The Ultimate Guide to Yosemite National Park — Best Things To Do, See & Enjoy!

Yosemite National Park is home to stunning waterfalls, massive granite cliffs, mighty sequoia trees, and incredible wildlife. Located in California’s Sierra Nevada mountains, this park is a dream location for adventurers who want to see the beauty of nature and discover attractions that aren’t found anywhere else.

How To Get to Yosemite National Park

Where Is Yosemite National Park?

Yosemite National Park is in east central California surrounded by the Sierra Nevada mountains. The park stretches nearly 1,200 miles through the mountains.

Major cities near the park include San Francisco and Sacramento to the west, Las Vegas to the southeast, and Los Angeles to the south. There are 5 entrances to the park, and each entrance has something unique to offer along the way.

Airports Nearest to Yosemite National Park

Flying is the best way to maximize your travel time while vacationing, and there are several options for airports near Yosemite National Park. Let’s take a look into some of the popular airports and why visitors choose them for their park vacation.

Fresno-Yosemite International Airport (FAT)

This airport is 95 miles from Yosemite, which is about 2.5 hours away by car. Fresno-Yosemite International Airport is considered the closest major airport to the park.

Domestic flights are served by Alaska Airlines, Delta, Frontier, American, Southwest, United, and Allegiant. Some Mexican destinations are also served by this airport, including Volaris and Mexicana. There are 11 major U.S. cities where travelers can fly nonstop to Fresno-Yosemite, which can really cut down on travel time.

Oakland International (OAK)

Oakland International Airport is 180 miles from Yosemite National Park. Travelers can reach the park within a 4.5-hour drive from this airport. Oakland International Airport is the fourth largest airport in California, so there are several flights coming to the area each day.

This airport services 11 different airlines and has a long list of international and domestic destinations, which makes traveling a breeze. Popular airlines serviced by Oakland International include Allegiant, Delta, Southwest, and Spirit.

Sacramento International Airport (SMF)

Sacramento International Airport is 125 miles from Yosemite National Park. It takes a little over 3 hours to drive to Yosemite from Sacramento International Airport. This airport is served by many popular airlines such as Southwest, Alaska, United, Air Canada, and AeroMexico.

San Francisco International (SFO)

San Francisco International Airport is considered the second-closest major airport to Yosemite National Park. This airport is approximately 190 miles from the park or 4.5 hours of driving.

This airport is serviced by all U.S. carriers and has direct flights to most U.S. states. San Francisco is also an international gateway, which means 16 international carriers are served here as well.

Norman Y. Mineta San José International (SJC)

Norman Y. Mineta San José International Airport is another option for flying into Yosemite. This option is 178 miles from Yosemite, which will take about 4.5 hours of driving.

SJC is a great option for travelers who hope to see Monterey and Santa Cruz while vacationing in Yosemite. This airport is serviced by many popular airlines, including Air Canada, Alaska, American Airlines, Delta, Hawaiian Airlines, and Southwest.

Driving to Yosemite National Park

There is something to be said for packing up the car and driving out west for a vacation to a national park. There are 4 different paths to Yosemite, and each has its own unique views and stops along the way, including wine country and historic Gold Rush landmarks.

Highway 120 is considered the best way to go to Yosemite if you are coming from large cities such as San Francisco or Sacramento. This road will take you through several gorgeous gateway towns, such as Mariposa, Groveland, and Oakdale.

Highway 140 is the historic route to Yosemite. This route follows railway tracks of the past. Along this route, travelers will see historic buildings and landmarks while driving through towns such as Mariposa and Catheys Valley.

Highway 41 is another option for driving to Yosemite National Park. This route will lead you right to the south entrance of the park. As you drive along this road, there are chances to check out historic railroads, rest and relax in incredible inns or cabins, or have a tasting and tour of a vineyard.

Tioga Road is considered the most beautiful route to take for getting to Yosemite. This option offers stunning views of the Sierra Nevada mountain range. It also takes you through popular gateway towns such as Lee Vining, where you can see a spectacular view of Mono Lake and the Turf Towers.

