2025 Yosemite Valley Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in July)

The location is excellent, the room is spacious and comfortable. It is very expensive at well over $300 a night, on top of which the staff pushes you to make an optional "donation" which I felt uncomfortable refusing. It was advertised as "book two nights and get one free" in the wintertime, which attracted me to book it, but in the fine print the promotion was not valid for the dates that I chose (Dec 17-19). For the price I wish it at least included breakfast.

Winter starting in yosemite valley, with snow started to pouring the valley it’s a magical view .... #newyearstrip #christmastrip #wintergetaway

Yosemite National Park is a breathtaking jewel where “nature had gathered her choicest treasures,” as poet John Muir famously said. One of the most unforgettable sights is El Capitan, especially when viewed from Tunnel View. This iconic granite monolith towers majestically over Yosemite Valley, a perfect photo spot that captures the grandeur of the park. For active explorers, the Mist Trail is an absolute must. This trail leads you close to the roaring Vernal and Nevada Falls — prepare to get a refreshing spray of mist, hence the name. The hike is invigorating and rewarded by stunning rainbow and waterfall views amid lush greenery. Bridalveil Fall is another highlight. Named because its delicate, flowing waters resemble a bride’s veil fluttering in the wind, the fall is accessible and impressive year-round. Don’t miss the short walk to its base for an up-close experience. The Yosemite Valley Chapel offers a peaceful contrast to the dramatic natural scenery. This historic wooden structure, nestled among towering pines, is a serene spot for reflection. Visiting in late April, I enjoyed amazing weather—the crystal-clear blue sky and mild temperatures made hiking delightful and the landscapes extraordinarily beautiful. Yosemite in spring is truly magical.

Starting early in the morning from San Francisco, we drove for about four hours to reach Yosemite. From the entrance, we were greeted by overwhelming rocky cliffs and endless forest trails. Our first destination was Valley View. The view of El Capitan and Bridalveil Fall framed together across the Merced River was nothing short of cinematic. Next, we headed to the Yosemite Falls lower trail for a short walk. With the abundant water flow of the season, the roaring sound of the waterfall momentarily silenced our conversations, and the refreshing mist brushed against our faces. In the evening, we checked into a lodge within the national park, enjoying the tranquility of the forest and gazing up at a sky full of stars. The noise of the city was nowhere to be found. On the second day, we set out early for Glacier Point. The panoramic view of Half Dome and Yosemite Valley from this spot was so breathtaking that it made us forget all the other sights we had seen. Though brief, this 1-night, 2-day trip allowed us to experience Yosemite's iconic landmarks. It was a humbling moment in the presence of nature's grandeur. 📍Yosemite Valley View → Yosemite Falls → Glacier Point → Half Dome View

#foodandstay Planning your Yosemite trip? Whether you’re into cozy cabins, canvas tents, or hotels with mountain views, here’s your guide to staying in or near this iconic park 👇 🌿 In-Park Stays: Sleep Among the Granite Giants 🏞️ Yosemite Valley (Best for First-Timers) 📍 Close to: Yosemite Falls, El Capitan, Half Dome, trailheads The Ahwahnee – Historic luxury, grand dining room, $$$ Yosemite Valley Lodge – Mid-range, near Yosemite Falls Curry Village (formerly Half Dome Village) – Cabins, tent cabins, and lodge rooms Housekeeping Camp – Rustic open-air units w/ electricity (great for families!) 🏔️ Wawona Area 📍 Near the southern entrance (Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias) Wawona Hotel – Charming Victorian vibes Quieter alternative to the Valley 🌲 High Country (Tuolumne Meadows – Summer Only) 📍 For alpine lakes and fewer crowds Tuolumne Meadows Lodge – Tent cabins, remote, only open ~June–Sept 🛣️ Closed in winter due to Tioga Road snow ⛺ Yosemite Campgrounds (Book Early!) Upper Pines Campground – Most popular in Yosemite Valley North Pines & Lower Pines – Also in the Valley, great for tent or RV Bridalveil Creek, Crane Flat – Quieter options, short drive to main areas 🏘️ Outside the Park: Great Base Towns 🛎️ El Portal, CA (Closest) ✅ Just 10–15 mins from Yosemite Valley 🛏️ Small town with basic hotels like Yosemite View Lodge (great river views) 🏡 Groveland, CA (West Entrance) ✅ Gateway via Big Oak Flat Entrance 🎯 Cute Gold Rush town, good food, fun vibes Try Rush Creek Lodge or Groveland Hotel 🏞️ Oakhurst, CA (South Entrance) ✅ Ideal if visiting Mariposa Grove or combining with Sequoia/Kings Canyon 🛏️ Larger town with restaurants, markets, and hotels 🚘 Lee Vining/Mammoth Lakes (East Side – Summer Only) ✅ Only accessible via Tioga Pass Road (open ~June–Oct) 🌄 Stunning views and fewer crowds Scenic stay for road trippers linking Yosemite to Death Valley or Nevada 🧭 Quick Stay Tips: ✅ Book in-park lodging 6–12 months in advance ✅ Mix it up: one night in the Valley, one night outside for flexibility ✅ Budget traveler? Curry Village tent cabins are affordable + central ✅ Visiting in winter? Yosemite Valley Lodge and Ahwahnee stay open year-round!

