15 Things to Do in Yosemite National Park | Fun Activities + Tips

Planning a trip to this incredible feat of nature in east-central California? Well, you’ll be delighted to know that there are so many fantastic things to do in Yosemite National Park. You can enjoy its plethora of hiking trails and learn more about the region and the park’s history at the Yosemite Museum. 

That said, visiting Yosemite National Park is not without its challenges, as it’s one of the most popular national parks in the US. However, this post will guide you on the best times to visit, where to stay, how to get there, and, of course, some exceptional activities in Yosemite. 

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, I may receive a small commission (for which I am very grateful for) at no extra cost to you.

Reservation

Before we dive into the magical wonders of Yosemite, here’s something super important for your 2024 adventure plans: Yosemite now requires reservations to drive into the park during specific periods in the summer.

• January 1 through February 9: No reservation required to drive into Yosemite.
• February 10 through 25: A reservation is required 24 hours per day on Saturdays, Sundays, and on Washington’s Birthday (Monday, February 19).
• February 26 through April 12: No reservation required to drive into Yosemite.
• April 13 through June 30: A reservation is required from 5 am to 4 pm on Saturdays, Sundays, and on holidays (May 27 and June 19).
• July 1 through August 16: A reservation is required from 5 am to 4 pm every day.
• August 17 through October 27: A reservation is required from 5 am to 4 pm on Saturdays, Sundays, and on holidays (September 2 and October 14).

Best Time to Go to Yosemite National Park

Overall, the best time to visit Yosemite NP is between May and August in early summer. This is when the park has the warmest and driest weather, plus all the attractions are available to see. The only downside is that 75% of Yosemite visitors come during this period.

Don’t stress if you prefer fewer crowds; Yosemite National Park is brilliant year-round. So, if you want to have more of the valley floor to yourself – it’s highly advised that you come between November and April. This is Yosemite’s winter season, so you can expect cheaper accommodation prices, with the only downside being some road closures. 

If you want another quieter period, plan a trip during late spring or early fall. This way, you can see the stunning wildflowers at Taft Point, Cook’s Meadow Loop, or at the Merced River Canyon.

Read More: Best Time to Visit Yosemite National Park | Season by Season

Map Of Things To Do In Yosemite

What To Pack For Yosemite National Park

• Sunscreen: Yosemite gets HOT! Even in the winter, we were hiking in bright sunny weather at times.  >Buy Sunscreen
• Hiking Boots/Shoes: If you use tennis shoes, you can easily hurt your toes by hitting a rock by accident (Trust me, I have done it so many times before). >Check Out My Hiking Shoes
• Hiking socks: Having the correct socks helps you prevent getting blisters. Smart Wool is probably my favorite brand out there. >Buy Hiking Socks
• Water Reservoir: Water reservoirs help prevent me from getting dehydrated while hiking. >Here Is My Water Reservoir
• Water: Stay nice and hydrated.
• Sunglasses: It can get very sunny, so make sure to pack some sunglasses. >Check Out These Sunglasses
• Snacks: The best snacks are jerky, nuts, and energy bars. Clif Bars are great for hiking.
• Camera: The Sony A6000 was one of the first cameras I started traveling with. The Sony A6000 is an excellent camera for people that want to start improving at travel photography.  >Buy Sony Camera Here
• First Aid Kit: This is one of the first things I bought when I first started going on adventures. It is super portable. >Buy This Awesome First Aid Kit Here
• Day Pack to carry all your things: The REI bag I have linked, we have had for seven years now, and it is still going strong! >Buy This Great Quality Backpack
• Headlamp: A headlamp is an absolute must in case you get stranded in the dark! It is a lot more portable and easier to use than a flashlight. >Buy A Headlamp Now
• Leggings or shorts: Shorts are good for hot days! >Click For These Cute Shorts
• Breathable sweat-wicking shirts: Cotton shirts soak up your sweat when hiking, so make sure to wear something breathable. >Check out this awesome breathable shirt here.
• Sports Bra: For women. >Buy One Here
• Jacket: In case you go during the winter months.  >Buy My Favorite Jacket
• Tripod: This is an optional item, but it is excellent for getting the ideal sunset pictures. >Check out this tripod
• Knife: I always carry a knife in my backpack just in case. >Check Out My Knife Here
• National Park Pass:  I highly recommend getting a year-long America The Beautiful Pass. >Get It Here
• Sandals: Hiking sandals are great for easy trails or walks. >Click Here
• Trekking Poles: This helps with balance and it makes it easier on the joints. >Buy Some Here
• Bug Spray: We were eaten alive on some of the trails. >Buy Some Here
• Bathing Suit: Yosemite gets hot! Many people love lying around in the lakes and rivers and relaxing. >Check Out This Cute Suit
• Yosemite Map: Love the National Geographic Maps! >Buy Here