Train

The San Joaquins Amtrak takes travelers to the Merced, California Station and then transfers to an Amtrak bus right into Yosemite Valley. A benefit to utilizing Amtrak is that all the stress and worry over driving is taken care of, and the shuttle bus ride and the park admission are included in the price.

Getting Around Yosemite National Park

The most popular way to get around Yosemite is to travel through it by car. This allows visitors to explore the park at their own pace and make sure they see everything on their must-see list.

There are several scenic roads that can be utilized throughout the park. The most popular scenic drive is Tioga Road. This road is usually open from May through June and sometimes in November. Be sure to check the road conditions before planning a drive, just to ensure that you won’t encounter road closures.

Yosemite National Park offers official printable maps as well as an interactive map that guests can utilize to plan the route they want to take when exploring the park.

Shuttles are another popular way to explore Yosemite. The Yosemite Valley Shuttle offers free shuttle service to and from all of the major attractions, shops, and lodging areas in the park. There are also other shuttle services, such as the El Capitan Shuttle, Tuolumne Meadows Shuttle, and Badger Pass Ski Area Shuttle. These shuttles provide services during different parts of the year.

Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System, also called YARTS, is another popular way to get around in Yosemite. YARTS tickets are available online, along with routes, schedules, and interactive maps.

What To See and Do in Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is known for its incredible landscapes, ancient sequoia trees, amazing rock formations, and diverse wildlife. Park enthusiasts won’t be disappointed with all that there is to see and explore in Yosemite.

Bridalveil Fall

One of the well-known waterfalls in Yosemite National Park is Bridalveil Fall. This waterfall is an impressive 188 meters high and flows all year long. There are also trails in the Bridalveil Fall area. The trails are considered easy and only take about 20 minutes to trek. This hike provides amazing views of the falls, landscape, and wildlife in the area.

El Capitan

El Capitan is a sight to behold in Yosemite National Park. It stands over a half mile tall and is 1 mile wide, which makes it the tallest exposed vertical face of granite on earth. This attraction has become quite popular with rock climbers. Rock climbers enjoy accepting the challenge of reaching the top of El Capitan.

Glacier Point

Glacier Point is an overlook that has stunning views of Yosemite Valley, Yosemite Falls, and Half Dome. This attraction is accessible by car from late May to November. During the winter, it’s a place for fun in the snow, with cross-country skiers able to take in the views from this incredible area.

Half Dome

Half Dome is found in the eastern part of Yosemite Valley, and it is a massive granite formation that is known for its distinct shape. This attraction is smooth and round on one side, with the other side appearing as if it has been cut in half.

Half Dome has a 14-to-16-mile hike that adventurers enjoy trekking. While it is a long, laborious hike, the reward comes at the end when you can take in panoramic views of Yosemite Valley and the High Sierra.

Tunnel View

Tunnel View is one of the most popular attractions in Yosemite National Park. Visitors can see El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall, and Half Dome from this area. The best times to see Tunnel View include early spring and winter. Guests are able to see Bridalveil Fall at its peak flow in the spring and the granite domes covered in snow and mist during the winter.

Tuolomne Meadows

Tuolomne Meadows is one of the largest alpine meadows in the Sierra Nevada. This area features the Tuolomne River, the majestic mountains, and the beautiful meadow stretching across the land. Guests enjoy hiking one of the trails in this area, which are considered easy. While this area is a very popular attraction, there is plenty of room to spread out, so it doesn’t feel too crowded.

Hot Tip: The best time to visit Tuolomne Meadows is early in the season when the meadow is bright green and full of wildflowers.

Yosemite Falls

Yosemite Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls found on the North American continent, with a height of over 2,425 feet. This beautiful waterfall flows from November to July and is most active during May. Yosemite Falls also has a hiking option for adventurers. This hike is an 8-hour journey that ends with incredible views of the waterfall and its surroundings.

The Best Times To Visit Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is open year-round, but there are times during the year when roads and attractions may be closed. Let’s take a look at the best times to visit Yosemite.

