Travelers Guide to Yosemite

If you love nature, adventure, and the opportunity to witness some of the world’s most famous landscapes, Yosemite National Park is a must-visit. Whether you're there for a day, a week, or longer, the experiences you'll have will stay with you long after you leave.

Tips

‼️Reservation required to enter the park‼️

1. Reservations are required between 5am and 4pm most of the year (details on the NPS website). If you don’t have reservation you can still enter the park before or after these hours.

2. Wilderness Permits for Backpacking: If you’re planning to go backpacking, you’ll need a wilderness permit. These are typically available by lottery or first-come, first-served, depending on the trail and season.

3. Road Closures and Construction: Yosemite’s roads are subject to seasonal closures due to snow or construction. Always check road conditions before your trip, especially during winter or spring.

4. Distance: Things might look close on a map but I promise you its not. Yosemite is very mountainous so you always have to take the long way. It takes an hour to get from the south entrance to Yosemite Valley.

5. Gas:  Fill up your gas tank before heading into the park, there are no gas stations for around 50 miles leading up to Yosemite. Inside the park you can expect to pay up to $8 per gallon.

6. Weather: Be prepared weather can change very quickly in the valley. Mornings are typically clearer than afternoons and waterfalls are at their fullest in May & June.

Trail Reccomendations

Yosemite National Park offers a wide range of hiking trails, each showcasing the park’s unique beauty, from towering waterfalls and granite cliffs to serene meadows and ancient giant sequoias. Here are some of the best trails to consider.

1. Yosemite Falls Trail

• Distance: 7.2 miles (round trip)

• Elevation Gain: 2,700 feet

• Difficulty: Strenuous

• Why Hike It: This trail leads to the top of Yosemite Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in North America. You’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the falls, Yosemite Valley, and surrounding granite peaks. The steep ascent is challenging, but the summit rewards you with panoramic vistas.

2. Mist Trail

• Distance: 3 miles (round trip)

• Elevation Gain: 1,000 feet

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Why Hike It: This trail takes you up close to Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall. Expect to get a little wet from the mist (especially in the spring), making it a refreshing hike during the warmer months. The views are spectacular, and the climb is strenuous but manageable.

3. Lower Yosemite Falls Trail

• Distance: 1 mile (round trip)

• Elevation Gain: 50 feet

• Difficulty: Easy

• Why Hike It: A short and easy trail that’s perfect if you’re looking for a quick hike. This path leads you to the base of Yosemite Falls and offers great views of the waterfall in a relatively flat setting. It’s great for families or those with limited time.

4. Four-Mile Trail

• Distance: 4.8 miles (one way)

• Elevation Gain: 3,200 feet

• Difficulty: Strenuous

• Why Hike It: This trail connects Yosemite Valley to Glacier Point. It’s a steep climb, but you’re rewarded with stunning views of Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, and the surrounding valley. You can either hike up and take a shuttle back down, or vice versa.

5. Panorama Trail

• Distance: 8.5 miles (one way)

• Elevation Gain: 3,200 feet

• Difficulty: Strenuous

• Why Hike It: This is a beautiful trail that descends from Glacier Point to the Yosemite Valley floor. It passes through the Panorama Cliff and offers incredible views of the valley, Half Dome, and Vernal and Nevada Falls. Combine it with the John Muir Trail to make a longer loop.

Accommodations

Yosemite National Park offers a wide range of accommodations to suit different preferences and budgets, from luxurious hotels to rustic campgrounds. In-park options include the Yosemite Valley Lodge, offering stunning views of Yosemite Falls, and the historic Ahwahnee, a luxurious hotel with fine dining. For a more rustic experience, Curry Villageprovides tent cabins, while Wawona Hotel offers a vintage, quieter stay near the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias. Campers can enjoy North Pines and Upper Pines Campgrounds in Yosemite Valley, or venture to the cooler Tuolumne Meadows Campground in the high country. For those seeking accommodations outside the park, nearby towns like Mariposa and Fish Camp offer additional options, such as Tenaya Lodge and Evergreen Lodge. With a variety of choices, booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure a spot close to the park's natural wonders.

TIPS FOR BOOKING:

• Book Early: Yosemite is extremely popular, and accommodations fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons (summer and fall). Make reservations as early as possible to secure your spot.

• Check Availability: Some accommodations are seasonal (e.g., Tuolumne Meadows Campground is only open in the summer), so always check availability based on the time of year.

• Consider a Vacation Rental: If in-park accommodations are fully booked, consider looking for vacation rentals in nearby towns like Mariposa or Oakhurst for additional options.

In Conclusion

Yosemite National Park is a must-visit for nature lovers, offering stunning landscapes, from towering granite cliffs and majestic waterfalls to serene meadows and ancient giant sequoias. With a variety of outdoor activities like hiking, rock climbing, and wildlife watching, it’s a paradise for adventurers. Whether you're exploring iconic landmarks like Half Dome and Yosemite Falls or discovering hidden gems in the backcountry, the park’s breathtaking beauty and diverse ecosystems make it an unforgettable destination for all types of travelers.