Yosemite Valley is an incredible place to visit. Why? From jaw dropping views to rock climbing to hiking, Yosemite Valley is the perfect place to immerse yourself in nature. However, before visiting Yosemite Valley, planning a “To-Do” list, especially if you are an adventure lover, is very helpful. So, what should you do while you visit Yosemite Valley? To get the most out of your time in Yosemite, you should check out the best views of Yosemite Valley, explore the hiking trails, visit the waterfalls, and try rock climbing. Don’t forget your camera, you’ll want to snap photographs of everything, this land is gorgeous!
Are you looking to get your adventure on in Yosemite Valley? Well, here is the ultimate adventure guide to all things Yosemite Valley. In this guide you will find the best day hikes in Yosemite, popular rock climbs for beginners, how to see all the waterfall in Yosemite Valley, the best places to hang with friends, must see views of Yosemite, and so much more.
Read on to discover the best views Yosemite Valley has to offer, where to day hike, places to hang with friends, how to safely explore all of the waterfalls, and so much more!
Half Dome at sunset as seen from the iconic Bridge View. Photograph by Dalton Johnson
Best Views of Yosemite Valley
Nevada Fall and Vernal Fall as seen from Glacier Point in Yosemite National Park. Photograph by Dalton Johnson
When planning your To Do list for Yosemite National Park, checking out the views of the park ahead of time are critical to having a good time. Yosemite National Park is a large place and can be difficult to navigate with it’s circular driving. If you miss a turn and the traffic is bad, that could be a two hour detour. So, here are some iconic views that you should put on your To Do list and plan out.
Tunnel View
Tunnel View might be the most iconic vista in all of Yosemite National Park and I know that I try to stop here at least once everytime I visit this magical place of granite walls and waterfalls. For me, this spot is full of adventures and photo locations.
From Tunnel View you can quickly access the rim after a couple miles of hiking, providing you access to some of the most incredible photo locations like Artist Point, Crocker Point, and Inspiration Point.
Want to know more about Tunnel View? I wrote a full article about Tunnel View, read it by clicking here.
How do I get to Tunnel View?
How long is the hike to Tunnel View?
The hike to Tunnel View is very short once you park, less than one minute. This hike is handicap accessible and you will often see crowds of humans all around the viewpoint. Pro tip, there are several areas to view if you get on the trail and walk for 5-10 minutes.
Check out Prints of Tunnel View
Why should I visit Tunnel View?
Tunnel View is a road side attraction that everyone should add to their Yosemite To-Do list. The view is iconic and has made the park famous. In addition to the beauty of location, you will get a good grasp on the diversity of people who come to Yosemite National Park every year. I recommend having a picnic at Tunnel View
Best Adventures Around Tunnel View:
Winter Hiking to Dewey Point from Tunnel View (make sure to bring snow-shoes)
Astrophotography at Tunnel View
Bridalveil Fall
How do I get to Bridalveil Fall?
Get directions to Bridalveil Fall
How long is the hike to Bridalveil Fall?
Hiking to Bridalveil Fall takes roughly 10 minutes. The hike to Bridalveil Fall on a paved path, low incline, and accessible to all (current renovations are making this path wheelchair accessible). To get to the base of Bridalveil Fall, you will have to leave the path and walk on a rocky path.
Why should I visit Bridalveil Fall?
Plunging 620 feet (189 meters), Bridalveil Fall is often the first waterfall you'll see when entering Yosemite Valley. In spring, it thunders; during the rest of the year, look for its characteristic light, swaying flow. This swaying flow is what gives the Bridalveil Fall it’s name, for it looks like a Bridalveil moving in the wind.
Check out Prints of Bridalveil Fall
Firefall
How do I get to Firefall?
How long is the hike to Firefall?
Firefall, also known as Horsetail Fall, can not be hiked to, but you can watch the spectacle from most places in the park. The fall comes from a seasonal flow that is based upon the years snowpack in mid to late February.
Why should I visit Firefall?
Firefall is a natural wonder of this world. Why? Well, you have to be in the right place, at the right time, and California has to have had a good year of snow. In other words, to see Firefall everything has to align. Hence, putting this natural wonder of a molten lava looking water fall on your To-Do list is a must.
Check out Prints of Firefalls
Half Dome from Glacier Point
How do I get to Glacier Point?
Get Directions to Glacier Point
How long is the hike to Glacier Point?
Hiking to Glacier Point is a 15-20 minute walk from the Glacier Point trailhead parking. The hike is paved and wheelchair accessible, however there are parts of the trail that become unpaved as you go beyond the visitor center and overlook.
