness. Overall, it was an unforgettable experience! Yosemite is such a beautiful national park.

Plenty of parking. There are lots of bathroom before heading to the Glacier point trail. About 4+ miles from the parking lot. There is a souvenir shop up there to purchase some drinks, ice cream and snacks. It is beautiful up there.

What an awesome & unique hiking experience this was! Got fortunate on the 3rd attempt on permit lottery to do this hike. Trail overview & ascend: Started the hike on 5 a.m from Curry Village Parking lot, which already had quite a lot of cars at that point. Followed the Alltrails route along JMT, which was easy to track - there were also signs along the route to help you navigate. Arrived by the start of the famous stairs at 9 a.m and reached the summit 30 minutes later. Note that there will be a lot of waiting on the stairs as you're making way for the people coming down (which also makes the climb less physically demanding) Water: Packed 4 liters of water and plenty of snacks. The last opportunity to fill up water (with filtering) during the ascend is from the river by the camp site couple of miles from the top. Most of the water was consumed during the descend as the California heat was really kicking in around noon. Ran out of water 2 miles before the end of hike, luckily there was a water filling station by the Vernal Fall Foot Bridge. There are outhouses along the way, which was a big plus! The stair section itself was not as scary as social media can make it look like. Having a good grip strength and knowing how to use body especially during the descend will make it fairly simple to conquer. Simply breathtaking views from the top, making the 13km ascend 100% worth the effort.

What an unforgettable experience after months of planning and preparation! On October 5, 2023, three friends and I set out from Curry Village at 5:30 AM, determined to conquer Half Dome in a single day. Thirteen hours later—exhausted, exhilarated, and awe-struck—we returned, having completed over 20 miles round trip. Basecamp at Curry Village We stayed three nights in the canvas tents of Curry Village—simple but atmospheric. No heat, but plenty of charm. Nestled on the Valley floor beneath the shadow of Glacier Point, it offered stunning views of Half Dome itself. Between the food, coffee, and even drinks available, it made for the perfect launch pad into the wilderness. The Hike The trek was demanding yet deeply rewarding. It took us roughly 6.5 hours to summit, with plenty of pauses to take in the scenery. The first miles lulled us into rhythm, but the sub-dome tested every ounce of endurance—a relentless, steep ascent that felt unending. And then came the infamous cables—nearly 400 feet of vertical pull, where the granite seemed to tilt to an 80–90% grade. Adrenaline surged as hands gripped steel and boots searched for footing. Each step upward was as much mental as physical, demanding focus, strength, and courage. Standing on the summit, I couldn’t help but think of Alex Honnold, who free soloed 2,000+ feet of sheer granite without ropes. What felt monumental to me was a warm-up in his world—a sobering reminder of the extremes of human capacity. Lessons Learned If I were to do it again, I’d bring at least 4+ liters of water or a solid purification system. I nearly ran dry after the descent, but thankfully my friend’s purification tablets saved me from hiking the final 10 miles dehydrated. Stats • Total Time: 13:08:03 • Calories Burned: 4,091 • Average Pace: 39:06/mi (plenty of stops for scenery and recovery) • Total Distance: 20.14 miles Final Thoughts Half Dome was more than just a hike—it was a test of grit, patience, and determination. Physically punishing, mentally demanding, and spiritually humbling. Standing at the summit, with Yosemite sprawling in every direction, I felt the weight of creation’s grandeur and the fleetingness of my own strength. A true bucket list adventure—and one I’ll carry with me forever.

Amazing place to visit in the summer. You can see all sorts of wildlife and engage in hiking and other fun outdoor activities. If you visit after 5:00 p.m. You don't have to pay the toll at the national park entrance and you could just do a day trip from Mammoth mountain, which is great

Definitely a must visit point in the summer. The lush green meadows with the shinny mountains in the backdrop is absolutely stunning. You can always hike to soda spring which is less than a mile if you want something easy. The place looks straight out of some postcard picture. This place is mostly closed in winter due to the snow so make sure to check the forecast before going.

I’ve been here two times. One of the more beautiful places we’ve been. Lots of wildlife and if you like big rocks, waterfalls and views for days this is the place

This place is amazing, one of those places that looks like taken out of science fiction movie. Including the scenery on the way to Toulumne Meadows.

Beautiful landscape. The walk to Soda Springs is flat and easy. Just enjoy it.

If you’ve never been, just go! Wander for hours and appreciate nature.

It's a long drive, but worth it. Watch out for the elevation, though. If you're not used to hiking at 9,000' - 10,000' elevation it gets your attention.

An Unforgettable Family Adventure at Yosemite Falls! 🌲💦 Our trip to Yosemite Falls was nothing short of magical! As a family, we were looking for a nature-filled adventure that everyone — from kids to grandparents — could enjoy, and Yosemite delivered in every way. The moment we caught our first glimpse of the falls, we were in awe. The sound of the rushing water, the mist in the air, and the sheer height of the falls created a breathtaking scene that felt straight out of a movie. It’s truly one of the most stunning sights we’ve ever seen. We took the easy Lower Falls trail, which was perfect for our family— safe and accessible even for the little ones. The kids loved playing by the water’s edge (under our watchful eyes, of course), and we took some incredible family photos that we'll cherish forever. What made it even more special was how the beauty of Yosemite brought us together. But the magic didn’t stop there. Yosemite Valley itself is like stepping into another world. Surrounded by massive granite walls like El Capitan and Half Dome, with meadows, rivers, and wildflowers everywhere you look, it's a place that stirs your soul. We spent time walking through the valley floor, skipping stones by the Merced River, watching rock climbers on El Cap, and just taking in the beauty around us. We also visited Tunnel View for a stunning panoramic view of the whole valley — definitely a must-see. The kids were amazed, and we adults felt deeply moved by the sheer scale and serenity of the landscape. What made Yosemite Valley so special was how accessible yet wild it felt. There were plenty of picnic areas, bathrooms, and shuttle options, which made it easy to get around with a group. But at the same time, we felt completely immersed in nature — away from the noise of everyday life. Yosemite is more than a park — it's an experience. A place where you can slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with each other and the natural world. Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, it has a way of making you feel small in the best possible way. We’re so grateful for the memories we made here as a family and can’t wait to return. If you’re planning a family getaway that combines beauty, adventure, and peace — Yosemite Valley is calling. If you're planning a family trip, Yosemite Falls is an absolute must. It’s a great mix of adventure, natural beauty, and peaceful moments — an experience we’ll never forget. We’re already talking about when we’ll go back! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

This wasn’t my first time in Yosemite, but it still felt just as magical. I went with Dad and Mom, and we spent time around Yosemite Falls. The sound of the rushing water was powerful, and the mist rising up gave everything a fresh, cool feeling. Even though I’d been to Yosemite before, standing in front of the falls reminded me why it’s such a special place — each visit feels new in its own way.

Pictures don't do this place justice. You just need to see it for yourself. Stunning. We went on a weekday in November and there weren't too many people around. I would imagine that weekend and high season would be nuts with traffic and people. Just something to consider.

Beautiful as always. I absolutely love Yosemite. We go up about 3x a year. This time was more busy since the seasons are coming to an end and we’re heading toward the snowy season.

We avoided going there on weekends and long holidays. The road was smooth and there was no need to queue anywhere. There were very few tourists. It was so beautiful and it is a place worth visiting in life!

I we drove from Chicago, and it was worth it, just beautiful. If you go there during peak season in the morning, please don't forget to make the reservation in advance. Otherwise, you are going to have to wait until 2 pm to enter the park

Breathtaking views at every turn! Yosemite Falls is pure natural beauty—photos can’t do it justice. A must-see in California!

I've always been fascinated with El Capitan mainly because of the documentary, Free Solo. It actually won an Academy Award for best documentary and was released in 2018. Alex Honnold is the first and only person to have free-soloed El Capitan's freerider route. He completed this climb without any ropes, harnesses, or safety gear, making it one of the greatest feats in adventure sports history. The first known ascenders were actually Warren Harding, George Whitmore, and Wayne Merry. The first known ascent was on November 12th, 1959. El Capitan is about 3,000 feet from base to summit along its tallest face and is a world-famous location for big wall climbing. Its location is in the Sierra Nevada mountain range.

As iconic as it is from the bottom of El Capitan, you should try and hike up to the top and see how it looks from the top. The sunset and sunrise from the top is exquisite, and since not a lot of people high up to the top, it is barely crowded at any point of time. I’ll see if you’re a climber when you try climb it cause it’s one of the best climbs in the park.

You look to the sky and you see one massive rock, so high you can’t believe it. For me, when I came back after 25 years still one of the most beautifull views in the world

El Capitán in Yosemite is a breathtaking natural wonder that showcases the grandeur of the park. The towering granite monolith offers stunning views and is a must-see for any visitor. Whether you're hiking, climbing, or simply enjoying the scenery, the experience is unforgettable. It's a perfect spot for photography and nature lovers alike. Don't miss the chance to witness this iconic landmark.

Incredibly huge and incomprehensibly tall cliff that is one of the highlights of the Valley. Insane people can climb it!

A sheer granite monolith in California's Yosemite Valley, rising nearly 900 meters from the valley floor. It is the global center for big-wall rock climbing, with its iconic Nose route representing a multi-day test of endurance, technique, and mental fortitude for climbers.

El Capitan….. it’s big, it’s bold, it’s magical and it’s a world famous huge granite vertical face that crazy rock climbers seem to like to climb. This is a special piece of rock that just has to be seen and marvelled at. I once spent an evening with Andy Kirkpatrick a world famous climber who’s scaled El Cap over 30 times and his stories of tackling this beast have stayed with me for years. This made my visit to see El Capitan even more special. Go see this mammoth granite monolith…. It’s amazing and you’ll also see its partner Half Dome sitting a little further down the Valley. What a pair, what a sight to see…!!

Short hike that's suitable for families, with a very slight elevation rise. There are spots where you can go inside the water stream but you can reach the fall itself without going into the water. Keep in mind - To get to the fall there's a short section at the end where you have to climb and walk through some rocks. Very underrated location in Yosemite! 5/5

Awesome falls, don't forget to come with a swimming clothes because you can get into some water here at the end. But before you get there, you will need to clib some huge rocks. Great for young people, older people will look at it from a far.

