Yosemite is one of those places where even a short walk feels big. You can stand under granite walls that rise thousands of feet, hear a waterfall before you see it, and watch the evening light turn Half Dome orange.
The hard part is picking a trail. The park has hundreds of miles of them, and most first-time visitors only have a day or two.
So we made it simple. Below are 15 of the best hikes in Yosemite National Park, from flat 1-mile loops to full-day climbs. For each one you’ll get the distance, how hard it is, where it starts, the best time to go, and a few honest tips.
You don’t need to be a serious hiker to love Yosemite. You just need the right trail for your time and your legs.
What Are the Best Hikes in Yosemite National Park?
If you want the short answer: the Mist Trail, Lower Yosemite Fall, Sentinel Dome, Taft Point, Mirror Lake, Cathedral Lakes, and the Four Mile Trail.
New to hiking? Start with Lower Yosemite Fall or Cook’s Meadow. They’re flat and easy.
Want big views without a long climb? Go to Sentinel Dome or Taft Point (only when Glacier Point Road is open).
Strong hikers can take on Upper Yosemite Fall, the Four Mile Trail, Clouds Rest, or Half Dome.
Yosemite Hikes at a Glance
| Trail | Distance | Difficulty | Why Go |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mist Trail to Vernal Fall | 2.4 mi RT | Strenuous | Waterfall spray and stone steps |
| Nevada Fall via Mist Trail/JMT | 5.4–7 mi RT | Strenuous | Two big waterfalls in one day |
| Lower Yosemite Fall | 1 mi loop | Easy | Close-up of Yosemite Falls |
| Mirror Lake | 2 mi RT to the lake | Easy–Moderate | Calm water and Half Dome |
| Cook’s Meadow | 1 mi loop | Easy | Classic valley views |
| Taft Point | 2.2 mi RT | Easy–Moderate | Cliff-edge view of the valley |
| Sentinel Dome | 2 mi RT | Moderate | 360-degree views |
| Four Mile Trail | 9.6 mi RT | Strenuous | Hike up to Glacier Point |
| Upper Yosemite Fall | 7.2 mi RT | Strenuous | Top of the tallest falls |
| Cathedral Lakes | 7.6 mi RT | Moderate–Strenuous | Alpine lakes and Cathedral Peak |
| Gaylor Lakes | 2.6 mi RT | Moderate | Quick high-country lakes |
| Grizzly Giant Loop | 2 mi RT | Moderate | Giant sequoia trees |
| Panorama Trail | 8.2 mi one way | Strenuous | Waterfalls and wide views |
| Clouds Rest | About 14 mi RT | Strenuous | Looks down on Half Dome |
| Half Dome | About 14–16+ mi RT | Very strenuous | Yosemite’s most famous summit |
RT = round trip. All distances are rough and can change with your route. Check current trail conditions before you go.
1. Mist Trail to Vernal Fall — Best Waterfall Hike
Distance: 2.4 miles round trip to the top of Vernal Fall
Elevation gain: About 1,000 feet
Difficulty: Strenuous
Time: 2–3 hours
Trailhead: Happy Isles, east end of Yosemite Valley
Best time: Spring and early summer, when the falls are full
If you only do one “real” hike in Yosemite, make it this one.
The trail follows the Merced River uphill. You hear Vernal Fall long before you see it. In spring, the last part of the climb is so close to the water that you’ll get soaked by the spray.
That last part is a long stone staircase, around 600 steps. The steps are steep and often wet, so take them slowly. Bring a light rain jacket, even on a sunny day.
What You’ll See
You start in the trees, cross a footbridge with your first view of the falls, then climb the wet granite steps right beside the water. At the top, there’s a flat rock area where most people stop for a snack.
Still have energy? Keep going to Nevada Fall (see #2).
Tips
- Start early. By 10 a.m. in summer, the trail gets very crowded.
- Wear shoes with good grip. Sneakers with worn soles are a bad idea here.