Yomesite is a national park where you can truly feel in sync with nature! It feels like stepping into a magical valley surrounded by massive rocks and towering trees, giving off a vibe that's incredibly free and refreshing. It's like entering the realm of giants—the majestic El Capitan resembles a divine stone wall carved by gods, while Bridalveil Fall dances in the wind, turning into mist. The sunrise at Yomesite brings me a peaceful and gradual feeling. Unlike other places where you directly watch the sun rise, I prefer Yomesite's experience of observing the clouds change, the sky brighten, and the valley still shrouded in shadow before the sun appears. 💛

Yosemite is without a doubt the most stunning place I’ve ever been, and I still can’t believe I did it! It’s always been a screensaver on my laptop, but getting to soak in Yosemite Valley in person is something I’ll never forget. It’s quite deep into the park and it can get busy so we headed there as soon as we could, there are days where you need a reservation to entry but we were lucky! Also you might need tyre chains if it’s heavy snow so be prepared! There are quite a few view points along the way but they can get busy / dangerous with people double parking. So wait for the two official view points as there is ample parking and places to sit down and take everything in. It really is an utterly stunning location and a fantastic place for photos, if you’re travelling alone just hang around there are lots of friendly tourists to help you take photos! 📍Address: Tunnel viewpoint for the best view, its features on Apple and Google maps! #landmarks #yosemite #valley #nature #mothernature #wonder

#foodandstay 📍 Address: Yosemite National Park, California, USA We enjoyed a peaceful weekend surrounded by nature, staying in a cozy and spacious room with mountain views. The dining area had a warm, timeless feel — perfect for slow, relaxed meals with the family. Highlights: • Comfortable suite with a calm and elegant setting • Wide food selection with both Western and Asian flavors • Family-friendly service and a relaxing atmosphere throughout Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ #staycation #foodie

