Yosemite National Park is one of the most breathtaking places on earth I have ever visited. Towering granite cliffs, waterfalls cascading down to the valley below, giant sequoias reaching for the skies – there is nothing else like it. I have now traveled out to Yosemite multiple times just to take it in even more – and I think it should be on everyone’s bucket list to visit at least once! To help you with your Yosemite trip planning and make the most of this beautiful park, I put together the ultimate Yosemite travel guide. This comprehensive guide includes essential information for visiting the park, the best things to do, and the best views, hikes, eats, and more in Yosemite National Park, California, along with other tips and recommendations.

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Yosemite National Park is located in California, about three to four hours east of San Francisco.

Fresno (FAT) is the closest airport to Yosemite, and you’ll need to rent a car to drive two hours to get into the Valley. Alternatively, fly into San Francisco (SFO), rent a car, and drive about three and a half to four hours to get into the Valley. Check for cheap flights and get flight alerts with my favorite flight tool here. Yosemite is also accessible by public transport via YARTS.

KEY TIP: There is NO gas or diesel available in Yosemite Valley, Tuolumne Meadows, or along the Tioga Road, so make sure you gas up before entering the Valley, and plan on never letting your tank go below half-full. There are two gas stations in Yosemite National Park, in Wawona and at Crane Flat. There are also gas stations on Highway 140 outside of the park and on Highway 395 so you can gas up on the way in.

During most of the year, Yosemite has a free shuttle service. The shuttle stops all around Yosemite Valley, including lodges, food service, campgrounds, and trailheads. You will still have to drive into the Valley, but you’ll be able to park your car and then ride the shuttle to your desired location from there. Buses arrive approximately every 12 to 22 minutes from 7 am to 10 pm. Check the NPS website for any potential closures (e.g. the shuttle may not run in winter).

If you are not taking the shuttle, you will need to drive and park to each view/hike destination. There are certain areas where you can park and walk to trailheads or other viewpoints, so just make sure you double check distances when you are planning all of the stops on your trip.

KEY TIP: bring or rent a bicycle to ride around the Valley to give yourself the ultimate flexibility. No waiting for the shuttle, no waiting in line to park, just breeze right on through! Plus it is a very enjoyable way to experience the park. My even better recommendation? Bring a foldable ebike that both fits in your car and makes pedaling around a breeze – no extra effort needed! My favorite and current ebike is the Aventon Sinch, which you can grab here.

Yosemite is incredibly popular and heavily touristed. Visiting during peak season (from Memorial Day weekend in May through Labor Day weekend in September) will likely mean you’ll need a reservation to enter the park, parking will be more challenging, especially at hiking trailheads, and there may be long queues for food in the Valley. Make sure to make your accommodation reservations well in advance in peak season!

All visitors must pay an entry fee to enter the park. In peak season, you must purchase a 3-day pass ($35). America the Beautiful—National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Annual Passes cover park entrance fees (but not reservation fees or requirements). Personally, I like to purchase an America the Beautiful—National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Annual Pass each year ($80) which covers the fees for national parks and other federal fee areas, valid for 12 months from date of purchase. If you visit more than three parks in one year it pays for itself!

NOTE: Reservations are REQUIRED for during peak season (generally May – September) every day from the hours of 6am to 4pm. I recommend you get reservations AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. Put on your calendar the day the reservations are released (in 2022 this was in March). If you miss out the first time, you can still get reservations seven days before you arrive, or when someone cancels their vehicle reservation. ALSO NOTE: permits will not be available in person at the gate so don’t be that person!

KEY TIP: How to get into the park without advance reservation: get in park camping, lodging, or rentals, get a wilderness permit, get a Half Dome permit, or participate in a regional transit or group tour.

You can explore the highlights of Yosemite on a weekend in 2-3 days. 3 days is highly recommended, and if you truly want to discover more of the park and get into some longer hikes, visit for 5-7 days.

Yosemite National Park is open year round and each season offers different possibilities and benefits. Peak season is generally from Memorial Day in May through Labor Day in September. There is honestly no bad time of year to visit, but summer is generally the most popular time. Here are some recommendations for every season:

Spring: Yosemite’s waterfalls are fully flowing and are the most dramatic, so if you are a waterfall fan, visit in spring. The weather is also warming up, with days of sun and rain. There are far fewer crowds but some roads and services might still be closed if there are late winter storms.

