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Best hikes in Yosemite Valley, California

Hikes in Yosemite National Park

Yosemite Hikes

Yosemite hikes are an unrivalled experience, and it seems that most outdoor enthusiasts agree, as this iconic Californian pearl is one of the United States’ most popular national parks, attracting over four million visitors each year. And no wonder – Yosemite boasts some of the most breathtaking scenery in the country, with soaring peaks and lush valleys that will make your heart soar. This epic hiking destination should be on every adventurer’s bucket list, and there are a variety of Yosemite hikes for all to enjoy.

The names of Yosemite’s most famous monuments instantly cast a thrill into every hiker’s heart. From the smooth, deadly contours of Half Dome to the imposing presence of El Capitan, these are peaks that demand to be conquered. With craggy ridge walks and tall summits offering panoramic views over the park, there’s no shortage of incredible Yosemite hikes on offer.

However, Yosemite is more than its tall, granite peaks. You’ll find yourself walking through lush valleys and past pristine alpine lakes, basking in the sunshine next to the water, or getting a soaking from the mists that rise from Yosemite Falls. Wherever you go, and whatever you do, this vast, natural wilderness will steal your heart and leave you with unforgettable memories.

Yosemite is the ultimate bucket list adventure, and to help you enjoy it to its full potential, we’ve put together a list of the best Yosemite hikes in the park. Happy hiking!

The 10 Most Stunning Hikes In Yosemite National Park

There’s something in Yosemite to please all tastes, from the lush valleys to the towering granite monuments of Half Dome and El Capitan. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker looking for a challenge, or a family on a relaxing holiday, you’ll find the perfect trail.

Yosemite has long attracted climbers to its imposing peaks, and some of the most challenging hikes here involve at least a little scrambling. Whether it’s edging little by little up the chains at Half Dome, or climbing high to the summit of Mount Dana, there’s plenty here to test even the most experienced hikers.

However, if you’re looking for something altogether more relaxing, or you’re travelling with children, Yosemite hikes don't have to be strenuous. The Yosemite Valley offers plenty of low-elevation trails in lush, glorious scenery, with stellar views of the peaks and rocks that this national park is so famous for.

1. Lembert Dome Hike: Looking for a killer viewpoint without the need for a steep climb? This lovely trail is an easy way to access magnificent views across Yosemite National Park, and it won’t wear our your legs. Passing through lush forest, and then along a rocky ridge, you’ll arrive at the summit of Lembert Dome in no time, with gorgeous views over Tuolumne Meadows.

2. Yosemite Valley Hike: This beautiful route along the Yosemite Valley showcases some of the best scenery the park has to offer, and is a wonderful, flexible trail that can be adapted according to your schedule, making it ideal for families. Enjoy the towering peaks and imposing granite rocks that Yosemite is famous for, as well as walking through old growth forest and across expansive meadows. Don’t miss the spectacular views from the meadows near the Merced River.

3. Mount Dana Hike: The trek to the summit of Mount Dana, the second highest peak in the region, is one of the most rewarding day hikes in Yosemite National Park. You’ll enjoy some truly epic views from the high point, at 4000m above sea level. Mount Dana is right on the edge of the park, offering a lovely vista down to Lee Vining and Mono Lake.

4. Panorama Trail Hike: If there’s one hike in Yosemite that you absolutely must do, it’s this tough but rewarding trail to Glacier Point. The route rises up the Mist Trail, and then passes along the Panorama Trail, where you’ll have a wonderful view of Half Dome. Passing by both the Vernal Falls and the Nevada Falls before ascending to Glacier Point, this varied route is one of the best challenging hikes in Yosemite National Park.

5. Mount Hoffman Hike: This wonderful hike can only be accessed once the snows have completely melted, meaning you’ll only have a short season to enjoy it! The high plateau at the top offers a panoramic view over the whole park, making you feel as though you’re floating on top of the world. This is one of the classic Yosemite hikes!

