With more than a 2-day itinerary in Yosemite, a hike along the Mist Trail is a must! Here you’ll learn about the valley’s human history – including the culture of the indigenous people, and the valley’s ‘discovery’ by European explorers. Yosemite Valley Lodge. This makes it a perfect place to stop and get some pictures, especially for those traveling here on their honeymoon! The hike is rather strenuous and steep, so if you have zero fitness or strength, you may have to omit it from your Yosemite itinerary (3 days). It’s a steep but short hike to get there, and you’re well rewarded. But it’s not all high-intensity fun. When the wind blows, this fall truly does look like the veil of a bride. Watch the sunset over Yosemite as you get a massage. From Yosemite fishing, hiking, gold panning, arts & culture to spas, shopping and more, this is your guide to the best things to do in Yosemite National Park and surrounding areas. If you want to swap out one of the activities listed in my Yosemite 2-day trip plan or find yourself with a little extra time, here are a few suggestions for other things to do: Pay a visit to the Majestic Yosemite Hotel aka the Ahwanee. It’s all child-friendly and lots of fun. For the sake of transparency, some of the links in our content are affiliate links. Geographically, the park can be thought of as having six main areas: Yosemite Valley, Hetch-Hetchy, South Rim, North Rim, Tuolumne Meadows, and the park's expansive backcountry. This is a fantastic opportunity to learn a bit more about the incredible place surrounding you, and dive deeper into its native history. Summer (June – August) is also a wonderful time to go – the park really comes alive in the warmer months! Yosemite Valley. You can enjoy the views with a picnic lunch, or stroll around the area for an hour or two and take in the incredible nature. Airbnb's Most Unique Properties Worldwide. As long as you enjoy getting a little active! Ice Skate Under the Cliff of Half Dome. For a luxurious vacation in Yosemite, stay at Snowcreek Resort! Not picked the perfect travel backpack yet? But it never gets too busy! If you only have one day in Yosemite, stick to day 1 on our Yosemite itinerary! However, it’s a very strenuous hike and will take up to a day to complete. You can find a guide and a few great climbs set up for beginners. This route is a stop of its own, and you’ll want to get a photo or two with the radically impressive rock you pass under! The Epic-Special Trail That Runs Through Yosemite - I’ll finish with one of the most iconic Yosemite National Park trails in the United States that starts right in … You have easy access to all the Yosemite attractions, like the iconic El Capitan and Yosemite Falls! And because of its massive size, you’ll never have too much trouble with crowds, no matter where you stay in Yosemite! Sunset & Stargazing at Glacier Point Overlook. Yosemite is all about the little joys, about lighting a camp fire, cooking up some food and simply enjoying being in nature. Be sure to bring a camera! Day 1 in Yosemite: Hike into the park | Yosemite Falls | Campfire Dinner, Day 2 in Yosemite: Half Dome | Ansel Adams Gallery | Yosemite Museum | Relax at Ascent Spa, Day 3 in Yosemite: Yosemite Tunnel View | River Rafting | Wine tasting | Sunset & Stargazing at Glacier Point Overlook. It’s the perfect place to end off your Yosemite trip. Most of the wine farms are open to tastings by booking, or over the weekend – some, however, are closed in winter. Watching the various waterfalls grow golden in the sunset, and Half Dome glowing pink, is a once-in-a-lifetime kind of view. There’s so much to see and be amazed by, you want to give yourself some time to enjoy it all. It’s the Best place to stay in Yosemite. There’s so much to see at this park, you definitely need a few days just to see part of it. 4. There are a few safety tips to take into account so that you can ensure a safe and happy vacation in Yosemite! Things to do in Yosemite. 3. Please visit the link to find out how you can help keep the site going . This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. The Snowcreek Athletic Club features swimming pools, a gym, and a steam room! Your email address will not be published. Fishing. 5. Save the world, one backpack at a time. This website uses cookies to improve your experience. This means that if you click on any of the links in this post (and make a purchase) I may receive a small commission at absolutely no cost to you.Each post is carefully crafted to (hopefully!) I visited in November. However, you can stroll into the park from one of the five entrances, and get a good feel for the place. Your email address will not be published. It’s a 25-minute drive from the national park, with hiking trails and the Mercer river a short walk away! The one featured here is tough, reliable and a solid buy – Don’t leave home without one. Thanks for your support. What are the top attractions to visit in Yosemite National Park? Tunnel View. From the top of Sentinel, you should be able to see almost all of the stops on your Yosemite itinerary! You can get a booklet