Why should I visit Glacier Point?
Glacier Point should be on everyone’s To-Do list when visiting Yosemite Valley. Why? This point overlooks the upper portion of the valley and provides a wonderful view of Half Dome. If you arrive to Glacier Point for sunset, Half Dome will the glowing red. I recommend coming for sunset, staging a picnic, and watching the stars late into the night as the milky way shines over Half Dome. Glacier Point is a magical place to visit while in Yosemite National Park. Additionally, the drive is long in comparison to other Yosemite locations, so the crowds are smaller.
Check out Prints of Half Dome
Yosemite Falls
How do I get to Yosemite Falls?
Get Directions to Yosemite Falls
How long is the hike to Yosemite Falls?
Yosemite Falls has lower and upper falls. The base of the lower falls is challenging hike taking 1-2 hours round trip. Upper Yosemite falls is a strenuous hike that will take 6-8 hours round trip. Please, make sure to bring water and some snacks. Every year there are a few rescues on this trail from dehydration.
Curious about hiking Yosemite Falls? Check out this blog that covers everything you need to know about hiking Yosemite Falls.
Why should I visit Yosemite Falls?
Yosemite Falls is made of the upper fall, middle cascades, and lower fall, all dropping a total of 2,425 ft. (740 m), and is one of the tallest waterfalls in the United States. So, if you want to see the tallest waterfalls in the United States, you should add this to your To-Do list when visiting Yosemite. If you are feeling up for it, the steep climb is well rewarded with close-up views of Upper Yosemite Fall and distant views of Half Dome and other Sierra mountain peaks. Along the hike, enjoy a bird's eye view of Yosemite Valley's meadows and the meandering Merced River.
Check out Prints of Yosemite Falls
El Capitan
How do I get to El Capitan?
How long is the hike to El Capitan?
The hike to the base of El Capitan is 30 minutes round trip. However, if you would like to hike to the top of the granite wall, expect to hike for 12-15 hours round trip if you are going via Yosemite Falls trail.
Why should I visit El Capitan?
Rising more than 3000 vertical feet from the floor of Yosemite Valley, El Capitan is sheer rock granite and a must see in Yosemite National Park. If that isn’t enough for you to add to your To Do list when visiting Yosemite National Park, the history and recent boom in rock climbing should. Not long ago, a movie was put out called Free Solo where Alex Honnold climbed the 3000 foot wall without a rope. To understand how crazy that is, walk to the base and look up, he climbed that.
Check out Prints of El Capitan
Mirror Lake
How do I get to Mirror Lake?
How long is the hike to Mirror Lake?
The hike to Mirror Lake can take one hour if you stay on the paved path. However, most people take 2-3 hours as there are several side trails and viewing points that you will want to stop.
Why should I visit Mirror Lake?
With a fresh perspective looking up at Half Dome directly from its base, you'll be rewarded with views of Tenaya Canyon, Mount Watkins, Washington Column, and more. This reflective pool is a magical place to sit and ponder. I would suggest bringing a sack lunch and a journal to sit alone for a little TLC.
Check out Prints of Mirror Lake
Little Yosemite Valley
How do I get to Little Yosemite Valley?
Directions to Little Yosemite Valley
How long is the hike to Little Yosemite Valley?
Many people overnight camp in Little Yosemite Valley, however if you want to day hike to Little Yosemite Valley, expect to spend 8-10 hours round trip. If you are feeling ambitious, check out Little Yosemite Valley during the winter!
Why should I visit Little Yosemite Valley?
Little Yosemite Valley is the most popular area in the Yosemite Wilderness, mainly because it provides easy access to Half Dome. If you plan to summit Half Dome, you will pass through here. If you are looking for a challenging hike with access to a swimmable river, Little Yosemite Valley is a great place to go. Since the Little Yosemite Valley hike takes you into the wilderness of Yosemite National Park, the crowds will be smaller. Often, you wont see many people unless a water fall is close.
Check out Prints of Little Yosemite Valley
Topping out the Nutcrack just before dark while rock climbing in Yosemite Valley. Photograph by Dalton Johnson
Rock Climbing in Yosemite Valley
If you can, try to plan a long weekend of climbing while you visit Yosemite Valley. If you don’t know how to climb, that isn’t a problem, there are several guide services who can and will take you rock climbing. So, make sure to add rock climbing to your To-Do list when you visit Yosemite Valley. Why? Yosemite Valley is the home of American rock climbing and is known for long routes and hard traditional climbing. However, the rock climbing in Yosemite is accessible to everyone. So, I put together a list of classic rock climbs that everyone should try in the 5.7 - 5.10 range.