Tours Of Yosemite National Park

How Much Time Is Needed in Yosemite NP

At the minimum, you should spend one to two days in Yosemite National Park. This way, you can go on one or two hikes and witness some of Yosemite’s must-sees. 

However, you should pay respect to this park, as it has some of the most stunning sights in the US. With this in mind, it’s highly recommended that you spend three to five days in Yosemite. Then, you’ll be able to take some ranger-led guided tours, do a challenging hike or two, and camp under the night sky. 

How to Get to Yosemite

A direct flight to Yosemite sees you landing at Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT), the closest airport to the park. It is around a 2 hours and 30 minutes from Yosemite, with a drive on the California State Route 41 (CA-41) north for roughly 100 miles.

There are various ways you can get to Yosemite National Park from other major California cities. To make it even more fun, you can turn it into an adventure with road trip essentials, like a banging playlist and delectable snacks. 

San Francisco to Yosemite

From San Francisco, you can take either the Interstate 580 (I-580) or the California State Route 4 (CA-4) east for about 180 miles. Both routes will take you around three hours and 20 minutes from San Francisco, depending on the traffic and road conditions. 

Either way, you’ll end up on California State Route 120 (CA-120) to reach Yosemite National Park’s Big Oak Flat Entrance. 

Sacramento to Yosemite

From Sacramento, the quickest way to get to Yosemite is to follow the California State Route 99 (CA-99) south for about 80 miles until you reach the CA-4 in Stockton. Next, take the CA-120 east to Yosemite National Park. 

This whole journey should take around two to three hours and about 140 miles, excluding stops for snacks, toilets, and fuel. 

Los Angeles to Yosemite

Another popular place to journey from is Los Angeles. From Los Angeles, you’ll take the CA-99 north for around 280 miles. This route should take about five hours to get to the park’s south entrance if you don’t factor any stops in. 

However, you could also take a detour to Sequoia National Park – which has vistas that compete with some of Yosemite’s best photography spots. With this in mind, it will add an hour to the trip.

Where to Stay in Yosemite

Wanting to know the best places to stay in Yosemite? There are tons of great options in and around the park, but here are three delightful top contenders:

Camping | Upper Pines Campground

If you want to stay somewhere central in the park, then the Upper Pines Campground is a terrific spot to base yourself. Not only is it close to Glacier Point, Vernal Falls, Nevada Fall, and Half Dome, but it’s also open year-round and has 235 sites.

In terms of amenities, it has food storage lockers, picnic tables, fire rings, and communal toilets. It’s also close to the free shuttle route, grocery shops, and many hiking trails. Lastly, it’s also pet-friendly. >>>View Rates and Availability

Mid-Range | AutoCamp Yosemite

Just 26 miles from Yosemite National Park, this chic hotel in Mariposa County is surrounded by the Sierra Nevada Mountains. That’s just the beginning, as the amenities are so luxurious. There’s an outdoor pool, a scenic roof deck that’s ideal for stargazing, and the General Store, which is full of locally sourced snacks and grill kits. 

In terms of accommodation options, it has vintage Airstream suites, luxury canvas tents, and cabins. They are all fully outfitted with en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning, spacious beds, and kitchenettes. >>>View Rates and Availability

Luxury | The Ahwahnee

Located in Yosemite Village, The Ahwahnee is one of the best luxury hotels in the valley. It’s also one of the most famous national park hotels, with notable guests like Queen Elizabeth II and President Kennedy staying here. Once you see the exquisite interior, you’ll understand why. With chandeliers, high ceilings, and an ornate dining room – it’s truly majestic. 