- Keep your phone in a zip bag or a small waterproof bag.
- Don’t push past people on the steps. Wait for a safe spot.
Heads up (2026 detour): The Mist Trail is getting repair work. From late July through October 2026, the section between the John Muir Trail junction and the top of Vernal Fall is open Friday to Sunday and on holidays. Monday to Thursday, it’s usually closed during the workday (roughly 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.), and you use the John Muir Trail instead. Check the NPS Vernal and Nevada Fall page before you go.
Short on time or energy? Just walk to the Vernal Fall Footbridge. It’s 1.6 miles round trip with about 400 feet of climbing, and you still get a great view of the falls.
Good for: Anyone who wants the classic Yosemite waterfall hike and doesn’t mind a steep climb.
2. Nevada Fall via the Mist Trail and John Muir Trail — Best Full-Day Waterfall Hike
Distance: 5.4 miles round trip via the Mist Trail; about 6.5–7 miles if you loop back on the John Muir Trail
Elevation gain: About 2,000 feet
Difficulty: Strenuous
Time: 5–7 hours
Trailhead: Happy Isles
This is the Mist Trail, but longer. After Vernal Fall, the trail keeps climbing to Nevada Fall, a 594-foot waterfall with a huge granite dome called Liberty Cap right next to it.
It’s a big jump in effort from Vernal Fall, so only go on if you feel good.
Which Way Should You Go?
Most people go up the Mist Trail and come down the John Muir Trail. That makes a loop, so you see new views on the way back. The John Muir Trail is also longer but gentler on the knees.
If part of the Mist Trail is closed, the John Muir Trail is usually your backup. Either way, check for snow, ice, or closures first.
Why It’s Worth It
Two famous waterfalls, big granite views, and fewer people once you pass Vernal Fall.
Good for: Fit hikers with a whole day free.
3. Lower Yosemite Fall — Best Easy Hike for First-Timers
Distance: 1 mile loop
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation gain: About 50 feet
Time: 30–45 minutes
Start: Lower Yosemite Fall trailhead, Yosemite Valley
You don’t have to climb anything to see a great waterfall in Yosemite.
This short, paved loop takes you through the trees to the base of Lower Yosemite Fall. In spring, it’s loud. You can feel the mist from the bridge.
When to Go
Go in spring or early summer, when melting snow feeds the falls. By late summer or fall, the falls can slow to a trickle or dry up completely.
Who It’s For
Families, first-time visitors, older travelers, and anyone short on time. Most of the loop is paved, but access can change with weather and season.
Good for: An easy waterfall view with almost no effort.
4. Mirror Lake Trail — Best Easy Hike With Half Dome Views
Distance: 2 miles round trip to the lake; about 5 miles for the full loop
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Elevation gain: About 100 feet to the lake
Start: East end of Yosemite Valley
Mirror Lake sits right under Half Dome. On a still morning in spring, the water reflects the cliffs above it, which is how it got its name.
What to Expect
The walk to the lake is short and mostly flat. If you want more time on the trail, do the full loop. It’s quieter and goes deeper into the forest.
Just know that Mirror Lake isn’t a “real” lake all year. By late summer or fall, it often turns into a sandy meadow with a few shallow pools. The views of the cliffs are still great, though.
Good for: Families, easy hikers, and photographers.
5. Cook’s Meadow Loop — Best Easy Scenic Walk
Distance: 1 mile loop
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation gain: Basically flat
Time: 30–45 minutes
Location: Yosemite Valley
This is the easiest way to see the “postcard” Yosemite.
The loop goes around an open meadow with views of Yosemite Falls, Half Dome, and the valley walls all in one place. It’s beautiful at sunrise when the meadow is quiet, and again in late afternoon when the sun lights up the cliffs.
Why Add It
It’s short, flat, and right next to other valley sights. You can fit it in between bigger plans.
Please stay on the paths and boardwalks. The meadow plants are fragile.