The Surprise (5.10a)
Where is the rock climb Surprise located?
The Surprise is located on the Five Open Books
Why add the rock climb Surprise to your To Do list?
The rock climb The Surprise (5.10a) is a stellar first valley 10. Why? Well, if you are looking to break into the 5.10 climbing in Yosemite Valley as one of your “To-Do’s” while you visit, this crack is perfect because you get a few warm up pitches to get your head screwed on. Then, you Exciting to open the door to a new milestone for climbing. The finger crack was really fun and what a surprise, hence the route’s name The Surprise, it is when the crack just disappears for a hot second and you make a few moves across some slab to a jug.
Want to climb surprise, but still need more information? Here is a full write up on the climb with everything you need to know.
Rock climbing the last few pitches of The Nose (5.9 C2) on El Capitan in Yosemite Valley. Photograph by Dalton Johnson
The Nose (5.9 C2)
Where is the rock climb The Nose located?
The Nose is located on El Capitan
Why add the rock climb The Nose to your To Do list?
Let’s all be honest, if we are climbing in Yosemite Valley, there is one route we all wish to climb, The Nose. While the grade of the nose goes at 5.9 C2, most climbers see this climb as unattainable, but it isn’t. If you spend the time learning your systems, this granite monolith can be climbed!
Absolutely Free (5.9)
Where is the rock climb Absolutely Free located?
Absolutely Free is located at Camp 4
Why add the rock climb Absolutely Free to your To Do list?
The rock climb Absolutely Free (5.9) in Yosemite Valley is the quintessential adventure route for it’s grade. This gorgeous route definitely did me in on the route finding! Going WAY off route on the "first" pitch up a random gully, because I misread the topo like a dolt, forcing myself to down climb the 90 feet I had just climbed. Not to mention, my partner was like, "hey man, maybe the route is to the right?" so, I went up again, another 120 feet, only to turn around and get my fill of down climbing for breakfast. Yup, about 210 feet of up and down-climbing. On the bright side, all gear was saved!
How do you avoid this? We shouldn't have roped up at the first gully that goes to the right as the route went left through a grove of trees and meandered around for about 200 feet more to the base of the climb. I'm just shaking my head at myself right now.
However, once we got to the base of the first pitch we were ready for some bomber hands and Absolutely Free provided just that! A classic Yosemite adventure route with splitter hands and low-angled, finger lie-backing. Not only was the climb stellar, the view up valley staring at Half Dome and Royal Arches was phenomenal!
Bishops Terrace (5.8)
Where is the rock climb Bishops Terrace located?
Bishops Terrace is located on Church Bowl
Why add the rock climb Bishops Terrace to your To Do list?
Bishops Terrace is a classic climb in Yosemite Valley located in Church Bowl. Some times this climb has a long queue and sometimes you have this climb to yourself. Why is that? Well, this climb doesn’t have much else around that compares to the quality and grade, so all of the 5.8 classic climbers want to hop on Bishops Terrace. If you do come to climb Bishops Terrace, I suggest climbing it in one pitch instead of the two pitches the book says. Logistically, this climb will become much easier for you if you climb it in one go.
Nutcracker (5.7)
Where is the rock climb Nutcracker located?
Nutcrack is located on Manure Pile Buttress
Why add the rock climb Nutcracker to your To Do list?
In terms of classic climbs in Yosemite Valley, climbing Nutcracker, should be on your “To-Do” list. Why climb Nutcracker? The bulge pull. Yup! There is a rad bulge pull that is immediately intimidating upon arrival. However, once you step up to the overhead bulge, you find it has several weaknesses that will allow you pass. The Nutcracker is to be respected, meanwhile having a splendid time!
A bunch of goofballs enjoying to sumnmit of The Grack Center (5.6) while rock climbing in Yosemite Valley. Photograph by Dalton Johnson
The Grack Center (5.6)
Where is the rock climb The Grack Center located?
The Grack is located on Glacier Apron
Why add the rock climb The Grack Center to your To Do list?
In terms of wonderful first rock climbs in Yosemite Valley, climbing The Grack Center, might be the perfect answer. Why? The Grack Center has a grade of 5.6 and goes in three pitches, where the crux is a slab move that is relatively well protected. Additionally, the rappels are straight forward and well bolted. So, if you are looking to climb your first Yosemite multi-pitch rock climb, give The Grack Center a try. Personally, I have not had to wait in line for this climb, but I have heard stories of a long queue.