Summer: Summer is peak visitation season in Yosemite. Sunny, warm weather means it is the absolute perfect time to hike, so if you are a fan of hiking or backpacking, visit in summer. All of the roads and services are open, but the crowds will also be at peak, making parking challenging, and viewpoints and hikes may be crowded. Depending on snowfall levels from the winter, the waterfalls may still be flowing or may begin to reduce to a trickle.

Fall: Fall color and fewer crowds means this is another great time of year to visit. However, waterfalls will be at their lowest water levels. Beware of early winter storms, and keep track of roads and services that might begin to close.

Winter: Winter is a dramatic and beautiful time to visit. Many roads and services are closed, however, crowds are at their lowest point (with the exception of Firefall in February, see seasonal recommendations). Chains may be required for your car and the Valley itself may be completely closed in severe snowstorms.

There are soooo many amazing things to see in Yosemite and a lot of top things to do in Yosemite, but if you are looking for a definitive bucket list of the best activities in Yosemite, here are my top 15 picks:

1. See the epic views and waterfalls (see The Best Views in Yosemite below)
2. Go for a hike (see The Best Hikes in Yosemite below)
3. Capture Yosemite’s beauty in photographs (see my other blog post, The Best Photography Spots in Yosemite) 
4. Do a scenic drive on Tioga Road, a 46-mile (62 km) drive from Crane Flat to Tioga Pass
5. Camp in the park (see Where to Camp in Yosemite below)
6. Go rock climbing
7. Watch for wildlife and birds
8. Go for a bike ride through the park
9. Climb Half Dome (if you’re feeling adventurous!)
10. Watch Firefall in February (see Seasonal Recommendations & Tips below)
11. Swim on the Merced River in summer
12. Go ice skating or skiing in winter
13. Stargaze at nighttime 
14. Take a tour or go on a ranger-led walk
15. Draw or paint Yosemite’s incredible beauty

Tunnel View is THE iconic view in Yosemite National Park, made famous by photographer Ansel Adams. It was the very first place I stopped at my first visit to Yosemite, and iIf you see no other sights in Yosemite, make sure you still stop at Tunnel View!

Glacier Point is one of the best views of Half Dome. In summer, you can drive up and walk a short distance to the views, but in winter Glacier Point Road is closed. But don’t worry! You can still hike up Four Mile Trail – which, confusingly, is actually closer to five miles and it switchbacks up 3200 feet, so make sure you are in good condition before attempting it!

Taft Point is only accessible in summer and it is WELL worth the drive on Glacier Point Road. You will need to hike to this viewpoint, see “The Best Hikes in Yosemite” below for more details.

Sentinel Bridge is one of my favorite views of Half Dome because it reflects in the water below. As you drive through the park, you’ll take a left onto the bridge and there is a parking lot after you pass over the bridge to the left, so don’t stop in the middle of the bridge for photos – just walk up after you park!

Cathedral Beach is a great place to picnic, swim (in summer), and take in views of El Capitan, including a reflection of El Cap in the Merced River below!

Valley View is one of the last views you’ll see as you are exiting the park so make sure you don’t miss it! It’s a similar view to Tunnel View but closer and with the beautiful Merced River running in front of it.

Yosemite Valley Chapel is quietly tucked on the side of the road and it’s easy to drive right past it. But trust me, it is worth a quick stop to visit and photograph. If you’re lucky, you’ll see some deer in the valley grass in the area!

Yosemite Falls has both an upper and lower portion, and can be viewed in a couple spots throughout the valley, but one of my favorite spots is from the Lower Yosemite Falls trail (see “The Best Hikes in Yosemite” below for more details.)

The Merced River runs throughout Yosemite Valley, and there are multiple access points and views as you drive and hike through the valley. In summer, you can even swim in the river! Even better, you can often find breathtaking reflections of El Capitan, Half Dome, and other granite formations.

For another view of Yosemite Falls, try viewing from Swinging Bridge. From here, you can hike through the Valley, picnic, and walk around the beach. Tip: funny enough, the Swinging Bridge parking lot has one of my to-go bathroom stops – always something to be aware of while you’re in the park, where all of the bathrooms are!

Washburn Point offers another incredible vantage point of Half Dome, plus you can also see Vernal Falls and Nevada Falls, making this an absolute must for taking a panoramic shot.