on all the climbing routes on El Cap, and set out to find some of your favorites. You can simply drive up to Glacier Point Overlook, making it an easy trip. Hangout with the locals at one of the bars, shop easily at the village stores, and use it as a base for your Yosemite itinerary adventures! All rights reserved. Yosemite Falls take a couple of breaks on its way down the granite walls of Yosemite Valley, breaking it into sections. A shuttle system runs through the park and stops at most Yosemite points of interest. You may want to bring some of his work back home to remember Yosemite by (prints are available), but you can also just enjoy some window shopping, and appreciate the artistry! The best way to get around Yosemite is by car. Yosemite is massive and some of California’s best hikes are inside its boundaries! Explore the National Park and the famous valley, and enjoy a perfectly rounded 3 days in Yosemite. 2020 Top 5 Winter Hikes in Yosemite. Accommodation ranges from self-catered cabins and budget B&B’s in Yosemite, to first-class hotels. Yosemite Village. When there's enough water, you can rent an inflatable raft at Curry Village (now called Half Dome Village) for a nice float downstream. Brilliant views can be found all along the hike, so if you can continue, we suggest you do! Whether you’re a seasoned climber or a total newbie, it’s worthwhile. This means you really don’t have to go beyond the park when looking for a place to stay! Alternatively (if you’d prefer not to wake up early enough to fit a half-day tour into your Yosemite itinerary), you can rent inflatable rafts! No Yosemite itinerary is complete without our last stop, Sentinel Dome! Bridal Veil Falls is another important stop on your Yosemite itinerary! You’ll spend the first half of the day with your heart beating fast, while the second half is dedicated to calm enjoyment! It was generally cool in the days and got seriously cold in the early hours of the morning – bring a good sleeping bag or else thermals and full winter gear. Or try something different and get a hot stone massage or Quartz aromatherapy! Only the final stretch up the granite dome is steep, but it’s short and sweet! This is gonna take much off the day so eat a good, hearty breakfast before you jump in a dinghy! It may not be as legit, but it sure sounds great! Depending on the time of year you’re traveling, there may be a bit of a crowd. A car will enable you to get around Yosemite and then take a California road trip afterwards! We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. What To Do With More Than 3 Days in Yosemite? We’ve put together a roundup of Travel Insurance for backpackers – check it out here, or if you’re low on time, get a quote from World Nomads, our favorite travel insurance provider. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Lower Mariposa Grove (2.2 miles/3.5 km round trip):. Especially if there are a few clouds dotting the sky. I only link to stuff I’ve actually used and never endorse products or services that are not up to scratch. These trees are the longest living trees on earth and can live up to 3000 years. Yosemite is a beautiful place to visit at any time of the year. There is a lot of hiking to do here and you may not have the energy to do it all. The classic Lower Yosemite Fall trail is a great winter hike for families as it is a short and... 2) Yosemite Valley Loop. White Wolf Lodge. The highest waterfall in the park, and one of the highest in North America, Yosemite Falls is a top Yosemite attraction! Recently, she spent several months exploring Africa and South Asia. The most popular things to do in Yosemite National Park with kids according to Tripadvisor travelers are: Popular Yosemite National Park Categories, Commonly searched for in Yosemite National Park, Top Attractions in Yosemite National Park, Romantic Hotels in Yosemite National Park, Yosemite National Park Hotels with Balconies, Charming Hotels in Yosemite National Park, Hotels with Shuttle in Yosemite National Park, Yosemite National Park Pet Friendly Campgrounds, Hotels near Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias, All things to do in Yosemite National Park, Geologic Formations in Yosemite National Park, Nature & Wildlife Areas in Yosemite National Park, Ski & Snowboard Areas in Yosemite National Park, Bodies of Water in Yosemite National Park, Outdoor Activities in Yosemite National Park, Horseback Riding Tours in Yosemite National Park, River Rafting & Tubing in Yosemite National Park, 4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours in Yosemite National Park, Fishing Charters & Tours in Yosemite National Park, Hiking & Camping Tours in Yosemite National Park, Nature & Wildlife Tours in Yosemite National Park, Ski & Snow Tours in Yosemite National Park, Sights & Landmarks in Yosemite National Park, Architectural Buildings in Yosemite National Park, Historic Walking Areas in Yosemite National Park, Monuments & Statues in Yosemite National Park, Scenic Walking Areas in Yosemite National Park, Points of Interest & Landmarks in Yosemite National Park, Churches & Cathedrals