Good for: Beginners, photographers, and anyone who wants an easy stroll.
6. Taft Point — Best Cliff-Edge View
Distance: 2.2 miles round trip
Elevation gain: About 200 feet (mostly on the way back)
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Time: 1–2 hours
Trailhead: Sentinel Dome/Taft Point Trailhead, Glacier Point Road
Taft Point feels nothing like the valley floor. You walk through a quiet forest, then the trees suddenly end and you’re standing on the edge of a 3,000-foot drop. El Capitan is right across from you.
You’ll also see the Fissures, deep cracks in the rock that drop straight down.
Please Read This
There is only one short railing at Taft Point. Most of the edge has no barrier at all. A fall here would kill you.
Stay well back from the edge. Keep kids close. Never back up to get a better photo.
When to Go
Late afternoon light is beautiful, but it gets busy near sunset. If you stay for sunset, bring a headlamp for the walk back.
Glacier Point Road is only open part of the year, usually late spring to fall.
Good for: Big views with only a short walk.
7. Sentinel Dome — Best 360-Degree View
Distance: 2 miles round trip
Elevation gain: About 400 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Time: 1–2 hours
Trailhead: Sentinel Dome/Taft Point Trailhead (same as Taft Point)
This is one of the best payoffs in the park for the effort.
The trail is short and easy until the end, where you walk up the bare granite dome. It’s steeper than it looks. But from the top, you can turn in a full circle and see Half Dome, El Capitan, Yosemite Falls, and the High Sierra peaks.
Why It’s Special
Most viewpoints face one way. Sentinel Dome shows you everything at once.
Tip: Do Taft Point and Sentinel Dome on the same afternoon. They share a trailhead.
Stay Safe
Granite gets slick when wet or icy. And if you see storm clouds or hear thunder, get off the dome right away. It’s the highest point around.
Good for: Photographers and anyone who wants huge views on a short hike.
8. Four Mile Trail — Best Hard Hike to Glacier Point
Distance: 9.6 miles round trip
Elevation gain: About 3,200 feet
Difficulty: Strenuous
Time: 6–8 hours
Trailhead: Southside Drive, Yosemite Valley
Fun fact: the Four Mile Trail is actually close to 5 miles each way. It was rebuilt longer years ago, but the name stuck.
It climbs from the valley floor all the way up to Glacier Point. That’s a lot of uphill.
Why People Do It
The view keeps getting better the higher you go. First Yosemite Falls, then El Capitan, and near the top, Half Dome and the high peaks behind it. Reaching Glacier Point on your own feet feels great.
Plan Your Way Down
There’s no regular shuttle from Glacier Point back to the valley. Some seasonal tour buses run, but you need to book ahead and seats are limited.
If you don’t have a ride booked, plan to walk back down the same trail.
Good for: Fit hikers who like long climbs.
9. Upper Yosemite Fall Trail — Best Hard Waterfall Hike
Distance: 7.2 miles round trip to the top of the falls
Elevation gain: About 2,700 feet
Difficulty: Strenuous
Time: Most of the day (6–8 hours)
Trailhead: Near Camp 4
This trail starts climbing right away and doesn’t really stop. There are dozens of switchbacks, and on a hot day they can feel endless.
But you get amazing views of the valley on the way up, and at the top you stand above North America’s tallest waterfall.
Is It Worth It?
Yes, if you like hard climbs. No, if you’re looking for a casual waterfall walk. For that, go to Lower Yosemite Fall instead.
You don’t have to reach the top. Columbia Rock, about 1 mile up, already has a great view. Turn around whenever heat, tiredness, or weather tells you to.
When to Go
Spring has the strongest water. Summer gets hot, and the falls often shrink by August. Start early and bring lots of water.
Good for: Strong hikers who like steep trails.