It was majestic! It was a short hike up to the falls. Wind makes the mist fall all over the rocks so be a little careful, Hike difficulty: 4/10. Parking was very difficult during the weekend as expected, but its worth the hassle. We visited in June and the weather was perfect. November was also good, but jackets are a must!

Bridalveil Fall is stunning and easily accessible, with a short, pleasant hike leading right to the base. The mist and roar of the waterfall make it an unforgettable experience. A must-visit spot in Yosemite!

Stunning and super easy hike to view the falls up close for the entire family! Strongly recommend visiting

Located on the Southside Drive of Yosemite valley, is this beautiful site. Easily accessible, Parking available. You can go on a Hike or just settle down to take pics.

Bridalveil Fall is an absolutely stunning waterfall and a perfect introduction to the beauty of Yosemite Valley. It’s the first major waterfall to greet you as you enter the valley, making it a memorable welcome. You can also catch a breathtaking view of it from Tunnel View – one of the most iconic vantage points in the park. There’s ample parking nearby, making it easily accessible for visitors. If you’re lucky with the wind direction, it adds a magical mist effect that’s perfect for photography. Whether you’re just driving through or stopping for a closer look, Bridalveil Fall is definitely worth the visit.

No doubt, the waterfall is beautiful. But of all the hikes we did this was not in my top favorites. The trail is wide and (mostly) paved. It's uphill all the way out and downhill (obviously) all the way back. We did this particular hike on a Sunday and it was PACKED. (My photos do not reflect how busy it was, but it only due to my patience/stubborness to get a shot I like.) I'm not sure if the crowds were because of the weekend or just because this is one of the more popular trails. Either way, I'm glad we did it once to say we did, but when we visit again, there are other hikes I preferred. It took us a solid 3 hours because we needed to take very frequent breaks as one of our group was coming down with something and we hadn't realized it yet. We could have easily done it in 2 otherwise. Note, we stopped on the stairs by the waterfall and did not continue past there, but as I understand it continues much further up as well. In short: beautiful waterfall, ok hike.

The best trail in Yosemite. Do not miss to hike this trail. Spare one day for this alone. If you have time and energy, go to the end of this trail. It's doable and nothing crazy, there are also a lot of people hiking including kids and seniors. Nothing to afraid of. You will never regret doing that.

Awesome hike. It’s a little challenging for beginner hikers or if you try doing this with kids, but it’s so worth it. We ended our hiking at the first waterfall and when we made it there it was so relaxing and refreshing. The best place in Yosemite in my opinion.

We hiked the Mist Trail during the July 4th holiday weekend in the afternoon, and it was pretty crowded—but still amazing! The views of Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall are absolutely stunning, and the mist felt so refreshing. The stairs can be steep and slippery, so good shoes are a must. If you can, go earlier in the morning to avoid the crowds. It’s one of the most unforgettable hikes in Yosemite!

Mist Trail is one of Yosemite’s most iconic hikes, drawing adventurers eager to experience its breathtaking waterfalls, relentless staircases, and mist-soaked pathways. The journey begins with an intense ascent toward Vernal Falls, where the roar of the cascading water fills the valley and the spray leaves no hiker dry. The climb is steep—almost entirely composed of stone steps—but the challenge is part of its charm. Between the rainbows dancing in the mist and the sheer power of the falls, every step feels worth it. Continuing past Nevada Falls, the elevation gain only intensifies, rewarding determined hikers with sweeping views of Yosemite’s rugged landscape. Whether you're tackling Mist Trail as a stand-alone adventure or continuing on to Half Dome, this hike is unforgettable. Just be prepared—you will get wet, and the effort is real. But for those willing to push through, the beauty is unmatched.

Visited the Mist Trail near Vernal Fall in August 2025. You need to park car 15 mins walk away. Even with lower summer water flow, the falls are stunning, and the mist often creates beautiful rainbows. Spent a few hours just soaking in the view absolutely magical. There’s an off-trail path to get closer, but be careful as it can be slippery. It’s total 1.5 miles loop and it’s little steep trail. Highly recommend!

One of the best hikes I have ever done!! We went in May so the waterfalls is flowing!! Be prepared to get soaked! I would recommend rain gear or a poncho. Highly recommend!!

Hidden gem of Yosemite, very quiet and serene. Water is crystal clear and the sunset is beautiful. Very kid friendly with lots of things to do. There a trail full of birds and squirrels that leads to the lake.

Absolutely stunning! Walking into this the first time is breathtaking. The color of the water, the landscape beyond. It's breathtaking. Wish I would have gone for a dip or went floating in my tube. A must-see in your lifetime

Beautiful clear water! Shallow for quite a distance, like up to my knees, it was to my 2.5 year Olds chest, if that. Was a great temp, not too cold not too warm. This is definitely worth a stop.

While traveling from Yosemite National Park to Lake Tahoe, we came across this beautiful lake and decided to stop for a while — and it was absolutely worth it! The water was crystal clear and peaceful, creating such a calm and refreshing atmosphere. You can truly feel the serenity of nature here. The water is quite cold, so I wouldn’t recommend swimming for everyone, but it’s a perfect spot to relax, take in the view, and enjoy a peaceful break during your journey.”

This is the secret spot in Yosemite. No crowds… one of the best places in the world.

Beautiful and serene. You kind of have to take turns to park if you arrive later. People seem to not stay to long, but I swim the lake so we are there a while. Bring your paddle board and swimsuit. Water is always super clear and beautiful. The views around are amazing. AND,,,look up on the big granite walls and you may see a rock climber or walker! Beautiful beautiful spot.

We drove further up and in specifically to see and take a dip in this lake on our way back home from camping in Yosemite Valley. The drive was stunning! I couldn't believe we got to witness such untouched beauty...and then Tenaya Lake. Wow. Breathtaking. Still brings a tear to my eye that we got to stand on her shore and take in her beauty. It was around the 90s when we left the valley and much colder (around high 60s) at the lake. It was also windy. Unexpected, first-timer experience, ha! My husband and I did eventually gather courage to jump in for a quick "I did it!" swim, though I wish I stayed in a bit longer (we didn't let our son go in, tho he wanted to, our wild child). You quickly adjust and it does feel warmer out of the water. Anyhow! A visit to Tenaya Lake is more than worth the drive! I can't attest to any crowd as we visited on Labor Day. Many visitors just stayed a bit to look at the lake or moved on for a hike around the lake. I think we and a couple others actually put a blanket down. Again, it was windy! Great memories from here, and looking forward to seeing her again.

Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias is absolutely stunning—a truly magical place filled with breathtaking trees. There’s a large parking lot and a visitor center with very friendly, helpful staff who gave us great information before we headed out. From there, we took the shuttle up to the walking path (note: if you’re handicap, you can actually drive up directly). There are restrooms both at the visitor center and up by the trees, plus a convenient water fill station with fresh snow water from the area. The walking path itself is easy to follow, and every turn offers incredible views of these majestic giants. An unforgettable experience and a must-see in Yosemite!

Mariposa Grove is the kind of place that makes you question every tree you have ever seen in your life. You walk in thinking you know what “big” means and then a sequoia shows up like “hold my photosynthesis”. These giants are absolutely mind blowing. You feel tiny in the best possible way. The snow makes the whole grove look unreal. Giant red trunks rising out of clean white ground like something out of a fantasy movie. Every step feels like you are walking through an ancient cathedral built by nature, except the pillars are alive and older than your entire family tree combined. It is quiet. Peaceful. A little magical. The kind of spot where you stop talking without even noticing because the place just shuts your brain up with pure awe.

Yosemite is absolutely stunning — from the towering granite cliffs to the waterfalls and peaceful meadows, every view is breathtaking. The park is well maintained with trails for all levels, making it easy to enjoy whether you’re a casual visitor or an avid hiker. Truly an unforgettable and excellent destination.

Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias is a truly awe-inspiring place and one of the highlights of Yosemite. Walking among these ancient giants, some thousands of years old, gives a humbling sense of nature’s power and beauty. The trails are well marked and vary in difficulty, from easy walks to longer hikes for those who want to explore deeper. The famous Grizzly Giant and the California Tunnel Tree are unforgettable sights. It can get busy during peak hours, but the experience of standing among these magnificent sequoias is absolutely worth it. A magical and unforgettable part of the park.

Was a beautiful place to explore. We seen the grizzly giant, and then took the trail to the cabin. Its a good trek up but, quiet. Make sure you pack your bag though, because you park down the hill, and they bring you up on the bus.

Pretty cool 2 mile loop to see a few great trees! Fairly flat but about 500 feet elevation gain. Lots of trees were damaged in a fire but still worth a visit! Free, quick shuttle from parking lot to the grove

A definite must-see at Yosemite Park. (Mid-August Trip)We arrived around 15:00 with a private vehicle and paid $35 for a 3-day pass. There was only one car in front of us at the entrance station but it probably was due to the late afternoon arrival. To note: You are not allowed with private vehicles to drive to the trails. They have shuttles for that which run every 15-20mins. When the shuttles aren't running it's a 2mi(3.2km) hike to where the trail begins. Once at the entrance of the trails, we took the easier Grizzly Giant trail since we have 2 children which was about 2mi that brought us directly in front of Grizzly Giant herself and rounded thru the California Tunnel Tree. Then heading back towards the shuttle station. We walked but for families with smaller children and strollers it's more manageable with a durable stroller but a word of caution some areas on the trail are pretty rocky and there's one part where there are big stone steps(approx 10 of them) where strollers won't work (a bit of heavy lifting will be required). That's shortly after the California Tunnel Tree but you can always just turn around from there and retrace back. All in all for a brisk walk you can enjoy a spectacular + breathtaking experience amongst these historic trees with informative placards and stations along the way.

This trail was a bit more challenging than anticipated but the views were definitely worth it. The trail itself is quite steep in places, but the effort is rewarded with nice vistas of the waterfall. Although it wasn't at its peak flow, the waterfall was still a sight to behold. Unfortunately, due to the Mist Trail being closed during the week, we had to turn around on the same path, making the hike a bit more strenuous. Overall, I would highly recommend this trail to anyone looking for a rewarding hike with beautiful natural features. Just be prepared for a bit of a crowd and be aware of potential trail closures.