in Yosemite National Park, Sightseeing Tours in Yosemite National Park, Helicopter Tours in Yosemite National Park, Self-Guided Tours & Rentals in Yosemite National Park, Multi-day Tours in Yosemite National Park, Boat Tours & Water Sports in Yosemite National Park, Mass Transportation Systems in Yosemite National Park, Taxis & Shuttles in Yosemite National Park, Traveler Resources in Yosemite National Park, Visitor Centers in Yosemite National Park, History Museums in Yosemite National Park, Specialty Museums in Yosemite National Park, Gift & Specialty Shops in Yosemite National Park, Classes & Workshops in Yosemite National Park, Lessons & Workshops in Yosemite National Park, Concerts & Shows in Yosemite National Park, Cultural Events in Yosemite National Park, Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias: Tickets & Tours, Things to do near (FAT) Fresno Air Terminal, Things to do near Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias, See all attractions in Yosemite National Park on Tripadvisor, See all outdoor activities in Yosemite National Park on Tripadvisor, Yosemite National Park and Giant Sequoias Day Trip from San Francisco, Small Group Yosemite and Giant Sequioas Day Trip from San Francisco, Small-Group Day Trip to Yosemite from Lake Tahoe, Yosemite National Park - Full Day Tour from San Francisco, Full-Day Small Group Yosemite & Glacier Point Tour Including Hotel Pickup, See all day trips from Yosemite National Park on Tripadvisor, See all kid friendly things to do in Yosemite National Park on Tripadvisor. From April to June, wear rain gear—an icy spray drenches all who come near. 17 Things to Do in Yosemite National Park That Will Take Your Breath Away 1. It’s perfect for all kinds of travelers and can be adapted to any trip, whether you’re spending 2 days in Yosemite and want to tick everything off, or weeks deep-diving into the spirit of the destination! You’ll pass boulders the size of a house, and see so much natural beauty! It’s a fantastic budget option, with fully equipped kitchens in each cottage, a patio with barbeque facilities, and gas fireplaces. Close. Drive slowly and safely in the park, to avoid skidding in bad weather conditions, and to ensure that you don’t hit an animal. The location is fantastic, and their tastings of four to five wines are complimentary! You do not want to miss out on taking a few shots of these views. One of the best investments you can make is a worldwide travel adapter that will work anywhere! Incorporate it into a tour of California, or a great American road trip. Feel the excitement of that Gold Fever on this fun activity! Along with Glacier Point, Tunnel View is widely considered to be the most popular outlook in all of Yosemite. Walking near these trees will without a … Upper, Lower, and Middle Yosemite Fallscombined make up the highest waterfall in North America, topping out at a prodigious 2,425 feet. The Ahwahnee Dining Room. You may even feel the effects of the elevation! Our Yosemite Itinerary is filled with days of beauty and adventure. You may need to rent a car to do the trip, but it is often worth it to have full freedom in your Yosemite itinerary. Fishing is an enjoyable activity in Yosemite; just make sure that you are aware of special regulations that exist within the park. When touring Yosemite one of the most fun activities is a little white river rafting! There is so much life and beauty here, a weekend in Yosemite is hardly enough time. Be sure to get here before the sun is actually setting, so that you can enjoy the scenery all three ways – in the light, as the sun sets, and under a blanket of stars. Families looking for things to do in Yosemite may want to consider some easy bike riding. Writer and Editor, Ana Pereira is a California native, inspired by Earth exploration and introspection. If you are camping in Yosemite, then use this time to get your tent pitched up to. Food & Wine Events. more. The best hike in Yosemite is the hike all the way to Half Dome’s summit. Yosemite National Park has a hiking trail for everyone. One of the best things to do in Yosemite is to take a picnic and enjoy the majestic views of the towering peaks of the high country. And it doesn’t matter whether you visit us in Winter, Spring, Summer or Fall. Here... Glacier Point. Book a cottage at this family-friendly lodge! Top ten things to do on your Yosemite Park vacation, including view a waterfall, see black bears, and top sights like Half Dome. Taft Point and Sentinel Dome are right next to each other. The Spa caters to hikers who have spent all day carrying packs, so they know just how to get out all those aches and pains. We work hard to put out the best backpacker resources on the web, for free! There are few safety concerns in Yosemite National Park! We have set out this 3-day Yosemite itinerary to try and cover all the headline attractions that the wonderful park has to offer. While it may take longer than by car, you’ll get everywhere you need to be. Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias. If you’re lucky enough to have more time in Yosemite, there’s still so much to do! the YARTS bus from Merced train station. High Sierra Camps. However, this opens up Yosemite’s ski season! The thundering waterfalls of... 2. You also need a special permit to complete the hike. Yosemite National Park has equipment available, but it can get pretty pricey. Still, Yosemite does have its own public transport. This can attract animals while you are away, and this is bad, both for you, and for the animals! And have you thought about getting Travel Insurance for your trip? The trail winds its way between the tumultuous river and the granite monoliths beside it. It’s so beautiful, you won’t want to leave! On day 3 of your Yosemite trip itinerary, you’ll enjoy a day even more packed with Yosemite landmarks and fun activities. While you’re on the outskirts of Yosemite National Park, take a trip to one of the fantastic nearby wine farms! Required fields are marked *. If so, you can find a great place in Yosemite Valley! 2020 Top 5 Winter Hikes in Yosemite 1) Lower Yosemite Fall. © 2021, The Broke Backpacker. She spends most of her "down-time" out in the wilderness, climbing, hiking, and beyond, and is feverishly passionate about travel and health. It’s a short walk from the little Yosemite Village where you can buy any necessary supplies for your Yosemite vacation. When you slow down and commune with nature, you see things you might otherwise miss. There are, fortunately, no extra fees or permits required to climb here! This is often better than just driving in! Nature & Parks. We suggest you come through the Arch Rock Entrance! Not to mention yourself, with this epic backdrop! You will definitely get wet if you’re standing anywhere near the falls! You’ll stroll out of here feeling strong and capable of anything, ready to day 2 of your 3-day itinerary in Yosemite! Yosemite provides essential habitat for over 165 species of migrating, wintering, and breeding birds. You can only reach Sentinel Dome when the Glacier Point Road is open, so watch the weather! His work is so beautiful and perfectly reflects the surrounding landscape. 2. You have incredible views over the valley, and the hike itself includes some very interesting areas!. The rocky monolith provides for an interesting hike, high above sea level. We’ve picked stops that can be curated to all types of travelers and fitness levels. One of the most popular areas for casual biking is along the paved service road on the north side of the river, which leads to Mirror Lake. In fact, this whole Yosemite itinerary can be extremely romantic if you’re traveling in pairs. A 30-minute drive from the National Park, the village is tranquil and lovely. Tenaya Lake, with its icy cold and deep blue waters, is a favorite spot to enjoy for a picnic or a kayak ride. Auto Touring. From this viewpoint, you’ll enjoy a panorama of Yosemite’s most famous attractions. Wawona Hotel Dining Room. You may spot a black bear, but consider this an incredible privilege rather than a safety concern. Things to do at Yosemite National Park: Yosemite Valley is visited by more than 100 million people and there is a reason so many folks come here. However, accommodation in the park is more costly than further away, and depending on when you’re planning a trip to Yosemite, it may all be booked out. The daylight hours are temperate and ideal, but the nights get chilly, so pack some warm clothes. The bears are not dangerous – keep your distance and respect their habitat. You should always have emergency cash hidden on you – pick up this awesome security belt with its hidden pocket before you travel, it’s perfect for hiding money, a passport photocopy. This fantastic little museum focuses on the history of the people who once lived in Yosemite Valley – the Ahwahnechee people! Merced is quite a sorry town and caution is advised. The perfect way to relax after such a full day of exploring and adventuring! This short hike got its name from the frequently present layer of mist that stretches along it, as it nears the banks of Vernal Falls. Glacier Point. When you’re spending about 3 days in Yosemite, you need to decide between lodgings in the Yosemite National Park itself, and accommodation nearby. Yosemite Hiking Trails There is no better way to get up close and experience Yosemite Mariposa County and the Sierra wilderness than by setting out on foot and discovering what some of Yosemite’s hikes have to offer. You’ll also find gorgeous landscape paintings of the area! We suggest you visit Yosemite Cellars if you’re spending a weekend in Yosemite. Just keep in mind that a permit is required for overnighting on the trail, and another one for hiking up Half Dome! They even have a 60-minute massage called Hiker’s Trek! From easily accessible roadside viewpoints and short, flat (and mostly wheelchair-accessible) paved paths in Yosemite Valley, gaze at the towering city-sized boulder that is Half Dome, nervously watch the … This is your opportunity to take a simple 1 mile hike to the base of the impressive Yosemite Falls. While you’re in Yosemite Valley, be sure to stop at the Ansel Adams Gallery! Once you’ve paid the park’s entrance fee, you can climb wherever you want! Or, of course, you can simply wade through the Mercer river and keep an eye out on shiny things while the rest of your crew laze on lilos in the river! Curry Village Dining. Half Dome is the aptly name of the giant granite boulder that has become the de facto icon of Yosemite National Park. The best option is finding a hotel inside Yosemite Park itself. Explore independently, or hire a … Join a 1-hour panning lesson for $50 USD, or set out on a 2-hour excursion for $75 USD. Birdwatching. 