To recline on fine golden sand or explore scenic pine-scented forests? To discover colorful coral reefs or hike through lush tropical peaks? Sometimes, it’s hard to choose between the beach and the mountains for a vacation, but there is another way. We searched high and low for destinations that offer the best of both worlds. Below, check out our list of spots where you can swim in the ocean and hike a mountain on the same day.

Additional reporting by Megan Johnson

1. Majorca, Spain

Set in the Spanish Mediterranean, Majorca, the largest of the Balearic Islands, is well known for its abundance of gorgeous beaches — a total of 262 lining the picturesque coastline. However, Majorca is also blessed with the Serra de Tramuntana, a majestic mountain range that spans the length of the northern side of the island. A mecca for hikers and cyclists, this mountain range features mile upon mile of pine forests, trails, and winding mountain roads, which are particularly popular with professional bikers training for the Tour de France. It has also been awarded World Heritage status by UNESCO, and is littered with charming villages where you can stop, refuel, and enjoy the spectacular views.

Where to Stay: Son Brull Hotel & Spa 

This hotel, located in a fully restored 18th–century monastery, offers historic accommodations with modern conveniences. There is an on-site restaurant and spa, all within the stunning backdrop of the mountains and beach. Choose from a variety of rooms, ranging from superior to suites with terraces.

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2. St. Lucia

With its volcanic twin peaks — Petit Piton and Gros Piton — the Caribbean island of St. Lucia is one of the best places to combine a beach and mountain vacation. Walkers can navigate the elevated interior via numerous hiking trails that cut through thick forests teeming with tropical flora, fauna, and the occasional dramatic waterfall. Golden in the north and mostly silvery in the more volcanic south, the beaches here are typically fringed with palm trees and boast a jungle backdrop. That’s to say nothing of the crystal clear Caribbean water, which is perfect for exploring the island’s coral reefs.

Where to Stay: Jade Mountain Resort

This adults-only resort offers everything you need for the perfect St. Lucia getaway. Not only will you have stunning views, but every room has its own infinity pool. The sky deck is perfect for star gazing as well as taking in the vivid scenery surrounding the resort. Enjoy amenities like daily yoga, whirlpool tubs, and organic food- you won’t want to leave. The rooms are referred to as “sanctuaries”- and for good reason. Every room has its own unique design – all offering gorgeous views and the ultimate relaxation. 

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3. Oahu, Hawaii

While visiting the Hawaiian island of Oahu, you won’t find yourself short on beaches for sunbathing, snorkeling, and surfing. The latter can be enjoyed in a number of spots, from Honolulu’s world famous Waikiki Beach to the more rugged, almost deserted stretches of sand on the west coast, where the turtles still outnumber the tourists. Travelers who prefer peaks to the Pacific are also in luck. A popular trek to higher ground is up the Koko Crater Trail — there over a thousand steps, but the views are worth the effort. Also worth a visit is the Honolulu Watershed Forest Reserve, which is part of the island’s Koolau mountain range, with hiking trails that lead to the legendary 150-foot Manoa Falls.

Where to Stay: The Kahala Hotel & Resort

Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the rest of the island, the Kahala Hotel and Resort is a luxury beachfront property known for its impeccable service and stunning views. The resort offers a variety of room types, including oceanfront suites, bungalows, and villas, all designed to provide guests with a comfortable and relaxing stay. Guests can enjoy swimming in one of the resort’s multiple pools, golfing on the championship golf course, or relaxing on the beach.

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4. Makarska, Croatia

The port town of Makarska is located on Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast — roughly halfway between the busier tourist hubs of Split and Dubrovnik. The town sits along what has been dubbed the Makarska Riviera, thanks to its many lovely pebble beaches that stretch for 38 miles along the Adriatic coastline. But it’s the dramatic rocky backdrop of Mount Biokovo that really steals the show. The mountain range provides a wealth of well-marked hiking and biking trails across its sea-facing slopes, and acts as a buffer from the harsher inland climate, making for more beach-friendly weather. This is especially useful given that many of the beaches are clothing-optional.

Where to Stay: Hotel Osejava 

Nestled in Makarska, Croatia, Hotel Osejava is a boutique hotel boasting a beautiful harbor location. This intimate hotel offers stunning sea views and a relaxed atmosphere. Room options include double or twin rooms with partial sea views and suites with sofa beds and full sea views. Some rooms include private saunas. There is an on-site restaurant with outdoor seating.

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5. Sabah, Borneo

Borneo is the world’s third-largest island, and the state of Sabah is home to Mount Kinabalu, Malaysia‘s highest peak, at over 13,000 feet. Sabah is one of only two Malaysian states on the island. Although relatively small, it packs a lot in, including incredible beaches, coral reefs, ancient rainforests, and Mount Kinabalu. Spend time lounging on remote and unspoiled beaches on the northern tip, diving off tiny uninhabited islands, taking boat trips down the river to witness native proboscis monkeys, trekking through the jungle to see orangutans, or climbing the peak of the mystical mountain.

Where to Stay: Hyatt Regency Kinabalu 

Located in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia, Hyatt Regency Kinabalu is a luxurious hotel offering breathtaking views of the South China Sea or Mount Kinabalu. Guests can unwind in spacious rooms and suites, some featuring access to an exclusive Regency Club lounge. Beyond the rooms, amenities include a rooftop infinity pool, a pampering spa, and delicious international cuisine at the hotel’s various restaurants.

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6. Harris, Scotland

Scotland is known for its mountainous Highlands, but believe it or not, it’s also home to some spectacular beaches — often with white sand, turquoise water, and even a palm tree here and there. It goes without saying that decent weather is far from guaranteed, even in the height of summer, but beaches are not just for sunbathing. This small country also has nearly 300 Munros — mountains over 3,000 feet. Some hikers aim to tick off the whole list, including Ben Nevis, the tallest mountain in the U.K. 

Backed by dunes and wildflowers, the Isle of Harris is home to breathtaking beaches and the highest mountain in the Outer Hebrides. If you catch the ferry to Harris from the Isle of Skye, you can mark off a dozen of the island’s aforementioned Munros.

Where to Stay: Uig Hotel

Located on the Isle of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides of Scotland, Uig Hotel is a family-run establishment boasting a traditional atmosphere and stunning coastal views. Rooms include comfortable twin rooms with en suite bathrooms, perfect for couples or solo travelers. They also feature family rooms that can accommodate up to 5 guests, ideal for larger families or groups. There is an on-site seafood restaurant, and a bar perfect for guests to unwind and enjoy the views.

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7. Lofoten Islands, Norway

Norway may not be the first place you think of for a beach vacation, but the Lofoten Islands are known for their dramatic scenery, with jagged mountains, fjords, and beaches. It’s especially amazing to visit in the summer, when you can experience the midnight sun—when the sun does not set below the horizon, creating a magical atmosphere and allowing visitors to spend long days exploring the islands. 

The mountains jutting out from the sea create a stunning landscape. While dramatic, they are not overly tall (the highest in Lofoten is 3800 feet tall), making them perfect for hiking, as less experienced hikers can easily reach their peak. The Lofoten Islands are also a world-renowned rock climbing destination. The granite rock faces are known for their excellent quality and offer a variety of climbing routes for all skill levels.

The stunning beaches aren’t exactly sunbathing hot spots (the islands are north of the Arctic Circle). Still, they are beautiful nonetheless and make for an ideal backdrop for walks, kayaking, paddle boarding, or simply taking in the breathtaking scenery. 

Due to it’s northern location, summer is the best time to visit- it will still be pretty chilly but pleasant. 

Where to Stay: Reine Rorbuer

Perched amidst the dramatic scenery of Lofoten, Reine Rorbuer offers a unique stay in traditional Norwegian fishermen’s cabins, also known as rorbuer. Choose from cozy rorbuer cabins overlooking the water, perfect for couples or solo travelers. For larger groups or families, opt for the larger ‘brygge’ houses that can accommodate up to 10 guests.

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8. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Famous for its beaches, mountains, and, of course, the Christ the Redeemer statue, Rio de Janeiro is the perfect mix for your mountain/beach vacation. You can relax on the beaches of Copacabana or Ipanema or take a hike in Tijuca National Park, the largest urban forest in the world. 