The Best Time To Visit Yosemite National Park To Avoid the Crowds

The best time to experience Yosemite without crowds is the winter and into spring. Visiting during the months between November and May will result in lower crowds.

The park is a sight to behold during the winter. The snow and mist on the rock formations and mountains make the park feel like a winter wonderland.

Typically, the colder weather deters visitors from traveling to the park, which is great for those who want a calmer park experience. Many roads are closed during the winter months, so check in advance for road closures.

Badger Pass Ski Area is a famous place for winter visits to Yosemite. Skiing and snowshoeing are popular activities during the winter months.

Hot Tip: If you aren’t able to visit in the winter, arriving at the park before 9 a.m. or coming late in the evening will help you to avoid crowds. Not only will you avoid crowds, but you’ll also be able to see the breathtaking sunset or sunrise.

The Best Time To Visit Yosemite National Park for Wildlife

Spring is the best time to visit Yosemite National Park if you are hoping to see the wildlife. Animals are coming out of hibernation, and the park becomes alive with renewed energy in the spring.

The Cheapest Time To Visit Yosemite National Park

The middle or end of September is considered the cheapest time to visit Yosemite National Park. Once schools are back in session, flight pricing decreases, as well as the number of visitors to the park. Planning a trip in September is a great way to experience Yosemite National Park and save money at the same time.

Events in Yosemite National Park

Yosemite holds events regularly for adventurers. Some of these events include daily art classes, ask-a-climber sessions, and an event called Exploring Yosemite Valley Night Sky. These daily events help visitors deepen their knowledge of skills that interest them and help them to learn more about nature.

Where To Stay in Yosemite National Park

Inside the Park

Yosemite National Park has endless opportunities for lodging inside the park. There are premier lodges, old-fashioned inns, cabins, and tent camping options to choose from. Yosemite has the perfect option for you, no matter what you desire when it comes to staying in the park.

Ahwahnee Hotel

One of Yosemite’s premier lodges in the park is the Ahwahnee Hotel. This hotel was formerly known as the Majestic Yosemite Hotel and is found in the main valley of Yosemite near Half Dome and Glacier Point.

The hotel is a granite building with rough-hewn log beam ceilings, beautiful stone fireplaces, and Native American artwork. Ahwahnee Hotel was built in 1927 and is a National Historic Landmark. Guests staying at Ahwahnee Hotel have multiple room styles to choose from, including standard rooms, suites, and cottages.

With luxury accommodations, fantastic amenities, and a stellar dining room and lounge, staying at the Ahwahnee Hotel is an ideal lodging option for those who want the best of both worlds while visiting Yosemite.

Curry Village

Curry Village has something to offer every type of adventurer. This is the largest lodging facility found in Yosemite Valley.

Guests can choose motel rooms, cabins, or canvas tents when staying in Curry Village. The property has options for private bathrooms or shared bathrooms.

The property has something for everyone to enjoy, including a swimming pool in the warm months. an ice-skating rink in the winter, an entertainment amphitheater, bike rentals, shuttle access, and ranger programs.

For visitors who need to refuel, there are plenty of options for dining in this area, such as a pizza parlor and coffee shop. Other dining options include the Curry Village Dining Pavilion, the Curry Village Bar, and Meadow Grill.

Curry Village is one of the most popular lodging areas in the park because of its convenience and affordability. If you want to stay in Curry Village, be sure to book your reservations 10 to 12 months in advance because this area fills up quickly.

Narrow Gauge Inn

Narrow Gauge Inn is a wonderful option for those looking for an old-fashioned, rustic feel for lodging. This inn is the epitome of charm and sits on a mountainside with breathtaking views of Mt. Raymond and the Lewis Creek Valley.

Guests can choose from a variety of standard rooms, suites, and cabins depending on their group size and needs. Each room comes with everything you need for a comfortable stay and stunning views of the mountains, forest, or creek that can be viewed from the private balcony. The property features a swimming pool, hot tub, gift shop, and access to incredible nature trails.

A famous nearby attraction is the Sugar Pine Railroad. Guests who choose to explore this activity are able to take a scenic railroad excursion on a restored steam locomotive and listen to stories of the past.