What’s more, with vistas of Yosemite Falls, Half Dome, Glacier Point, and the surrounding mountains, an outdoor pool, spacious rooms, and a gift shop – it’s great to stay here. You’ll just want to book a few months in advance to be sure you get a room. >>>View Rates and Availability

What to Do in Yosemite | 15 Yosemite Activities & Attractions

Moving onto the main focus – what to do at Yosemite National Park. There are so many brilliant things to do in Yosemite Valley, but here are some of the top 15 activities. This includes some strenuous hikes, incredible views, and interesting museums.

1. Visit Tunnel View

One of the most iconic vistas in the park, Tunnel View, is one of the best things to see in Yosemite. You’ll drive through the Wawona Tunnel from the park’s South Entrance to witness the beautiful Yosemite Valley. 

This includes sights like El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall, and the Half Dome. This makes it a terrific way to start your Yosemite vacation. With this in mind, as one of the park’s most popular attractions, it does get busy quite fast – so visit early in the morning or for a sunset picnic. 

2. Do the Taft Point and Sentinel Dome Loop

• Elevation Gain: 1,105 feet
• Mileage: 5.1 miles (loop)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trail Guide: Link

This 5.1-mile trail starts out from the Sentinel Dome Trailhead on Glacier Point Road, with a challenging elevation gain up to Sentinel Dome. However, after this, it gets a bit easier on your way to Taft Point. 

Taft Point is another stunning way to experience the park, as you pass through wildflower meadows in summer and spring and see El Capitan and Yosemite Falls. To get there, you’ll pass through The Fissures – an area of narrow granite fractures and steep drops.

It definitely can be a difficult hike, but with the amazing panoramas, it’s a great way to spend a few hours. Just arrive early to beat the crowds, as it’s another popular trail.

3. Head Up to Glacier Point

• Elevation Gain: 49 feet
• Mileage: 0.5 miles (loop)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trail Guide: Link

This lookout point is atop Yosemite National Park’s things-to-do list, as it’s an incredible way to see the park’s high country. Perched at 3,200 feet over the Yosemite Valley floor, you’ll get a glance at Half Dome, the High Sierra, and Yosemite Falls. 

There are several ways to get here, whether that’s on the Four Mile Trail or via the Glacier Point Road. The whole trail is a steep hike, but it’s worth it for the magnificent vistas. You’ll hike up from the Yosemite Valley and past Sentinel Rock to get up to Glacier Point.

As a less challenging option, you can access the viewpoint via the Wawona Road before turning on to the Glacier Point Road. 

4. Hike Half Dome via the John Muir Trail

• Elevation Gain: 5,305 feet
• Mileage: 16.5 miles (out-and-back)
• Difficulty: Hard
• Trail Guide: Link

If you’re looking for one of the best hikes in Yosemite, trekking up Half Dome is a challenging yet exciting activity. It includes views of Vernal and Nevada Falls, Liberty Cap, and Yosemite Valley. 

However, to do this hike, you’ll require some preparation to make the most of this. From the extreme elevation gain to needing a permit to hike Half Dome, you have to prepare for this in advance. The route takes up to 12 hours as you start climbing up to Little Yosemite Campground before passing Vernal and Nevada Falls. 

Next up, you’ll have some difficult switchbacks through the forest. So, make sure to follow the best hiking practices by embracing the beauty of nature, drinking enough water, and obeying the leave no trace principles.

The next section is the most famous part, which involves the Half Dome cables as you climb up the rocky Sub Dome surface. Take this slowly, as it’s one of the last hard ascents before reaching the summit. 

5. Marvel at El Capitan

Out of all the must-do activities in Yosemite National Park, this is definitely high to prioritize. El Capitan is the park’s most iconic landmark and stands at around 3,000 feet. It’s a huge attraction for experienced rock climbers, such as Alex Honnold, the first person to free solo up it. 

Most rock climbers head up The Nose, and watching them ascend up the monolith is enough to get your heart going. If you can’t bear to look at them, head to the El Capitan Meadow on the west end of Yosemite Valley. This is one of the best places to gaze at this majestic rock face.

