5 Best Hiking Trails in Yosemite Valley
A National Park Hiking Guide
Planning a trip to Yosemite Valley and feeling overwhelmed by the hiking options? Here are my 5 favorite hikes in the Valley, along with must-see attractions, to help you get excited about one of the most breathtaking places in the world—Yosemite National Park.
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Yosemite has a way of leaving an impression unlike any other place I’ve been. With its massive granite cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and towering Sequoias, it’s a park that I keep returning to in my day dreams and my adventure plans.
Yosemite National Park make up about 1,169 square miles, with the Valley making up just 1% of this. Despite the valley’s small percentage, it’s where most of the famous and recognizable landmarks are.
If it’s your first time in the park, I HIGHLY suggest starting here! Even in the valley the hiking options can feel a bit overwhelming.
If you’re feeling that way while planning your trip to Yosemite Valley, then you’re in the right place.
In this post, I’m sharing 5 of my favorite hikes in Yosemite Valley that capture the essence of the park—waterfalls, meadows, giant cliffs, and forests. Plus, I’ll recommend 5 scenic spots you won’t want to miss.
Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, these hikes will give you a true Yosemite experience.
If you’re not sure what to pack for a hike, I have a post that goes over all the essentials here.
5 Best Hiking Trails in Yosemite Valley
1. Upper Yosemite Falls
distance
6.6 miles round trip
Duration
4-6 hours
Elevation gain
3,254 ft
difficulty
challenging
The Yosemite Falls trailhead is located near Camp 4, just across from the Yosemite Falls parking area. This lot fills up fast, so arrive early! Once parked, cross Northside Drive into Camp 4, where you’ll find restrooms before heading to the trailhead.
It can be a bit confusing, but look for signs, and consider downloading the AllTrails map.
The trail begins with switchbacks through a forest, and after about an hour, you’ll reach Columbia Rock, offering stunning views of Half Dome and the valley.
From there, the trail flattens before providing your first glimpse of Upper Yosemite Falls. The steep, sun-exposed section that follows lasts for two hours, with steep steps and switchbacks. When I started this hike at 7:00 AM the rocky, switchback steps were all in shade. By the time I started down the trail around 10:00 AM it was fully in the sun and it was HOT!
Next you’ll return to the lush shade of the forest before reaching the falls. Be sure to visit the lookout point—though the steep stairs can be intimidating, the view from above Yosemite Falls is worth it!
Due to the fact that this hike is challenging and is exposed to direct sunlight, I suggest that you start this hike in the morning so that you’re protected from the sun by the steep granite walls.
Also remember to bring plenty of water, and if you’re still not sure what to pack I go over that in great detail in the blog post below.
What to Pack for a Day Hike- The Essential
This hike is a strenuous hike and takes about half the day so you will still have time to explore other Yosemite features, but you may not be up for another hard hike like Nevada and and Vernal Falls.
2. Lower Yosemite FAlls
distance
1.2 MILES ROUND TRIP
Duration
20 MINUTES
elevation gain
55 FEET
difficulty
EASY
For a simple, paved hike to see Yosemite Falls, this trail is a great option. It winds through a forest where you’ll learn about the Miwok people’s connection to the land.
As you near the falls, the sound of birds fades, replaced by the roar of the tallest waterfall in the park. Though much easier than the previous hike, the view is just as stunning.
You can scramble along rocks near the falls (carefully!), then cross the bridge and continue the loop back to the Valley Loop Trail and shuttle stop 6.
Start at the footbridge for the best views, then follow the loop clockwise to enjoy the forest. Only the eastern portion is wheelchair accessible.
For the most dramatic waterfall views, visit in late spring or early summer during snowmelt.
Accessing the trailhead:
To reach the trailhead, follow the bike path to shuttle stop 6, then take the paved trail past the bathrooms and up a slight hill to the footbridge for the best views of the falls. Afterward, continue the loop clockwise through the forest. Only the eastern portion of the trail is wheelchair accessible. For peak waterfall views, visit in late spring or early summer during snowmelt.
Accessing the Trailhead:
Follow the bike path to shuttle stop 6, then take the paved trail past the bathrooms and up a slight hill to the footbridge for the best views of the falls.
3. Cooks Meadow Loop
DISTANCE
1 MILE LOOP TRAIL
Duration
30 MINUTES
ELEVATION GAIN
29 FEET
DIFFICULTY
EASY
Don’t let the simplicity of this hike fool you- it’s full of stunning views of Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, and El Capitan, making this loop one of the best easy hikes in the valley.