A must do hike for anyone visiting Yosemite ! A genuinely beautiful falls and with a lonely hike trails up to it. We are 66 and 63 years of age, reasonably fit , and managed to do the hike relatively comfortably. We did see much younger people struggle and breathless on the often challenging steps / trials up to the falls. The trail up to the falls is well laid out, with a couple of places to stop for restrooms and water. They could do with installing more such facilities across the park, given the number of visitors and ability groups - especially those who are going up much further and up to the half Dome. The level of water at the falls was much lower in early October 2025, but still an excellent spectacle. The mist from the falls was also a lot less this time of the year, so we did not get soaked on the final steps to the falls. The view , once up there, was gorgeous. Lots of places to sit and rest near the Emerald something (pond?) . A nice gentle walk further up to the next footbridge also. A very enjoyable trek and a great part of our 3 day visit to Yosemite. ps: the national park staff at the gates are so good with visitors - happy, joyful and informative !

100% worth it. Is it challenging, yes but the view from the top is worth it. Bring good shoes, comfortable clothing and a refillable waterbottle. Halfway they have a filling station and restrooms so please do bring something with you!!!! It’s a lot of walking so be prepared and take plenty of breaks.

Vernal Falls may not have had much water during our visit, but it was still amazing. The scenery was beautiful, and the hike offered stunning views along the way. Definitely worth the effort!

This Mist trail to the Vernal fall is beautiful. One of the must do when you are in Yosemite np. We will definitely be back here soon. Spreading the live from Texas

Easy start always Next to the Merced River and later on it gets a bit steep, few hundred stairs to climb and be prepared to get soaking wet ( depending on the season). Spring you will be completely wet so pack a raincoat if you wanna avoid it, and as longer the year goes as smaller the fall gets. it takes for an average hiker around 3- 5 hours I would say. it’s on its was to Nevada falls, half dome and the peaceful way thru half dome in Yosemite wilderness.

With recent rains it’s lush and full! Hike is a bit tough so carry some snacks, water and sun gear for warm days. It’s going to be steep and slippery around the falls so please be careful around the steps. Otherwise it’s an amazing experience , beautiful views!

Epic views and definitely a little extreme! Hike there was honestly pretty easy. There’s only one spot with railings, so be careful unless you’re really in a hurry to get down. Parachutes not included.

Great opportunity to get close to a sharp drop of deep cliff, and view of Yosemite valley from top. Amazing, must see while visiting Yosemite.

I’m not really a hiking person, but this was definitely worth it. For a short 2-mile loop, the views were absolutely incredible.

This is a high reward-to-effort ratio hike. Taft Point offers one of the best views overlooking the Yosemite Valley. Contrary to common belief, Half Dome is actually not half of a dome. This is illustrated by this trail. The hike itself is about 2 miles but we chose to combine with Sentinel Dome as a 5-mile loop. I suggest hiking anti-clockwise to see Sentinel Dome first because of the mild 1-mile climb. You will have a magnificent view of Half Dome after a short walk. This will be followed by a significant loss of elevation through a series of switchbacks. The remainder of the hike is uphill but nothing strenuous. Occasional shades provide relief on summer days. Be sure to keep an eye on children at Taft Point. Beyond the barrier is a straight down drop! Those without fear of heights can stay on the left leading to an exposed observation point.

Awesome easy trail to spectacular views of Yosemite. If you're scared of heights you might get wobbly knees but there is a railing to hold onto. Worst part of the trail is the rocky descent at the end but it's short and not too challenging. Watch out for the fissures on the right! Amazing views down the valley.

A pretty short and easy hike with a big reward! The trail is wide and clearly marked - a few spots where you have to step down rocks or cross a small creek, but overall very easy going. The trail itself has lots of shady spots as well, though you won't find much once you reach your destination. The point itself is so picturesque! The photos make it look riskier than it is. There are also lots of options for forced perspective photos to make it appear you're "on the edge" while still being comfortably back from it. Took our kids and they both had a great time. The braver of the two got to experience vertigo for the first time so best to keep a hand on them just in case. There are so many things to see in Yosemite, but if I'm doing any hikes twice, this will be near the top of my list for another go!

Enjoyed a rewarding hike to Taft Point — the cliffs and panoramic views of Yosemite Valley are absolutely incredible. Don’t forget good shoes and a camera!

This place is amazing! Visit in the spring to see the waterfalls. I visited in 2023 right after the rain season in the spring and the place looked like a painting with a lake in Switzerland. I got there by mistake ( thanks iPhone GPS) and I thought that i hit a jackpot. Few people only. Did the hike from the den to the waterfalls and back about 2 hrs and I couldn't wait to be back. Though I didn't learn my previous lesson and came back in August 2025. One couldn't even tell that there are waterfalls there. Still, very picturesque. The hike is moderate given the rocks and uneven path. Wear good shoes. I saw people in sandals and they probably turned back. The beginning looks like one can walk in sandals(right after the tunnel) but that's deceiving,the rocks are sharp and treacherous. Bring water and good shoes, come in the spring and you will forever be in love with the place!

Can’t believe it took me decades to visit the historical Hetch Hetchy damn located in the northwest area of Yosemite Park completed in 1923. Definitely an energy vortex with gorgeous views of nature. It was a quiet and peaceful place.

Nice scenic hike. Trail is low elevation so beginner friendly. Falls super nice even in late August. Great for a refreshing ice cold dip!!

It is wonderful exploring this entire reservoir from the front to the back from the front side is where you’ll see the majority of people who visit the park to go to the Falls, which is about a 2 to 3 mile stretch of hiking once you pass the waterfalls you start getting into the areas where you see a lot of backpackers and more serious, hiking enthusiasts as you go through the mid lake into the back lake right towards ranch Falls and into some of the summits in the area. There are some great backpacking campsites towards the back of the lake that a lot of people go to for weekend trips it’s also very, beautiful and serene and this portion of the lake it feels quiet yet also fairly accessible back to the parking lot. I did a day in this area and I had a wonderful time we were able to make it all the way out to Ranch Falls and back to the car took us about 4 to 5 hours in about 15 miles round trip.

Hetch Hetchy more like Sketchy sketchy due to bumpy rough evergreen road to trailhead and narrow winding road. Signage says, >14 prohibited. Not for the scaredy cats, there’s little to no barrier on the road and very steep cliffside. Not for amateur drivers. Arrived here at 6 am and the sunrise was magical as the lights hit the wall of the canyon. However, we are not able to hike to Wapama Falls as planned due to windy condition. Waited until 9 am but still was so windy. Of that, it’s really an overlooked side of Yosemite as there was only one car arrived and eventually left. Dam workers most likely will be your companion. Will plan to revisit on Fall season and best to stay or splurge in Evergreen Lodge in which passing by, looks out of fairy tale

it was warm, but the water was so refreshing at Wapama. Took us 3 hours to do the 5 mile out and back

I think it's a must-see place to visit during a trip to Yosemite National Park. Driving on the narrow road is a bit tiring, but the surrounding scenery is so great that I arrived without realizing the passing of time. Suddenly, the weather became cloudy, it rained, and I couldn't accompany my dog on the trail, so I only took pictures around the dam, but the scenery with a different color was very outstanding. I thought I should stop by again. The weather changes a lot here, so I recommend that you bring a windbreaker jacket or a lightweight down jacket.

Interesting concept, but it's the smallest museum I've ever visited. Small gift shop inside.

Very small but clean and informative re Native American Indian life for tribes who had been and are still there (the Ahwanee tribe). Behind the Museum are the Indian Village wood teepees and hut life walk-around area. The Yosemite Valley Visitor's Center next door was closed for renovations until November 2023.

So amazingly cool. One of the best places in the park. Ranger Shelton has an amazing flute collection and ability to play them, and had a wonderful way of speaking about the natural history of this place, and the greater picture.

The Yosemite Museum is a great way to learn about and appreciate native American life in the Valley before the park was established. You'll find many historical photographs, articles, and tons of baskets. Also included are ornate pieces of wardrobe like dresses and head pieces. Ancient tools and weaponry are also on display. The native American village is located just behind the museum. Be respectful in both areas.

Super cool museum! You can read all about the earlier days if the Yosemite region! Tons of neat arts and crafts. They had someone inside weaving baskets when we visited. Out back the have an area where you can walk and see all the Native American huts and buildings! Super cool!

Yosemite has not always been a place where visitors from the world over come to experience awe inspiring wonders. This was home for Native Americans that created their own folklore and lived off this spiritual land. The Yosemite Museum has rotating exhibits dedicated to their memory. Outside, you are invited to enter an authentic village.

This is a small museum but it offers good insight into Native American life here in the Yosemite valley. Best part is this is free. Definitely recommend checking it out.

This was one of the best hikes we have done in Yosemite. It offers great views of the Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, etc. It is an easy to moderate hike for the first mile or so, then climbing the dome becomes more difficult. Take you time and it isn't that bad, saw some people that were out of breath due to altitude and slope but didn't see any turn back. Highly recommend this hike! Pack a lunch and eat and enjoy the views.

Nice short yet moderate hike (don't let the distance fool you into thinking its easy because it definitely is not if you're not an avid hiker) with amazing views of half dome and el capitan! I got to the top in about 15 minutes, but it does involve some scrambling up slick rock, so be sure to have the right kind of footwear and take water!

Came right before sunset and it was incredible! Short hike, it took me an hour round trip which included spending 20 min taking pics

This is a pretty strenuous hike, especially when you get to the base of the dome. Beautiful 360° views from the top. There was a lot of smoke when we went.

Great hike with amazing views. Very easy compared to most Yosemite hikes with a view this good. Is under 3 miles but there is an option for a 6 mile loop that takes you to Taft point as well. Would highly recommend!!!

Beautiful short hike with absolutely amazing and expansive views from the top. Did the hike today tho and did see a bear directly on the trail so be careful! It looked youngish so I assume mama is not far away! Also the very end to get to the top of the dome is fairly steep but manageable.

Awesome trail with incredible views of Yosemite Valley. Easy gently undulating trail through the trees to the base of the dome. As you approach you'll wonder how you scale the dome, but the path goes around the back and there's an easier slope up over the rock - you'll need good grip on your shoes to get up and down easily! Amazing 360 views from the top of the dome of the whole valley. Just over 2 miles round trip - highly recommended.

We did this hike in March end and it was covered in snow and mist trail was challenging with snow. We wore snow shoes cleats, which helped a lot. This was not an easy hike because of snow but it was all worth it with breathtaking views from top. One of our favorite hikes in Yosemite. Don’t miss it if you want the best views of waterfalls.