6. Walk the Sentinel Meadow Cook’s Meadow Loop

• Elevation Gain: 78 feet
• Mileage: 2 miles (loop)
• Difficulty: Easy
• Trail Guide: Link

Looking for a less difficult trek perfect for soft hiking? This two-mile trail offers you a great chance to enjoy the park’s lush greenery and the sounds of nature. To get here, drive along Northside Drive until you get to the Yosemite Lodge or the Lower Yosemite Falls Picnic Area. 

Along the route, you’ll pass over the Merced River on the Swinging Bridge, see the Yosemite Chapel, and witness the crashing Lower Yosemite Falls. Plus, you’ll get to pass through the Sentinel and Cook’s Meadows – which come alive with wildflowers in spring. 

This route is in close proximity to the Valley Loop Trail, which is another star-studded path. This includes sights of the Cathedral Rocks, Bridalveil Fall, El Capitan, and more. 

7. See the Giant Sequoias at Mariposa Grove 

• Elevation Gain: 1,217 feet
• Mileage: 6.7 miles (out-and-back)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trail Guide: Link

One of the biggest tourist draws in Northern California is the giant sequoias and redwoods it has. In Yosemite National Park, Mariposa Grove is the best place to see these gigantic beauties. 

In fact, it’s home to around 500 mature giant sequoias, which have been protected by law since 1864 as part of Abraham Lincoln’s presidency. Interestingly, some of the trees even have their own names, like the Grizzly Giant, Bachelor & Three Graces, and Faithful Couple. 

To get to Mariposa Grove, you’ll have to park at the Mariposa Grove Welcome Plaza before hopping on a free shuttle. These operate from the beginning of June until the end of November from 8 am until 7 pm (these times vary each season). Additionally, you can also hike along one of several trails and enjoy the trees on foot. 

8. Witness the Stunning Tuolumne Meadows

Another must-see in Yosemite is the lovely Tuolumne Meadows, one of the largest high-elevation alpine meadows in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Famed naturalist John Muir, who played a pivotal role in the park’s history, was known to have loved these fields and often set up camp here. 

You can see why, as next to the Tuolumne River and filled with granitic bedrock and lovely wildflowers – it’s a verdant, flowing ecosystem. In addition, it’s also a great starting point for some hiking trails up to Cathedral Peak, Lembert Dome, and Pothole Dome. 

9. Experience the Mist Trail

• Elevation Gain: 2,208 feet
• Mileage: 6.4 miles (loop)
• Difficulty: Hard
• Trail Guide: Link

Now, it wouldn’t be a visit to Yosemite without hiking along the Mist Trail – one of the park’s best adventures. Why’s this? Well, it has two stunning waterfalls on its route, and what’s more Yosemite than that? These are Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall, and they can be accessed on this challenging hike. 

The Mist Trail starts at the Happy Isles Trailhead, which is within walking distance of Curry Village. The first part of the hike involves a casual stroll along the Merced River before a steep ascent to a footbridge. From here, you’ll get a glance of Vernal Falls – but don’t stop for too long, as you’re not there yet. 

At about two miles in, you’ll reach the Vernal Falls, which is a fantastic place to stop for a picnic lunch. Additionally, if you’re feeling a bit too challenged by the hike, you can turn around here. That said, if you keep going, it will be another one-and-a-half miles before you reach Nevada Falls. 

After this, it’s only a bit more to climb up before descending for the rest of the way.

10. Go Whitewater Rafting on the Merced River

If you’re looking for what to do at Yosemite that’s full of excitement and adrenaline, then whitewater rafting on the Merced River is ideal. This Yosemite National Park activity is great to do in spring, as the river flows fast due to the melting snow. 

The Merced River has many thrilling rapids along it, making it fun to explore on a raft, and that only gets better with the scenery. With vibrant wildflowers dotted along the river banks and, of course, the backdrop of the Sierra Nevada Mountains – it’s lovely.

You can rent a raft and lifejackets for yourself, but it’s probably best to book a tour with an experienced guide. For this, check out OARS River Rafting or Zephyr Whitewater Expeditions. 