10. Cathedral Lakes Trail — Best Alpine Lake Hike
Distance: About 7.6 miles round trip to Upper Cathedral Lake
Elevation gain: About 1,000 feet
Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
Time: 5–7 hours
Trailhead: Tuolumne Meadows, on Tioga Road
This is the Yosemite most visitors never see. Up in the high country, the trail climbs through pine forest and comes out at clear blue lakes with Cathedral Peak’s pointy tip right above them.
Upper or Lower Lake?
You can visit both. Lower Cathedral Lake is down a short side trail. The main trail keeps going to Upper Cathedral Lake. Your total miles depend on which one, or both, you choose.
Good to Know
You’ll be at about 9,500 feet. You may get out of breath faster than usual. Mornings are cold even in summer, and afternoon storms can show up fast.
Tioga Road is only open part of the year, usually from late May or June until the first big snow in fall.
Good for: Hikers who want lakes and mountains away from the valley crowds.
11. Gaylor Lakes Trail — Best Short High-Country Hike
Distance: 2.6 miles round trip
Elevation gain: About 500 feet (on the first climb)
Difficulty: Moderate
Time: 2–3 hours
Trailhead: Next to the Tioga Pass Entrance
Driving over Tioga Road and want a short hike? This is a great one.
The trail goes straight up a steep hill at the start. At the top of the ridge, you get wide views over Dana Meadows and the peaks around it. Then the trail drops down to Middle Gaylor Lake.
Why Choose It
You get a real taste of high-mountain Yosemite in a couple of hours.
The trailhead sits at almost 10,000 feet, so even this short climb can feel hard. Go slow and keep an eye on the sky.
Good for: People driving Tioga Pass who want a quick alpine hike.
12. Grizzly Giant Loop — Best Hike Among Giant Sequoias
Distance: 2 miles round trip
Elevation gain: About 300 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Time: 1.5–2 hours
Location: Mariposa Grove, south end of the park
Yosemite isn’t just rock and waterfalls. In Mariposa Grove, you can walk among giant sequoias, some of the biggest trees on Earth.
What You’ll See
You’ll pass the Bachelor and Three Graces (four trees growing close together), the Grizzly Giant (about 1,800 years old), and the California Tunnel Tree, which you can walk right through.
It’s quiet and shady, a nice break from the busy valley.
Getting There
A seasonal shuttle usually runs from the Mariposa Grove parking area to the trailhead. When it’s not running, you’ll have to walk an extra 2 miles each way. Check the schedule first.
Good for: Families, tree lovers, and anyone who wants something different.
13. Panorama Trail — Best One-Way Hike
Distance: About 8.2 miles one way
Difficulty: Strenuous
Time: 6–8 hours
Start: Glacier Point
The Panorama Trail lives up to its name. It starts at Glacier Point, drops down to Illilouette Fall, climbs back up, and then heads down past Nevada Fall and Vernal Fall into the valley.
Why People Love It
In one day you get big views, granite domes, forest, and three waterfalls. And it’s mostly downhill overall, which helps.
The Catch
It’s one way. You start at Glacier Point and finish in Yosemite Valley. Don’t park at Glacier Point and expect to get back to your car easily. Book a seasonal tour bus to the start, or have someone drop you off.
Good for: Experienced hikers who plan their ride ahead of time.
14. Clouds Rest — Best High-Altitude View
Distance: About 14 miles round trip from Sunrise Lakes Trailhead
Difficulty: Strenuous
Time: Full day (8–10 hours)
Trailhead: Sunrise Lakes Trailhead near Tenaya Lake, Tioga Road
Clouds Rest is actually higher than Half Dome, and it looks right down on it.
The trail goes through forest and over rocky ground before reaching a narrow summit ridge. From the top, you see Half Dome, Tenaya Canyon, and a huge piece of the Sierra Nevada.
Clouds Rest or Half Dome?
Many hikers think Clouds Rest has the better view. And you don’t need a permit or have to climb the cables.
But it’s still a long, tiring day. The final ridge is narrow with steep drops on both sides. Snow, strong wind, or storms make it dangerous.