Waterfalls of Yosemite valley
While Yosemite National Park is forever linked to Half Dome, the massive granite monolith immortalized by landscape photographer Ansel Adams, it’s also home to many fabulous flowing waterfalls. Bridalveil and Yosemite Falls are two of the most famous Yosemite waterfalls, but here are several others you’ll want to check out when you visit Yosemite National Park. Plunging hundreds of feet into rivers and creeks below, the waterfalls at Yosemite National Park thunder past a smooth granite backdrop. Yosemite waterfalls are powered by melting snow and spring rains, so the flowing falls are at their prime in May. Most of the waterfalls at Yosemite are easily spotted from designated viewpoints or after a short walk along paved paths. While it’s difficult to see all of the waterfalls in Yosemite, these five falls are the most spectacular to add to your To-Do list while visiting Yosemite Valley:
Yosemite Falls
Directions to Yosemite Falls:
Click here for driving directions to Yosemite Falls
Fun Facts about Yosemite Falls:
Yosemite Falls can be seen throughout a large portion of Yosemite Valley including from the Yosemite Chapel, Yosemite Valley Lodge and even high above the valley from Glacier Point. One of the tallest in the world at a total of 2425 feet and the tallest in all of North America, it is actually made up of three separate drops:
Upper Yosemite Fall (1,430 feet)
Middle Cascades (675 feet)
Lower Yosemite Fall (320 feet)
Total Height of Yosemite Falls: 2,425 feet
Vernal Fall cascading during the frozen months. Photograph by Dalton Johnson
Vernal Fall
Directions to Vernal Fall
Click here for driving directions to Vernal Fall
Fun Facts about vernal Fall
Just below the frothy Nevada fall is Vernal Fall. The first of the waterfalls in the legendary Mist Trail. Especially in the spring, you’ll truly understand why this hike is called the “Mist Trail.” In short, be sure to bring a raincoat even if it’s sunny. These two mighty waterfalls form a cascade in which the Merced River flows down into the valley and create what is called the “giant staircase.”
Total Height of Vernal Fall: 317 feet
Bridalveil Fall
Directions to Bridalveil Fall:
Click here for driving directions to Bridalveil Fall
Fun Facts about Bridalveil Fall:
As you enter Yosemite Valley from Tunnel View, one of the first falls you’ll see if Bridalveil. It should come as no surprise it's one of the most prominent within the granite walls of the valley. As the name describes it, when there’s a breeze flowing, the mist that wafts off it creates something that would be similar to a 'bride's veil' and thus the name Bridalveil.
Total Height of Bridalveil Fall: 620 feet
Horsetail Fall on El Capitan plummeting 1000 feet to Yosemite Valley floor during Fire Fall season. Photograph by Dalton Johnson
Horsetail Fall (aka fire fall)
Directions to Horsetail Fall:
Click here for driving directions to Horsetail Fall
Fun Facts about Horsetail Falls:
Horsetail Fall's claim to fame is the legend of the Horsetail Fall Event. It's a natural phenomenon that occurs typically in mid-February when all meteorological and hydrological formations align to create what looks like a ribbon of fire when the rays of the setting winter sun light up the water and mist first golden and then fiery red Horsetail Fall drops off the east side of El Capitan and was known in Ansel Adams's time as El Capitan Fall. Now, this event is called Fire Fall.
Total Height of Horsetail Fall: 1,000 Feet
Nevada Fall
Directions to Nevada Fall
Click here for driving directions to Nevada Fall
Fun Facts about Nevada Fall
The pinnacle of the Mist Trail, it is one part of what many call nature’s “giant staircase.” Located below the giant granite dome known as Liberty Cap, Nevada’s unique shape is one that will help you identify it quickly. The first third of the water falls freely finishing off on a steep slick-rock slope. The water hits the granite with such a force creating a turbulent, whitewater appearance and a great deal of mist... which led to its current name (Nevada is a Spanish word meaning "snowy").
Total Height of Nevada Fall: 594 feet
Hiking in Yosemite Valley
Yosemite Valley is home to some of the best hiking because you can access all of Yosemite National Park from Yosemite Valley. Hikes can range from a few minutes to weeks, the option is there for you. But, the variety of options makes selecting hikes difficult. So, I selected four of the best hikes of Yosemite Valley.
Yosemite Valley Loop Trail
If you want to hike the entirety of Yosemite Valley, this is your hike. Fully paved, the Valley Loop Trail was created to allow visitors a path to explore the entire valley by foot, or bike. While on this hike, you will find hidden gems along the Merced River, wildlife, and be able to soak in the gorgeous granite views Yosemite offers.
How long is the Valley Loop Trail?
21.1 miles
What is the elevation gain of the valley loop Trail?