#foodandstay Planning your Yosemite adventure? 🌄 Whether you’re craving rustic charm, luxurious comfort, or budget-friendly convenience, these top lodging options have you covered — both inside the park and just beyond its borders. 🏡 INSIDE YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK: 🌟 The Ahwahnee 📍 Yosemite Valley 💎 Yosemite’s crown jewel of lodging — historic, elegant, and steps from iconic sights like Half Dome and Yosemite Falls. Ideal for travelers who love comfort and character. 🌲 Yosemite Valley Lodge 📍 Near Yosemite Falls 🌊 A favorite for families and first-time visitors. Wake up to waterfall views and be close to trailheads like the Mist Trail and Lower Yosemite Fall. ⛺ Curry Village (formerly Half Dome Village) 📍 Yosemite Valley 🛖 Canvas tent cabins + a lively camp vibe. Great for a more affordable stay without losing the Yosemite magic. 🌄 Wawona Hotel 📍 Southern Yosemite, near Mariposa Grove 🎻 Vintage charm meets serene surroundings. Close to the giant sequoias and perfect for those who love quiet, historic settings. 🛶 Housekeeping Camp 📍 Yosemite Valley 🔥 Rustic, riverside units with fire pits and easy access to swimming and picnic areas. A fun in-between for campers and comfort-seekers. 🌄 OUTSIDE THE PARK: 🏘️ Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite 📍 Fish Camp (2 miles from South Entrance) 🌟 Family-friendly luxury with pools, spa, dining, and guided tours. Perfect for a comfy basecamp with access to everything. 🪵 Rush Creek Lodge 📍 Groveland (Highway 120 West Entrance) ✨ Lodge-style rooms, modern cabins, game room, and saltwater pool. A social and scenic mountain escape. 🛏️ AutoCamp Yosemite 📍 Midpines 🚐 Chic Airstreams + luxury tents. Think glamping with a boutique hotel twist. Instagram-worthy and eco-friendly. 🛖 Yosemite Pines RV Resort & Family Lodging 📍 Groveland 🧺 Offers cabins, yurts, and covered wagons! Budget-friendly and full of character — great for families or group travel. 📌 Pro Tips: Book 6–12 months in advance (especially for summer & holidays!) Consider staying just outside the park for better availability + easier parking Bring layers — mountain nights get chilly!

The Yosemite Valley was truly beyond imagination. When I finally stood before El Capitan and Half Dome, which I had only seen in photos, their grandeur took my breath away. The weather was perfect, offering a clear view, and everything—from the sunlight reflecting off the rocks to the river flowing through the valley—blended together flawlessly. While the scenery during the drive was like art, stopping the car midway and walking around was an even more moving experience. Especially the view of Yosemite Valley from Tunnel View Point was absolutely overwhelming, reminding me of how small and humble humans are in the face of nature. Although there were many tourists, the vastness of nature made it hardly noticeable. I believe this is a place everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime. It left such a strong impression on me. Location: Yosemite Valley, California

Visiting Yosemite in the spring was truly a refreshing and unforgettable experience. The waterfalls were in full force, the meadows were coming back to life with vibrant colors, and the crisp mountain air was incredibly rejuvenating. I feel genuinely grateful for the opportunity to witness such natural beauty. From hiking to Lower Yosemite Falls to simply taking in the breathtaking views at Tunnel View, every moment felt like a reminder of how powerful and peaceful nature can be. The park was well-maintained, and the rangers were friendly and helpful, making the visit smooth and enjoyable. I want to express my sincere appreciation to everyone who helps preserve and care for Yosemite. It’s a place that continues to inspire and restore the soul—especially in the gentle warmth of spring.