The mountains in Rio are actually an extension of the Serra do Mar, a much larger mountain range running parallel to the Brazilian coast. The most recognizable peaks are Sugarloaf Mountain (Pão de Açúcar) and Corcovado Mountain (home to the Christ the Redeemer statue). Other peaks, like Tijuca Peak, Pedra da Gávea, and Pico dos Dois Irmãos (Peak of the Two Brothers), also offer stunning views and hiking opportunities. 

Hikers of all skill levels can find trails in the Rio Mountains. There’s something for everyone, from gentle paths with beautiful viewpoints to challenging climbs to the peaks. For adrenaline junkies, the granite peaks of Rio offer some excellent rock climbing opportunities. With varying difficulty levels, you can find challenging climbs or practice your skills on more moderate routes. Hiking or rock climbing not for you? You can still experience the wondrous views the mountain peaks have to offer thanks to a thrilling cable car ride on Sugarloaf Mountain that takes you up the mountainside, offering stunning views of the city and Guanabara Bay.

Encompassing a large portion of the mountains near Rio, Tijuca National Park is the largest urban forest in the world. This park is a haven for lush Atlantic rainforest, teeming with diverse plant and animal life. Hiking through the park allows you to experience this rich biodiversity firsthand.

The most famous beach in Rio, Copacabana, is a vast stretch of golden sand backed by the iconic promenade lined with black and white patterned tiles. Here, you can soak up the sun, people-watch, play beach volleyball, or sip on refreshing drinks from beach vendors. Neighboring Copacabana, Ipanema, offers a more sophisticated vibe. The beach is known for its trendy crowd, upscale bars and restaurants, and the iconic Ipanema Girl statue. Relax on the sand, try surfing, or join a beachside game of footvolley (a mix of soccer and volleyball). 

Where to Stay: Copacabana Palace

Facing Rio’s iconic Copacabana beach, the Copacabana Palace, a Belmond Hotel, is a luxurious Art Deco landmark since 1923. This legendary hotel offers 243 rooms and suites, some with ocean views, and boasts Michelin-starred dining, a spa, and an outdoor pool. A haven of tranquility steps from Rio’s vibrant energy, it’s also a place steeped in history and glamour.

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9. Queenstown, New Zealand

While not on the ocean, Queenstown is a lake resort town on the southern tip of New Zealand’s South Island, the mountains on one side and Lake Wakatipu on the other creat beautiful scenery. 

The most prominent mountains around Queenstown are the Remarkables, offering skiing, hiking, and for those thrill-seekers, bungee jumping. Known as the “adventure capital of the world,” it’s no wonder bungee jumping is a prominent activity. The Kawarau Bridge Jump is a particularly popular bungee jumping spot. For those looking for something a bit calmer, the Queenstown Gondola is an exciting activity offering fantastic views, without having to take your feet off the ground.  

The lake beaches of Queenstown offer a refreshing fresh water dip on hot summer days, a place to relax, a spot for water sports- all with the backdrop of snowcapped mountains. For sport enthusiasts, kayaking and paddleboarding are popular activities along the shore. 

Where to Stay: The Rees Hotel and Luxury Apartments

Queenstown, New Zealand’s Rees Hotel and Luxury Apartments is a sophisticated escape on Lake Wakatipu’s shores. This 5-star property offers a variety of luxurious accommodations, from standard hotel rooms to multi-bedroom lakeside residences, all showcasing breathtaking lake and mountain views. Guests can expect exceptional service, a relaxing atmosphere, and easy access to Queenstown’s adventure activities and local charm.

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While every one of the below properties offers a wide array of amenities to choose from plus plenty of perks, including on-site nightlife, private beaches, and spa offerings, to name a few — a handful of them are also members of the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association (IGLTA) which indicates their support to the LGBTQ+ community. 

You’ll also notice that some are adults-only, while others are more family-friendly. Regardless of which property you choose, you can expect a warm, inclusive environment, plus welcoming staff members. 

Read on for a few of our favorite LGBTQ-friendly hotels from around the world. 

Additional reporting by Megan Johnson

Hilton La Romana, Dominican Republic

Nestled along the pristine beaches of La Romana — which is more secluded than the tourist-heavy destination of Punta Cana —  this adults-only all-inclusive escape offers something for foodies, wellness seekers, and beach bums alike. On-site, guests can enjoy 11 restaurants, eight bars and restaurants, and a sprawling 21,000-square-foot-spa. Other offerings include a casino, disco, and four pools. Each of the rooms feature private balconies or terraces. During the day (that is, when you’re not relaxing by the pool, beach, or spa), go windsurfing, take merengue lessons, or embark on a snorkeling excursion and spot tropical fish. Reviewers rave about the hospitable service and warm, welcoming staff. Hilton is also a member of the IGLTA.

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Planet Hollywood Adult Scene, Mexico

Planet Hollywood Adult Scene, another proud member of the IGLTA, is set in scenic Costa Mujeres. The all-suite, adults-only hotel offers spacious accommodations equipped with private balconies. In-room amenities include plush bathrobes, ultra-comfy beds, and a curated soundtrack of tunes to ensure a good night’s sleep. Once you’ve awakened, soak up the sun on the private beach, take a dip in one of the private pools, and savor top-notch cuisine from one of 13 drinking and dining options, which include everything from a Brazilian eatery to an Indian restaurant and hookah lounge. Be sure also to hit up the resort’s PH Spa, where hydrotherapy pools, body treatments, and massages await.

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Sonesta Ocean Point Resort, St. Maarten

Located on the island of St. Maarten, the Sonesta Ocean Point Resort is renowned for its stunning surroundings, warm weather, and equally warm environment. The adults-only, all-suite property offers breathtaking Majo Bay views, three sparkling swimming pools, a secluded cliffside beach, four bars, three restaurants, and private cabanas for lounging. Guests also have full access to the resort’s (more family-oriented) sister property, Sonesta Maho Beach  Resort, Casino & Spa, which is a must-visit for wellness-lovers (don’t miss the lavender and vanilla massage!) and those who want to practice their poker face or try their hand at roulette at the casino. Many reviewers have raved about the friendly and attentive staff members, and both properties are registered with the IGLTA.

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Divi & Tamarijn All Inclusive, Aruba

The Happy Island is best known for its welcoming atmosphere, and this LGBTQ+-friendly resort—which attracts groups and couples alike of all ages—is no different. Each of the rooms offers panoramic ocean views and private balconies or patios. In terms of activities, the options are seemingly limitless: Adrenaline junkies can go biking, kayaking, sailing, or snorkeling, while relaxation seekers can unwind under a beachfront palapa with a tropical-inspired cocktail in hand. Spa and golf packages are also available, while private sailings can also be arranged. Other amenities include ten restaurants, a sprawling casino, and eight bars. “We loved that everyone we met was warm and welcoming. You set foot on the resort and feel like you’re with family,” wrote one former guest.

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Kudadoo Private Island, The Maldives

This private island Maldives escape is certainly worth adding to your bucket list. While it’s not adults-only, guests under 15 aren’t allowed. The property itself is breathtakingly beautiful, comprising just 15 overwater villas. Each is equipped with spacious patios and built-in ladders so you can step straight into the ocean. The resort only holds up to 34 guests at a time, so it’s perfect for those in search of seclusion and solitude. At The Retreat, you’ll find the restaurant, bar, spa, and a curated wine and cheese cellar. The all-inclusive resort is anything but typical, with butler service, endless excursions, and watersports included in your stay. 

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Royalton CHIC Suites Cancun, Mexico

The Royalton CHIC Suites is another member of the IGLTA. (FYI, it’s part of Marriott International’s Autograph Collection.) Its central location in the heart of Cancun—mere steps from the destination’s best nightclubs, shops, and dining venues—makes it nearly impossible to be bored. On-site, guests can enjoy white-sand beaches and picturesque, calm waves: both of which set the scene for a relaxing yet fun-filled escape. There are also three swimming pools and seven restaurants. Perhaps the best amenity of all, however, is the rooftop cabana lounge. Known as Level 18, this space transforms into an extravagant nightclub each evening (think themed parties, circus performers, DJs, and more). 