Who Should Go
Strong hikers who are fine with long miles, high elevation, and some exposure.
Good for: Experienced hikers who want one of the best views in California.
15. Half Dome — Best Bucket-List Hike
Distance: About 14–16+ miles round trip, depending on route
Elevation gain: About 4,800 feet
Difficulty: Very strenuous
Time: 10–14 hours
Trailhead: Happy Isles
Permit: Needed to climb the cables when they’re up (usually late May to mid-October)
Half Dome is the most famous hike in Yosemite. It’s also one of the hardest and most serious.
You start on the Mist Trail, keep climbing past both waterfalls, go up a steep set of stone steps on the Subdome, and then finish with the cables, two steel lines that help you pull yourself up the last 400 feet of smooth granite.
About the Cables
The cable section is steep and scary for many people. You need strong arms, good shoes with grip, and a calm head.
Never go up when it’s wet, stormy, or when thunder is possible. Having a permit doesn’t mean it’s safe that day.
How the Permits Work
During cable season, you need a permit every day of the week. Most day-hike permits are given out in a lottery before the season, plus a smaller daily lottery.
The official NPS Half Dome page has the latest details.
Should Beginners Try It?
Honestly, no. You need to be very fit, well prepared, and willing to turn around if things look bad.
There are plenty of amazing Yosemite hikes without cables or big drops.
Good for: Very experienced, well-prepared hikers with a permit.
8 More Great Yosemite Hikes Worth Knowing
The 15 trails above are the big ones. But if you have extra time, or want to skip the crowds, these are well worth a look.
Bridalveil Fall — Easiest Waterfall Stop
Distance: About 0.5 miles round trip | Difficulty: Easy
This is one of the first things you see when you drive into Yosemite Valley. A short, paved path takes you close to the base of the falls. The path was rebuilt a few years ago, so it’s in great shape. Bridalveil Fall flows all year, though it’s much stronger in spring.
Valley Loop Trail — Best Flat Day in the Valley
Distance: About 13 miles (half loop) or 20 miles (full loop) | Difficulty: Easy terrain, long distance
This trail circles the floor of Yosemite Valley. It’s mostly flat and much quieter than the famous trails. The nice part: you don’t have to do the whole thing. Walk any section you like, then catch the free shuttle back.
Tuolumne Grove — Giant Sequoias Without the Drive South
Distance: 2.5 miles round trip | Elevation: About 500 feet (all on the way back) | Difficulty: Moderate
Short on time and can’t get to Mariposa Grove? Tuolumne Grove is just off Tioga Road near Crane Flat. You walk downhill on an old road to a small grove of giant sequoias, including a fallen tree you can walk through. Save some energy, because the whole walk back is uphill.
Lembert Dome — Best Short Climb in Tuolumne Meadows
Distance: About 2.8 miles round trip | Elevation: About 850 feet | Difficulty: Moderate
Lembert Dome rises right over Tuolumne Meadows. The last part is a walk up bare granite, so wear shoes with good grip. From the top, you look across the meadows to Cathedral Peak and the high Sierra. Add Dog Lake for a longer, easy loop.
May Lake — Best Easy High-Country Lake
Distance: About 2.4 miles round trip | Elevation: About 500 feet | Difficulty: Easy to moderate
May Lake is one of the easiest ways to reach a real alpine lake in Yosemite. The trail is short, and the lake sits right under Mount Hoffmann. Strong hikers can keep going to the top of Mount Hoffmann for one of the best views in the park.
Wapama Falls (Hetch Hetchy) — Best Quiet Waterfall Hike
Distance: About 5 miles round trip | Elevation: Mostly gentle | Difficulty: Moderate
Hetch Hetchy is in the northwest corner of the park and gets far fewer visitors than the valley. The trail crosses O’Shaughnessy Dam, follows the reservoir, and ends at Wapama Falls. In spring, the water can flood the footbridges, so don’t cross when it’s running high. It also gets hot here in summer, so start early.