6. Sentinel Dome to Glacier Point Hike: This easy walk is a good way to experience some fabulous Yosemite scenery if you’re short on time or energy. There’s a short ascent near the beginning but after Sentinel Dome the path winds gently downwards, until you come to the stunning Glacier Point viewpoint. This is an excellent place to get a view of Half Dome, but try to start early to avoid the crowds.

7. The Mist Trail Hike: Looking for a refreshing hike for a hot day in Yosemite? As the name suggests, the Mist Trail will take you up to two beautiful waterfalls, where the spray is so intense it creates a fine mist that is impossible to escape! This is the ideal place to retreat in the heat of summer, when you can enjoy the thundering falls and humid atmosphere to its full advantage.

8. Clouds Rest Hike: This challenging day trek is one of our favorite hikes in Yosemite National Park. Beginning on the southern edge of Tenaya Lake, the trail rises steeply over a number of minor peaks. The view from the summit, however, is worth the tough ascent – on a clear day you’ll have an unparalleled view stretching as far as Hawaii and Nebraska. You’ll also be able to grab some stellar snaps of Half Dome, Merced Lake, Mount Hoffman and El Capitan.

9. Cathedral Lakes Hike: Cathedral Lake is, quite simply, one of the prettiest lakes in Yosemite National Park, and this route allows to you experience it in all its majesty. The trail is often waterlogged, and you’ll need to navigate a meadow dotted with marshland, streams and canals. Once you’ve reached the lake, sit back, get out a picnic, and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

10. Yosemite Falls Hike: This gorgeous trail is one of the most popular hikes in Yosemite National Park, and offers fabulous views of the Yosemite Falls. The best news? You don’t have to hike all the way to the top for the best viewpoint, so you can go at your own pace and cut the hike short if you want a more relaxed trek. Try to arrive early in peak season to avoid the crowds and see the falls at their best.

When Is The Best Time To Hike In Yosemite National Park?

The best time to hike in Yosemite National Park is in May or September, when the trails are accessible, but the park isn’t too crowded. Yosemite is one of the most popular destinations in the US, and in the peak months of July and August, many of the popular trails and viewpoints can be packed with visitors. You’re likely to be jostling for space in the campgrounds, and many destinations will be booked up in advance.

Late spring and early autumn also offer the best weather conditions, as temperatures are cooler than in the peak of summer, and in May, the rivers and waterfalls will be gushing with melt water from the snow-covered mountains. The fall colors are glorious to behold, and this can be a wonderful time to explore the park. Once the snows hit, many of the hiking routes and roads are closed off, limiting access to most parts of the park.

Other Outdoor Activities In Yosemite National Park

Yosemite is one of California’s most popular outdoor destinations, and there are plenty of outdoor activities in Yosemite National Park that will keep adventure hunters happy! In addition to hiking and backpacking, visitors can try their hand at cycling, fishing, horseback riding, rafting, canoeing and boating, and wildlife watching. The park is a particularly popular spot for rock climbing, and you’ll find routes to suit all ability levels all over the park. In winter, you’ll also be able to try your hand at downhill skiing, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing!

How To Plan A Trip To Yosemite National Park

If Yosemite is the destination for your next hiking adventure, we’ve got all the information you need. Make sure to check out our guide to planning a trip to Yosemite National Park, where you’ll find advice about the park’s major attractions, advice on when to go and where to stay, and our very best insider tips. What are you waiting for? Grab your gear and head for this unique natural wonder!

Frequently-Asked-Questions About Yosemite National Park

Do you need a permit to hike in Yosemite?

You won’t need a permit to hike in Yosemite if you’re just planning to stay for the day, or in frontcountry campgrounds, but you will need to obtain a permit for wilderness camping or backpacking trips.

Is the Half Dome hike dangerous?