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Sanctuary Cap Cana, Dominican Republic

This Punta Cana all-inclusive is adults-only and boasts 323 suites (all of which are outfitted with private balconies, jetted tubs, and showers). For even more space, splurge on one of the luxury villas. After sunbathing and swimming on the private beach, head to one of the five bars and restaurants to refuel. At the tranquil spa, guests can choose from a range of hydrotherapy treatments, body wraps, and massages. On-site activities abound: Hang out by one of the six swimming pools, take a dance lesson or two, play a round of  tennis, listen to live music, attend a themed party, sing your heart out at karaoke, or visit the on-site nightclub. “The service and attention to our needs was simply amazing,” reports one guest. 

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Serenity At Coconut Bay, St. Lucia

At this couples-only all-inclusive resort in St. Lucia, guests can enjoy private butler service plus private cabanas, plunge pools, seven bars and restaurants, and luxurious accommodations along with in-room spa treatments for added R&R. The 85-acre property also offers daily activity programming (think hiking, pilates, bonfires, turtle watching, and chocolate tasting), along with non-motorized water sports like stand-up paddle boarding and snorkeling. Guests can also take advantage of the resort’s sister property, Coconut Bay Beach Resort, which offers its own array of amenities, such as CocoLand Waterpark. “This place was absolutely amazing. […] Every staff member was friendly and attentive. I’ve never smiled and had such a fun and relaxing time in my entire life,” writes one reviewer.

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Grand Velas Los Cabos, Mexico

Grand Velas is one of Cabo’s most luxurious all-inclusive properties. Its contemporary design and eye-catching architecture are especially noteworthy, as are the seven gourmet eateries. Additionally, most of the accommodations here—all of which span over 1,100 square feet—have private plunge pools. The full-service, 35,000-square-foot spa is best known for its hydrotherapy offerings. There are also several swimming pools that overlook the beach, which is sandwiched between tall, picturesque cliffs. Plus, those traveling with little ones in tow will appreciate the kids’ club and activity programming. 

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Galley Bay Resort & Spa, Antigua 

Galley Bay Resort & Spa is an adults-only all-inclusive in Antigua that overlooks the turquoise waters of the Caribbean sea. Surrounded by lush tropical gardens and a ‘gram-worthy lagoon, the 56-acre property is a nature lover’s paradise. Enjoy a tropical cocktail by the beach in between dips in the pool. Alternatively, go sailing, kayaking, or practice some yoga. Once you work up an appetite, head to one of the three restaurants to refuel before retreating to your room. The all-suite accommodations offer tons of natural light, beautiful woodwork, and plush linens. Don’t forget to check out the on-site spa, either. Guests have nothing but great things to say about the friendly staff, who work tirelessly to tailor to your every need. 

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Spice Island Resort, Grenada 

This chic all-inclusive resort—which will reopen in October 2021—is located on a vibrant, quarter-mile-long stretch of sand. The family-friendly property is made up of upscale rooms and suites (the latter of which have private pools, and some have saunas as well). The property is also known for its spa, which utilizes local ingredients like chocolate, herbs, seaweed, and spices in its treatments. While tennis, cycling, golf, and afternoon tea service are included, excursions like sailing and scuba diving are available at an extra cost. Childrens’ programming is also available, as are two on-site restaurants. ”Across the board the staff are on top of all the little things that make their service truly outstanding”, says one reviewer. 

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Adaaran Select Hudhuran Fushi, Maldives

Located near Kani Beach on Lhohifushi Island, Adaaran Select Hudhuran Fushi offers a true island getaway experience. This resort is known as the “Best Surf Resort” in the 2023 Travel Trade Maldives Awards, boasting one of the world’s best left-hand surf breaks, perfect for experienced surfers or those wanting to learn. Besides surfing, the resort offers diving, snorkeling, canoeing, windsurfing, and other water sports to explore the vibrant marine life and crystal-clear Maldivian waters. If water activities aren’t your thing, you can unwind by the pool, get pampered at the spa, or simply relax on the beach. The resort offers several accommodation options, from  Beach Villas, Sunset Beach Villas, and Ocean Villas to suit your preference. Beach Villas provide easy access to the beach, while Sunset Beach Villas boast stunning ocean views. For an ultimate luxury experience, opt for the Ocean Villas perched over the water. Many accommodation options offer private balconies or terraces.

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Beautiful beaches, crystal-clear water, and a laid-back pace of life all make the Bahamas one of the most amazing destinations in the Caribbean. With around 30 inhabited islands to choose from, though, knowing which Bahamas island is right for you can be tricky. You see, stunning tropical scenery and picture-perfect beaches aside, each has its own special vibe — from Harbour Island’s Pink Sand Beach to laid-back Cat Island and the family-friendly Atlantis Resorts on Paradise Island. Luckily, we’ve spent a lot of time in the Bahamas, and have the perfect island escape for any kind of traveler.

New Providence Island (Nassau) Is Great for Travelers Who Want to Be Near the Action

While downtown Nassau (on New Providence Island) isn’t really the Caribbean escape most travelers have in mind, it is the capital of the Bahamas. From souvenir markets like the Straw Market to Fort Fincastle and the Queens Steps, things to do in Nassau are abundant enough for a day entertainment. It’s also home to local bars and nightclubs. However, if you’re staying on New Providence Island, you’d do well do sample its more luxurious side. That’s best expressed at Baha Mar, an exclusive development along the island’s central north coast. Here, some of the world’s most famous luxury resort brands sit together in a beautiful gated community that overlooks amazing Cable Beach. Baha Mar resorts also include excellent boutiques and shops, plus the chance to gamble like a high-roller at the largest casino in the Caribbean. Visiting New Providence Island is also one of the easiest escapes in the Bahamas, as it’s home to the largest airport in the country.

Your Luxury Hotel Pick on New Providence Island and Nassau: Grand Hyatt Baha Mar

Sitting right on the crystal-clear waters of Cable Beach, the Grand Hyatt Baha Mar isn’t small by any means, but the sheer number of features here give any resort on nearby Paradise Island a run for its money. The Grand Hyatt has six attractive pools, the Caribbean’s largest casino, impressive spa and fitness facilities, and an excellent golf course. Dining options range from haute Chinese cuisine and a seafood restaurant to Mexican food trucks. It’s a great escape for families and couples alike, and rooms are chic and spacious.

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Paradise Island is Perfect For Families With Kids

The vast majority of travelers who think of the Bahamas are thinking of Paradise Island. This is the Bahamas at its most resort-heavy and bustling — and it’s also home to the world famous Atlantis Resorts. Knowing exactly where to stay on Paradise Island can be tricky — each of the Atlantis Resorts has their own personality, after all (you can check out our breakdown of them here). There are also non-Atlantis properties found on the island, most of which provide access to at least some of the Atlantis amenities. Those include everything from water parks to nightclubs, and all hotels offer numerous offshore activities. Because the resorts here pack in amenities for guests of all ages, Paradise Island is easily the most family-friendly spot in the Bahamas. Just keep in mind that this is the most popular destination in the Bahamas and can be busy.

Your Upscale Hotel Pick on Paradise Island: The Cove at Atlantis

While The Cove is home to the only adult pool at The Atlantis properties, it’s still incredibly family-friendly. It’s also worth a stay because it’s the most modern and attractive of the Atlantis resorts, while still offering access to the dizzying number of family-friendly features on offer (like the water park). The Cove shares a separate beach and large family pool with neighboring Reef Tower, making it a great spot for travelers of all kinds.

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The Exumas Are Great for Lovers of Picture-Perfect Beaches

There’s a good chance you’ve heard of the Exumas. In fact, the islands that make up this part of the Bahamas are some of the most famous and picture-perfect you’re likely to find. Yes, Pig Beach is part of the Exumas (though whether you should visit is subject to some serious ethical concerns). But swimming pigs aside, the Exumas are fringed with stunningly white sand that almost glows, making this a beach-goers delight. The islands of the Exumas also tend to stay less crowded that other Bahamas islands, though you’ll be paying a pretty here. Even casual mid-range properties can be pricey — but that’s to be expected given how close to paradise you’ll feel.