What I love about this hike is that you can choose a starting point that works for you, either beginning this popular trail at the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center or near Lower Yosemite Falls area.
Once you’re on the trail however, you’ll get to cross a bridge over the Merced river where we got to watch ducks swim, and you get a killer view of the top of Half Dome!
The trail also leads you to the Yosemite Valley Chapel, which is an active church that is historic to the American settlers in the area. There are several plaques along the trail that goes into detail about the importance of this valley and its plants to both the native population and the American settlers. Although this meadow is a bit more bustling than the peaceful Tuolumne meadows, it’s still one of my favorites walks in the park.
As a special note, please PLEASE stay on trail and keep out of the meadow. Frequent walking compacts the soil and kills plants, preventing future generations from being able to enjoy this natural landscape.
4. Valley Loop Trail
DISTANCE
11.5 MILES FULL LOOP, 7.2 MILES HALF LOOP
Duration
5-7 HOURS FULL LOOP, 2.5-3.5 HOURS HALF LOOP
ELEVATION GAIN
1,000 FEET
DIFFICULTY
MODERATE
Want to see all of Yosemite Valley in one go?
This mostly flat loop trail circles the entire valley, winding through meadows, beneath towering granite cliffs, and alongside the Merced River. It’s one of the best ways to take in many of Yosemite’s natural highlights in a single hike.
Accessing the Trailhead:
Start at the Lower Yosemite Fall area (shuttle stop #6) and follow signs for the Valley Loop Trail. Grab a map or hiking brochure to help stay oriented—some trail junctions can be confusing.
From the start, head west past Camp 4 and along the base of the Three Brothers, soaking in epic views as you make your way to El Capitan. For a half loop, cross the river at El Cap Bridge and return east toward Yosemite Village.
See map below for a visual breakdown of the experience.
Going for the full loop? Continue past El Capitan toward Bridalveil Fall. While most of the trail is mellow, expect a few uphill stretches and a mix of dirt, sand, rock, and old pavement underfoot.
If you want to go the full gambit, you can rent bikes at Curry Village and bike around the valley, shaving hours off your experience and potentially saving your legs for the next trail that you don’t want to miss.
5. Mist Trail to Vernal and Nevada Falls
DISTANCE
6.5 MILE OUT AND BACK
Duration
4-5 HOURS
ELEVATION GAIN
2,208 FEET
DIFFICULTY
MODERATE
Mist Trail: One of the Best Hikes in Yosemite Valley
Ready to take on one of the best hikes in Yosemite Valley? The Mist Trail lives up to its name—with roaring waterfalls, granite staircases drenched in spray, and rainbows dancing in the sun, it’s nothing short of magical.
This hike kicks off near Happy Isles, where the Mist Trail and John Muir Trail split. I started my adventure here and was immediately blown away by the views along the Merced River and the lush, green scenery surrounding the valley.
Your first major stop is Vernal Fall. After a quick climb to the footbridge (with bathrooms and water!), the real adventure begins—600+ stone steps straight into the mist. It’s slippery in spots, especially in the spring, but trust me- the views are totally worth it. I’ll never forget the rainbow that appeared in the spray on my way up.
At the top of Vernal Fall, you can turn around or keep going to Nevada Fall—my personal choice. Along the way, you’ll pass Emerald Pool and Silver Apron (gorgeous, but no swimming here!). When you finally reach Nevada Fall, prepare to be humbled. It drops nearly 600 feet and the power of the gushing water is unreal.
On the way back, you can return via the Mist Trail or switch it up with the John Muir Trail for a different, more scenic descent with killer views of Liberty Cap and Nevada Fall.
Make sure you’re prepared with day hiking essentials—if you need a refresher, check out my packing guide below.
What to Pack for a Day Hike- The Essentials
John Muir Vs Mist Trail
Due to the slippery steps along the Mist Trail, many hikers prefer to take the John Muir trail down. While we did go up and back down the Mist Trail with no issues, if you’d like to take the drier but longer route, the John Muir Trail meets the Mist Trail at the top of Nevada Falls.