Wawona Hotel

Wawona Hotel was established in 1856 and used to be called Big Trees Lodge. This historic hotel is found in the Wawona area of Yosemite National Park.

Wawona Hotel is a Victorian-style National Historic Landmark that has over 100 rooms to choose from. The facility is surrounded by lush greenery, which provides a calm, quiet retreat for guests to enjoy. This hotel is conveniently located near many well-known attractions, which makes it the ideal location for your base camp during your park vacation.

There’s plenty to do when staying at Wawona Hotel, and you don’t even have to leave the property if you are looking for entertainment. The property features a swimming pool, golf course, horse stables, evenings with live musical performances, and a lovely dining room.

Since this is such a desired location, it is recommended to book your stay 10 to 12 months in advance.

Yosemite Valley Lodge

Formerly called Yosemite Lodge at the Falls, Yosemite Valley Lodge is a stunning lodge that is both rustic and modern. This lodge is the closest property to Yosemite Falls and provides guests with an incredible atmosphere and view of the beauty of Yosemite.

There are 245 rooms to choose from at Yosemite Valley Lodge. Each room is newly remodeled. Other amenities at the lodge include 2 dining areas, a seasonal swimming pool, a lounge area, and a gift shop.

Yosemite Valley Lodge is one of the most popular lodging destinations inside the park because of its affordable prices and great location. It is recommended to book your stay 12 months in advance so you can secure a room.

Towns Near Yosemite National Park

For travelers who want to stay near the park, there are several nearby towns that feature amazing views, exciting activities, and entertainment. Staying in one of these gateway towns allows travelers to be in close proximity to the park and be able to enjoy a peaceful retreat at the same time.

Bass Lake

Located just 14 miles from Yosemite’s southern entrance, Bass Lake is a wonderful gateway town to stay in while visiting the national park.

For those wanting to stay in Bass Lake, there are several resorts found right on the lake, as well as quaint bed and breakfasts and other vacation rentals. Dining is an exciting experience as guests can choose from a wide variety of restaurants, such as steak houses, seafood places, pizza parlors, and bakeries.

This lovely town is surrounded by the beauty of nature and is found in the heart of the Sierra National Forest. Bass Lake is an ideal location for those who enjoy being in the great outdoors. There are countless outdoor activities, including boating, fishing, hiking, camping, and winter sports.

El Portal

El Portal is a town located right at the western entrance to Yosemite National Park. This is a great place for lodging and entertainment.

This small town gives a hometown feel and is a perfect option for those seeking a quiet retreat during their stay. There are only 2 options for lodging (each with an on-site restaurant), a gas station, a post office, and a small general store.

Bottom Line: For those looking for exciting entertainment, El Portal is a great location for white water rafting in the rapids of the Merced River or hiking to Foresta Falls, Tunnel View, or Inspiration Point.

Lee Vining

Known for its hospitality and accessibility to Yosemite National Park, Lee Vining is a great option for travelers seeking recreation outside of the park and a place to reset. This town is located on the eastern side of the Sierra Nevada Mountains and near the eastern entrance to Yosemite.

There are several options for lodging in Lee Vining, including small, local motels and lodges, luxury resorts, sweet cottages, and bed and breakfasts. Those staying in Lee Vining have a wide variety of restaurants to choose from for dining, such as pizza parlors, barbecue joints, and other casual restaurants.

Major attractions in Lee Vining are the Old Schoolhouse Museum and the Upside-Down House. These attractions have artifacts and photographs from historic times in the area, which is always a big hit with tourists.

For those who seek excitement and adventure, there are endless opportunities in Lee Vining for kayaking, canoeing, hiking, camping, and winter sports when the snow comes.

Groveland

Groveland is a historic town that was born during the California Gold Rush. This is a town where you can get a true look at the Old West lifestyle. There are several places available for lodging, including motels and hotels, cabins, and condos.