El Capitan Meadow is absolutely stunning. You will catch multiple views of it as you drive through Yosemite Valley, with epic views of (surprise!) El Capitan. If you saw the movie Free Solo, El Capitan is the mountain Alex Honnold free soloed (which honestly is even more crazy when you see El Cap in person!).

Spring through fall take the shuttle out to Mariposa Grove to see the iconic giant Sequoia trees. Unfortunately while I was there the shuttle was not running so you will just have to see it for me! If you miss out on the Sequoias here, no worries, you can always add in an extra stop at Sequoia National Park after visiting Yosemite National Park.

This scenic drive is sooo underrated! If you have a little more time as you visit Yosemite, definitely don’t miss out on capturing epic views from Tioga Pass. Make a quick stop at the viewing area for Olmsted Point, which will give you views of the northern side of Half Dome, Clouds Rest, and a view of Tenaya Lake to the east.

As you make your way past Olmsted Point, continue on to two scenic spots that are worth the drive: Tenaya Lake and Tuolumne Meadows. Tuolumne Meadows in particular has quite a few amazing hikes so if you have time, plan on spending a few hours or an extra day out in this part of the park. If you are in good fitness and want to do my bucket list hike, embark on the seven-mile Cathedral Lakes hike.

There are sooo many incredible hikes in Yosemite Parks; here are my top 15. Hiking is generally best in summer, but spring and fall are great times to hike as well to avoid more of the crowds and heat. Visiting Yosemite in winter and wondering which trails are open? See my winter guide to Yosemite park here.

Quick trail stats: 0.6 mi loop, 137 ft elevation gain. See more on the National Park Service (NPS) website here.

Highlights:drive up and hike a very short distance to one of the absolute BEST views of Half Dome, multiple waterfalls, and the Valley below. Trail is popular and a portion is also accessible with 8 designated accessible parking spots. Note: roads leading to the trailhead are closed in winter. As of 2022, Glacier Point Road (which leads to the trailhead) is closed until 2023 due to construction. 

Quick trail stats: 1.2 mi loop, 59 ft elevation gain. See more on the National Park Service (NPS) website here.

Highlights: open year-round, popular (read: highly likely to be crowded), views of Lower Yosemite Falls, & a portion of trail is accessible. I hike this trail on most trips since it’s so fast and easy to get great photos of the falls! Note: trail may be slippery/icy in winter.

Quick trail stats: 7.6 mi out & back, 3218 ft elevation gain. See more on the National Park Service (NPS) website here.

Highlights: challenging hike but well worth it for STUNNING panoramic views looking down from the top of Yosemite Falls. Note: you don’t necessarily have to hike the entire trail; you can visit just the lower falls, middle cascade, or go all the way to the upper falls. This hike is best in spring & summer.

Quick trail stats: 21.1 mi loop, 1335 ft elevation gain. See more on the National Park Service (NPS) website here.

Highlights: don’t let the high mileage scare you; I actually have not yet completed the full loop, I just hike portions of it. There are plenty of areas around the park where you can access this trail, definitely recommend trying at least a quarter mile of it somewhere! This is another trail that is open in and perfect for all seasons.

Quick trail stats: 2.3 mi out & back, 367 ft elevation gain. See more on the National Park Service (NPS) website here.

Highlights:jaw-dropping cliff and waterfall views above the valley, and unobstructed views of El Capitan. This trail truly took my breath away! Note: roads leading to the trailhead are closed in winter. As of 2022, Glacier Point Road (which leads to the trailhead) is closed until 2023 due to construction.

Quick trail stats: 2.3 mi out & back, 741 ft elevation gain. See more on the National Park Service (NPS) website here.

Highlights: want to avoid the crazy Tunnel View crowds but enjoy the same views? Then absolutely hike this trail! Note: trail is uneven and rocky at times, trekking poles may be helpful.

Quick trail stats: 14/16 mi, 4800 ft elevation gain (cables are last 400 ft). See more on the National Park Service (NPS) website here.

Highlights: One of the most unique experiences you can have in the park, but not for the faint of heart! On this trek you will hike to Half Dome and then climb up Half Dome itself using cables. Note: special permits ARE REQUIRED via a lottery system; read more details and get the permit application dates here. Top tips? Wear quality, grippy shoes, grippy gloves, be patient with other climbers, avoid climbing in rain, and empty your pockets and your backpack’s outside pockets. 