An absolutely breathtaking experience! I hiked to Nevada Falls in April, and it was one of the highlights of my Yosemite trip. I highly recommend starting early in the day — the Mist Trail gets busy later on, and an early start means you’ll enjoy the scenery in peace. Take the Mist Trail up — it’s steep and can be challenging at times, but the views are incredible with the mist from Vernal Fall cooling you down. Bring a rain jacket just in case, especially in spring when the falls are powerful and the trail is wet. After reaching Nevada Falls, I recommend coming down via the John Muir Trail. It’s a bit longer but much easier on the knees and offers fantastic panoramic views of the valley. In total, the hike took me about 5-6 hours including breaks for photos and snacks — definitely a moderate to strenuous hike depending on your fitness level. Other tips: - The trailhead for the Mist Trail is easily accessible via Yosemite’s free shuttle service (highly convenient!). - Wear good hiking shoes — the rocks can be slippery. - Bring plenty of water and some snacks. - A hat and sunscreen are also a good idea, even in April. One of the best day hikes you can do in Yosemite — highly recommended!

Nevada Fall is absolutely stunning! The hike offers incredible views the entire way, especially once you reach the top where you can feel the power of the waterfall up close. The trail is well maintained but can be steep and challenging in some sections, so good shoes and plenty of water are a must. The scenery along the Mist Trail and the sound of the rushing water make the climb totally worth it. A perfect spot to rest, take photos, and enjoy the beauty of Yosemite!

Great hike! When you get to the restroom area, make sure to hike to the right to see the top of Nevada Fall. You can enter in the water and cool off; as well as see the top of the waterfall.

Great experience and awesome views! Nevada Fall is always worth the hike. The water was still flowing nicely, though not quite as powerful as it is in May or early June. Still beautiful. Trail update: The Mist Trail is currently closed for maintenance in some sections, so you’ll need to use the John Muir Trail to get to Nevada Fall. You’ve got two main options for the hike: • More strenuous route: Start by heading up to Vernal Fall. From there, continue on the portion of the Mist Trail that is still open to reach Nevada Fall. Then loop back down the John Muir Trail. It’s steeper but more adventurous. • Less strenuous option: Visit Vernal Fall first, then double back and take the John Muir Trail the rest of the way to Nevada Fall. You’ll still climb the same elevation, but the incline is more gradual and a little easier on the legs. Either way, you’re in for an amazing hike. Highly recommend!

Spectacular fall and challenging hike. Feels satisfying after reaching on the top. Relax with great view and sound of the fall. Fresh water to drink from the stream. Nice bridge and area with shadow to relax after tiring hike. Amazing experience. If you are hike enthusiast, then this hike is must for you. Don’t forget to carry enough water and some food/snacks to eat.

Very nice view from the top. Alittle bit of a journey but well worth the walk. Took about 2 hrs to make it from curry village

I went on the Photo Walk and our tour guide was Lucas who was amazing at explaining the history of the gallery as well as how a camera works and how to take amazing pics. He had great jokes and a humor. Shout out to Lucas. Overall the gallery was good, taking look at the pics in the entrance is free.

I completed an order from the online store. My order arrived and is excellent quality and condition. However, I wanted to exchange with a different print upon seeing it (it was a gift for my partner). I reached out within the stated 14 days for filling returns and never heard back. I reached out to the email included in the order and through the website contact page with no response. Please be aware, you may not be able to return per their own policy.

Great store with amazing information about Ansel and awesome souvenirs 😊 employee was great and was very helpful.

The Ansel Adams Gallery celebrates the life and work of famous photographer Ansel Adams. The gallery has many of his original prints, reprints, books and general souvenirs that reference him. You'll also find works of other photographers that showcase Yosemite. There are paid photography classes offered here as well as free walking tours each Tuesday and Thursday. While most of the items in stock are expensive, the value of learning you receive by exploring this gallery is priceless.

We did the smartphone photography classes with Aaron Poole it was amazing. He was so informative and attentive. We have a 14 year old that loves taking pics and Aaron really boosted him up with his comments about his "photography eye. " It just so happens we were 15 min late and he really accommodated us , giving us a relaxing tour. He really helped us edit the photos and we actually have pics that look like an artist took them.

For those familiar with the beautiful black and white images of Yosemite National Park by early 20th century Ansel Adams, one of interesting places to visit in the valley is his studio. Opening hours 9am to 5pm daily. Today, the Ansel Adams studio is an art gallery where visitors can find photo reprints of Ansel Adams as well as numerous other art related gifts. It is a nice shop to see even if you don't intend to buy anything. Note - within the gallery you'll find a wall with history and images of Ansel Adams as well as information related to the establishment and running of his studio here in Yosemite Valley during the early days.

I took a smartphone photography class with Derek and it was worth every penny. Derek was a fantastic instructor and I learned more than I imagined in just a few hours. I highly recommend.

The views are worth the hike. An intermediate/difficult trail. Took us about 4-5 hours. We went the long way up and came down the stairs on the Misty Trail. Great location for good photos. We went in July. And the waterfall was great.

Beautiful and peaceful hike. Be aware if you’re not prepared for it, this can be somewhat of a difficult hike , Make sure you have proper hiking shoes There are a few areas that can be a little dangerous. There’s no guard rails. But at the end of the hike, it is an absolutely beautiful waterfall plenty of room to walk around and enjoy the scenery

This is such a great hike! The Vernal Falls is located on the Mist Trail. It is such a great view of the waterfall and there are so many points you can view. Recommendation: Check out the NPS brochure map of the park. Park in the Curry Village area and walk to the trailhead (approximately one mile away from parking lot). This is considered to be an easy walk to the trailhead. Once at the trailhead, BE prepared. From the start of the trailhead, is is a climb. For the first two-and-a-half miles, the climb is very consistent. Take your time! Caution: Be careful around the path next to the waterfalls. Due to the large amounts of mist from the waterfall, the steps become slippery and you may get wet. During months of heavier flow, the mist is much stronger/thicker. Be sure to Google "NPS Yosemite"

Did the hike to Nevada and Vernal Falls the Tuesday after Labor Day. Vernal Falls are very popular and the trail was packed till then. Nevada Falls allowed more solitude and quiet. Mist trail was closed in September 2025, so we went till Clark Point and did the loop counter-clockwise from there. Started the hike at 9:30am, total mileage was just under 10 miles with 2700 feet elevation gain, and it took us 4.5 hours. We spent 0.8 miles each way basically walking from close to the Curry Village Parking lot to the John Muir trailhead right after the bridge across Merced River. We somehow completely missed the sign to get to Yosemite Valley trailhead parking, and I think that would have saved us a mile in all. The trails are all well-maintained and easy to follow. Coming down from Nevada to Vernal falls requires walking on big rocks and sometimes taking big steps down. The Vernal falls footbridge has nice water-refill stations and restrooms, but no such facilities beyond that. For good views of Vernal falls, take the connector trail back to Clark's point, and you'll see a little viewpoint down to your right.

In my opinion, this is the best falls that you can see in Yosemite national Park. The hike is almost a 5 mile round-trip with quite a lot of elevation, but the views along the hike is exquisite so it’s not very tiring. You can do the mist trail hike and reach this fall. Make sure to have some water because the stairs are pretty steep. Even though you can go roundabout through the Clark point, I would recommend doing the mist trail along the falls, cause it has much better views.

Ok, let's star! Depends if the season the amount of water will change (If you looking for a big falls, go on summer or spring, I you like the cool weather go like November) But ... Beautiful mountain in front of you, walking up (make your heart works), crows, friendly and beautiful. River offering to you a beautiful sounds, definitely you want to bring some fruit, sandwich, water and, enjoy the way. Ideal to clear your main for a while.

This was one of my favorite hikes from our time in Yosemite. We got off at Happy Isles and walked up the Mist Trail up to the Vernal Falls peak, through Clarke Point and down the John Muir trail to get back down. The entire hike took us about 3 hours with absolutely stunning the whole way through. We would recommend some hiking shoes and a poncho in case you don’t want to get drenched as you hike alongside vernal falls while making sure you have some grip as you make your way up the steep stairs. Also worth noting that each part of this loop has a somewhat different sort of trail. This mist trail is quite well paved, the vernal falls trail is primarily some steep steps that can get slippery, and then Clarke Point and John Muir Trail are more gravel and stone. Overall would highly recommend this trail as long as you have the right shoes!

Great weather in later March for mirror lake! The pool was calm for the beautify reflection. The hike is easy and joyful with few hikers. By the way it was easily accessible by shuttle bus! Strongly recommended for pre or post tough hiking around the valley!

The Meadow Trail in Yosemite offers absolutely stunning views. Walking through the open meadows with the surrounding mountains in sight is peaceful and breathtaking perfect for anyone who loves nature and photography.

If you ate in Yosemite don’t miss this loop. It’s just flat walking trail, but with gorgeous views.

Stroll in the park! Nice view of the half dome

A great flat loop with amazing views across Yosemite Valley.

A beautiful meadow even in warm winter

An easy stroll through the meadow offers beautiful views of the valley as well as a wide variety of wildlife, from hummingbirds to monarch butterflies. It's especially pleasant in the morning before it gets too hot and also while the wildlife may be more active as the crowds are not as large.

This view isn't the iconic Tunnel View, nor is it the breathtaking view from Glacier Point, but it's has its own charm. I was pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed this spot. It's fairly quiet compared to the other locations, but it's still a lot of fun. You can climb on the rocks here for some pictures or just to enjoy a different perspective. You get to see Half Dome from a different angle. If you have a telescope, spotting scope, or even a really good pair of binoculars, you will be able to see the line of tiny little ants climbing up Half Dome in the distance.

Had a great stop here early in the morning on a beautiful day at the end of May. Drive thru early in the day before it gets crowded. The visitor center area was PACKED and there was very little available parking except farrr away. To be expected on a Saturday. The drive in and out was beautiful and worth it anyways!

Beautiful views on Yosemite Valley, Half Dome and Tenaya Lake, definitely worth stopping when riding Tioga Pass Road!

This was honestly my family’s favorite spot at Yosemite. If you take the little trail to the left of the lookout, it will lead you to an area where no one else seems to go with amazing views of the valley and half dome.

When to Yosemite via Hw120 from 395, beautiful drive & great stop at olmsted point, i think it will be more beautiful in the sunset. You can see half dome from there.