Sisters, the holiday is coming! Want to visit the US? This 4-day travel guide will help you explore the US! Fresh crabs and clam chowder at Fisherman's Wharf are waiting for you to taste, the natural beauty of Yosemite and Sequoia National Park are waiting for you to capture, and there's also the tranquility of California's Highway 1, the fairy-tale atmosphere of Carmel, and the retro cable cars of San Francisco. Don't miss out! . 🚗 Itinerary: Day 1: San Francisco Cable Car – Palace of Fine Arts – Golden Gate Bridge – Lombard Street – Union Square – Fisherman's Wharf Take a ride on a retro cable car to explore San Francisco and experience the city's charm. Visit the Palace of Fine Arts, take photos at the Golden Gate Bridge, stroll along Lombard Street, and then head to Fisherman's Wharf to enjoy fresh crabs and clam chowder, bringing a perfect end to your first day. Day 2: California Highway 1 – Half Moon Bay State Beach – 17-Mile Drive – Monterey Bay – Pebble Beach – Carmel-by-the-Sea Travel along the tranquil California Highway 1, passing Half Moon Bay State Beach and the magnificent 17-Mile Drive. After Monterey Bay and Pebble Beach, arrive at Carmel-by-the-Sea and experience the dreamy artistic atmosphere. Day 3: Yosemite National Park – Bridalveil Fall – Tunnel View – Yosemite Valley – Yosemite Village – Yosemite Falls Delve into Yosemite National Park, hike to explore Bridalveil Fall, pass through Tunnel View, and experience the grandeur of the valley. Rest in Yosemite Village, and finally admire the spectacular Yosemite Falls, a paradise for photography enthusiasts. Day 4: Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias Head to Mariposa Grove, stroll through Sequoia National Park, and experience the majesty and mystery of the ancient giant sequoias, bringing a perfect end to this trip. 🌲 . Must-see attractions: Fisherman's Wharf ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Address: 505 Beach Street Ste 110, San Francisco, CA 94133 - Opening hours: Open all day - Recommended duration: 2–3 hrs - A one-stop destination for food, shopping, and leisure, where you can also watch leisurely sea lions basking in the sun! Lombard Street ⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Address: San Francisco, California, USA - Opening hours: Open all day - A winding, floral street with different scenery in each season, perfect for taking photos! Golden Gate Bridge ⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Address: Golden Gate Brg, San Francisco, CA, USA - Opening hours: Open all day - Recommended duration: 1–2 hrs - The filming location of the movie "Rise of the Planet of the Apes." Walk on it to feel the bridge's grandeur and shock. California Highway 1 ⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Address: California, USA - Opening hours: Open all day - Recommended duration: 2–3 days - Blue seas, cliffs, and pearl towns—the scenery along the way is like paradise! Palace of Fine Arts ⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Address: 3601 Lyon St, San Francisco, CA 94123, USA - Opening hours: Open Tue–Sun 10:00–17:00 - Recommended duration: 1–2 hrs - An artistic treasure rising from the ruins, experience the wonderful fusion of art and history. . 🎒 Travel essentials: Things to bring when traveling to the US 🌎 📞 First of all, you need to prepare a phone card for easy contact. Don't forget to buy a local US phone plan. 🔌 The plugs in the US are different from those in China, so you need to bring a plug adapter, otherwise how will you charge your phone and camera? 🪪 Documents are the most important thing. You must prepare your passport, visa, and driver's license. You will need to check them when driving in the US. 👕 The temperature in the US in March is moderate but variable, so it is recommended to bring spring and autumn clothes, as well as comfortable shoes, since you will be visiting many places! . Looking forward to your private US tour. For more exciting guides and personal advice, don't forget to follow me!

Yosemite National Park is a national park in the United States. It is a national park in the state of California, United States. It is a large area of ​​about 3,000 square kilometers. It covers the area of ​​Nevada. Yosemite National Park is one of the most beautiful and large tourist attractions in the United States and is a world heritage site. Most of the cliffs are granite. There are many large waterfalls, but in some seasons, there is no water flowing out. The park is a forest with animals. During the off-season, you may encounter bears. You should not approach them. 🗓️ Travel planning: You should have a private car to drive. There are accommodations in the park, but they fill up quickly. #california #yosemitenationalpark #travelamerica #visitnationalparks #travelabroad #navada #nationalpark #hiking #trekking #hiking #Get a discount without relying on luck

#JapanFlightEvent The Bridalveil Falls I saw in Yosemite were really amazing! The water falls in white, creating mist around it, and a rainbow blooming inside it was beautiful, like a scene from a movie. It was really peaceful, and when I stood in front of the falls, the cool water droplets touched my face, making me feel good. I didn't know that Yosemite's nature could be this special and touching. It was a place I really wanted to go back to!

#JapanFlightEvent Yosemite in January was a place where you could feel the grandeur of the waterfall and the calm atmosphere unique to winter. In particular, the frozen water from the waterfall was impressive. If you were lucky, you could see a rainbow depending on the angle of the sunlight, and the scene was so beautiful that I think I will remember it for a long time. Although it was cold, it was a special trip because you could feel the wonders of nature up close.

#JapanFlightEvent Because there were so many people in Yosemite, I changed seats several times to take pictures. It wasn't easy to find a good spot in front of waterfalls and famous spots because there were so many people, but it felt good to see so many people feeling the beauty of nature. I tried to capture my own special moments by taking pictures from various angles, and I was able to get great pictures in the end. Even in the midst of the crowds, the pictures with the grandeur of nature were that meaningful.