Quick trail stats: 2.3 mi loop or out & back, 147 ft elevation gain. See more on the National Park Service (NPS) website here.

Highlights: use the shuttle to get to the trailhead, otherwise make sure you factor in extra mileage to start the hike from another part of the valley. Key tip: you can BIKE a portion of the trail or bike to the trailhead to avoid shuttle crowds! In summer you can enjoy getting in the water – sooo refreshing after a hike!

Quick trail stats: 0.4 mi out & back, 82 ft elevation gain. See more on the National Park Service (NPS) website here.

Highlights: quick, easy, & popular trail to see views of Bridal Veil falls. Note: this trail as of 2022 is closed for renovations.

Quick trail stats: 6 mi loop, 2162 ft elevation gain. See more on the National Park Service (NPS) website here.

Highlights: incredibly popular, the MOST traveled hike in Yosemite (!). Breathtaking views of Vernal and Nevada Falls. Start this hike early to avoid the crowds! And if you only have time/energy for a portion of the trail, you can hike to just Vernal Falls and then turn back instead of going all the way to Nevada Falls. Note: subject to trail closure in winter months; best for spring & summer.

Quick trail stats: 2.1 mi out & back, 456 ft elevation gain. See more on the National Park Service (NPS) website here.

Highlights: minimal effort for maximum gain –  exceptional views of Yosemite Valley, El Capitan, Yosemite Falls, Nevada Falls, and more. Note: roads leading to the trailhead are closed in winter. As of 2022, Glacier Point Road (which leads to the trailhead) is closed until 2023 due to construction.

Quick trail stats: 8.5 mi out & back, 1607 ft elevation gain. See more on the National Park Service (NPS) website here.

Highlights: steep but sooo worth the views of Cathedral Peak rising above an alpine lake. I’m not going to lie; I actually have yet to complete this hike BUT it is my TOP backpacking hike right now. From everything I’ve researched it looks absolutely amazing and well worth leaving the Valley for. Note: permits are required for multi-day trips, get more permit information here. 

Quick trail stats: 12.1 mi out & back, 3100 ft elevation gain. See more on The Outbound here.

Highlights: fantastic yet challenging backpacking trail with views of Half Dome, Tenaya Canyon, and more. Note: permits are required for multi-day trips, get more permit information here.

Quick trail stats: 9.2 mi out & back, 3612 ft elevation gain. See more on the National Park Service (NPS) website here.

Highlights: so YES the name of the trail is a bit of a misnomer but this trail is incredibly worth the views. Expect difficult switchbacks that lead to spectacular views. At the top, you’ll be treated to views of the Valley, Half Dome, North Dome, El Capitan, Cathedral Rocks, Tenaya Canyon, Yosemite Falls, and more. Note: trail is subject to seasonal closure. 

Quick trail stats: 2.8 mi out & back, 656 ft elevation gain. See more on the National Park Service (NPS) website here.

Highlights: see two dozen incredible mature giant sequoias in the Tuolumne Grove of Giant Sequoias. In winter, you can ski or snowshoe this trail! Note: parking is limited. If you can’t park, try checking out Mariposa Grove instead to see the sequoias. 

Lodging in Yosemite Valley is the best way to maximize your time spend in the Valley instead of taking time to drive in – that being said, the lodging books up FAR IN ADVANCE so make sure you put your bookings in as soon as possible.

• The Ahwahnee: a historic and elegant lodge located right in the heart of Yosemite. It is one of the most well-known park lodges and has hosted presidents, royalty, and more (!). If you are celebrating a special event or are looking to for more luxury, The Ahwahnee is the place to be. While I haven’t stayed here yet, it is definitely on my bucket list! Book your stay here for the convenience of being in the heart of Yosemite Valley (with a shuttle stop right in front), to enjoy some of Yosemite’s best views right from the grounds, and for a touch of luxury and comfort.

• Yosemite Valley Lodge: another lodge located in the heart of Yosemite Valley; right across from Yosemite Falls. Book your stay here to enjoy remodeled traditional rooms and to be close to activities, dining, and shopping in the Valley. Another bonus? There are actually a few rooms that are specifically catered towards families and have a bit more room, so I’d definitely recommend it if you are traveling with the whole family! 