One of the most beautiful vistas in Yosemite! We came here for the sunset and it was one of the most beautiful ones I've ever seen. Such an enlightening and awe-inspiring moment! There is plenty of parking here, no restrooms, and a nice trail that leads to a lovely overlook of Cloud's Rest, Half Dome, and the east end of Yosemite Valley. Be sure to stop here on your drive to Sonora Pass!

Spent about an hour here. Views over Yosemite stunning and able to walk around and get some incredible photographs. Huge slabs of rock you could clamber over with trees growing straight out of the rock. Never seen views like this before.

The Yosemite Valley Visitor Center is the perfect starting point for exploring the park. The staff were incredibly helpful, knowledgeable, and patient in answering all our questions. Whether you’re planning a hike, looking for maps, or just need tips on how to make the most of your visit, this is the place to go. The exhibits inside the center are informative and beautifully done—great for understanding the geology, wildlife, and history of Yosemite. There’s also a small store with books, souvenirs, and essentials. We appreciated the clean restrooms and easy access to shuttle services right outside. It really sets the tone for a memorable experience in the valley. Highly recommended for first-time visitors and returning nature lovers alike!

The staff is very friendly and the rangers look like they love doing what they’re doing. Fresh air and beautiful scenery. I had a great experience. The rangers give you maps, listen attentively to what you’re looking for and give great advice on which trails to do based on your desires.

This can be a very busy place for sure. I've found the best rule for National Parks is to arrive early. The staff is very helpful in giving park information to get you where you want to go. The park shuttles are a great way to see the hot spots, and it's free. They run at about 12-15 minute intervals. Lots of great hiking trails throughout. Don't underestimate the heat this time of year and take plenty of water. There are places to eat, get snacks, coffee and such. Beautiful place to visit.

The visitor centre itself is great, clean food service and not too overpriced. Clean toilets, or restrooms if you prefer. Yeosmite itself is stunning, we went in mid summer so the waterfalls are a bit like dripping taps, but that should not put anyone off going. Sadly no hears to be seen and no snakes. Now we messed up a bit, we had an RV and we couldn't get a spot in the park to stay, so we booked a private site about 5 miles outside of it. Then we found out you need to make a reservation to get in for people and the RV! But, as luck would have it, there was a bus that came through the campsite, YART. So for a family of four, to oldies and two teenagers, for $52 it took right in to the park and included the reservation, bargain. The drivers are great, super friendly and entertaining, the coaches are comfy and clean and you get great views on the way. The site we stayed at was, Thousand Trails, Yeosmite Lakes, but they stop at several others.

The visitor centre is a small part to Yosemite. Yosemite itself has places to camp/stay, walk, get wet and bike. The centre is full of information and next door a shop with a range of foods, gifts and holiday bits. Plan Yosemite as there are many places to visit. Check the days online as a toll pass is needed at various prices to suit and a pass for the day between 6am and 2pm. Seeing is believing 💖

Lots of great information, several maps. Got directions and a couple easy trail suggestions that we loved. Small gift shop and easy access to Junior ranger events. Must have Park entrance.

Please make sure you have your reservation #no before your waiting in line. There is hardly any service and you will not be able to download your reservation. You do not want to wait in line making your way to the front and be turned around. You cannot enter without it I promise you be prepared cause for you first timers like I was this is a must see

The extra 16-mile drive to Washburn Point is absolutely worth it! The views are majestic, breathtaking, and truly awe-inspiring. As a frequent Yosemite visitor, my first trip to Washburn and Glacier Point was unforgettable. My only regret is not arriving earlier to explore the hiking trails. Highly recommend!

Anything less than five stars is bs. This vista has amazing views and if you are traveling to Glacier Point, you REALLY need to stop here first. the views are fantastic!

Amazing place from the Sierra Nevada. You are taking a look from the eagle view. Sinery is supper.

There aren't enough stars for this site. It was rainy, foggy and very chilly on the day this was scheduled. Oh my heavens, talk about a first impression! I wish the photos did it justice. I might have missed seeing it but I used the Shaka App where I purchased the Yosemite self guided Tour. I don't get a penny from Shaka but it revolutionized our not missing anything or wasting time searching for the sites.

Great views here! Must stop on the way to Glacier Point.

Just for your info: There is no ticket counter and also you need no tickets. The view was amazing, you could probably see more than 10 miles far and you get see all of the green landscape. I think this is one of the best spots for a picnic, because of the amazing view and the access to trash bins. There is not much more to say, that if you also are there to visit the Glacier point, I recommend making a stop there and enjoying the view.

wonderful view. beautiful place, you lose track of time, your stress is gone.

The walk from stop number 6 to the Mirror Lake trail is absolutely awesome. It's lined by a thicket of tall coniferous trees shadowing a well paved road to the site. It's a beautiful site to witness & one can soak in the sun on the naturally formed sand beaches alongside the lake & the cascading water or take a deep in the calming cold spring waters. A must visit in the Yosemite National Park.

An all access trail for any fitness level. Please watch out for bikers as they can speed through and not pay attention to the pedestrians. Dog and kid friendly trail. Bring your floaties and hang out at the lake at the end!

Getting to this "lake" can be done a few ways. You can walk on the road (easiest), which is usually closed to main traffic. You can hike the actual trail, which takes longer but feels more like a journey. Or you can take the public transit bus halfway up, and then walk the rest of the way either on the road or cut into the trail. It was hot, in the dead of August, so we elected to do a bit of the trail first and then do the rest on the road. We didn't do enough research ahead of time, because the actual "lake" was a huge letdown. The area is beautiful, but we wasted 2 hours round-trip of walking to see what was essentially a stagnant stream. The furthest it could possibly be from a lake, or even a river. With that said, the views you get of half-dome and surrounding mountains are beautiful, and the walk itself is beautiful. My recommendation would be to do this in spring or early summer, and probably mid-fall due to the trees changing color and more water. In the middle of the summer, I would not recommend taking the time to visit Mirror Lake, unless you are in Yosemite for 2-3 days +. Lastly, parking is a nightmare. The lot that is listed on Google isn't actually open, so you have to park VERY far away.

We started at Yosemite falls and went along the rocks under the cover of trees, which provided nice shade against the sun. I think the signs showing the distance might not be the most accurate. The trail is a bit rocky and there is some elevation. I had the impression that it was longer than 2,4 miles to the lake. Back, we went on the bike trail, which was easier. Overall, very nice views on the Half Dome and the nature.

The hiking trail is shady and flat. The lake is kind of small but it’s a great place for kids to play with water.

I rated this a 5 for what it is supposed to be but it was a 1 when we visited in late August. There was no mirror lake. Dried up! We didn’t know that was a thing so we hiked a long way to see it. Everyone we met was so disappointed. There should be a sign or some kind of notice to let folks know not to make the hike. We took a disappointed selfie. I'll spare you that! Some pretty views along the way and a squirrel very interested if anyone had a snack.

The trail subtly adjusts to your fitness level, with the incline mysteriously steepening the further you venture. Don't miss the optional .4-mile "historical" detours – they'll test some children but my over 6 year olds complained but completed it. The lake itself might be a tad smaller than advertised (blame the lack of rain snow this year!), but the downstream beach area offers plenty of space for a picnic or a refreshing dip. Restrooms are conveniently located, though their rustic charm might leave something to be desired. Enjoy the views!

We went to The Awahnee Dining Room as a family of 6 on two separate occasions. LOVED the experience. For breakfast we opted for the al la carte menu and we can say everything tasted really good except for the French Toast that was more on the soggy side. The steel cut oats and trio mushroom, avocado and salmon on toast was a big hit. Angeline was incredible super cheerful and friendly. On average each plate was around ~20 dollars per pax before tip with generous portions. For dinner we had the dinner buffet. Although the selection was smaller than anticipated we thoroughly enjoyed our experience. The highlight was the prime rib which was not chewy and the salad was to die for. We received great service yet again from Shannon and Marcus who were enthusiastic and attentive. Shannon even provided us recommendations for which route to take back to sf. There was live piano music which adds to the atmosphere.

Great hotel and the architecture with its history is wonderful. Loved the hospitality at the restaurant. Ordered for Salmon. It was very tasty and juicy. Kids loved the Chicken tenders. Highly recommend this place if you’re in Yosemite area.

I recently had dinner at the Ahwahnee Dining Room and while the night overall was memorable, it was thanks largely to the stunning atmosphere and the great company I was with. The grandeur of the historic hotel truly sets a tone of elegance and charm—the high ceilings, classic decor, and timeless beauty of the space made it feel special. However, a few elements detracted from the experience. While we dressed for the occasion, it was disappointing to see that the dress code was not consistently enforced. The lack of formality at many nearby tables took away from the sophisticated ambiance that the venue naturally provides. As for the food, it was unfortunately underwhelming. It wasn’t bad, but it lacked depth of flavor and the menu was more limited than I expected for such a renowned location. Service was another area that didn’t meet the mark. Our waitress was kind and genuinely tried her best, but it was clear she was under stress—likely a result of being understaffed, which seemed to be a theme across the room. The setting is truly one-of-a-kind and worth experiencing, but I hope the dining and service elements rise to meet the surroundings in future visits.

The room is beautiful and service was ok. What really disappointed was the food. We ordered 2 burgers cooked medium. The burgers were overcooked but the worst was that the fries were served completely cold and mushy. In a hotel of this level how can’t they even get a burger with fries right?

What can I say, I was so looking forward to dinner in the beautiful dining room having booked many months in advance. The room, stunning, our waitress efficient, courteous & engaging, piano player provided a pleasant atmosphere. The food however was quite an opposite story. Unremarkable & underwhelming start with the bread basket. Dry rolls & lacking in quality & freshness that you would expect for $8. French onion soup & salad fine but nothing spectacular. Main course of prime rib & hanger steak came out cold initially. Potatoes severally undercooked. When the meal was returned, came back having been obviously placed under a heat lamp. Yorkshire pudding burnt on top, steak recooked to well done & potatoes dry & hard. At $62 & $54 again I expected so much better. The best part of the meal was the glass of wine which indeed was delicious! Whilst the manager reduced the bill by taking off the coat of bread & soup & offered a dessert, it just didn't recover the night.