Your All-Inclusive Hotel Pick in The Exumas: Fowl Cay Resort

Crowded beaches are unheard of on this private island resort, where a maximum of 28 guests at a time have free range of 50 acres and three beaches. Personal boats for daily excursions, on-call service, spacious villas with fully stocked kitchens and wet bars, and a host of all-inclusive activities make Fowl Cay a standout gem in the Exumas.

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Eleuthera Is Ideal for Island Vibes and Escaping It All

If you want to avoid the crowds, Eleuthera is ideal — there are less than 15,000 residents on the island, and hotels here tend to be smaller boutique properties like the chic French Leave. While it’s tiny, that doesn’t mean that Eleuthera is lacking for things to do. The historic capital city — Governour’s Harbour — makes for a charming day trip or night visit, with its colorful colonial architecture and vacation vibe. You can dine at 1648 for local fare like grouper, jerk chicken wraps, and conch, or popular spots like Front Porch. You’ll likely want to visit Governor’s Harbour on Friday, when the Anchor Bay Fish Fry becomes the hot spot for locals and visitors to feast on the catch of the day, sip tropical cocktails, and enjoy music and dancing. If you’re after beaches, it’s hard to top those found here — in fact, Eleuthera’s pink sand beaches are almost as famous as those found on nearby Harbour Island.

Your Eleuthera Luxury Hotel Pick: The Cove Eleuthera

This 40-acre boutique resort on Eleuthera has been a hot spot for privacy-seeking celebs since it opened in 2013. One look and you’ll understand why. The Cove features a jaw-dropping infinity pool and cliffside bar, all tucked between two pretty private beaches. Chic, airy rooms have white decor, and enormous villas with private plunge pools and state-of-the-art kitchens are on offer.

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Long Island Is Great for Adventurous Travelers

While the Exumas and Eleuthera are great for lazing away the day, the Bahamas isn’t all about low-energy getaways. Not far from the Exumas is Long Island, a great spot for fishing, diving, snorkeling, and eco tours. In fact, shark diving is a big deal here, and a great option for true adventure seekers. The fearless can dive into Dean’s Blue Hole, one of the world’s deepest blue holes, while on land the Lucayan Indian Cave is great for exploring. You can head to a different beach every day and find virtually nobody, making this a great destination for adventurers who like their share of peace and quiet as well. There are also small restaurants up and down the island that will satisfy your craving for great island fare — Max’s Conch Bar and Tiny’s Hurricane Hole are always popular.

Your Long Island Hotel Pick: Stella Maris Resort Club

Stella Maris Resort Club is precisely the kind of property that fits right in on Long Island. The landscape is natural and the vibe is entirely low-key. With a variety of hotel rooms, cottages, and villas with up to four bedrooms, the resort has lodging options to fit most parties and budgets. There are three pools at the hotel, but keep in mind that swimming here isn’t an option as the beach is quite rough. If you’re after a swimmable beach, check out Long Island’s Cape Santa Maria Beach Resort instead.

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Cat Island Is the Most Secluded Island in the Bahamas

With only 1,500 residents spread out over 150 square miles, you’d be hard-pressed to find a less densely populated Bahamian island. What’s that mean for travelers? An incredible chance to truly get away from it all. You won’t find any Paradise Island-style resorts here — in fact, most of the properties feel like a bed-and-breakfast across Cat Island. You also won’t find a wide array of places to eat or drink, like you would on Harbour Island. Even so, it’s easy enough to organize diving, snorkeling, and fishing expeditions — as well as daily island-hopping adventures — from Cat Island. However, we’d suggest packing a few books and simply curling up in a hammock for a week to really soak up the unplugged vibe of this special place. If you’re after a full breakdown of Cat Island, check out our guide here.

Cat Island Hotel Pick: Pigeon Cay Beach Club

Pigeon Cay Beach Club is a barefoot-style property that draws couples, solo travelers, and families alike. The powdery white sand on the nearby beach stays blissfully uncrowded, and the resort’s seven rustic bungalows make you feel like you’ve escaped it all. Just don’t expect TV or internet. Amenities like free bikes, kayaks, and snorkel gear make unwinding a treat.

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Harbour Island Is Famous for Pink Sand Beaches

While Eleuthera has its share of pink sand beaches, the real star of the Bahamas’ show is Harbour Island. Here, the stunning coral-infused sands make for a dramatic backdrop that feels otherworldly. Part of the island’s appeal is just how remote it feels — getting here generally requires flying to North Eleuthera Airport, then a cab ride, then a boat ride, and then another cab ride to your hotel. But that has made this one of the more exclusive hideaways of the Bahamas — think of Harbour Island as the glitzed-up counterpoint to laid-back Cat Island. The foodie scene is big here, and you’ll want to make reservations at your favorite spots well in advance. What’s the best way to get around Harbour Island? Rent a golf cart — it’s only three miles long, after all.

Harbour Island Hotel Pick: Coral Sands Hotel

Coral Sands Hotel sits right on one of the Caribbean’s most gorgeous beaches and has a beach-chic vibe that’s hard to beat.  The beachfront Bahamian cottages are easily worth the splurge, though all rooms feature perks like memory foam beds and huge bathrooms. It’s all about relaxing at Coral Sands, from the beautiful infinity pool and beach to cocktails at the laid-back beach bar or even yoga classes.

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Bimini Is Great for a Quick Long-Weekend Trip

Think you need to deal with multiple planes, taxis, and boat rides to reach the pretty beaches of The Bahamas? Think again. Bimini — one of the smallest sets of islands in the Bahamas — is only a 30-minute flight from Miami. That makes it perfect for a long-weekend recharge. We like Bimini because it’s developed just-enough. You can find plenty of restaurants and bars to keep yourself happy, and there are numerous beautiful beaches to choose from. It also has all kinds of options for travelers’ tastes. You can opt for frozen cocktails and beach clubs with buzzing vibes (at the Resorts World Bimini) or kick back in your own rental villa and be independent. In any case, if you need a quick dose of sun to get through the winter, Bimini is your spot. For a more detailed breakdown of Bimini, check out guide here.

Your Upscale Hotel Pick in Bimini: Hilton Bimini

Opened in 2015, the Bimini Hilton is one of the most popular spots on the island and has loads of on-site amenities. The hotel is part of the Resorts World Bimini condo complex, and many of the amenities are shared. Expect access to multiple pools and eateries, a marina, spa, and casino. The 305 rooms are gorgeous and contemporary — many have sea views or swim-out access to the Lazy River Pool.

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With international travel restrictions in place to other countries from the U.S. due to the pandemic, many of us are spending time dreaming about our next far-flung getaway and exotic vacation destination. Until then, regain your sense of adventure, live out your secret fantasies, or book a romantic vacation for two at a place that will feel far away from home (even if it’s not) with a getaway to one of these 11 themed hotel rooms across the U.S.

Additional reporting by Megan Johnson

Haunted Castle, Adventure Suites: North Conway, New Hampshire

This five-level over-the-top adventure suite accommodates up to 18 guests and is known to be the only simulated haunted overnight experience in the world. The property’s owner, Kathy Doucet, states that the suite is “Disney-level and a break-through in hotel technology.” So, come prepared to be scared as you experience firsthand the eerie history of the TumbleDown Castle and Estates, which is believed to have been built on the former location of an insane asylum. Highlights of the Haunted Castle suite include three bedrooms, three full bathrooms, a full kitchen, a covered outdoor hot tub, and mountain views. When you’re not frightened by things that go bump in the night and unexpected creepy guests, grab a drink at the catwalk bar, check out the spooky family portraits on the tower’s stairs, visit the asylum and birdcage, sit on the King’s bone throne, or snap an Instagram shot in the coffin.