Chilnualna Falls — Best Waterfall Climb Near Wawona
Distance: About 8.2 miles round trip | Elevation: About 2,400 feet | Difficulty: Strenuous
This trail climbs past a string of cascades near Wawona, in the south part of the park. It’s a good workout and much less crowded than the Mist Trail. It’s best in spring, when the falls are full.
North Dome — Best View of Half Dome’s Face
Distance: About 8.5 miles round trip from Porcupine Creek | Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
North Dome sits right across the valley from Half Dome. From the top, you look straight at its famous flat face. On the way, take the short side path to Indian Arch, a natural rock arch. The trailhead is on Tioga Road, so it’s only open in the warmer months.
Best Yosemite Hikes by Difficulty
Easy Hikes
Great for kids, short visits, or a relaxed day:
- Lower Yosemite Fall
- Cook’s Meadow
- Mirror Lake (to the lake and back)
- Bridalveil Fall
- Big Trees Loop in Mariposa Grove
- May Lake (easy, but at high elevation)
Moderate Hikes
For people happy to walk a few miles with some uphill:
- Taft Point
- Sentinel Dome
- Gaylor Lakes
- Grizzly Giant Loop
- Tuolumne Grove
- Lembert Dome
- Wapama Falls
Check if the road to the trailhead is open before you plan these.
Hard Hikes
For fit, experienced hikers:
- Mist Trail to Nevada Fall
- Four Mile Trail
- Upper Yosemite Fall
- Cathedral Lakes
- Panorama Trail
- Clouds Rest
- Half Dome
Remember: weather, heat, altitude, and snow can make any trail harder than its mileage suggests.
When Is the Best Time to Hike in Yosemite?
Spring (April to June)
Best time for waterfalls. Snowmelt makes Yosemite Falls, Vernal Fall, and Nevada Fall roar. But high trails may still have snow, and Tioga Road and Glacier Point Road may still be closed.
Summer (July to August)
Almost everything is open, including the high country. It’s also the busiest time. Start early, bring extra water, and watch for afternoon thunderstorms up high.
Fall (September to October)
Cooler and quieter. A great time to hike. The catch is that most waterfalls are low or dry, and early snow can close the high roads. Tioga Road and Glacier Point Road usually close for the winter around November, sometimes earlier after a big storm.
Winter (November to March)
The valley is beautiful in snow, but many trails are icy or closed, and the high roads shut down. If you don’t have winter hiking experience, stick to easy valley walks and ask a ranger what’s safe.
One-Day Yosemite Hiking Plan
Only have one day? Stay in Yosemite Valley so you’re not stuck driving.
- Morning: Walk the Lower Yosemite Fall loop.
- Late morning: Stroll Cook’s Meadow for Half Dome and Yosemite Falls views.
- Afternoon: Walk to Mirror Lake, or, if you’re up for a climb, hike to the Vernal Fall Footbridge.
- Evening: Relax at a valley viewpoint and watch the light change on the cliffs.
Two-Day Yosemite Hiking Plan
Day 1: Waterfalls in the Valley
Start early on the Mist Trail to Vernal Fall (if it’s open). In the afternoon, take it easy with Cook’s Meadow or Lower Yosemite Fall. Don’t stack a second hard hike on the same day.
Day 2: Glacier Point Road or the High Country
If Glacier Point Road is open, hike Sentinel Dome and Taft Point. Finish at Glacier Point for the view.
If Tioga Road is open, head up to Tuolumne Meadows and hike Gaylor Lakes or Cathedral Lakes instead.
Don’t try to do Glacier Point, Tuolumne, and a valley hike all in one day. You’ll spend it in the car.
Where to Stay for Hiking in Yosemite
Staying in Yosemite Valley is the easiest choice for the famous valley trails. You’ll skip the long early-morning drive, which matters a lot in summer.