• Curry Village: the third and final lodging located right in Yosemite Valley, which is geared towards families, groups, and adventurers. It offers a little bit of everything: Curry Village, aka Camp Curry, has cabins, tents (both heated and unheated), and motel rooms. If you want more of a “glamping” experience, definitely book here. It’s soooo fun to stay in the cabins, and bonus, you’ll be in walking distance to all of the Curry Village dining options which makes getting fueled up after a hike very easy.

• Yosemite Westgate Lodge: while not in the heart of Yosemite, Yosemite Westgate Lodge is just 12 miles from the entrance and 35 miles from the Valley, which means you don’t have to drive long to get to your adventures. Book your stay here if you are coming from San Francisco, it will streamline your visit and get you into the park quickly and easily. The lodge is rustic, more affordable than The Ahwahnee and the Yosemite Valley Lodge, and features an on-site pool and cafe.

• Rush Creek Lodge: a mix of rooms and hillside villas, this certified B-corp (!) lodge is one of my absolute favorite places to stay. It’s located near Yosemite’s Big Oak Flat entrance, and while it is a bit more expensive, it is well worth it for the myriad of activities and features the lodge offers: an on-site pool + hot tub, spa, restaurant, general store, as well as daily activities, s’mores, tours, fitness classes, and even gear rentals. Book here to enjoy amazing activities and experiences outside the park – you’ll never want to leave!

• Yosemite View Lodge: an affordable and conveniently located just two miles from the Arch Rock Entrance, with a pool, restaurant, and general store in case you forgot the essentials. It’s also close to shops and dining in El Portal. Book here for an easy stay that will get you into the park quickly, or if you are coming from San Francisco. 

• Tenaya Lodge: located near the South Entrance (closest if you are coming from Los Angeles), Tenaya lodge feels luxurious with a spa, indoor and outdoor pool, but is surprisingly affordable for all that it offers. Stay here to enjoy yoga, hikes, and other activities to enhance your Yosemite adventure.

• Evergreen Lodge: if you want a more rustic and outdoors-feeling to your stay, book here – the Lodge is comprised of cabins that give you a sense of privacy. The Evergreen Lodge is located by the Hetch-Hetchy entrance (the farthest north) and also offers up a TON of activities (seriously staying here is so fun!): disc golf, live music, stargazing, s’mores, and more. It is also B-corp certified, which I LOVE. If you are looking for fun activities, and are doing a trip with friends or family, I’d definitely recommend booking the cabins here.

• Lake View Lodge: located by the Tioga Pass Entrance, this Lodge has rooms, cabins, and cottages, and features a large, park-like lawn which is perfect to relax on at the end of a busy day. The best part is that it is within walking distance to Lee Vining’s restaurants – which is always a bonus when you are tired and don’t want to go far for food at the end of a long adventure day. Book here if you are coming from Lake Tahoe, Reno, Las Vegas, or Death Valley. 

There are multiple places to camp within and around Yosemite park. I’m a huge fan of camping especially in the summer months, as it is a cheap and convenient way to travel to Yosemite on a budget and not spend extra money on gas driving in and out of the Valley to another lodging option. Campsites are a mix of tent, RV, group, and even horse sites. Want to be a bit more cozy and comfy but take advantage of inexpensive campground space? Rent a campervan for your trip! It’s a great way to have everything you need with you and the ability to cook food when you need to – another great way to save money on a Yosemite trip.

Make sure to book well in advance as camping is VERY popular during peak season – check online here for when campgrounds are released. My advice? Be online the MINUTE they are released for your best chance to book!

Yosemite Valley

• Upper Pines: the largest campground, centrally located near Merced River, very busy and sites are nestled between the trees
• Lower Pines: centrally located between a meadow and the Merced River, along a shuttle stop
• North Pines: located near the Merced River and Tenaya Creek, includes riverside campsites
• Camp 4: a smaller campsite popular with rock climbers, and differs from the other sites as it must be booked via a lottery system

South of Yosemite Valley

• Wawona: located near the South Entrance, and includes both group and horse sites
• Bridalveil Creek: located along Glacier Point Road, with a bit more privacy, group sites and horse sites