As far as restaurants, there are several choices in this town, including Mexican restaurants and cafes. Those who enjoy adventure can book a rafting trip or other boating excursion. Nearby attractions include the Garrote Hanging Tree and the Iron Door Saloon.

Mariposa

Mariposa is a unique and exciting gateway town to Yosemite National Park. This town was born during the Gold Rush, so this town is filled with history and things to do and see.

There are traditional accommodations available in Mariposa, such as motel and hotel chains, as well as family-owned inns and mountain resorts. There are restaurants galore, from fine dining establishments to casual fast-food joints.

There are many activities for visitors to enjoy during their stay in Mariposa, including biking, fishing, rafting, picnicking, and camping. Famous attractions such as the Old Stone Jail, Mariposa Museum & History Center, and Mariposa Arts Park are also fun to visit during your stay.

Oakhurst

Oakhurst is located near the southern entrance to Yosemite National Park. This town gives its visitors an authentic Old West experience and many activities to enjoy. Oakhurst has many types of accommodations for guests, such as charming bed and breakfasts, motels, and luxury hotels.

There’s plenty to choose from for dining. Local restaurants include menus that are Mexican, Japanese, seafood, and Italian. Oakhurst has opportunities for hiking and camping. Shoppers also love Oakhurst for its antique shops, galleries, and bookstores.

Attractions near Oakhurst include Fresno Flats Historical Park and Little Church on the Hill. No matter if you are looking to rest and relax or explore and be entertained, Oakhurst would be a great option for setting up a home base while visiting Yosemite.

Twain Harte

Twain Harte has become a popular town to stay in while visiting Yosemite National Park. This small town is known for its lovely year-round weather.

There are several places to stay in Twain Harte, including cabins, bed and breakfasts, hotels, and RV camps. For fun, guests enjoy golfing at one of the local golf courses, fishing in a nearby river or lake, visiting the area’s casino, and ice skating, tubing, and skiing in the winter.

While staying in Twain Harte, guests can also take advantage of nearby attractions including Columbia State Historic Park and the Railroad 1897 State Historical Park. Tourists love stepping back in time and seeing what life was like in the 1850s and riding on the steam engine during the summer months.

It’s clear to see that Twain Harte is not just a place to set up a base camp, but a place to explore and discover new and historical sights as well.

Wawona

Wawona is a historic town that was established before Yosemite was founded. Wawona is located at the southern entrance to Yosemite National Park. This tiny town is home to about 160 people who live there year-round. Wawona has cabins where visitors can set up a base camp for their park vacation.

Even though Wawona is a small town, it has a long list of activities travelers enjoy being a part of. These activities include hiking, viewing giant sequoia trees and waterfalls, rock climbing, and visiting the Yosemite History Center.

Yosemite West

Yosemite West is found right outside of Yosemite National Park and is an ideal choice for those who crave peace and solitude and want to stay near the park.

It’s a very small town with lots to offer tourists. There are several bed and breakfasts, inns, condos, and luxury cabins where you can rest and recharge for another day of exploring.

Where To Eat in Yosemite National Park

Yosemite has many restaurants scattered throughout the park. Some restaurants are formal dining areas where a dress code is enforced, while others are grab-and-go facilities. No matter if you want to get dressed to the nines or take something on the go, Yosemite has plenty to offer its guests when it comes to food choices.

The Ahwahnee Dining Room

This beautiful dining room is located in the Ahwahnee Hotel. The Ahwahnee Dining Room is open year-round and serves breakfast and dinner each day.

Guests enjoy the delightful food and drink offered at the restaurant and can visit the adjoining bar for relaxation and mingling with other guests. This fine dining establishment is decorated beautifully and has huge windows so guests can enjoy their dinner with a view.

The Mountain Room Restaurant

The Mountain Room Restaurant is open year-round and boasts stunning views of the nearby waterfall right outside its windows. This restaurant has a menu featuring steaks, sustainably caught seafood, and a selection of vegetarian meals.

After dinner, head over to The Mountain Room Lounge to warm up by the fireplace with a signature cocktail or favorite drink. This lounge is the perfect place to reset, relax, and end a day of exploring.