Half Dome is one of the most iconic Yosemite hikes, and also one of its most challenging. Yosemite’s Search and Rescue team respond to a relatively large number of calls from hikers on Half Dome, and it has been the site of a number of fatalities over the years. It’s true that if you’re not well prepared, this can be a dangerous route. The last part of the ascent involves a series of tough cables, ascending a near-vertical slope, so you’ll need a head for heights! For a successful, safe summit of Half Dome make sure you are sufficiently fit and well prepared for the trail, stay hydrated, take your time, and make sure to follow local weather conditions very carefully.

Are there bears in Yosemite?

Yosemite is home to a large population of black bears, so you’ll need to seek local information and make sure you are prepared in case you meet one on the trail. Backpackers should have adequate food storage, or use bear-proof lockers available throughout the park. Note that bear spray is forbidden in Yosemite, so you’ll need to check with local rangers to find out best practice if you happen to meet one, although human encounters with bears are very rare.

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Displaying 20 of 139 routes

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9.9 overall rating
Yosemite National Park

Panorama Trail

If we only did one hike in Yosemite, the Panorama Trail would be it. We think it's one of the best hikes in the USA. The route up the Mist Trail, along the Panorama Trail to Glacier Point and then down the 4.0mi path is the best hike in all of Yosemite National Park.
Very Hard
23.5 km
1,275 m
7.5-11h
9.5 overall rating
Yosemite National Park

Mount Dana

Hiking up to the summit of Mount Dana is a great day out to Yosemite’s second highest peak with astounding views in all directions. We love this hike!
Hard
8.6 km
940 m
4-6h
9.7 overall rating
Yosemite National Park

Mount Hoffman

We loved the hike up Mount Hoffman. The views from the summit were said by John Muir to be amongst the most dramatic in the valley and May Lake is stunning. All around a winner in Yosemite, but wait for the snow to melt!
Hard
10.4 km
630 m
3.5-5h
9.7 overall rating
Yosemite National Park

Sentinel Dome to Glacier Point

The hike from Sentinel Dome to Glacier Point in Yosemite National Park is a wonderful day out with a summit of Sentinel Dome and a walk to one of the park’s best viewpoints.
Easy
4.6 km
245 m
1.5-2h
9.8 overall rating
Yosemite National Park

The Mist Trail

We love The Mist Trail in Yosemite National Park. This hike takes you to Vernal and Nevada Falls where the refreshing cool down on hot days is incredible. There are also many options to shorten this hike, suitable for all levels, without the need to go to the top.
Moderate
13.5 km
685 m
4.5-6h
9.8 overall rating
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite Valley

Walking along the Yosemite Valley is one of the best hikes in Yosemite National Park. Savor the moments exploring this iconic natural landscape with enormous mountains and spectacular scenery.
Very Easy
11.6 km
50 m
2-3h
9.9 overall rating
Yosemite National Park

Clouds Rest Hike

The hike to Clouds Rest in Yosemite National Park is a fun day out and leads to one of the best viewpoints in all of Yosemite. Although it’s one of the more difficult trails, the Clouds Rest hike is one of the best in the whole park.
Hard
20.3 km
925 m
6-8.5h
9.9 overall rating
Yosemite National Park

Cathedral Lakes Trail

The hike to Cathedral Lakes in Yosemite National Park allows you to savor what may be the most perfect lake we have ever been to. Although this lake doesn’t have the stunning turquoise color of those in the Canadian Rockies, we think it’s one of the best lake hikes in Yosemite. The scenery is spectacular and this is a place well worth a day of exploration.
Moderate
11.7 km
396 m
3-4.5h
9.8 overall rating
Yosemite National Park

Lembert Dome

The hike up Lembert Dome is one of the easier ways to get to the top of anything in Yosemite National Park. Get great views over Tuolumne Meadows and stop for a snack when you're done with the walk at the Tuolumne Meadows Grill.
Easy
6.5 km
285 m
2-2.5h
9.7 overall rating
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite Falls

Don't hike to the top of Yosemite Falls in Yosemite National Park. Spend your time only on the best and see both falls and avoid the challenging final ascent to the top of the Upper Falls (where there is no real view of the stunning cascades anyways!).
Moderate
9.6 km
580 m
3.5-4.5h
No Ratings
Yosemite National Park