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Cinderella Gown Cottage, The Roxbury at Stratton Falls, Roxbury: New York

Dreams really do come true when guests spend a night at The Roxbury in one of the property’s eight magical themed tower cottages. These two-story accommodations combine stunning theatrical designs with luxury amenities, and the Cinderella Gown is one of the most impressive. This fairytale-like cottage features circa 1848 beams from Stratton Mansion, the original structure that houses the property’s other themed accommodations, two queen bedrooms, one with a fireplace, and beautiful views of the mountains and Stratton Falls “village scape.” In the upstairs bedroom, channel your inner Cinderella while getting ready for the ball in a bathroom housed in a gigantic pumpkin morphing into a golden carriage. Downstairs, you’ll feel like a princess sleeping beneath an 18-foot ball gown canopy suspended over the bed. Other fantasies also come true at The Roxbury when you find out that fairies exist in The Fairy Forest, vampires still roam the earth in Dracula’s Lair, or you’re John Snow and winter is coming in an episode of the Game of Thrones in the Crown of the Pendragons.

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The Helicopter Cottage, Winvian Farm: Litchfield Hills, Connecticut

Relax and sleep in first-class at this one-of-a-kind themed cottage at Winvian Farms in Connecticut. This luxury 113-acre property, located in the northwest corner of the state, features 18 Connecticut-inspired accommodations. The highlight of their Helicopter Cottage is the fully-restored 1968 Sikorsky Sea Pelican HH3F Coast Guard chopper built in Connecticut, which retains its original switches, gauges, and pilot and co-pilot seats. Linger over cocktails in the cockpit or take in a movie in the fuselage. After your flight of fancy flying a helicopter, take time to kick back in the 890-square-foot cottage with a dreamy king-size bed, wood-burning fireplace, steam shower, and jacuzzi. If you have a fear of flying, then relive a childhood dream of spending the night in a treehouse at their treehouse cottage or get ready to tee up at Scotland’s St. Andrews in the clubhouse-style accommodation overlooking the meadows of New England.

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Zoo Boise-Themed Rooms, Inn at 500 Capitol: Boise, Idaho

Plan to sleep surrounded by lions, and tigers, and bears, Oh, My! at this luxury boutique hotel in downtown Boise. The property’s four “zoo rooms” also include artwork and animal-themed décor of giraffes, monkeys, zebras, lemurs, owls, and other wildlife. The hotel supports Zoo Boise, which is located next to the hotel, with donations and financial support, and encourages families and guests of the property to visit the zoo. The hotel’s mission states, “Zoo Boise connects our visitors with animals to inspire and involve our community in the conservation of wildlife worldwide.” The Inn at 500 Capitol also offers other themed accommodations, including the Library inspired by Hemingway and his home in Sun Valley, Idaho wine-themed rooms, Oregon Trail rooms, and the Potato Suite. This luxurious suite overlooking downtown Boise is dedicated to the world-famous Idaho potato. It features artwork of Marilyn Monroe wearing an Idaho potato sack, and other potato-related memorabilia such as tractor seats, crates, and burlap bags.

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MacKenzie-Childs Rooms, The Inns of Aurora: Aurora, New York

Fans of the designer’s Courtly Check pattern and other whimsical décor will be delighted to check into one of the four MacKenzie-Childs’ inspired rooms at Rowland House, one of the Inns of Aurora. Situated along the quiet shores of Cayuga Lake in New York’s premier wine region, Aurora is where you’ll find this luxurious resort and MacKenzie-Childs’ idyllic farm where their designs are inspired, and most are hand-crafted and brought to life by local artisans. The historic lakeside retreat and one of the Inns of Aurora, Rowland House, has four dedicated guest rooms inspired by the designer on the third floor. They all feature hand-painted walls in signature patterns and coordinating playful and colorful furnishings and objet d’art. Room Eight overlooks the lake and is particularly whimsical with its beautiful tiled bath and Courtly Check walls. There’s also a MacKenzie-Childs lounge on the same floor where you can enjoy a complimentary glass of wine in the evening. Don’t be surprised to discover rare and discontinued furnishings and trinkets among the designer’s collection at the property.

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Austrian Suite, Madonna Inn: San Luis Obispo, California

The Madonna Inn has been an iconic fixture on California’s Highway 101 since it first opened with just 12 rooms on December 25, 1958. Today the property boasts 110 individually themed rooms on over 1,000 acres with everything from ADA accessible or standard rooms to three-bedroom and opulent luxury suites. While it’s hard to decide between so many options, the Austrian suite is one of the more glamorous accommodations with gilded Baroque décor invoking images of Austrian royalty. It’s located in a hilltop unit on the 4th floor and reachable by an outdoor spiral staircase. This spacious room spans 76-feet in length and extends into the sleeping room with a king-sized bed. There are vaulted ceilings, spectacular views from two balconies, and a bathroom shower for two. If you’re not royally inspired, then check out the colorful and kitschy Madonna Suite with its custom “pink rose” carpet, a walk-in waterfall shower, and a one-of-a-kind bathroom sink crafted from native rock.

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Conestoga Wagons, Capitol Reef Resort: Torrey, Utah

Turn the clock back in time to the mid-1800s and the days of America’s hearty pioneers with an overnight stay in a Conestoga wagon. While the interiors of these wagons are closer to glamping than roughing it in the wilderness, you can still sleep under the stars, just as the pioneers did, surrounded by the natural beauty of Utah’s Red Cliffs. Capitol Reef Resort is located less than five miles from Capitol Reef National Park. This park is designated a gold-tier International Dark Sky Park, so you’ll see the Milky Way just as clearly as settlers did over 150 years ago. 19th-century designs and traditional western décor inspire the resort’s six luxury wagons. They sleep up to six people with one king and two twin bunk beds, and there’s a private bathroom a few steps away. In the evenings, step outdoors to relax by a toasty fire pit with a glass of wine and gaze at the sky. For another glamping experience, book a stay in one of their luxury teepees. Both types of accommodations are available from June through September.

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The Treehouse, Big Cypress Lodge: Memphis, Tennessee

If someone told you that you could book a treehouse in a hotel at the top of a 32-story 535,000-square-foot Pyramid, surrounded by 100-foot tall Cypress trees, a swamp with live alligators, and all overlooking the Mississippi River in downtown Memphis, would you have believed them? Well, thanks to Johnny Morris, the founder, and CEO of Bass Pro Shops, you can. The Memphis Pyramid, the sixth-largest Pyramid on Earth, was originally built as a basketball arena in 1991. After a long and colorful history and a large “fish tale,” the Pyramid was entirely reimagined and reopened as Big Cypress Lodge and Bass Pro Shops in 2015. Now, you can shop Bass Pro Shops on the first level while experiencing the rustic elegance and great outdoors throughout the Pyramid. The property’s treehouse retreat accommodates six guests and sits high among the Cypress trees overlooking Bass Pro Shops. Or reserve one of their vintage-style Duck Cabins that sleep four and feature Ducks Unlimited artwork. Guest amenities include an indoor pistol and archery range. The Sky High Ride boasts the country’s tallest free-standing elevator at 300 feet leading to a glass Observation Deck, and there’s also Fishbowl Bowling.

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1920s Pullman Train Car, Crowne Plaza Indianapolis Downtown: Indianapolis, Indiana

Climb aboard and spend the night in a vintage 1920s Pullman train car in the historic train shed at Indianapolis’ Union Station. Indianapolis was the first city in the world to create a Union Station in September 1853, and that history lives on today. Guests can stay in one of the 13 original trains that used to operate in and out of Union Station that have been renovated with modern amenities. Each train is named after a recognizable mid-20th individual such as Winston Churchill, Amelia Earhart, and Charlie Chaplin. Twenty-six rooms feature one king bed or two double beds with Sleep Advantage Bedding, a Temple Spa Relaxation Kit, a refrigerator, flat-screen TV, and other amenities. Don’t miss the other unique features of the hotel, including The Grand Hall, which still has its “blacked out” windows from WWI, the impressive Grand Hall Bar, and 28 life-size “ghost” statues paying tribute to travelers from days gone by.

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Atlantis Under the Sea, The Black Swan Inn: Pocatello, Idaho

Escape to the magic and world of undersea adventures in this exotic theme suite in southeastern Idaho. Located approximately 140 miles southwest of Jackson Hole, this family-owned 15 themed suite property is housed in a 1933 English Tudor building that was originally home to ten two-story apartments. The Atlantis Suite comes complete with a round and elevated king size bed surrounded by pillars that even Poseidon would envy. After a day outdoors exploring the area, relax and unwind in the oversized tub or steam sauna and then watch the fish swim by in the shower aquarium. At night, fall asleep surrounded by colorful coral and underwater vegetation, sea turtles, octopus, and other marine life. While at the property, you can also stay in a cave or a rainforest or jungle, catch rays in a tropical paradise, or live out your Romeo and Juliet fantasies on the suite’s Juliet balcony.