#JapanFlightEvent It was a really fun and special time to play a photo game with my boyfriend in the nature of Yosemite. I really enjoyed the time we spent laughing and chatting while taking various poses in front of the waterfall, between the trees, and with the beautiful scenery as the background. It was even more meaningful because I could capture the moment with the beauty of nature. Every time we took a photo, the sound of each other's laughter filled the air, and those memories piled up one by one, making it feel even more precious.

#JapanFlightEvent The moment I saw the waterfall with the clear air in Yosemite was really special. The cold air felt refreshing, and the sound of the water falling from the waterfall lingered in my ears, and I felt so good. I felt the purity of nature as it was, and my mind was at ease as I took a deep breath there. The magnificence of the waterfall and the clear, blue sky were really beautiful. I thought I was really lucky to be able to fully experience that moment.

#JapanAirlineEvent When I visited Yosemite on a clear day, I was completely overwhelmed by the magnificence of nature. Under the blue sky, granite cliffs and green forests stretched endlessly, and the clean air made me feel refreshed. El Capitan and Half Dome were especially amazing when I saw them in person.

Located in California, USA, Yosemite National Park is a natural wonder that preserves the awe-inspiring beauty of nature. This place offers unforgettable experiences to visitors with its majestic granite cliffs, waterfalls, clear lakes, and serene forests. Yosemite has a unique charm in every season, ensuring special memories no matter when you visit. One of the most famous landmarks, El Capitan, is the world's tallest vertical rock face and a mecca for rock climbers. This massive granite rock is a marvel in itself and offers particularly stunning views at sunrise and sunset. Half Dome is another iconic landmark of Yosemite, offering breathtaking panoramic views from its summit, accessible via hiking trails. Yosemite National Park is also renowned for its numerous waterfalls. Among them, Yosemite Falls stands out as the tallest waterfall in North America, especially spectacular in spring when the snow melts and the water flow increases. Other beautiful waterfalls like Bridalveil Fall and Nevada Fall make it an ideal spot for hiking and photography enthusiasts. The natural beauty of this place is more than enough to admire, but it can be experienced more richly through various outdoor activities. Hiking, camping, biking, and rock climbing are all possible here, each revealing a different aspect of Yosemite. Hiking in Yosemite Valley, in particular, is a popular route where you can feel close to the forests, rocks, and waterfalls. Yosemite National Park also boasts a rich ecosystem. You can observe a variety of flora and fauna, experiencing a sense of healing through communion with nature. It is a place where you can encounter diverse wildlife, enjoy walks among beautiful flowers and trees, and escape the noise of the city to listen to the sounds of nature. Yosemite is not just a travel destination but a special place that offers an experience of becoming one with nature. A day here will remain a precious memory in your life, making you want to return. Let's fall in love with the beauty and wonder of Yosemite, a natural paradise.

#familytrips2024 Yosemite Falls is one of the most gorgeous falls in the United States. Stunning National Park , awesome to see climbers up so high and even putting up their tent to sleep in !!! Never have I seen that with my naked eye , it was incredible!!! We were here during the drought period so there wasn’t water coming over the falls. We would love to go back another time. It’s a beautiful place. Our dream destination is to go to Hong Kong for my family trip as Hong Kong is paradise for food lovers, offering a wide variety of culinary delights. My family will enjoy it very much.