The valley has hotels, cabins, and campgrounds, but they book up fast. Reserve as early as you can.
Outside the valley, look at El Portal, Yosemite West, Wawona, Mariposa, or Groveland. Pick based on which trails you want to hike. A town that looks close on a map can still be an hour or more of mountain driving.
Camping overnight in the backcountry? You’ll need a wilderness permit. Day hikes don’t need a permit, except for Half Dome’s cables.
Getting Around Yosemite
Yosemite is big, and its trailheads are spread out.
- Yosemite Valley: A free shuttle stops at most valley trailheads. Some trailheads, like Happy Isles, have no car parking, so the shuttle is the easiest way in.
- Glacier Point Road: Leads to Taft Point, Sentinel Dome, and Glacier Point. Open seasonally.
- Tioga Road: Leads to Tuolumne Meadows, Cathedral Lakes, Gaylor Lakes, and Clouds Rest. Closed in winter.
- Mariposa Grove: A seasonal shuttle runs from the parking lot to the grove.
See the NPS public transportation page for current schedules.
Yosemite Entrance Fees and Reservations in 2026
Good news first: you don’t need a reservation to drive into Yosemite in 2026. The park dropped its timed-entry system this year. The trade-off is busier parking lots and longer lines at the gates on summer weekends, so arrive early.
What you’ll pay (2026):
- U.S. residents: $35 per car, good for 7 days. A Yosemite annual pass is $70, and the America the Beautiful pass (all national parks) is $80.
- International visitors: $35 per car plus $100 per person aged 16 and older. Or buy the $250 America the Beautiful pass for non-residents, which covers the car with no extra per-person fee.
Some hikes still need their own permits: the Half Dome cables (by lottery) and any overnight backpacking trip (wilderness permit). Normal day hikes don’t need a permit.
What to Pack for a Day Hike in Yosemite
You don’t need fancy gear for most trails, but a few things make a big difference:
- Shoes with good grip. Wet granite on the Mist Trail and the domes is slippery.
- Water and snacks. At least 2 liters for a half-day hike, more in summer.
- A rain layer. It’s useful for the Mist Trail spray and for sudden mountain storms. Here’s our pick of the best waterproof hiking jackets.
- A headlamp, even if you plan to be back before dark. See our budget headlamp picks.
- Trekking poles for the steep downhill on the Four Mile Trail, Upper Yosemite Fall, or Half Dome. These budget trekking poles are a good start.
- Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Much of the high country has little shade.
- An offline map and a charged phone. A small power bank helps on long days.
One thing to leave at home: bear spray. It isn’t allowed in Yosemite. Instead, store your food properly and keep your distance from bears.
Yosemite Hiking Safety Tips
- Start early. You’ll get parking, skip the crowds, and avoid the hottest hours.
- Bring plenty of water. Don’t count on finding any on the trail. If you drink from streams, treat the water first.
- Check conditions. A trail that’s easy in July can be dangerous with snow or ice.
- Stay away from waterfall edges and rivers. The water is stronger and colder than it looks. Never cross barriers.
- Respect wildlife. Store food properly, never feed animals, and give bears and deer plenty of space.
- Download maps. Cell service is spotty or gone in most of the park.
- Pack the basics. Good shoes, a headlamp, a rain layer, a map, extra snacks, and a small first-aid kit. For long or remote hikes, think about a satellite messenger.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Trying to see it all in one day. Yosemite Valley, Glacier Point, Tuolumne Meadows, and Mariposa Grove are far apart. Pick one area per day.
Only looking at miles. A 5-mile hike with 3,000 feet of climbing is much harder than 5 flat miles. Always check the elevation gain.
Forgetting about road closures. Glacier Point Road and Tioga Road are closed for part of the year. Check before you build your plan around them.
Starting a big hike too late. Long hikes need daylight for the climb and the way back. Late starts mean heat, storms, or hiking in the dark. Always carry a headlamp.