North of Yosemite Valley

• Hodgdon Meadow: offers both tent and RV sites but unlike the other campsites, here the tent-only sites are grouped together and located further away from the RV campsites 
• Crane Flat: located close to Yosemite Valley, making it one of the most popular campground choices
• Tamarack Flat: located along Tamarack Creek, feels a bit more private as sites are spaced further apart 
• White Wolf: another site that feels more private as sites are interspersed in the trees, and there are also hiking trails nearby
• Yosemite Creek: features campsites along the water, which makes for a pleasant atmosphere but just make sure you bring bug spray
• Porcupine Flat: comprised of well-spaced out tent sites but limited RV sites
• Tuolumne Meadows: a large campground located at high elevation (site closed in winter), making for cold nights but it is also close by to many hiking trails

There are a great many food options both in and outside of Yosemite Valley. Here I list every available option for food inside the Valley and a select range of options just outside the Valley so you can have as many choices as possible. My personal favorite is the Base Camp Eatery and Curry Village – pretty much my go-to options at the end of a long day as both are centrally located and have a ton of options. For quick stops, I’ll get groceries or grab-and-go options at the Village Store. If you are looking for some of the best food imaginable, The Ahwahnee Dining Room is the MUST-VISIT dining option. I like to mix up cooking for myself or having pre-made breakfast/lunch options along with going out to dinner – that way I spend more of the day outdoors adventuring but have a nicer meal to finish out a long day.

Food in Yosemite Valley

• Base Camp Eatery: a modern food court open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner; a popular dining choice. Includes both grab-and-go and made-to-order options. 
• Curry Village: a cafeteria-style eatery with multiple food options, great for groups and families who want multiple options
• Curry Village Pizza Deck: pizza, salads, and drink options, open for lunch and dinner with outdoor seating
• Coffee Corner: fresh pastries and espresso and coffee options
• The Ahwahnee Dining Room: a luxury and delicious dining option with a dress code at dinner but more casual faire for breakfast, lunch, and brunch. Eat here for famous food and wine events.
• The Ahwahnee Bar: perfect for post-hike drinks, includes some outdoor seating with beautiful Yosemite view.
• Mountain Room: for those who want an incredible views along with good eats; steaks, seafood, and vegetarian options
• The Mountain Room Lounge: a cozy dining experience, featuring a fireplace, cocktails, appetizers, and outdoor seating in the summer months
• Meadow Grill: offers a variety of foods, including burritos, burgers, salads, and more
• Degnan’s Kitchen: features sandwiches, salads, pizza, breakfast options, and coffee and other beverages
• The Loft at Degnan’s: THE spot to grab BBQ, wines, and beers on tap, and watch sports and other TV entertainment
• Village Store: groceries, baked goods, grab-and-go options, camping supplies, firewood, and other essentials, including an ATM and souvenirs 
• Village Grill Deck: offers sandwiches, burgers, hot dogs, and veggie options, and includes outdoor seating

Food Outside Yosemite Valley

• Wawona Hotel Dining Room: a romantic, candlelit restaurant located in the Wawona Hotel open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Includes a lawn area with seating in the summer.
• White Wolf Lodge: buffet-style breakfasts and dinners, located near Tioga Road
• High Sierra Camps: hikers who are staying at the High Sierra camps can grab boxed lunches here or enjoy ready-made dinners and breakfasts 
• Tuolumne Meadows Grill: breakfast, lunch, and snack options abound, great for quick eats including hamburgers, hot dogs, chili, and more
• Tuolumne Meadows Lodge Restaurant: family-style American dinner and breakfast fare, located near the Tuolumne River
• Yosemite Hospitality: small year-round food markets and gas stations in El Portal, Crane Flat, and Wawona, offering some snacks, groceries, camping supplies, and other essentials

Winter: Glacier Point Road and Tioga Road are closed in winter so some of the classic views and hikes will be closed. Check the park website for the most up to date road and trail closure details. Chains will likely be required for all vehicles, depending on current weather conditions. Park rangers WILL stop you as this is a safety issue, so be prepared. Several shops and gas stations in the area do sell chains. I recommend you bring plenty of layers and hand warmers, and beware of the wind chill factor at the higher elevation viewpoints. 

Firefall: Firefall is a spectacle that needs a guide on its own to fully go over all the tips, but it’s when Horsetail Falls catches the glow of the sunlight in late February, which makes it look like flowing lava. It is an incredible photo opportunity and draws visitors from all around the world. Crowds will be at their peak and special recommendations and restrictions will likely be in place (certain areas may be closed during the day so keep in mind you may not get to explore the park fully). For more information check out the NPS website.