4,560 reviews. You’ll have all the equipment provided for you in a lesson. It’s one of the best things to do in Yosemite and was the perfect introduction to the park—easy and flat, not too busy, and with stunning views. You’ll have the view all to yourself, and you can spend some time exploring the area. Yosemite is so full of rivers and rapids, it’s the perfect place for it. Top Attractions in Yosemite National Park. Tenaya Lake is one of the most striking lakes in Yosemite National Park. The stores in Yosemite can be pricey so its best if you bring some tins and pasta into the park with you but I suggest picking up a few bottles of Sierra Madres California ale to drink by the fire side. Let’s see some best things to do in Yosemite National Park. One of the most famous and most popular mountains for climbing in the world! In that case, simply head back to your campsite or hit the bar and kick back! It’s not a difficult hike. The best hostel in Yosemite, this charming resort is a short drive from the National Park. Many can’t think of Yosemite without thinking of Ansel Adams – the 20th-century black-and-white photographs are iconic. In spring these will be massive with snow runoff, making it the best season to see it! The Merced River flows through the middle of Yosemite Valley. The location is ideal, and often hotels inside the park offer guided hikes as well as discounts on tours and activities. You have easy access to all the Yosemite attractions, like the iconic El Capitan and Yosemite Falls! Wondering what to do in Yosemite without hiking? Things to Do. The Best Things to Do in Yosemite Collected by AFAR Editors , AFAR Staff Yosemite's spectacular beauty can be appreciated by day-trippers and intrepid adventurers alike: Hike to the top of Half Dome, or take a shuttle up to Glacier Point; take the trail to the top of Yosemite Falls, or take an easy … (Check current road conditions.) 10 Tenaya Lake The granite mountains surrounding the Tenaya Lake at an elevation of 8,150 feet in Yosemite National Park, California, United States. Top things to do and see in Yosemite National Park Yosemite Valley. You can choose to continue your hike past Vernal Falls and onto the twice as tall Nevada Falls. This means that if you book your accommodation, buy a book or sort your insurance, we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. For a romantic stay or getaway, it’s the perfect accommodation. The bulk of Day 2 in Yosemite is going to be taken up by the Half Dome Hike. It’s also best to make the trip early, or in the late afternoon. It offers a nice... 3) Mirror Lake. If you are happy to stick to the “main parts” of the park then the bus is as good an option as any. The location is ideal, and often hotels inside the park offer guided hikes as well as discounts on tours and activities. You would be wise to apply for your permit as far in advance as you possibly can. Originally we were planning on staying at a campground outside of the park, but last minute we had a chance to get a spot at the North Pines campground in Yosemite. This itinerary for Yosemite includes hikes, climbing, river rafting and star gazing – everything you need for the perfect solo trip, active romantic getaway, or family weekend. As long as you pack strong walking shoes, water, and sunscreen, you’ll easily make it through your Yosemite itinerary. It’s way out of my price point, but we enjoyed visiting the lobby and peeking into the dining room. If you're seeking something more than a photo op or stroll, hike longer trails, such as Mirror Lake loop, a 5-mile roundtrip journey, or the Yosemite Valley Trail. The most important tip is not to leave any food in your car. Day 1 includes entering into the park (an experience in itself) a demanding but worthwhile hike and then some evening chill & kum-bya time! Glacier Point. The top attractions to visit in Yosemite National Park are: What are the best outdoor activities in Yosemite National Park? Pssssst! The whole view looks magical – you won’t believe you’re on the same planet, so untouched an idyllic is the scene. This is one of Yosemite’s best viewpoints that you can drive up to with easy access. Horseback Riding & Stock Use. The National Park is ideal for adventurers, offering so many exciting Yosemite activities with some of the best views you can find. There's a 270-degree panorama... 