I read all of the reviews about how bad the food is so we decided to eat here for lunch and we thoroughly enjoyed it. The dining room is magnificent. It looks like the dining hall in the Harry Potter movies. The views from the huge windows are stunning. We had the salmon, burger, french dip sandwich, cauliflower appetizer and stuffed mushrooms. The salmon was good and the burger and french dip were decent. The cauliflower was actually very good, with dates, honey, and chili flakes. The mushrooms were bland. The service was ok. The waitstaff are nice enough but they make some mistakes and aren’t really professional. But it wasn’t bad enough to ruin the experience. I think that lunch is the way to go. It’s less expensive and you can enjoy the views outside. It was one of the highlights of our visit. If you’re not staying at the hotel plan to pay $10 for parking or take the shuttle from the welcome center. It’s a long walk from the village.

The setting is absolutely stunning—the dining room feels like something out of Harry Potter’s Great Hall or Beauty and the Beast. High timbered ceilings, stone walls, candle-like chandeliers, and live piano music set a magical atmosphere. Unfortunately, the food was a major letdown. Despite the fine-dining prices, the buffet menu was underwhelming and poorly executed. Most dishes lacked flavor, and the desserts were simply bad. It was quite disheartening, especially considering the grandeur of the place. Another downside was the inconsistent service. While some of the waitstaff were professional and attentive, others seemed undergroomed and unprepared, which detracted from the overall experience. If it weren’t for the charming piano music, this would have been a zero-star experience for me. I truly hope they improve the food—it wouldn’t take much, given how low the bar currently is. I came in with high expectations, and sadly, the meal didn’t come close to matching the setting.

This place was one of the best place among whole trail courses in Yosemite. Not really hard course but there are some slippery rock climbing parts in the end to get the top of the dome.

Our first hike at Yosemite and it was gorgeous. We entered the park from the east, saw the dome and decided we wanted to take in the view from the top. 40th birthday done right.

A stand alone dome next to Toulume Meadows which you can hike to the top for views of the surrounding meadows.

Hiking to Lembert Dome, Dog Lake, Soda Springs and Parsons Lodge is a full day of fabulous! I hiked up Lembert Dome alone the first time years ago and it was great to share this gorgeous hike of views, springs, and the Tuolumne River the 2nd time around with great friends and my better half. This area also provides a lot more views to wildlife. Bears, marmots, coyotes, foxes, squirrles, chickarees, and lots of deer.

Are you afraid of heights? Then this place might scare your pants off. I saw some ppl climbing and one guy made it to the top and other guy got stuck for more than an hour. But you can walk up as far as you can

We LOVED this hike. There happened to be a fire on the west side of Yosemite when we were here so the Valley was closed. We were camping on the east side near Lee Vining so decided to look on Google for a walk to do that was close to us. So glad we decided to give this walk a go. The walk through the trees is lovely. We set off around 7:30 in the morning and there were hardly any other people around. The walk starts by the toilets and wraps around the dome. The view when you get onto the rock part of the dome is amazing, and being there so early, there was only one other person up there with us. To top it off, we were lucky enough to encounter a docile bear on the way down. We were walking with a bear bell.

we went there off season and the campground and trails were closed, but we went as far as we could up the flat part of the dome and even the view from there was amazing!!

Nice little spot with stunning views of El Capitan. You can get the shuttle bus here and it stops right outside (green route, not purple route). There are also lots of parking spots if you’re looking to drive there instead.

This piece of Granite sure is big ! Set within the national park, this imposing chunk of granite is impressive indeed. You can see climbers going up on its flat vertical surface (brave but crazy people). Not much to do there if you are not climbing or hiking, but definite a 'must part' of your Yosemite itinerary.

Beautiful on both sunny or rainy days, I was here for today & able to see both, on the rainy days, it is so magical on sunny days, sunsets were so lovely! So many people climbing, i was amazed!

Visiting El Capitan Meadows was truly an awe-inspiring experience. The towering granite cliffs of El Capitan, framed by the lush greenery of the surrounding trees, created a breathtaking backdrop for a serene walk. The well-maintained road and the peaceful atmosphere made it a perfect spot for leisurely strolls and to soak in the natural beauty of Yosemite. Walking along the road with the majestic El Capitan in the background was a surreal experience. The combination of towering trees and the impressive rock formation made for an unforgettable visit. I was captivated by the magnificent landscape and found myself completely immersed in the moment. One of the highlights was catching the golden hour light hitting the cliffs, creating a stunning play of shadows and colors. Watching climbers on the rock face was both humbling and inspiring, a reminder of human determination and the wonders of nature. It was an enriching experience that left me feeling rejuvenated and deeply connected to the beauty of Yosemite. Highly recommend visiting El Capitan Meadows for anyone traveling to Yosemite National Park. It's a must-see destination that offers a unique and memorable experience.

El Capitan Meadow is breathtaking! You can spend some time taking in the beauty of El Capitan, cathedral mountain and surroundings! Bridge view is also beautiful with just a short hike from where the shuttle bus stops. It’s hard to describe this place you have to take in the beauty and experience yourself

This was my favorite place in the whole park. It is just amazing how big El Capitan is. The climbers were swinging all over the face.

In this spot you will really get very nice photos , inside El Capitan and other side there are some other mountain structures If you go in the morning you will see the sun lights kissing El Capitan You can walk on the grass land and take better picture

Sentinel Bridge offers one of the best views of Yosemite Valley and the iconic Half Dome reflected perfectly in the water. A peaceful place to relax, take photos, and enjoy nature’s masterpiece.

Sentinel Bridge offers, without a doubt, one of the most famous and compelling views in all of Yosemite National Park. It is the perfect spot for capturing the park's majestic scale and seasonal beauty, particularly in the autumn. The bridge's position along the Merced River provides a spectacular, unobstructed view of Half Dome. This angle allows you to see the magnificent granite monolith perfectly reflected in the calm waters of the river below—a view that defines the Yosemite experience. During the autumn, Sentinel Bridge becomes an absolute must-see location. The banks of the Merced River explode with vibrant fall colors. Golds, oranges, and deep green frame the valley floor, creating a breathtaking contrast with the pale granite walls above. The combination of the reflective river, the colorful foliage, and the towering Half Dome makes for an unparalleled landscape photograph. If you’re hunting for that perfect, iconic Yosemite shot, stop at Sentinel Bridge, especially from late September through early November. You won’t be disappointed. Attached are unedited pictures captured with a Pixel 10 Pro XL.

They say it's the best place to watch the sunset in the park. It certainly doesn't disappoint. The bridge is on the corner, so traffic is usually going by very slow. It was not crowded while we were there. There was also parking very close to the bridge.

Great place for sunset pictures of half dome. The pictures are un touched iPhone pics

Great place to watch the sunrise over Half Dome and Yosemite Valley!

This bridge provides a great view of Half Dome right above the Merced River. It's an easy walk from Yosemite Village or Yosemite Lodge. Sunset provides some dramatic lighting on Half Dome.

Must see, glassy canvas and perfectly mirroring.

Gob smackingly beautiful, stunning view points along the whole walkway to the falls, an absolute must for any visit to Yosemite.

Beautiful place! Definitely love it!

Magical place! Go early or late afternoon and enjoy. Scenic no matter how far you hike though the falls are worth it if you have the time.

Beautiful place, It’s a hidden gem at Yosemite national park! Din’t miss out!

Grandfather Lloyd McAfee was engineer on the Hetch Hetchy dam, Built in the Serra Mountians. Brought the railroad into the dam. amazing fete all mountains. Water supply for San Francisco.

Nice hike through the tunnel and around the reservoir. Can't help but wonder what it looked like before the dam.

Spectacular views

Tiago pass is one of the best pass in California of sierra region

Amazing views on the way! Take your camera and enjoy the nature ❤️

Worth the drive. Amazing. 10000 ft up so don't be too energetic

Wow this scenic route we drove with my friend truck and my tesla MY2023 koodos 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

Great place for a drive. Beautiful scenery. Just a relaxing day ☺️

A stunning drive over the mountain which at a height of nearly 10,000 feet, was quite literally, breathtaking! (Seriously, don’t underestimate the effects of increased altitudes if like us you’re from a relatively low-lying country. Drinking extra water does help though.) The drive up just demands a number of stops to take photos, and the drive down into Yosemite is no different. We managed to get through before the first serious snows of the winter, but it’s always best to check if the pass is actually open as they don’t plough the road! Just gorgeous!

You must get there before the snow (late Oct/early Nov), because they close the pass. But it's a beautiful drive; hope you catch a sunny day. Allow lots of extra time for stopping and walking around, taking pictures.

Nice little trail, though coming back was a good uphill walk. The trees were quite beautiful! Felt like I was at Endor once again…

Totally enjoy the hike to see the giant sequoias. The walk is quite easy - can be hard for you when coming back because it will be uphill. Keep hydrated at all time and be sun smart.

Enjoyed this hike down (and back up) to see the sequoias. Not much else like these incredible trees. To me it’s a must do of the Yosemite experience. The hike was listed in places as 2-3hrs but realistically it’s 1.5hrs round trip if you are fit. Take water with you.

We‘ve been here in January during while it was snowing and it was beautiful. We‘ve walked around for around for nearly two hours and havent seen a single person. Great experience

I had visit this trail on December/20/2020. Tuolumne Grove of Giant Sequoias trees. It is a little bit over 3 miles and over 700 ft of the elevation gain. It is not crowded in winter, but it’s more challenging to hike. There was alot of snow on the ground so the hike took a little longer than expected. it is a reverse hike so save your energy for the way back up. The highlight of this trail is the hollowed fallen tree that I can walk through it belly. And of course I am in love with the redwood giants. The tunnel tree is fun and it’s also destination spot for photos. Trekking poles, snowshoes are also suggested. Happy hike everyone!!!

About a mile of steep downhill hike and coming back up hill. Great to see a few sequoia trees. Treat this more of a hike and sightseeing along the way... no breathtaking views!

Great, lesser known grove of Giant Sequoia trees. There's a mile walk or so down an unpaved road to the grove, which of course you have you hike back up. Once there, there's a loop trail to take you by all the trees. There's the one that used to be a tunnel for cars and wagons, and one that fell down and you can crawl thru. Beautiful! Pictures can't do this justice as there trees are too big! Don't take the pine cones!!!