Spring: Spring is shoulder season for Yosemite, which makes it a great time to visit if you want to avoid the crowds. Keep track of when the roads will be opening up; ideally visit just after the roads open so you can experience the full park. Bring extra layers as the Valley will be much warmer than higher elevation views, and snow might still be present in upper elevations.

Summer: Since the park is fully open, take advantage of scenic drives (such as Tioga Road), hiking, and all the extra beautiful places outside the Valley, such as Tuolumne Meadows, Tenaya Lake, and Mariposa Grove. I highly recommend getting into the backcountry to explore more of this park – it’s more than just the Valley! – which will have the added benefit of getting you out and away from the crowds.

Fall: Exact fall color changes year to year, but generally fall color begins in early October and peaks in mid-October, sometimes lasting as long as late-October and into November. Snowfall is always a possibility and road closures begin to take effect, so keep track of what will still be accessible when you visit.

Had enough of all the things to do in Yosemite National Park? Looking for more adventures? There is PLENTY to explore still in California. If you have more time or are looking for future trip ideas, here are some of my favorite stops to add to the start or end of a Yosemite trip:

• Sequoia National Park: about a four hour drive from Yosemite Valley, head south to explore another national park, featuring the most BEAUTIFUL Sequoia trees you will ever see. Summer and winter are my favorite times to visit – more hikes in summer and snow and winter wonderland vibes in winter! Want some of the best hikes, photography spots, where to stay, and more? Check out my blog post here.

• Kings Canyon: if you want to visit a greatly underrated national park, head about four hours south and east in the car from the Valley for some incredible hikes, breathtaking mountain and canyon views, towering Sequoias, and more. Kings Canyon is close to Sequoia National Park, so it’s easy to add both of these to your trip.

• Death Valley: depending on the time of year, Death Valley can be an excellent addition to a national parks road trip through California. I would definitely avoid summertime here as the temperatures soar to well over 100 degrees, but winter is a perfect time to visit, as are early spring and late fall. It’s about a seven hour drive south from Yosemite Valley, which is quite a drive, so my advice would be to stop at Sequoia and/or Kings Canyon on the way down to make it into more of a full road trip. Want some of the best hikes, photography spots, where to stay, and more? Check out my blog post here.

• Las Vegas: while it is over eight hours from the Valley, Las Vegas is only two hours from Death Valley National Park, so if you end up adding Death Valley, fly in or out of Las Vegas to save yourself some extra driving. Las Vegas is obviously well known for what the city itself has to offer, but did you know that the Valley of Fire is under an hour away, the Grand Canyon is only two hours away, and Lake Mead is a mere thirty minutes away??? Las Vegas has a TON of outdoor recreation around, and it’s super easy to fly in and out of, which makes it a surprising but excellent addition to a outdoorsy California-Nevada road trip.

• Lake Tahoe: from Yosemite Valley, South Lake Tahoe is about a five and a half hour drive. Lake Tahoe is one of the most incredible lakes I’ve ever seen – parts of it legitimately look like the Caribbean because the water is SO BLUE. You can easily fly in or out of Reno, Nevada to avoid doing this drive twice.

• San Francisco: many visitors come to Yosemite via San Francisco, so why not add in a few more days to the start or end of your trip to explore this vibrant city? It’s about a four hour drive from the Valley to the city. San Francisco, to me, felt like the most unique blend of nature meets architecture – it has some truly unique photographic and adventure opportunities. Want more ideas on what to do in San Francisco? Or possibly get ideas for another epic California road trip? Then check out my blog for the ultimate California coast road trip.

• Los Angeles: while it is a solid six hour drive away, don’t count out a stop to Los Angeles. I’ve done that drive and it goes by faster than you think! LA is FULL of adventure, amazing food, tourist stops, coastal views, shopping, city fun – pretty much anything you’re looking for, LA has it. Want some ideas on what to do in Los Angeles? Or possibly get ideas for another epic California road trip? Then check out my blog for the ultimate California coast road trip.

Check the NPS website here to get news on the latest conditions, road, trail, and/or campsite, and other important alerts. Before your trip to Yosemite make sure to double check any alerts so you can be sure you don’t show up to any surprises!

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