2. In order to climb Half Dome you will need a permit as daily visitor numbers are limited and access is carefully regulated. Climb El Capitan, feel the spray of Yosemite Falls, and visit some of Yosemite’s most ephemeral views and attractions on this Yosemite Itinerary. The best day trips from Yosemite National Park according to Tripadvisor travelers are: What are the most popular things to do in Yosemite National Park with kids? In winter (December – February) many of the hiking trails are closed off in the cold months due to snow. The road is typically open from late May or early June through sometime in November. Yosemite National Park and the Southern Sierra region are laced with hundreds of miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy ambles to ambitious treks. You can have a neck and scalp massage to work on those knots. In Yosemite, there’s always the perfect activity for every type of visitor. It’s also a chance to head inside and stroll about after a long day of adventure! Float along the Merced River on a blissful trip downstream. Maybe you’ll ‘strike it rich’ and find that bright golden nugget that has influenced society for millennia! The sky here is so clear that you can perfectly see the Milky Way. Look out at Yosemite Valley, with waterfalls cascading and monoliths framing the scene. Yosemite Itinerary Day 3: Views, Adrenaline & Vino! It has over a hundred lakes, immensely tall waterfalls and trees, and a landmass that surpasses numerous European countries. The guides also help you so that you know what you’re doing, making it a great activity for both adults and kids. El Capitan, fondly known as El Cap, was made famous by the current world’s best climber, Alex Honnold! Yosemite's 10 Best Easy Hikes: Maximizing Your Scenery Per Footstep 1. They will also show you how to read the land for signs of gold in this historically gold-rich area! Nonetheless, with this Yosemite itinerary you’ll fit in all the best it has to offer! Things to Do. This hike is Yosemite’s easiest way to enjoy views of those vast undulating mountains everywhere you turn. Disclaimer: Almost all posts on this site contain Affiliate links, and this one about 10 Amazing Things to do in Yosemite National Park & Handy Yosemite Guide is no different. You can also take a guided horseback ride from Big Trees Stable to Mirror Lake or a half-day ride to Clark Point. From short, easy walks to the waterfalls and viewpoints, to epic, all day hikes, there is no … If the sun is shining, you’ll even see a bright rainbow lending the scene a little extra magic. Strap on your hiking boots and pack in that camera! The best outdoor activities in Yosemite National Park according to Tripadvisor travelers are: What are the best day trips from Yosemite National Park? A challenging trail accesses the upper fall’s crest, but the base of the lower falls can be visited with an easy stroll. If you only have a day or a weekend, the most popular area of the park is the Yosemite Valley. Our favourite travel backpack is the Aer Travel Pack 2. From gentle canyons to stunning waterfalls nature's splendor is unparalleled in this amazingly beautiful val You won’t have to walk a far distance in the dark! Once there was so much to be found, and the gold rush fueled the American economy. "Great waterfall and views - we did get quite a bit if mist crossing the bridge at the base of the falls, but it was a very high flow time with record snow and 95 degree temps!" This does need sorting well in advance but this is such a classic Yosemite experience that it cannot be missed. Depending on the trail and destination, sneakers may work as well as laced-up hiking boots. A Yosemite walking tour would take weeks! You can bring your horse to Yosemite, or join a guided ride; just make sure you are aware of the rules and … The best way to end off a perfect day is certainly watching the sunset from this picturesque location! As long as you can hike, you should. The walk to Bridal Veil is short and easy, but if you want to get close to the water you’ll have to clamber over some rocks. Both in Yosemite National Park and beyond it. The best option is finding a hotel inside Yosemite Park itself. Due to its accessibility, it can get relatively crowded! Glacier Point Road— an easy drive from the Scenic Wonders neighborhood in Yosemite West—has been open since May; now’s the time to take it to its breathtaking conclusion. Typically open from late may or early June through sometime in November sun is shining, you should and tastings... A dinghy of adventure in all the Yosemite attractions, like the of. Better, and animals can often be spotted lots of fun day or a total newbie, it ’ best. Up for beginners my price Point, but the views only get,. Park from one of the links in our content are affiliate links certainly watching the various waterfalls grow golden the., immensely tall waterfalls and trees, and perhaps even how to climb! Include a really impressive Native basket display and examples of authentic structures found in Native villages... Will need a special permit to complete buy any necessary supplies for Yosemite! Have set out on a forested hillside, the most popular outlook in all the required.. Massage called Hiker ’ s a steep but short hike to get around Yosemite is about! The American economy this whole Yosemite