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Pirate Rooms, Pirate Island Hotel: Winter Haven, Florida

LEGOLAND’s Pirate Island Hotel‘s immersive themed rooms will thrill young buccaneers and ol’ sea dogs alike with interactive activities and live entertainment, all just steps away from the park gates. More than 1.6 million LEGO bricks make up over 600 models throughout the hotel, and guests are greeted at the entrance with the wreckage of a 34-foot LEGO pirate ship. All of the property’s 146 rooms sleep five and feature colorful swashbuckling décor with a king bed for adults, a sleeping area for the mateys that includes a bunk bed, trundle bed, and entertainment center. Four suites sleep up to seven. Every evening wee lads can go on a treasure hunt and unlock a chest where their LEGO prize (or booty) awaits. Outdoors at the park, kids will be amazed by over 50 rides, attractions, and shows. There are also 14 water slides at the Water Park and two other theme hotels to explore.

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50’s Suite at The Victorian Mansion at Los Alamos, Los Alamos, California

It’s hard to pick just one room at the Victorian Mansion because they all have spectacular themes. However, the 50’s themed room will have you boppin’ away to the days of yore. The main feature of this room is the ‘56 cadillac parked at a drive in theater- yes, your own private “theater” in your room. The neon signs and retro furniture add to the ambiance. The suite features a fireplace and hot tub, and an in-suite, hot breakfast is included in your stay. Other themed suites include a Roman room, Egyptian room and Pirate Room, as well as a hobbit and tree house themed cottages.

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Space Odyssey Room, Sunset Inn & Suites, Clinton, Illinois

Sunset Inn & Suites has thirteen themed rooms from a crystal cave to a safari adventure, but the one that really stands out is the Space Odyssey room. Sleep in a spaceship bed surrounded by far out fluorescent, glow in the dark stars that make you feel like you are in space. The room features a raindancer shower with several jets that give you an amazing massage effect while you shower, an out of this world whirlpool bath, and a wet bar.

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Christmas Suite Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino, Las Vegas, Nevada

When in Vegas, celebrate christmas no matter what time of year it is. The Christmas Suite at the Westgate Las Vegas Resort and Casino has over-the-top christmas decorations straight out of a Hallmark movie. Three full-sized Christmas trees adorn the room, as well as two “elf on the shelf” themed bathrooms and other festive decor throughout the suite. Christmas not for you? Try their Halloween themed suite, a dark, and wonderfully creepy room with jumps and surprises around every corner. 

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9 to 5 Suite, Graduate Nashville

What a way to make a living, staying at the 9 to 5 Suite at the Graduate Nashville. Inspired by the ultimate icon Dolly Parton’s “glitzy and glamorous” style, this room has disco ball tile ceilings, pictures of the legend, and a neon sign stating one of her most famous lines “It costs a lot of money to look this cheap.” Dolly fans will love this homage to greatness. The suite is equipped a king sized waterbed, coffee maker, and free WiFi.

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Video Game Room The Curtis, Denver

Mario Brothers fans will love the video game themed room at the Curtis. Enjoy video game themed snacks, decor inspired by your favorite princess-seeking brothers, a Donkey Kong arcade game in the room, as well as plenty of board games to keep you entertained.  This city view room has a bed, coffee maker, TV, mini fridge and more to make your stay comfortable. The Curtis features many other themed rooms- including Barbie, Ghostbusters, Talladega Nights, and trekkies will love the Final Frontier room.

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Caroline Morse Teel contributed to this story.

Formed millions of years ago by the powerful forces of glacial erosion, Half Dome towers over the landscape of Yosemite National Park. This epic round-trip trail attracts nearly 50,000 hikers annually, covering sixteen miles, increasing 4,800 feet in elevation, and passing by two of Yosemite’s famous waterfalls. If you’re up for the challenge, here’s what you need to know to hike Yosemite’s famous Half Dome trail.

Your Guide to Conquering the Iconic Half Dome in Yosemite National Park

Preparing for Your Half Dome Hike

Arrive at Yosemite National Park the night before you plan to hike and go to bed early. It can take up to twelve hours to make the trip to the top of Half Dome and back, so plan on starting your trek before sunrise and returning after sunset.

Essential Items for Your Half Dome Packing List

Hikers who have done their research know that preparation is the key to success on the Half Dome trail—proper footwear, a hiking backpack, and substantial provisions are necessary to safely and enjoyably complete this hike. Key items for this journey include:

Hiking Boots: Normal athletic shoes won’t cut it for Half Dome. Invest in high quality hiking footwear with excellent traction and enduring ankle and arch support. These boots from Lowa are a good fit, as are these waterproof hiking shoes from Merrel for travelers who prefer a sneaker style. Give yourself a few weeks to break in new boots before hitting the trail to avoid nasty blisters. 

Hiking Backpack: Store your gear and supplies in a high-quality backpack made for hiking. CamelBak is a perennial favorite with outdoor enthusiasts, particularly their hydration packs that double as water storage.

Water and Water Filter: Water is crucial to a successful Half Dome run. According to the Yosemite Park Rangers, the average person will need to drink three to four liters of water during the hike. Water filters and filtered water bottles are a great way to fill up on the trail—just make sure your device is graded to filter out debris and bacteria from wild water sources. 

Food: A 12-hour hike necessitates a lot of fuel. In addition to lunch, pack plenty of protein-heavy snacks to sustain you throughout the day. 

Sun Protection: Sun exposure and heat exhaustion are risks on any long hike. Make sure to apply (and re-apply!) sunblock and consider bringing along a hiking sun hat for portions of the trail above the treeline. 

Flashlight or Headlamp: Your hike will likely begin and end in the dark. Make sure everyone in your party is prepared to hike at night with a flashlight, headlamp, and plenty of extra batteries. 

Check the National Parks Service website for additional information and suggestions as you prepare for your trip.

Training Tips for Half Dome Hikers

Editors’ Note: Always consult your doctor before starting any new training regime or exercise. 

Hiking Half Dome is different from your typical day hike. Treat preparing for Half Dome like preparing for a half marathon—you want to condition your aerobic fitness and endurance to be able to withstand sixteen miles of stone steps, rock climbing, and uphill terrain. 

Walking or running on a treadmill, climbing a stair machine, or peddling an exercise bike are all easy ways to boost your cardio routine. Outside the gym, consider planning shorter hikes in the months leading up to your trip, slowly increasing the trails in length and difficulty.

How to Get Your Half Dome Permit

As of 2010, a permit is required to hike Half Dome. The National Park Service allows 300 hikers on Half Dome each day while the cables are up, typically from May to October. Two hundred seventy-five permits are for day hikers while 75 are reserved for overnight backpackers. 

The Yosemite Half Dome lottery is held in March, during which 225 permits are available for each day of the season, and hopeful hikers can apply at recreation.gov. Applicants must list the number of permits they are requesting (up to 6) and a range of preferred dates. 

Hikers who strike out during the preseason lottery can try their luck in the daily lotteries. Make sure to apply for the daily lottery two days before your desired hiking date—for example, if you want to hike on a Thursday, enter the Tuesday lottery. Half Dome permits can be canceled for a full refund of the $10 recreation fee if cancellation is submitted by 11:59pm PST the evening before your permit date.

Permits are only required to climb the Half Dome cables. Park guests who’d rather skip the vertigo-inducing cable climb can venture as far as the entrance to the sub-dome without a reservation.

Overnight Backpacking Permits

Those who’d like to split up the journey to the top of Half Dome can overnight in Little Yosemite Valley. The backpacker’s camp is open from mid-April through early October and is accessible by car, although overnight parking is not allowed on location.

Backpackers will need a separate wilderness permit to stay overnight in Little Yosemite Valley in addition to one of the 75 overnight backpackers’ permits reserved in the Half Dome lottery. Backpackers are also welcome to try their luck in the daily lotteries.

