Best Hikes in Yosemite National Park
Yosemite's granite domes, thundering waterfalls, and ancient sequoia groves make it one of the world's most inspiring hiking destinations. With over 800 miles of trails, there is far more to explore beyond the famous valley floor.
Yosemite Valley
Yosemite Falls (7.2 miles round trip)
A grueling 2,700-foot climb to the top of the tallest waterfall in North America (2,425 feet total drop). The viewpoint at the top is both terrifying and exhilarating. Best in spring when snowmelt fills the falls. By late summer, the falls may be dry.
Mist Trail to Vernal and Nevada Falls (5.4 miles round trip to both)
The park's most popular trail. Climb stone steps through the mist of 317-foot Vernal Fall, then continue to 594-foot Nevada Fall. You will get drenched on the Mist Trail — bring a rain layer or embrace it.
Mirror Lake Loop (5 miles)
An easy, flat walk to a seasonal lake that reflects Half Dome. Best in spring when snowmelt fills the lake. The loop continues through a quiet meadow.
Valley Floor Loop (13 miles or sections)
A flat loop through the valley with views of El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall, and Cathedral Rocks. Bike or walk any section. The meadow views at sunset are iconic.
Half Dome (14–16 miles round trip)
The park's most famous hike requires a permit (lottery via recreation.gov). The final 400 feet ascend a 45-degree granite dome using steel cables. Not for those afraid of heights or thunderstorms. Allow 10–14 hours.
Requirements:
- Permit (apply March for summer season, or daily lottery for next-day permits)
- Cables are up late May–mid October (weather dependent)
- Grip gloves (work gloves from a hardware store are fine)
- 2+ liters of water, 2,000+ calories of food
- Start before dawn to beat afternoon lightning
Glacier Point and Beyond
Four Mile Trail to Glacier Point (9.6 miles round trip)
A steep climb from the valley to the most famous viewpoint in the park. Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, and the High Sierra spread before you. Take the shuttle one way for a shorter experience.
Sentinel Dome (2.2 miles round trip)
A short walk from Glacier Point Road to a granite dome with 360-degree views. One of the best sunset hikes in the park.
Taft Point and the Fissures (2.2 miles round trip)
Walk to a railing-free viewpoint 3,000 feet above the valley floor, and peer into deep fissures in the granite. Vertigo-inducing and unforgettable.
Tuolumne Meadows (Summer Only)
Cathedral Lakes (7 miles round trip)
A gentle hike through alpine meadows to two stunning mountain lakes beneath Cathedral Peak. One of the best moderate hikes in the Sierra.
Lembert Dome (2.8 miles round trip)
A short climb up a glacially polished granite dome with panoramic views of Tuolumne Meadows and the surrounding peaks.
Glen Aulin via Pacific Crest Trail (11 miles round trip)
Follow the Tuolumne River downstream past waterfalls to the Glen Aulin High Sierra Camp. Beautiful and less crowded than valley trails.
Recommended Gear
Based on the topics covered in this guide, here are some top-rated products to consider:
- Salomon ADV Skin 5L Race Flag Hydration Pack ($145, 0.4 lbs)
- SealLine Black Canyon 115L Dry Bag ($290, 4.6 lbs)
- Sea To Summit Big River Dry Bag ($45, 5 oz)
- Grayl GEOPRESS Water Purifier ($100, 1.0 lbs)
- BioLite CampStove Complete Kit ($300, 1.1 lbs)
- Hydro Flask 20oz Wide Mouth Flex Cap 2.0 Water Bottle ($33, 0.7 lbs)
Planning Tips
- Reservations: Vehicle entry reservations required April–October. Book at recreation.gov.
- Crowds: The valley is extremely congested May–September. Visit midweek or in shoulder seasons.
- Waterfalls: Peak flow is April–June. By August, many falls are dry.
- Altitude: Tuolumne Meadows sits at 8,600 feet. Acclimatize if coming from sea level.
- Bears: Black bears are active. Use bear boxes at all campgrounds and trailheads. Never leave food in your car.
- Wilderness permits: Required for all overnight backcountry trips. 60% reservable, 40% walk-up.