1,335 feet
How long does it take to hike the valley loop trail?
7 hours and 23 minutes on average to walk
Nevada and Vernal Falls via Mist Trail
Hike to two breathtaking waterfalls, Vernal and Nevada Falls, along some of Yosemite Valley's most popular hiking trails. If you only have time for one hike while in Yosemite look no further - the Mist Trail is the hike for you. While you hike the Mist Trail, you will feel a cold breeze of mist from the waterfalls, making this of the most traveled hikes in Yosemite National Park. You may get wet from the mist, so make sure to bring a rain jacket. The best time to hike this trail is in Spring or early Summer, while the snow runoff is high and the falls are full of water.
How long is the Mist Trail?
6.0 miles
What is the elevation gain of the Mist Trail?
2,162 feet
How long does it take to hike the Mist Trail?
4 hours on average to walk
Panorama Trail
For those who are motivated for a full-day of hiking there’s arguably not a better trail to showcase the park’s natural treasures. There are several ways to enjoy this trail. For a moderate hike, start at Glacier Point and hike down to the Valley Floor. For a personal challenge, hike the Panorama trail from the Yosemite Valley floor out and back for a total of 18 miles, often taking all day. Regardless of how you hike this trail, the panoramic views of Yosemite Valley give the Panorama Trail its namesake.
How long is the Panorama Trail?
9 miles (one way) | 18 miles (out and back)
What is the elevation gain of the Panorama Trail?
2,257 feet
How long does it take to hike the Panorama Trail?
5-6 hours (one way), or 12-13 hours (out and back), on average to hike
Half Dome via John Muir Trail
Half Dome is a serious endurance hike taking you 4800 feet above the Yosemite Valley to spectacular views of Vernal and Nevada Falls, Liberty Cap, the Yosemite Valley, and the High Sierra. This is one of Yosemite National Park’s most iconic hikes and draws a serious crowd. Because of these crowds, you must obtain a permit to hike to the summit of Half Dome via the cable route.
How long is the Half Dome hike?
15 miles
What is the elevation gain of the Half Dome hike?
5,193 feet
How long does it take to hike the Half Dome hike?
10-11 hours on average to hike
Good Spots to Hang with Friends in Yosemite Valley
When visiting Yosemite Valley, there is often a desire to try to see everything; I’ll be frank with you, you just can’t see it all in a single trip. Yosemite Valley is special because of this fact, drawing us back time and time again. The view never get old. In fact, the views of Yosemite are like a fine wine, getting better with age. As you plan your visit to Yosemite Valley, make sure to add in some time to just sit and observe. Try not to run around from dusk till dawn, so you can hang with friends and appreciate the gorgeous views Yosemite Valley has to offer. My suggestions on place to hang with friends are Glacier Point, the Merced River Bank, and the El Capitan Meadow.
Glacier Point
Why is Glacier Point a good place to hang with friends?
Glacier Point is a fantastic place to hang with friends because there are fewer people in the area with several places to kick back and enjoy. Additionally, Glacier Point offers several locations with 360 degree views to see the magnificent Yosemite Valley from above. These views often leave me speechless.
Merced River Bank
Why is Merced River Bank a good place to hang with friends?
The Merced River winds through the entire Yosemite Valley, acting as the center piece. During the summer, you can find several people swimming, jumping off bridges, and enjoying a picnic on any of the many beaches along the Merced River. It is here, along the Merced River Bank, that I have had some of my favorite conversations and most relaxing times in Yosemite Valley. Make sure you bring a towel… just in case you feel the urge to take a dip.
El Capitan Meadow
Why is El Capitan Meadow a good place to hang with friends?
For climbers and tourists alike, the El Capitan Meadow can feel like the center of the universe while visiting Yosemite Valley. This large green meadow is a place where you can escape the crowds gawking at the rock climbers on El Cap or join them. Often you will find rock climbers sitting with binoculars looking up at the massive granite wall and pointing out their friends. Many other climbers will come here just to relax and soak up the sun on a rest day. Tourist are very welcome in the meadow as well because it is here that you can learn all about rock climbing in Yosemite Valley. Additionally, this is the best picnic spot in all of Yosemite Valley.
A very snowy Bridalveil Fall as seen just after a winter storm in Yosemite Valley from Tunnel View. Photograph by Dalton Johnson
Now that you have discovered the best views Yosemite Valley has to offer, where to day hike, places to hang with friends, and how to safely explore all of the waterfalls, it is your turn to get outside and explore Yosemite Valley. If this article helped you, or you wish to add some information that would be helpful to other adventurers exploring Yosemite Valley, please leave a comment below.