Yosemite Valley Points of Interest
1. Awhanee Hotel
The Ahwahnee Hotel: A Must-See Stop on Your Yosemite Valley Adventure
If you’re exploring the best hikes in Yosemite Valley, don’t miss a stop at the Ahwahnee Hotel. Whether you’re into movies, architecture, or just love a good hidden gem, this place is a visual masterpiece. Think towering fireplaces, rich tapestries, and intricate murals that tell stories of the region’s native heritage.
I stepped inside and immediately felt like I was in a museum—or a movie set. (Fun fact: The Ahwahnee inspired the design of the Overlook Hotel in The Shining!)
Outside, the patio offers amazing views of Half Dome, and there are peaceful trails nearby that wind through the forest and past climbing routes. Even if you’re not staying here, it’s worth wandering through to soak in the atmosphere.
While the iconic dining room is temporarily closed, it’s known for serving up unforgettable meals in an equally unforgettable setting.
In short: it’s not a hike, but it’s definitely one of the coolest stops in Yosemite Valley.
2. El Capitan Meadow
Looking to soak in the majesty of Yosemite’s famous El Capitan without the crowds? Look no further than El Capitan Meadow. Here, you’ll find a tranquil spot where you can bask in the sheer grandeur of this iconic monolith as the sun dips below the horizon, casting a golden glow across its towering granite facade.
Don’t forget your binoculars! Throughout the day, you can often spot tiny specks of rock climbers scaling the rock face, adding a sense of awe to the already breathtaking scenery. And keep an eye out for the diverse array of bird species that call this meadow home, adding a delightful soundtrack to your visit.
For those craving a bit of adventure, the Tamarack Creek Loop Trail winds alongside a peaceful creek, offering a peaceful refuge in the valley. But mostly, El Capitan Meadow is a place to simply pause, breathe, and marvel at the natural wonders surrounding you.
3. Tunnel View
If you’re on the hunt for the ultimate sunrise spot in Yosemite Valley, Tunnel View is where it’s at. Just pull over on Wawona Road and prepare to be blown away by the jaw-dropping panoramic view laid out before you.
From this single spot, you’ll be treated to unbeatable views of El Capitan, Half Dome, and the majestic Bridalveil Falls. It’s no wonder this such a popular place in Yosemite—trust me, you won’t regret making this stop!
Tunnel View guarantees a vista so breathtaking, it’ll be etched in your memory for years to come. So grab your camera, set your alarm, and get ready for a sunrise experience you’ll never forget.
4. Bridal Veil Falls
Since we’ve talked so much about Bridalveil falls, let’s talk about this sweet little hike that takes you right to its base, and trust me, it’s worth every step. Since 2021, the park rangers have been sprucing up the area, adding better restrooms and a new viewing spot to enhance your experience.
For now, you can hop out of your car on Southside Dr in the valley and follow the clearly marked Valley Loop Trail—it’s a piece of cake to find. And if you’re doing the Valley Loop Trail, this will be right on your way. This trail will lead you straight to a circular viewing area nestled right at the foot of the falls, giving you front-row seats to nature’s masterpiece.
Now, I gotta throw in a little disclaimer here: sure, you can try to get closer to the falls, but we can tell you that it’s not worth the risk. Those rocks are very slippery, and you don’t want to end up stranded on the rocks with a broken leg- no thanks! And besides, you get such a stunning view of the falls right from the rocked in viewing area.
a new viewing area
Yosemite National Park has added a couple different viewing areas to see the falls from different angles while staying safe.
5. Swinging Bridge Beach
A stone’s throw away from Bridal Veil Falls lies Swinging Bridge Beach—an idyllic picnic spot with a view that’ll keep you captivated. Imagine sandy shores nestled along the banks of the Merced River, with a charming bridge adding to the picturesque scene while Yosemite Falls quietly rages on in the background.
Fun fact: the bridge used to sway in the breeze, but thanks to a bit of flood damage, it’s now standing still.
Affording a great opportunity for some well earned rest after a day of strenuous hiking, enjoy a bit of peace and quiet at this quaint beach.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Other Helpful Blog Posts
As you head out on your Yosemite adventure, don’t forget to explore these five hiking trails, each offers its own unique characteristics and views.
From the peaceful Cooks Meadow Loop to the thundering Upper and Lower Yosemite Falls, and the aptly named Mist Trail back down to the Valley Loop Trail, Yosemite offers an abundance of experiences for everyone.
In the meantime, here are some other blog posts to help you get the most out of Yosemite!
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