Really enjoyed staying at the Ahwahnee. It is at a great location and the property is beautiful. The dining room was an amazing experience for Breakfast and also for dinner. The service was amazing. It is an added bonus to just walk to the back of the hotel to watch the half dome at sunset time. Definitely recommend this experience.

Our stay at The Ahwahnee was absolutely exceptional from start to finish. The hotel is truly a gem in the heart of Yosemite...surrounded by breathtaking scenery and filled with timeless charm. Our room was spacious, comfortable, and spotless, with every detail thoughtfully cared for. Waking up to views of Yosemite’s stunning landscape was a dream. The service throughout our stay was top-notch...every staff member we encountered was friendly, attentive, and genuinely eager to make our visit special. The dining room deserves its own praise...it’s simply gorgeous, with soaring ceilings, grand windows, and a warm, elegant atmosphere. The food in the dining hall was outstanding, both in quality and presentation. Every meal felt like a special occasion. The hotel grounds are just as impressive as the interior...beautifully maintained and offering easy access to the park’s trails and sights. We couldn’t have asked for a better experience. The Ahwahnee perfectly combines historic elegance with modern comfort, and it’s the ideal place to experience the magic of Yosemite. We can’t wait to return!

Rooms are beautifully styled in their original era of beauty. The patio area outside the Presidential Suite is very comfortable and the view of Half Dome is amazing. Staff is helpful and friendly. The Vintner Dinner event is a must! Wonderful evening with a 5 course meal and Keller and Rombauer wines. Breakfast is delicious especially if you can sit at the Queen’s table. Try the fruit scones!

Beautiful lodge and lobby. Rooms okay, but I wouldn't pay for a premium view; hard to get in November because of clouds! Location is great, and servers at breakfast are extraordinary! The fall colors and hikes, particularly at Mariposa redwoods are mystical.

We stayed at the hotel in October. We are quite disappointed with the view we received, as we had booked a Prime View room. Considering the room rate of $800 per night, we had expected a view matching the advertised room type. The view from our room was just the service yard. The room also had a noticeable smell, the carpet was old, and it didn’t feel very clean. Most importantly, the reception staff didn’t provide any guidance or recommendations about the hotel, which made our stay less enjoyable. The dinner menu also had limited options and was rather basic. Overall, it was not impressive and not worth the price. For those interested, I would only recommend visiting for a meal to enjoy the hotel’s atmosphere.

We celebrated our 40th wedding anniversary at the Ahwahnee and it indeed was special. The staff was amazing and we loved our room with its balcony. We loved the common areas as well and of course you can't beat being in Yosemite National Park. Only a couple minor issues: no housekeeping service our second day and elevator broke down last morning. Given the history, we didn't let those issues bother us and would love to go back again.

I’m really sad to say we had a bad experience here. The staff is great, they’re trying their best, but I can’t help but feel that we were profiled in several interactions, notably getting into the dining room for dinner and breakfast. There were many obvious (and easy to fix) issues with our room. We stayed in a cottage suite, which has a number of problems for $800 a night. The carpet had a large gash in it, in plain view of the main entrance door to the room, 3 feet wide. There were 5 large black scuffs on painted surfaces, all of which would come off with a magic eraser. The bathroom shower was missing 3 large tiles with quite a bit of mold. Every window frame was covered in mold, but then again, this is a humid place. Their answer to 20 degree winters in Yosemite was a $20 space heater. I get the money you pay goes towards keeping this place alive, and to fix a doorknob here, you probably have to call a historian, but I don’t see where the money is going. The bar food is a solid 6/10, and we didn’t even get to try their main dining room. I really wanted to like this place, but come on guys, half of the ritz buildings are 25 years older, the same nightly price, and take this whole ordeal to the next level. It is my understanding that Stephen T. Mather commissioned the Ahwahnee in order to impress America’s most prominent tourists of the late 1920s to drum up support for our national parks system. We are better as a nation for that success; our disappointing experience at the hotel is a modern, personal stain on that history. I would counsel the tourists of the 2020s that your money is better spent elsewhere. Come do the tour, but don’t stay here.

Absolutely stunning. The effort, the challenge, the commitment is 💯 worth it. Take your time, enjoy the views. The elevation gain is noticeable especially with the switchbacks. The trail is mostly packed down. There's quite a few sections with very loose gravel, stone and rock. Eyes open and head up.

Tough climb. Took us 4 hrs to get all the way up and then back down again. Awesome views and totally worth it. On the top at Glacier Point you can refill water and buy drinks and some lighter food.

This is a no joke 4.6 miles hike / climb one way to the top with 3,200 ft elevation (that is 320 floors of 10 ft high). The views are amazing and the Glacier Point at the top is stunning. There is no option to take shuttle down, so you need to hike back 4.6 miles or option pay for $200 for a Lyft… 😅However, if you are not up for a hike you can drive up and come back - traffic is bad though and need to drive around the mountain. Here are few photos.

One of the most jaw dropping hiking experience. The view is truly unmatched in California. Do come prepared though, it is a solid 2 or more hour hike upwards. It is steep and slippery is some areas. There is also a store at the top to refuel your journey back down.

I would have given it a 5 star but the fact that the whole trail is paved takes a lot away from an outdoor experience... It's super bad for your joints as well.

This definitely is a challenging hike. The heat and the sun takes its toll on you the first half of the hike up. Take plenty of water and maybe plan for a different time of day. By the midpoint, the elevation starts to work in your favor with cooler temperatures and a breeze. There are some steep dropoffs so be careful. Views are amazing so have a full charge on your phone.

This is one of the hardest hikes I’ve ever done, but also one of the most beautiful ones! Make sure to get there early, we pulled into the parking lot around 6:30AM and there were only a couple of spots left. The uphill switchbacks are brutal, but if you start early enough you do them in the shade. The views all the way up are phenomenal, and the view up top is such a treat! You have a 240 degree view of the valley and it is stunning. Glacier road is still closed (we did this mid June 2023), so it’s just you and other hikers on top. However, because of the closure, the restrooms are not ready (there are some porta potties but no toilet paper), nor are the waterfountains. Make sure you bring plenty of water (I drank almost 4 liters), sturdy shoes, sunscreen, and bug spray. Do not attempt this with young children. It took us about 3 hours to go up, 2 to descent.

The natural surroundings are stunning, and the hotel building is a beautiful historic landmark. The rooms and bathrooms are literally from the 1900s, but everything works perfectly. Just keep in mind the restaurant closes very early and there are no nearby options—they could really extend the hours. Wi-Fi is only available in the lobby, and parking fills up quickly in the well-lit areas, so it’s best to arrive early. The staff was friendly, but none of them spoke Spanish

Closed for remodel but if you go to Yosemite it’s a nice place to go and walk the grounds to see this historical beauty. There is a 9 hole golf course and a 4 mile trail loop surrounded by giant sequoias. You can also visit their general store which also has a great gift shop

Location is nice since you don't need to worry much about parking and entering the park itself. This thing was constructed in the 1800s, so the room has no A/C just a ceiling fan and a stand up fan. Did I sleep ok? No. It is what it is. The shared bathroom was nice, and the dinner at the hotel really deserves a 5/5 for the food. Overall, vibes are nice just wish they can renovate these rooms.

Pros: Good location within the Yosemite National Park. Beautiful heritage hotel and well-maintained. Price is reasonable compared to alternatives. Shared bathrooms were very clean and well-lit (see pics). Fountain-facing rooms are quiet, but not street-facing rooms. Has tennis courts and disc golf. Equipment provided free (not for golf) by front desk. Cons: Room was quite tight for four adults. No views of any Yosemite attraction from hotel. Can't even get a coffee until 7 am. Restaurant closes at 9 pm. No shops or restaurants within a 45-minute drive radius. No AC in room (two fans are provided instead). Was quite hot in July although the nights cooled off. Parking is a short walk from rooms and so carrying luggage was a challenge. Older bearded white guy who works at Golf Shop is very rude.

Ended up enjoying our stay more than I'd anticipated. Was in a quiet part of the park, away from crowds, but we didn't have to deal with the gate lines every morning...so worth it! I was nervous about no in-room bathroom, it ended up being fine. There are restroom and shower facilities (separate, but close together). Both were very clean and private. The provided robes were great for bathing/restroom runs. They state no AC, but the windows do open for the cooler evening air and there was a fan in our room. Restaurant was nice, menu limited.

We were lucky to find a room here last minute when our other plans fell through. The booking process was quick and easy, which was a big relief. Just a few things to note so you know what to expect: our room was quite small with one bed, and the bathroom was shared. There was no air conditioning or WiFi, but the space itself was very charming and had a unique character. As long as you're aware of the setup, it’s a lovely and cozy place to stay. It worked out perfectly for us!

You are paying a complete rip off ONLY for the location - apart from that there’s nothing good to be said apart from the fact that it is kind of cute to look from the outside. At this price, you’d expect at least a private bathroom, breakfast, clean facilities, and decent wifi. Bathrooms and showers are shared (at least it was fairly clean), breakfast is not included, and what they have to offer is “those sausage muffins and things like that”, as the receptionist said - not quite what a vegetarian would like for breakfast. As many other reviewers have pointed out, no AC, only a super loud fan and its super loud assistant fan - attention light sleepers. If you’re ok to pay $175 for a $30 hotel experience + great location, this works

Sooo Beautiful. It's worth the hike. Picnic, bask in the river. The punch bowls are awesome. @beesavage

We only did the lower part of the trail (which is about 1/2 mile round trip) but it was still beautiful! There was hardly anyone else on the trail, I think because not many people know about it? Anyways, highly recommend and I hope to go back and do the full trail for it someday, but I didn't have time when I went, unfortunately.

The Hike From Where We Parked Our Car Is Like 10-15min It’s A Beautiful And Also A Clean Place✅

Really great hike that isn't crowded. Almost immediately will begin ascent along the river and lower falls. Enjoy the mist. Feels nice when it's hot. Rest of the trail is a consistent incline. Really amazing to be at the top next to the roaring water. 5.2017

Trail could use some work. Lots of fallen trees. Pretty hike. Bring plenty of water.

Another year hiking to the lovely Lower Chilnualna Falls! Beautiful as ever. Though steep at times, it is a short and easy trek from trailhead.

I love waterfalls and have seen many, but for a 5-10 minute hike this is a must see. Usually you have to hike for much longer to see something so nice. This will not disappoint. We had a 6yo, 9yo and 18 month infant in a carrier and it wasn’t tricky at all. Enjoy!