Village Grill

Village Grill offers a menu of classic grilled dishes, including hot dogs, burgers, sandwiches, and vegetarian meals. This dining facility is located near the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center and Village Store.

Guests can enjoy their meal outdoors in the sitting area with a view of the beautiful surroundings. Village Grill is open seasonally from spring until early fall.

Meadow Grill

Meadow Grill is located in Curry Village and has a lovely selection of grilled foods. Popular meals include burgers, chicken sandwiches, salads, and a number of vegetarian options. Meadow Grill is open seasonally from April to September.

Yosemite National Park Facts

1. It Paved the Way for the National Park System

In 1864, President Abraham Lincoln signed the Yosemite Land Grant. This grant protected Mariposa Grove and Yosemite Valley. This grant marks the first time that the government official protected the land because of its beauty so that others could enjoy it. Later, Yosemite was declared a national park.

2. It Features Giant Sequoias

Yosemite National Park is home to giant sequoia trees that are thought to have lived for 3,000 years or more. These massive trees can be viewed throughout the park. It’s sure to take your breath away when you stand next to these giants.

3. The Park Was Established by a Scottish Man

John Muir was a Scottish writer, naturalist, and advocate of forest conservation. He is responsible for spearheading the birth of Yosemite National Park. He raised awareness for protecting the area in his letters, books, essays, and articles, which led to the park being established. John Muir is commonly called the “father of national parks.”

4. It Has a Mediterranean Climate

The climate in Yosemite is mild, warm, and temperate. During the summer, it is very sunny and dry. During the winter, the park receives a lot of precipitation.

5. The Valley Was Formed by Glaciers

Close to a million years ago, there were glaciers that were beginning to move down high elevations and into river valleys. This downward movement of large chunks of ice is what is responsible for shaping Yosemite Valley and its incredible landforms.

6. It All Started Because of a Camping Trip

John Muir and President Theodore Roosevelt went on a camping trip in Yosemite in 1903. While the men were camping, John Muir was able to convince President Roosevelt that the land should be in the possession of the state and that it should be protected. Shortly after this trip, President Roosevelt signed a law that stated Yosemite was under the jurisdiction of the federal government.

7. You Can See Glowing Rock Formations at Sunset

Yosemite has granite rock formations that will take your breath away no matter when you see them. However, viewing these formations at sunset is a true treat as the formations seem to be on fire at this time.

8. You Can See the Sierra Nevada Red Fox

While there is a large amount of wildlife present in Yosemite National Park, there is one special animal that can be spotted: the Sierra Nevada red fox. This fox was recently found after 100 years of its hiding.

9. It Features the Tallest Waterfall in North America

Yosemite Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls on earth. It’s comprised of 3 separate falls, which total 2,425 feet. This gorgeous waterfall can be viewed in several different places around the park.

10. You Can Try Moonbow Spotting

Yosemite is one of the rare places in the U.S. where you can see a rainbow at night. We refer to these rainbows as lunar rainbows or moonbows. These beautiful sights are visible in the spring or early summer when there is a full moon.

11. The Park Features Frazil Ice

The creeks are partially frozen in the winter months, giving them a slushie-like appearance. This partially frozen feature is known as frazil ice and is mostly seen in the spring.

12. There Are Black Bear Sightings

There are 300 to 500 black bears who have made Yosemite National Park their home. Travelers are able to catch a glimpse of these amazing animals early in the spring when they are coming out of hibernation.

13. Yosemite Translates to Killer

Yosemite translates to “killer” in the Miwok Native American language. The name originally came from a rebel tribe that was driven out of the area.

14. Yosemite Was Selected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Yosemite National Park was chosen as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984. This means Yosemite is recognized for having cultural, historical, or scientific significance.

Final Thoughts

Yosemite National Park brings in over 3.5 million visitors from around the world each year. It is known for its incredible geographical features, rock-climbing opportunities, picturesque landscapes, and 800 miles of hiking trails. Whether you simply want to take in beautiful sights and attractions or be a part of an exciting adventure, Yosemite has something to offer you.