Getting too close to the edge. No photo is worth it. Stay back from cliffs and waterfalls.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best hike in Yosemite National Park?
For most people, the Mist Trail to Vernal Fall. If you want something easy, go to Lower Yosemite Fall. For the best view on a short hike, try Sentinel Dome.
What is the best hike in Yosemite for beginners?
Lower Yosemite Fall and Cook’s Meadow. Both are short, flat, and full of classic views.
How many days do you need to hike in Yosemite?
Two to three days lets you hike a few trails without rushing. With one day, you can still see the valley highlights.
Is the Mist Trail hard?
Yes. You climb about 1,000 feet, and the last part is a long set of steep, wet stone steps. Go slow and wear shoes with good grip.
Can you hike Half Dome without a permit?
You can hike the trail toward Half Dome, but you need a permit to climb the cables when they’re up. Without one, you’ll have to stop at the base of the Subdome.
Which Yosemite hikes have the best views?
Sentinel Dome, Taft Point, the Four Mile Trail, Clouds Rest, and Half Dome. They range from easy to very hard, so pick based on your fitness.
What is the easiest waterfall hike in Yosemite?
Lower Yosemite Fall. It’s a flat, mostly paved 1-mile loop.
Is Yosemite good for families?
Yes. Lower Yosemite Fall, Cook’s Meadow, and the short walk to Mirror Lake are great with kids. Older kids who like hiking usually enjoy Sentinel Dome and the Grizzly Giant Loop too.
What is the best month to hike in Yosemite?
May and June for waterfalls. July through September for the high-country trails. October is nice for valley hikes, but the falls are usually low and early snow can close roads.
Do you need a reservation to hike in Yosemite?
No. You don’t need an entry reservation in 2026, but you still pay the entrance fee ($35 per car for U.S. residents). International visitors pay an extra $100 per person aged 16 and older. Half Dome’s cables and overnight backcountry trips need their own permits. Rules can change, so check the NPS website before your trip.
How many hiking trails does Yosemite have?
Yosemite has more than 750 miles of trails. Most visitors stick to Yosemite Valley, Glacier Point Road, and Tioga Road, which is where nearly all the hikes in this guide are.
Can I bring bear spray to Yosemite?
No, bear spray isn’t allowed in Yosemite. Yosemite’s black bears usually run off when people make noise. Store your food in bear boxes or bear-proof containers, and never leave it in your car.
Can I bring my dog on Yosemite trails?
Dogs aren’t allowed on most Yosemite trails. They can go on paved roads, sidewalks, and paved bike paths in Yosemite Valley, as long as they’re on a leash.
What is a good easy hike in Yosemite with a big view?
Sentinel Dome and Taft Point are both about 2 miles round trip and have some of the best views in the park. Glacier Point itself is just a short, paved walk from the parking lot.
Can you hike Yosemite without a car?
Yes, in the valley. The free shuttle reaches most popular trailheads. Getting to Glacier Point or Tuolumne Meadows without a car is harder, so plan around tour buses and shuttle schedules.
Final Thoughts: Which Yosemite Hike Should You Pick?
- First visit and okay with a climb? Mist Trail to Vernal Fall.
- Want something short and easy? Lower Yosemite Fall.
- Want big views without a long day? Sentinel Dome (when Glacier Point Road is open).
- Want quiet lakes and mountains? Cathedral Lakes or Gaylor Lakes in summer.
- Want a real challenge? Clouds Rest, Upper Yosemite Fall, the Four Mile Trail, or Half Dome.
You don’t need to do the hardest trails to fall in love with Yosemite. Pick one that fits you, take your time, and leave room to stop and look around.
Planning a bigger California trip? Sequoia is about a 3–4 hour drive south. See our guide to the best hikes in Sequoia National Park. Heading to the desert? Try the best hikes in Joshua Tree National Park. Or browse all our national park hiking guides.
Before you go, check trail conditions, road closures, weather, and permits on the NPS Yosemite hiking page.