Explore the Different Sections of the Half Dome Trail

While hiking Half Dome, you’ll move through several distinct regions of the park. 

The Mist Trail

Most people who hike the Half Dome loop will choose to start by following The Mist Trail, a popular and difficult hike in its own right. Park at the trailhead or take the park shuttle to Happy Isles, roughly a half-mile away. The trail leads hikers up steep and at times slippery stone steps past Vernal Falls and to the top of Nevada Falls, 317 feet and 594 feet respectively, making them the eighth and tenth tallest waterfalls in Yosemite National Park. This hike is roughly 3.5 miles of the Half Dome trail or just under ¼ of the total distance.

The John Muir Trail

This trail, named for the founder of the Sierra Club and father of the National Parks system, is an alternative to the Mist Trail route, favored by those who would rather avoid the Mist Trail’s slippery and occasionally narrow stone stairways. The entire trail, which begins in Yosemite, spans 211 miles, running through Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks and ending at Mt. Whitney. The portion of the trail that crosses paths with Half Dome joins with the Mist Trail around Nevada Falls, where the hike continues into Little Yosemite Valley. 

Little Yosemite Valley

Little Yosemite Valley is a comparatively flat stretch of wooded area following Nevada Falls.  It is also the last source of water before the summit, so hikers equipped with water filters are advised to rest and fill up here before continuing on.  

The Sub-Dome

As the name implies, the sub-dome is the portion of the hike immediately preceding the infamous cables leading up to the main Half Dome. The sub-dome is a rocky area mostly above the treeline, so shade will be in short supply. Make sure to stay hydrated and prioritize sun protection. A park ranger will check your hiking permit before you’re permitted to proceed to the sub-dome. 

The Cables

The cables are the most famous and intense part of summiting Half Dome. They are 400 feet long—about 40 feet longer than a standard American football field—and run up the rock face at a 45-degree angle. The sheer granite of Half Dome is very slick when wet, making it extremely dangerous to climb the cables even in light rain. The climb takes roughly 20 to 30 minutes, but it is strenuous and may require frequent breaks.

Hikers can climb Half Dome while the cables are down without a permit, but this should only be attempted by highly experienced rock climbers who are familiar with the ascent.

Dangers of Hiking Half Dome

As thrilling as conquering Half Dome can be, it can be dangerous. There have been 85 deaths in the last 35 years on Half Dome, and every year there are dozens of failed attempts to reach the top that result in search and rescue evacuations far before the hikers ever reach the cables. 

Dehydration and undernutrition are main culprits of failed Half Dome attempts, with people frequently underestimating how much food and water is needed to sustain their bodies throughout the rigorous 16-mile trek. 

Nature can also present a danger to hikers. The erosive forces that shaped Half Dome’s smooth summit are still at work today, causing up to 60 rock falls per year, some severe enough to block or alter popular hiking paths. If you see or suspect the beginning of a rock fall, evacuate the area immediately. If you cannot safely exit the area and the rock fall is above you, seek shelter behind a large rock. If it’s below you, step away from any drop offs and onto solid ground. Once the fall has stopped, evacuate the area immediately.

Lodging Options Near the Half Dome Trailhead

Hiking to Half Dome requires an early start. Stay nearby the night before to maximize potential for rest before the big day.

Yosemite Valley Lodge

Distance from Trailhead: 18-minute drive

Stand-Out Features: Yosemite Valley Lodge is within easy travel distance of several popular trailheads and offers on-site bike rentals to guests.

Yosemite Valley Lodge originally opened in 1915 as Camp Desmond and was later rebranded after a renovation in 1956 and redesigned and modernized again in 1998. The property has 245 rooms and offers bike rentals and free shuttle service to areas around the park. The two onsite restaurants make it easy to grab a quick bite before hitting the hay early the night before the big hike. This property is also near Lower Yosemite Falls Vista Point, Sentinel Bridge Picnic Area, and Swinging Bridge Picnic Area, some of the best places to catch the famous Yosemite Firefall at sunset.

The Ahwahnee Hotel

Distance from Trailhead: 9-minute drive

Stand-Out Features: The Ahwahnee Hotel was designed in the early 20th century to attract wealthy clientele, an architectural decision that can be seen reflected in the detailed exterior stonework, soaring dining room windows, and luxurious wood paneling. Over the years it has hosted famous guests such as Queen Elizabeth II, John F. Kennedy, and Judy Garland.

Opened in 1927, The Ahwahnee has 121 rooms, park shuttle services, and an on-suite dining room. Throughout its life, it has hosted several famous guests, from Judy Garland to John F. Kennedy.

Curry Village

Distance from Trailhead: 4-minute drive

Stand-Out Features: Curry Village offers an outdoor swimming pool for the summer months and an ice skating rink for guests traveling during the winter.

There are 499 total guest accommodations: 14 cabins sharing a central bathroom, 18 motel rooms, 403 canvas tent cabins, and 56 cabins with private bathrooms in Curry Village. The village is open seasonally and offers several fun food options, like a Pizza Deck, a Taqueria Stand, a Coffee Corner, and an Ice Cream Stand. Shuttle service is available to multiple areas of the park. This is also a good jumping-off point for Glacier Point and Sentinel Dome.

Lower Pines Campground

Distance from Trailhead: 2-minute drive; 20-minute hike

Stand-Out Features: Campers can catch an educational ranger talk at the amphitheater at Lower Pines Campground.

Travelers can reserve a spot at Lower Pines Campground up to five months in advance. It is open seasonally from April through September and costs $36 per night for both electric and non-electric sites. Campers can stay up to seven consecutive nights. The campsite includes parking, toilets, drinking water, and food storage lockers. There is a general store within walking distance, and the site offers free park shuttle service.

Alternative Hikes to Half Dome

Hiking Half Dome is a significant accomplishment for any hiker, but it’s not for everyone. Here are ways to experience a similar side of Yosemite without the 12-hour round trip.

Hike a Portion of Half Dome

There are several distinct segments of the Half Dome loop, many worthy of a trip by themselves. The Mist Trail is one of the most popular hikes in the park, coming in at around 7 miles round-trip. Another option is to hike to Little Yosemite Valley, camp overnight, and hike back down the next day. Just because you may not want to summit Half Dome—or didn’t luck out in the lottery—doesn’t mean you can’t experience a large portion of what the trail has to offer.

Hike to a Lookout Spot with Views of Half Dome

The Half Dome towers over Yosemite’s landscape, so it’s not hard to find a spot with stellar views. Popular lookout points like Glacier Point, Tunnel View, and Olmsted Point offer gorgeous panoramic views of Half Dome and Yosemite Valley. On a clear day, park guests can see the imposing figure of Half Dome reflected in the waters of the Merced River at Sentinel Bridge. Snapping a stunning photo of Half Dome against the setting sun is the perfect Yosemite keepsake.

How to Catch the Natural Firefall in Yosemite National Park

A beautiful sun sets over a sprawling alpine landscape while, in the distance, a roaring river of fire gushes over a sheer cliff face. It may sound like a scene from another world, but the Firefall is a real phenomenon that can be witnessed exclusively at Yosemite National Park. While it may look like flames are licking the sides of the cliff, the Yosemite Firefall is actually an ordinary waterfall with a spectacular feature. 

Read on to learn more about this strange and rare natural phenomenon and how you could catch a glimpse. 

Yosemite’s Horsetail Falls Firefall Explained

Although it sounds fearsome, Firefall is simply the name given to a two- to three-week phenomenon that affects Horsetail Falls, which cascades over the eastern side of El Capitan. Exclusively in February, the light from the setting sun hits Horsetail Falls at just the right angle, turning the running water into a stunning cascade of fiery orange and glowing mist. To a viewer at a distance, it looks as if a stream of fire is flowing over the rock’s edge.

The History of Yosemite’s Firefall

While Horsetail Falls has exceeded its predecessor in popularity, it is not the first “firefall” to light up Yosemite National Park. 

Yosemite’s Historic Man-made Firefall

The Horsetail Falls phenomenon gets its name from an old tradition that began at Glacier Point Mountain House Hotel. Throughout the day, hotel owner James McCauly would stoke the embers of a massive bonfire for his guests. At dusk, staff would shovel the glowing embers over the edge of Glacier Point, creating a stream of hot embers that resembled a waterfall of fire for entranced onlookers. The ritual became a popular park attraction and, according to PBS, the spectacle was greeted nightly with cries of “Let the fire fall!” as embers tumbled over the 3,200 foot drop off.