A good place to enjoy autumn in California | Autumn Route in Yosemite National Park Autumn in Yosemite is a signal of the change of seasons. The weather is getting cooler, the grass is turning yellow, and the best place to enjoy autumn in California is Yosemite. In autumn, walk into the mountain scenery and quiet lakes of Yosemite, hike in the park to breathe oxygen, and see the redwood forest full of the park. Guide to Autumn in the Park" The climate is very comfortable when traveling to Yosemite in autumn, but the temperature difference is large. Admission: $35/car Recommended scenic spots for enjoying autumn in the park" Viewing spot: Tunnel View As a famous viewing spot in the park, it is a must-go when visiting in autumn. You can overlook El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall and Half Dome. The view is spectacular and suitable for distant views. Bridal Veil Falls:Bridalveil Fall There are scenic spots with waterfalls all year round, and you can also see the waterfall landscape in autumn. The dense garden landscape turns into rapid water. It is shocking whether you look at it from a distance or up close. Yosemite Falls:Yosemite Falls The waterfall landscape can be viewed from the plank road. There are still waterfalls in autumn. The grass and some trees have turned yellow. You can hike to the Lower Yosemite Fall Trail to see and photograph the waterfalls up close and have a better view. There is an Internet celebrity church next to the Sentinel Bridge. |El Capitan:EICapitan As the largest single granite in the world, its scenery is stunning no matter what season you visit. In autumn, the golden color under the rocks adds a sense of mystery. Viewpoint: Yosemite Valley View It has an excellent perspective of the autumn scenery in the park. The streams and woods nearby and the granite mountains in the distance give people a feeling of being there year after year. It is the most worth exploring attraction in Yosemite. Overlooking the scenery in the park, you can climb up and look far away. Closed for a while, it is now open, but the road is only open from the end of May to October/November Yosemite two-day itinerary" Day1: San Francisco → Tunnel View → Bridal Veil Falls → EI Capitan → Half Dome → Yosemite Valley View → Yosemite Falls Day2: Yosemite → Glacier Point → Mariposa Valley Giant Sequoia → San Francisco San Francisco to Yosemite two-day private tour california autumn

Travel Guide | Yosemite Fire Falls Yosemite Fire Falls attracts thousands of people every year. The reason is that the formation of this natural wonder requires the right time, place and people. Only for about two weeks in February every year, the angle of the setting sun shines just right on the Horsetail Falls of El Capitan, and each sunset has only a time window of about ten minutes. At this time, the Horsetail Waterfall must have sufficient water, the sky must be cloudless to block the sunlight, there must be a little wind to blow away the Horsetail Waterfall, and the golden color of the sunset will create a feeling that flames are leaking from the top of the mountain. Date: 2022-02-10 to 02-28. The time is similar every year. Location 1: EI Capital Picnic area (many photographers have already set up their telephoto lenses here). It would be better if you bring a telephoto lens (200mm or above) or a telescope here. Parking: No reservations are required for the park this year. You can park at Yosemite Falls parking and walk 1.5 miles to EI Capitan Picnic Area. If the parking lot is full, you can also park at Yosemite Village or Curry Village and take the free shuttle Location 2: Four Mile trails. Actually, this trail is closed in winter, but because the firefall is so hot, people don’t care and just walk through the entrance through the snow. There are relatively fewer people there, so it takes some physical strength to climb up, and you should climb up at least 3 or 4 hours in advance. After passing a few zigzag turns, you will reach a relatively open area. Along the way, you can see that many people have already set up their equipment. Offtrail has some good vantage points for an overview of the entire valley and to see the Fire Falls. Since the view of Mawei Falls from this location will be blocked by El Capitan, try to stay south when looking for a camera position. When climbing off trail, do it within your ability and safety first.

I took Amtrak and YARTS to Yosemite, departing from the sign in the photo to the right of Merced Station. This time, the bus arrived two hours late. Other people said that there was information about delays on the YARTS app or website or something. . I was waiting with a lot of people so I didn't check, but if you're worried, I think you can look for information.

Bridal Veil is a thin ribbon of water that only flows heavily during the winter and early spring runoff. For much of the year there is not much there. The walk to the base of the falls is very short so it is easy to get to although for a really great view, I recommend the short hike up Old Big Oak Flat Road. Cross the first two small slide areas and you will be rewarded with an amazing view of the falls, El Capitan, Half Dome and many other Valley landmarks.

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Yosemite National Park's breathtaking landscapes. With waterfalls, meadows, and stunning viewpoints like Tunnel View and Glacier Point, Yosemite's beauty is now more accessible than ever. 🏞️🌄 #YosemiteExploration #NaturalWonders

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