Lower Yosemite Falls Trail

Hiking the Lower Yosemite Falls Trail is a truly breathtaking experience. Featuring the tallest waterfall in Yosemite National Park, this adventure reveals awe-inspiring sights of the fall’s third installment, which cascades over 320ft into Yosemite Valley. This adventure is sure to amaze all of its explorers.
Very Easy
1.9 km
18 m
0.5h
No Ratings
Yosemite National Park

Upper Yosemite Falls Trail

Hiking the Upper Yosemite Falls Trail is an epic adventure that is best left for experienced hikers, as you will climb over 2560ft in a mere 7.5mi! Though technical and tiring, the vistas along this route are unparalleled in their beauty. Revel in breathtaking panoramas of the Yosemite Falls that cascade over 2425ft into the valley below, and the Sierra Nevada mountains that dominate the horizon.
Hard
12.2 km
981 m
5-7h
No Ratings
Yosemite National Park

Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias Trail

Hiking the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias Trail is a breathtaking experience. Hike through the park’s largest forest of sequoias which is home to over 500 mature trees. Revel in the grandeur of the mature trees as you wander up to the historic Wawona Point.
Moderate
10.0 km
370 m
3-4h
No Ratings
Yosemite National Park

Vernal Falls Trail

The Vernal Falls Trail is an incredible adventure in the Yosemite National Park. Ascend over 600 granite steps through the mist of the cascades that surge into Yosemite Valley. This epic hike along one of the most powerful waterfalls in the park is unlike no other, and we cannot recommend it enough!
Moderate
6.4 km
390 m
2-3h
No Ratings
Yosemite National Park

Nevada Falls Hike

Hiking the Nevada Falls Trail is an unforgettable experience. This amazing adventure in Yosemite National Park climbs uphill through mixed pine forests and rocky terrain, leading up through the mist of the cascades that surge into Yosemite Valley below. Though demanding, the scenery along this route proves well worth the effort.
Moderate
8.7 km
670 m
3.5-4.5h
No Ratings
Yosemite National Park

Taft Point and the Fissures Hike

Hiking the Taft Point and Fissures Trail is a breathtaking adventure in California. Towering 3500ft over Yosemite Valley, this overlook exhibits dumbfounding vistas of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, most-notably of El Capitan. The vertigo-inducing lookout will make your knees buckle.
Easy
3.7 km
112 m
1-1.5h
No Ratings
Yosemite National Park

El Capitan Hike

El Capitan is one of the most famous landmarks in Yosemite National Park, rivalled only by the neighboring Half Dome. A demanding feat, this trek attracts intrepid hikers from all over who are eager to tackle the legendary monolith. Not for the faint of heart, those who conquer the climb are rewarded with breathtaking panoramas.
Very Hard
24.8 km
1,463 m
8.5-12h
No Ratings
Yosemite National Park

Tenaya Lake Trail

The Tenaya Lake Trail is an easy-going adventure that can be enjoyed by the whole family. Taking you alongside the shores of the crystal-clear lake while exhibiting breathtaking sights of Yosemite’s granite massifs, this trek is an excellent choice for your next alpine adventure.
Easy
5.5 km
60 m
1-1.5h
No Ratings
Yosemite National Park

Swinging Bridge Trail

The Swinging Bridge Trail is an epic adventure that makes for a great family-friendly outing. Though the swinging bridge has been secured and lacks the notorious bounce, this trek remains a revered nature walk in Yosemite National Park.
Very Easy
1.9 km
18 m
0.5h
No Ratings
Yosemite National Park

Sentinel Dome Trail

The Sentinel Dome Trail is a show-stopping hike in Yosemite National Park that attracts enthusiasts from all over the world. Due to the uninterrupted panoramas of the Sierra Nevada’s assorted granite peaks and Yosemite Valley, this trek has become a legendary adventure.
Easy
3.4 km
139 m
1-1.5h

1-20 of 139 routes

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