11. Check Out the Ansel Adams Gallery

Wanting to have an activity at Yosemite National Park that’s inside (trust me, you might need to be inside for a while; it gets hot in the summer)? Well, then visit the Ansel Adams Gallery in the Yosemite Village. Ansel Adams was one of the US’ most famed photographers and was enthralled with Yosemite. 

Well known for his incredible black and white photographs, the gallery has some fantastic shots of Yosemite, as well as more national parks, like Grand Teton National Park, White Sands National Monument, and Mount McKinley National Park.

12. Take a Scenic Drive

One breathtaking activity to do in Yosemite without leaving your car is enjoying a scenic drive through the park. The most famous drive is the Tioga Road, which goes from Crane Flat to the Tioga Pass. 

This 46-mile road is typically open from late May until November, so it’s best to check the road conditions on the National Park Service website to avoid disappointment. The Tioga Pass ends off the route at an elevation of almost 10,000 feet – so it goes without saying that it’s exquisite. 

13. Go Swimming

In the park, there are several brilliant spots to go for a swim – a must-do in Yosemite in the summer, as it gets very hot. A popular swimming hole is Mirror Lake, which is an idyllic place to cool off as you’re surrounded by massive trees, towering peaks, and the deep blue sky. 

Another great spot is Tenaya Lake in East Yosemite, which is just off Tioga Pass. In comparison to Mirror Lake, this is an expansive mile-long pool with cool water and sandy beaches. 

Lastly, have a swim in the Merced River below the Wawona Swinging Bridge, as it only needs an easy half-mile hike (around about), and you can enjoy this lovely stream.

14. Visit the Yosemite Museum

For another insightful look into Yosemite’s history, visiting the Yosemite Museum is a must-do. As the first museum in a US national park, it’s full of intriguing artifacts and interesting exhibits, making it perfect for learning more about the area’s geology.

What’s more, it also has daily basket-weaving and stone tool-making demonstrations, an art gallery, and the Indian Village of Ahwahnee. It’s open year-round from 10 am to 5 pm, so it’s a great place to visit, no matter when you visit.

15. Trek the Upper Yosemite Falls Trail

• Elevation Gain: 3,254 feet
• Mileage: 6.6 miles
• Difficulty: Hard
• Trail Guide: Link

Lastly, hiking the Yosemite Falls Trail is a brilliant way to end off the Yosemite to-do list. It has two falls along its path: Upper Yosemite Falls and Lower Yosemite Falls. That said, it is a difficult hike, with some rocky switchbacks and some thick forests. 

It starts off at Camp 4, near the Valley Loop Trail, with a steep ascent for the first mile. Here, you’re closer to Lower Yosemite Falls, where you could choose to end the hike. However, you’ll want to continue on as the views get even better. Keep going because once you get to the top, you can glance at the spectacular Upper Yosemite Falls. 

FAQs About the Top Things to Do at Yosemite National Park

Even though you’ve just read over the top fun things to do in Yosemite, you might still have some itching queries. So, here are some answers to the most commonly asked questions.

Which Is Better to Visit: Yosemite or Yellowstone?

This is a hard question to answer as there are so many great things to do in Yellowstone and Yosemite. That said, if you prefer loads of hiking and mountainous exploration, go to Yosemite. If you enjoy seeing wildlife and spewing geysers, Yellowstone is the place for you.

What Is Yosemite Popular For?

From its expansive rock faces to many impressive waterfalls, Yosemite is popular for its lovely outdoor landmarks and hiking trails. In addition, it has Yosemite Village, where you have the Yosemite Museum, the Yosemite Visitor Center, and the Ansel Adams Gallery. 

Are There Bears in Yosemite?

Yes, there are bears in Yosemite. The only species are black bears, which, if you encounter them – make yourself big and scream a lot. Some other wildlife safety tips from the National Park Service recommend staying away from the bear and slowly walking away from it. 

Yosemite Things to Do | Wrapped Up

Yosemite National Park is incredible, and it’s no wonder why it’s a highlight of Northern California. From the majestic Tioga Pass to Tunnel View, El Capitan, and the colorful Tuolumne Meadows, there is something for everyone to enjoy in Yosemite. 

All you have to do is pack your bags, some great hiking gear, and enough water – now that you know what to do in Yosemite National Park.

Pin For Later: Things to Do in Yosemite National Park