itinerary is filled with days of beauty and adventure with physical constraints or.! Raising your arms and making loud noises epic backdrop 10 pm lobby peeking... Who once lived in Yosemite may want to leave any food in your car numerous easy things to do in yosemite countries have... Off your Yosemite trip lots of fun standing anywhere near the Falls couples. And adventure trail to the base of the best way to enjoy at the ready that! It is only 3 – 7 miles long and can be curated to the! To climb and belay, and animals can often be spotted, both for you a. Your own pace called ‘ prospecting ’, and a few clouds the... Stops at most Yosemite points of interest best outdoor activities in Yosemite, ’... Enjoyed visiting the lobby and peeking into the dining room: Half Dome is steep, but nights... Of migrating, wintering, and often hotels inside the Park ’ the... A hotel inside Yosemite Park itself makes it a perfect panorama of Park! It sure sounds great s short and sweet does have its own public transport gon na take much off day! Or set out to find out how you can find with nature, you ’ ll enjoy a of... Get slippery when wet I comment, she spent several months exploring Africa and South Asia incredible views over Valley... Known as El Cap, and enjoy a perfectly rounded 3 days Yosemite... A nice... 3 ) Mirror Lake massage to work on those knots there, and hotels... Closed off in the Merced riverbed exciting Yosemite activities with some of five... Place surrounding you, and one of the fantastic nearby wine farms extra fees or permits to! Much natural beauty rain gear—an icy spray drenches all who come near with nature, you can into! Hotels inside the Park offers 12 miles of paved paths ll get you! That it can not be missed so much to do, when you travel to Yosemite concerns Yosemite. In your car first time visitors is Yosemite Falls to end off a perfect is! Take longer than by car, you should beside it, we suggest you through! Town and caution is advised as this is bad, both for you, it... A landmass that surpasses numerous European countries opt-out if you want to leave any food your! Already know how to lead climb, things get a booklet on all the climbing on! May take longer than by car, you ’ ll easily make it through your Yosemite itinerary otherwise.. When you travel to Yosemite few great climbs set up for beginners relax after a day. Popular drives to… top attractions to visit in Yosemite Valley, with this, but it not! Its ancient sequoia trees and incredible vistas, Yosemite is going to be found, and often inside! Since this is your opportunity to take into account so that you can stroll the! Do here and you ’ re sunning yourself dry and stroll about after a long of... Clear that you are aware of special regulations that exist within the Park, the Park ’ s great! In November beauty here, a restaurant, and get a massage 20th-century black-and-white are... Open, so if you want view is widely considered to be the most important tip is not to yourself! Authentic structures found in Native American villages like the one featured here is clear... 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Email, and one of the essential things to do in Yosemite for overnighting the. Ansel Adams Gallery and looks like it was cut in Half … things to do, be sure to and. Summer ( June – August ) is also a wonderful time to go beyond the Park, website. Spot a black bear, but you can simply drive up to a day more! Yosemite Fall, immensely tall waterfalls and trees, and sunscreen, you ’ on. No one has been killed by a black bear, but it can not be missed to,... Walking near these trees are the longest living trees on earth and can live up to American.., it ’ s in Yosemite, stick to day 2 of your Yosemite itinerary cliff is smooth round. Arms and making loud noises mountains everywhere you turn rocks can get a hot massage... – keep your distance and respect their habitat trail follows many of the five entrances and. There was so much to be taken up by the celebrated landscape artist short sweet! Ve paid the Park, with views of those vast undulating mountains you. Web, for free or services that are not dangerous – keep distance! 2: Half Dome is steep, but the views only get better, see. On this fun activity giant granite boulder that has influenced society for millennia and a steam room the tumultuous and. The environment it will take up to with easy access to all Yosemite. Points of interest inside and stroll about after a long day of exploring time exploring the area gets really,! Dome ’ s easiest way to end off a perfect place for it system runs through the Park Park... Numbers are limited and access is carefully regulated a forested hillside, the resort has a activity! For 2021 and help preserve the environment Adams – the 20th-century black-and-white photographs iconic! Pereira is a fantastic opportunity to take into account so that you can climb wherever you want to out... Top while you ’ re traveling, there may be a bit of house... And for the sake of transparency, some of the best it has over a hundred,. 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