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North America Tours Yosemite National Park

Best Things to Do in Yosemite National Park

Iconic Attractions & Hidden Gem Travel Experiences

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite, located in central California, is an amazing natural spectacle of giant rock formations, tumbling waterfalls, and high-altitude meadows laced with hiking trails both easy and challenging. The park's most iconic rock formation, Half Dome, draws serious hikers, while the sheer granite cliff known as El Capitan beckons extremely serious rock climbers. Most visitors are content to hike to waterfalls, set up camp or stay in lodges, and enjoy long-range views of Half Dome by day and night. Yosemite does get very crowded in summer, so an organized tour can both secure lodging and help you get off the beaten path.

Top Yosemite National Park Experiences

  • Hiking Half Dome
  • Seeing spectacular Fall colors, or the intense greenery of Spring
  • Marveling at the many rushing waterfalls, such as Vernal Falls, Bridal Falls, and Yosemite Falls
  • Taking a mountain climbing class
  • Enjoying a meal at the acclaimed Majestic Lodge, which has entertained guests since 1927
  • Seeing the same views that inspired Ansel Adams

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Things to do in Yosemite National Park - Expert’s guide

1. Half Dome

Half Dome in Yosemite

Perhaps Yosemite's most recognizable feature, Half Dome is a  granite rock formation, rising over 4,500 ft from the valley floor. Known for its imposing presence over the park, Half Dome was a frequent fixture in Ansel Adams photographs and it’s sheer rock face attracts adrenaline seeking rock climbers from around the world.

If you’re not in the challenging and dangerous rock-climbing mood, hiking Half Dome is another popular way to experience this incredible geological formation. You do need a permit to hike, and a maximum of 300 hikers are permitted on the trail per day. Lotteries for permits are held regularly. 

2. Yosemite Falls

Yosemite falls

The many beautiful waterfalls in Yosemite are another major draw for travelers. Yosemite Falls is the tallest waterfall in North American and as such can be seen from several vantage points around the park. Pictures cannot do the thundering steam justice!

There are in fact three sections of Yosemite Falls: the upper section which comes from Yosemite Creek, the Middle Cascades which are the most difficult to see from any vantage point, and the lower falls which flows into the Merced River. One of Yosemite's more popular hikes is the 7 mile Yosemite Falls trail. 

3. Tunnel View Outlook

Tunnel View Overlook in Yosemite National Park

A classic scenic view of Yosemite from one of the overlooks off State Highway 41. Ansel Adams frequently shot this view so it’s a must for photographers and first time visitors. Perfect for young ones as there is no hiking required to take in the amazing sight which includes Half Dome, El Capitan, and Bridalveil Falls.  

4. Hiking & Rock Climbing

Hiking in Yosemite

Hikers and rock-climbers will be in heaven in Yosemite. There are multiple day hikes to choose from in varying degrees of difficulty and length. Multi-day options are also available for you backpackers and campers! Rock climbing in Yosemite is a bucket list item for people who scale mountains, but it can be dangerous so be sure you have all the right equipment and are prepared for the risks. 

5. Wildlife Viewing

Mule Deer in Yosemite National Park

Yosemite's wildlife is a huge draw year round! From the mule deer that hang out on the trails (unfortunately they’ve become quite used to human presence), to the far more elusive red foxes or black bears. Other animals you may spot include mountain lions and Sierra Nevada bighorn sheep which had faced extinction but after careful monitoring are now thriving once again.

Birdwatchers can look forward to spotting 260+ species throughout the park - there are regular birding outings lead by experts so be sure to sign up and get some professional photo tips!  

6. Camping in Yosemite Valley

Camping in Yosemite National Park

Camping in Yosemite Valley is available most of the year, other than winter. Certain campsites opening and closing seasons vary year to year, so it’s advisable to check the official National Parks website before making your camping arrangements.

There are four campsites in Yosemite Valley proper, and others situated north or south of Yosemite Valley. It is recommended to have a reservation however if you’re willing to risk it you can try to slide in at a first come first serve basis.

7. Photography

Photography guided hike in Yosemite National Park

Calling all photographers! Come to the place that inspired the famous black and white Ansel Adams landscape shots. There is no shortage of spectacular scenery in Yosemite. Everyone from hobby and ametuer photographers to professionals can find a way to bring their own style to the beauty of Yosemite. 

8. Dinner at the historic Ahwahnee Hotel

Historic Ahwahnee lodge in Yosemite National Park

The Ahwahnee was built in 1927 and has maintained a legacy of 1920’s elegance throughout the years. Originally built to attract the upper crest of society, the hotel is a classic throwback lodge that’s open year round.

If you don’t want to stay at the hotel, visiting for a meal is highly recommended for the impressive dining room and delicious food. It’s well located within a short distance to many key Yosemite sites and hikes.

9. Tuolumne Meadows and Tioga Road

Driving on Tioga Road through Yosemite National Park

Driving through? Try to hit the Tioga Road for some wonderful views of Yosemite’s sprawling and beautiful meadows. The Tioga Road is 47 miles long and a perfect day drive during your stay in Yosemite or if you’re just passing through. Do take note that due to weather conditions the Tioga Road is only open between late May and early June to October or November.

10. Ansel Adams Gallery 

First time visitors to Yosemite should not miss the Ansel Adams gallery, located in the Yosemite Valley near the visitor center. It’s the perfect place to view his famous photographs as well as some lesser known work. Get inspired with your own camera whether it be a smart phone or a DSLR!

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Yosemite National Park Tours Reviews & Ratings

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Trusted Customer
·
2023-11-01
Written on
Western USA National Parks Explorer
Trusted Customer
·
2023-10-31
Written on
Western USA National Parks Explorer
Good tour but office functions not up to previous standards. Need final instructions in a more timely fashion.
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Lynn
·
2023-06-08
Written on
Western USA National Parks Explorer
Highlights Grand Canyon, Zion, Bryce Canyon.
Disappointing hotel in San Francisco left memories of that destination tainted.
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Trusted Customer
·
2023-06-02
Written on
Northern California by Trafalgar
Northern California
San Francisco napa Yosemite and redwoods were great spots.
Michalene Lewis
·
2023-05-26
Written on
Northern California by Trafalgar
Northern California
. We started in San Fransico and visited the Golden Gate Bridge which we walked, we visited Alcatraz also the Golden Gate Park’s, it was a clear day and we visited the highest point in the mountains overlooking the city,. We visited a winery and an agricultural area. We traveled to Lake Tahoe and took an dinner cruise; saw the Yosemite valley and walked through a flooded walkway before turning back. Walked under the falls and enjoyed it all.. saw the Redwoods and the golf courses of Peeble Beach.
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Donald Milano
·
2023-05-26
Written on
Northern California by Trafalgar
Northern California
The itinerary was excellent, what got to see all the key points and attractions.

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