Yosemite Hikes – 5 Best Trails And Treks (With Videos) 

Yosemite National Park is a World Heritage Site and attracts over 4 million visitors every year. Most visitors spend a majority of their time in Yosemite Valley, which leads to the Tunnel View entrance. This is the beginning of most hiking trails that lead to higher elevations and stellar views. 

Topography

Four million years ago, the Sierra Nevada Mountains were uplifted becoming the range it is today. Yosemite is now filled with mountains made of granite rock and steep cliffs. This leaves a wide range of elevations and climates.

El Capitan is an example of a dramatic rock formation located on the North side of the valley. The highest point reaches 7,573ft, making the face of El Capitan an epic playground for rock climbers and base jumpers.

For those who prefer a less daunting experience, El Capitan can be hiked by taking the Yosemite Falls route and heading west.   

Wildlife and Plants

With the diverse levels of elevations and climates, Yosemite is home to over 7,000 plant species and 400 animal species.

The area is known for hundreds of species, but it wouldn’t be as special without its giant sequoias and black bears. 

For the protection of plants and animals, the park is 95% designated wilderness, which prevents visitors from entering certain areas in the park.

May through October when climbing cables are in place. Although, if you are looking to see waterfalls at their best, consider visiting earlier in the year.

Route Description

You can reach the scenic Half Dome through the Mist Trail. This is via Yosemite’s most famous rock face. While on the Mist trail, you’ll come across two waterfalls, the Vernal Falls and Nevada Falls. You will continue through little Yosemite Valley until you reach the sub dome. You will then use the cables to go up the steep 400ft portion of the hike.

If you are uncomfortable with heights and some mountaineering skills, this portion to reach the top will be challenging. This hike is versatile, as you do not need to go all the way to the top, making it suitable for all levels, although it is not recommended for families. Keep in mind that this trail can get very crowded so the park requires you to purchase a permit beforehand to prevent this.

Accommodation

The Majestic Yosemite Hotel, Half Dome Village, Yosemite Valley Lodge, Little Yosemite Valley Campground 

Half Dome Trail Top Tips

• Take Yosemite’s public transit bus (YARTS) to avoid busy parking lots and traffic.
• Check the weather before beginning your journey. When using the cables, bad weather can make you climb extremely dangerous.
• Book your permits with Yosemite National Park ahead of time.
• Pack a rain jacket and put electronics away, the falls make the trail misty and wet. This calls for hiking boots with excellent traction as well.
• The views at the top of Half Dome are spectacular and you will want to stick around so pack a picnic.

Watch this informative video by the Amazing Places on Our Planet.

National Park Association, also provides a good overview of the Half Dome Trail hike.

Route Description

Begin your journey up the Four Mile Trail at Sentinel Rock and reach the finish line at Glacier Point Visitor Center. After 1 mile, you’ll already be stunned with picturesque views of Yosemite Falls, Sentinel Dome, El Capitan, and Half Dome.

During the summer you’ll be able to treat yourself to a tasty reward at the snack stand at the end. This hike could be altered to be shorter or longer depending on your preference.

You could either stop at Glacier Point or continue your journey onto the Panorama Trail and then the Happy Isles Trailhead, adding an additional 8.5 miles to your hike.

Accommodation

The Majestic Yosemite Hotel, Yosemite Valley Lodge, Little Yosemite Valley Campground

Yosemite Mile Hike Tips

• Begin your hike early, it can become very hot mid-day. This means you will also need plenty of water, 2-4 quarts depending if you take the shorter or longer route. There is no drinking water available unless the Glacier Point Snack stand is open (late May to Mid October).
• Utilize the El Capitan or Valley Visitor Shuttle to get to Four Mile. If you are only hiking to Glacier Point, make sure your transportation is booked ahead of time. There is no free shuttle from Glacier Point to Yosemite Valley.
• Pets, bicycles, and strollers are prohibited.
• This trail is only partially paved: ensure you are wearing proper hiking shoes as sprained ankles are common.

Route Description

One of the oldest historic trails leading to North America’s tallest waterfall, Yosemite Falls. The trail to Columbia Rock begins along the Valley Loop Trail, with an immediate climb. Once you are above the trees, you will experience stunning views of the valley.

It is completely worth hiking an additional 0.5 miles to get a view of Yosemite Falls but it is also worth hiking to the top to be right next to Yosemite Falls.

The falls are majestic and you will be in awe of the size, considering a small creek is feeding it. From the top of the falls, you could extend your hike to Yosemite Point (adds 1.6 miles) or Eagle Peak (adds 5.8 miles).

Accommodation

Yosemite Lodge at the Falls, Yosemite Valley Lodge, The Majestic Yosemite Hotel, Upper Pines Campground

Yosemite Falls Hike Tips

• Take care of yourself and know your limits. Begin your hike early to beat the heat and drink plenty of water. 
• Wear sturdy hiking boots and stay on the trail.
• Do not swim in the creek and proceed with caution near the creek. This leads directly into a waterfall and can be dangerous
• There are two shuttles available, the Valley Visitor and El Capitan Shuttle.

Route Description

This hike offers the best of Yosemite. It combines two of Yosemite’s most iconic hikes, Glacier Point and Mist trail. Your journey will begin along the Mist Trail to the Vernal and Nevada Falls. From here, you will follow the John Muir Trail to the Panorama Trail.

You will see stunning views of the Half Dome. While crossing Illilouette Falls and several switchbacks, you will be presented with wonderful views of Yosemite Falls. 8.5 miles later, you will reach Glacier Point.

Accommodation

The Majestic Yosemite Hotel, Yosemite Valley Lodge, North Pines Campground

Yosemite Panorama Trail Hike Tips

• Take the shuttle to avoid the additional 3-mile walk to your car.
• Most of this hike is downhill but Mist Trail can be harsh on the knees. If you are looking to avoid this, take the Muir trail instead.
• Don’t miss the short trail (1 meter) to Panorama Point. It is unmarked and often skipped but has the most amazing views of Glacier Point, the Royal Arches, and North Dome. 
• If you stay at the Yosemite Lodge, there is a bus that will take you to the trailhead.