Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is a world-renowned nature lover’s dream, with extremely expansive scenery and vistas that span nearly 1200 square miles. From the lush valley floor to the domes of Tuolumne Meadows, you could spend weeks here without exploring everything!

Places

Yosemite Map
  • Yosemite Valley. This is the beating heart of the park and is a must-do to properly see Yosemite. This is home to Yosemite and Curry Villages, and has visitor centers, museums, hotels, activities, rentals, restaurants, and a robust shuttle system.
  • Mariposa Grove. Boasting the only Giant Sequoias in the park, this impressive area really puts into perspective how small we are in comparison
  • Floating the Merced River. This is an awesome experience and a great way to explore Yosemite’s Valley floor from Stoneman Bridge to Sentinel Beach.
  • Glacier Point. At an elevation of just over 7,200 feet, this incredible viewpoint has one of the best sunrise and sunset spots in the park.
  • Wawona. Located right inside the south entrance to the park, it showcases incredible giant sequoias in Mariposa Grove as well as the historic Wawona Hotel.
  • Mist Trail. One of the most frequented hikes for all ages, this unique hike follows the Merced River up to an incredible granite staircase where hikers get misted by Vernal Falls.
  • Half Dome. The most infamous and intense hike in the park
  • Tunnel View. Talk about an unforgettable view. See Yosemite from the most iconic view in the park and take pictures that will last a lifetime. 
  • Tenaya Lake. This incredible, crystal-clear alpine lake looks like it is straight out of a movie. This is perfect for swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, a light hike, or just taking in the views.
  • Upper Yosemite Falls. This incredible hike follows the highest waterfall in North America through countless switchbacks and boasts views of Half Dome, Yosemite Valley, and Sentinel Rock.
  • Hetch Hetchy. This is a less frequented section of the park with a rich history and peaceful atmosphere. Perfect for those looking to avoid crowds and to explore Yosemite in a less touristy setting.

Planning a Trip to Yosemite? Copy Our 4- Day Itinerary

Make your trip planning EASY, avoid the crowds, and see places most people don’t know about

Inside the guide:

*Step-by-step plan that will take you to the best hikes, viewpoints, drives, and must-do stops
*Exact time-frames and star-ratings so you can make the best use of your time and money
*Best Friend Guarantee: Love it or get your money back
*Stay in the right spot with our area recommendations to reduce time driving and waiting in entrance lines

Plan Your Trip

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Where to Stay and Eat

Best Hikes and Sites

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Plan an Unforgettable Western Road Trip in Hours, Not Weeks

13 road trip ideas across the West so you know where to go, how long to stay, and what to see

*Sample routes from 4–31 days across national parks and hidden gems
*Driving times + best stops so you don’t miss the good stuff
*Season + weather notes to avoid closed roads and peak‑crowd days
*Lodging ideas in the right spots so you cut backtracking