Beautiful experience at Evergreen Lodge We had the most wonderful experience at Evergreen Lodge! Everything was beautifully arranged — the setting, the atmosphere, and every little detail were perfect. A special thank-you to Micaela, who organized everything with such care. She was always in touch, thoughtful, and attentive to every concern we had — truly a pleasure to work with. Lola also did a fantastic job helping with the setup and making the place look absolutely magical. The whole team made our morning unforgettable. Highly recommend Evergreen Lodge to anyone looking for a well-organized and heartfelt event surrounded by nature.

Our new favorite Yosemite cabins! Perfect for families. We loved the thoughtful effort in having so many games and puzzles available so people can enjoy a slower, technology free weekend with family. We loved the pool and hot tub, nightly campfire smores, onsite restaurant, multiple indoor and outdoor play areas, meandering forest pathways, sunset vista spot, and cozy cabin rooms. We’ll be back every year!

Kinda place in your dreams. Fall was beautiful. The little cabins ad walk ways with hidden little extras was such fun to experience. We even took a dip in the hot tub at night. Stars were amazing. The bar was very cool. Can't wait to go back for a longer stay. Yes thats an actual shoot star in the night time photo! Amazing place

Beautiful lodge in the forest, very calm area. We appreciated the jacuzzi and pool. The logde is comfortable, and the food is excellent. We recommend the Zinfandel wine. A few things to do better : fridge way too cold, heating cannot be adjusted, and minimum amenities. One hour drive to go to Yosemite Valley.

Just stayed here, this place was awesome. The onsite restaurant and bar is crucial because there's not much nearby, but they have everything you need, and the food is spectacular. Nice little general store that has sandwiches and snacks, plenty of drinks, a rain jacket if you didn't bring one, Nalgene bottles, whatev. The staff was really nice and super helpful too… We got some great information from Billy and had a great experience in the park. Strongly recommend. Maybe a little bit pricey, but justified for sure😊🤙

I was reminded of my stay here from 2014 from some older pictures I found (before Google tied your location to pictures), so my review might be a smidge dated, but it absolutely deserves a review. It was a gorgeous place, nice views, easy parking, with a bar, restaurant (which I don't believe I visited, but the bar was wonderful), and community fire pit. So a great way to meet and casually chill with other travelers, yet, due to the individual cabins, we had plenty of privacy as well. It was also a reasonable distance from the park and an easy drive to get there. It was the most romantic getaway I've ever been on, and I was only looking for somewhere affordable to stay near Yosemite; I hadn't really looked much into the place because I didn't plan on spending a lot of time there. It was surprisingly fantastic, I was blown away. I actually felt annoyed that we didn't end up spending more time JUST there! And this was VERY recently after a huge fire in the park. They managed to make that sad event completely forgettable, even though just up the street, there was a lot of burned forest. Super impressive (and thank goodness the place was intact, they were seriously within like, maybe ¼ mile of the burn). The craziest thing is that the prices from when I stayed there 11 years ago are extremely close, maybe even the same, to what they are now!! Uncovering this memory fills me with urgency to go back ASAP. I wish I could live here 🥲💖

In the middle of nowhere we found this amazing place to stop and enjoy nature. Here you hear the sound of nature when the sun set comes. The smell of wood is around you. We slept in beds put in tents. The swimming pool is fantastic. We ate in the restaurant, too big portions for us.

Easy hike up to see the waterfall up flow and it's beautiful! We loved it and the entire family enjoyed it! Strongly recommend it visiting Yosemite you have to stop and see these falls!

Bridalveil Fall Trailhead is an easy, 0.5-mile flat trail, perfect for a quick and scenic walk. We visited in August, so the water flow was low, but the fall is still stunning. Early summer visits are likely even more impressive. Beautiful views and very accessible highly recommend!

This one was really busy this weekend but previous weekends it’s been less busy. Very short trail, about 1/2 a mile round trip. Paved all the way, nice, clean, beautiful walk.

You can watch the waterfall every day and next day you still find something different in it. Easy hike to the bridge. The view is superb.

Another super easy walk to get a look at a beautiful water fall. We went beginning of September and with the hot days and dry season that California has had this season, there was still good amount of water coming down on the fall.

Bridalveil falls in Yosemite National Park boasts one of the most beautiful settings, featuring expansive hiking trails on stones, enabling visitors to approach the falls, and indulge in the spectacular view of mist from the water, accompanied by cold water at the summit, a charming pond, and a tranquil atmosphere, ideal for family excursions with kids, while requiring parental supervision to ensure safety when ascending, as some areas can be hazardous.

Nice and easy walk up to the falls, pretty to see even in autumn.

Nice easy trail among the majestic trees and next to a dried up river (we went in August) but the small pond at the top (supposedly Mirror Lake) brought a much needed cool after the hot day.

We had a awesome time on the trail. The snow made for amazing backdrops

Nice paved trail to take into Mirror Lake!

Great morning walk around beautiful Mirror Lake, Yosemite. Unfortunately the smoke from the Creek fire settled in the valley.

The Mirror Lake Trail in Yosemite is a fantastic moderate hike that took us about 2–3 hours to complete the full loop at a comfortable pace. The trail is well-marked and easy to follow, with a nice mix of shaded forest paths and open views of the surrounding cliffs. There’s free parking nearby, and there are washrooms at the trailhead — but none along the route, so plan accordingly. Dogs are not permitted on the trail. Along the way, there are countless picturesque opportunities — from towering granite walls to calm reflective water (in spring) or peaceful meadows (in summer). If you visit during the summer months, the lake will likely be dried out, but it’s still beautiful and worth the visit for the views and the sense of tranquility. Overall, this is a very enjoyable hike for most ability levels — enough to feel like a good workout without being overly strenuous. Whether the lake is full or dry, it’s a rewarding walk that captures the beauty of Yosemite.

Went the first week of November and the trail was nearing peak foliage! While mirror lake is dry this time of year, the trail itself was one of my favorites in Yosemite. Some people ahead of us on the trail said they saw a bobcat! The trail is mostly flat and well established, so all ages and levels of physical fitness should enjoy this trail.

Very good views and easy walk with kids Well worth it

The Depot is where you park your vehicle upon arrival to the Welcome Plaza 2 miles away from the Mariposa Grove. From here you take the free shuttle service into the grove where you are dropped off at the Arrival Area and begin your entry into the Mariposa Grove on foot. At the Depot you will find toilets, a gift shop as well as a large sequoia slab and other information related to the sequoias and grove in general. Everything is still rather new and spruced up with the grove having only reopened last summer (June 2018).

This is the parking for the bus to the Mariposa Grove. No cars allowed on the road to the Grove when the bus is running.

Great Gift Shop for Yosemite Souvenirs. This is also where you pick up the Bus to Mariposa Grove.

The trees here are amazing! I love it and all that it has to offer.

Great place to see the giant tree's.

Nice selection of information booklets and maps.

Beautiful management of public space

I spent two lazy, blissful hours sitting by this lake all by myself on a sunny October day. It was the last day of my three day backpacking trip in the Tuolumne Meadows wilderness area. The shimmering blue lake surrounded by the granite peaks of the Sierra range makes for a gorgeous setting in which to enjoy a quiet, reflective afternoon.

Great trail. Not very long but all the way is up the hill. I spent 3.5 hours both ways but I met people that spent 6 hours both ways. Up to your shape

This was a nice, moderate hike. The steep upward grade at the very beginning was probably the most challenging part. I would say the payoff of being spit out into the Cathedral Peak Basin was well worth it! The boulders, the lakes, and the haunting view of Cathedral Peak towering over everything was surreal.

Nature around is beautyful

Visited the lake in late August, a moderately challenging hike. It took about 9 miles to visit both lakes. The total elevation is about 1200 feet, net elevation gain is about 900 feet. Trail starts at 8600 feet, and ends at Upper lake with over 9500 feet. Here are some tips: - There are about several parking spaces along the Tioga Trailhead. It will save you 0.5 miles (one way) comparing to parking at the Visitor center parking lot - The first mile is the toughest part, it has 500 feet elevation gain, a slow start will be helpful - The second mile is mostly flat, followed by another mile with 400 feet elevation gain. - The junction to the upper and lower lakes is already at 9500 feet, so there is no more net elevation gain to either lakes. - After junction, the trail to upper lake is a little less than a mile, the trail to lower lake is about 0.5 mile. If you just want to go one of the lakes, upper lake is recommended - No mosquito around the lakes at the end of August

Simply Breathtaking!

Upper Yosemite Falls was one of the best hikes of my life. The beginning and end are challenging, but worth it. There’s a section in the middle that’s relatively flat, which has some of the best views of the falls. There are small trails that branch off for the best views. I recommend going as early as possible in the morning because it gets very warm later on in the day. Nearly all of the second half of the hike is exposed to the sun by the later morning hours. I also recommend bringing plenty of water, especially if you’re not as experienced and if you’re planning on going later in the day. I read some reviews recommending that people hike a further 0.8 miles past the falls to Yosemite Point. This was absolutely worth it, rewarding hikers with views of the entire valley and Half Dome.

(Translated by Google) One of the most beautiful trails in Yosemite NP. This is the second time I have committed it and I will do it again. Unfortunately, at the current time (August) there was hardly any water and the beautiful waterfall could not be seen. So the best time is in spring. I hike a lot and classify the difficulty level as moderate to difficult. From the valley it is about 1000 meters in altitude. With breaks, the tour lasts approximately 4-5 hours. The view is magnificent and the climb is really worth it! Definitely try it out. Please bring sturdy shoes and water! (Original) Einer der schönsten Trails im Yosemite NP. Ich habe ihn nun zum zweiten Mal begangen und werde es wieder tun. Leider gab es zum aktuellen Zeitraum (August) kaum Wasser und der wunderschöne Wasserfall war nicht zu sehen. Die beste Zeit ist also im Frühling. Ich wandere sehr viel und ordne den Schwierigkeitsgrad auf Mittelschwer bis schwer ein. Vom Tal sind es etwa 1000 Höhenmeter. Mit Pausen dauert die Tour etwa 4-5 Stunden. Die Aussicht ist grandios und der Aufstieg lohnt sich wirklich! Unbedingt ausprobieren. Festes Schuhwerk und Wasser mitnehmen bitte!