McCauly’s firefall lasted from 1872 to 1968, when the National Park Service deemed it a  fire safety hazard. Fortunately, this nightly light show would not be the last Firefall to draw crowds to Yosemite.

The Discovery of Yosemite’s Natural Firefall

While it’s likely that the existence of the Firefall effect at Horsetail Falls was already well known by the Ahwahneechee peoples indigenous to Yosemite, it was first documented on film in 1973 by Galen Rowell, a wilderness photographer known for his adventurous spirit and unique images. With the secret out, crowds began to flock to the park for a chance to see the fiery spectacle for themselves. 

The Age of Social Media

With the rise of social media, professional and amateur photographers alike have aimed to follow in Rowell’s footsteps and capture this fleeting event. The Firefall’s viral status caused increasingly large crowds, leading the National Park Service to institute a permitting system in 2018 to view the event.

What is the Window to See the Firefall?

Horsetail Falls is an ephemeral waterfall, meaning it only flows at certain times of the year. The water rushes at its peak in winter and spring, when there is ample snowmelt to fuel Pyramid Creek, the falls’ origin source. Travelers who visit during the fall and summer may not see Horsetail Falls at all.

The Firefall phenomenon is even more elusive. It only occurs in mid-to-late February and only if certain conditions are met. It must be a clear day and clouds must not block the sun or cast a shadow on the falls. If you’re lucky enough to catch the falls during perfect conditions, you only have about ten minutes to snap your pictures before the dazzling display disappears for the night. The NPS posts the dates for Firefall on its website each year.

How to Make Yosemite Firefall Reservations

Due to its staggering popularity, the National Parks Service has implemented a permitting system for people hoping to glimpse the Firefall. This past season, all visitors driving into the park were required to have a vehicle reservation for the three peak weekends in February— the 10th-11th, the 17th–19th, and the 24th–25th. Along with permits, the park instituted parking restrictions in the immediate area and shut down nearby roads to control traffic flow.

Permits typically become available a few months before the Firefall event. For the 2024 season, 50% of vehicle reservations became available on December 1st, and 50% became available two days before the permit dates. Travelers can apply for permits on Recreation.gov. 

Park guests with proof of lodging in Yosemite Valley, Wawona Forest, and Yosemite West are exempt from this additional vehicle registration, so plan in advance to lodge in one of these areas to avoid the extra hassle.

How to See the Firefall in Yosemite National Park

The Best Viewing Location for the Yosemite Firefall

The best place to capture the Firefall effect is the El Capitan Picnic area. This spot offers the closest and clearest view of Horsetail Falls in the park.

The Best Time to See the Yosemite Firefall

Plan to see the Firefall on a weekday evening. Weekday evenings draw fewer crowds than weekends and don’t require an extra permit for park entry. Monitor the weather forecast closely during your stay, as rain or cloud cover could interfere with the Firefall effect. 

Reserve a few evenings in your itinerary to maximize your chance of catching the Firefall. That way, if unexpected weather rolls in or the stars don’t align on your first attempt, you have a few more chances before heading home. 

If you’re confident in the day’s weather conditions, try to arrive at the viewing area a few hours early to secure a clear view. This is especially important if you plan to set up camera equipment to capture the event.

Visiting Yosemite in February

Witnessing the Firefall is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, but it’s still just one night on your incredible winter Yosemite itinerary. 

Weather: In February, average temperatures in Yosemite National Park stay in the low 50s Fahrenheit (10 degrees Celsius), dipping to 30 degrees Fahrenheit (-1 degrees Celsius) at night. Rain and snow are still expected this month, so travelers should be prepared for potential weather delays that could interfere with their ventures into the park. However, on a clear day, hikers will be rewarded with stunning views, complete with snow-capped peaks and frosty landscapes. 

Crowds: February is firmly in the off-season for Yosemite National Park. While the Firefall event may be packed with eager photographers, the rest of the park will see fewer crowds during this month. 

Activities: Catching a glimpse of the Firefall is a fantastic reason to visit Yosemite in February, but it’s not the only worthwhile activity unique to the winter months.

• Carve out time to visit Curry Village—an eleven minute drive from El Capitan Picnic Area—for a round of ice skating at their seasonal rink, open from late November to early March. 
• Rent a pair of snowshoes from the Badger Pass Nordic Center and join a free ranger-led snowshoe walk in Badger Pass. The Center also offers lessons in snowshoeing and cross-country skiing for beginners.
• Hit the slopes in Badger Pass, the oldest downhill ski area in California.
• Take a winter hike to enjoy the solitude and scenery of the park during off-season.

Firefall Viewing Etiquette

Increased visitation during Firefall season can cause a host of environmental issues. Remember these four tips when heading to the park to minimize your impact.

Stay in Designated Areas

Crowding at the El Capitan Picnic Area has contributed to erosion, destroyed vegetation, and disrupted local ecosystems. While it can be tempting to venture off the beaten path to get some space, guests who wander from designated areas risk trampling vegetation, disturbing habitats, or injuring themselves. For the best experience, stay within the bounds of the viewing area. 

Be Aware of Your Camera Equipment

Hopeful Firefall photographers should be conscientious about where they set up their equipment. Keep tripods off of sensitive vegetation and away from the riverbank, where repeated disturbances can increase erosion. 

Don’t Make A Mess

As with any excursion in a national park, Firefall viewers should follow the principle of Leave No Trace. That means everything that comes into the park with you–snacks, garbage, camera equipment—should go with you when you leave.

Respect Fellow Park Guests

Dealing with restricted parking, permits, and jostling in a crowd can be a stressful experience. Exercise patience with fellow park guests and remember that everyone is there to share a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Read our top tips for responsible travel in national parks for more advice on how to make the park experience enjoyable for yourself, others, and future visitors.

Lodging Near Horsetail Falls Viewpoints

Those who want to catch the Firefall will have to hike or drive back to their accommodations after sunset. Book a stay at one of these nearby properties rather than venture for miles in the cold February evening.

Yosemite Valley Lodge

Distance from El Capitan Picnic Area: 6-minute drive

One of the closest properties to El Capitan Picnic Area, Yosemite Valley Lodge is also one of the most competitive to book. This 242-room lodge welcomes the park’s majesty with floor-to-ceiling windows and rustic decor throughout the dining area. Due to its prime location and high demand, the National Park Reservations site recommends booking a room at least 12 months in advance to ensure availability. 

Yosemite West High Sierra Bed & Breakfast

Distance from El Capitan Picnic Area: 6-minute drive

Yosemite West High Sierra Bed & Breakfast is a multi-story mountain-view lodge tucked away in the wilderness of Yosemite. Guests at this B&B enjoy free onsite parking and breakfast included in their stay. For families or large parties looking to save money on dining, look into booking their Sunset View Great Room, a fully furnished apartment complete with a kitchen on the top floor of the property.

The Ahwahnee

Distance from El Capitan Picnic Area:: 9-minute drive

Nearly 100 years old, the  Ahwahnee Hotel is an imposing stone and wood structure that seamlessly blends into the forest and surrounding mountains. It offers a free park shuttle service, excellent for guests who don’t want to fight for a restricted weekend parking spot near the El Capitan Picnic Area.  

Yosemite Hilltop Cabins

Distance from El Capitan Picnic Area: 19-minute drive

If you prefer more privacy, then this cozy rental cabin located within the park is the right for you. Able to sleep up to four, this rental is outfitted head to toe in wood paneling and has an outdoor patio space with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

The Ultimate Guide to The Mist Trail in Yosemite National Park

The Mist Trail is one of the most popular and scenic hikes in Yosemite National Park—deservedly so. This remarkable trail takes hikers up close to two breathtaking waterfalls, allowing them to get close enough to feel the refreshing spray (hence its name). While sections are strenuous due to steep terrain and numerous stairs, there are a few different hiking options off the Mist Trail, so you can opt to do what you’re most comfortable with.

Beginning in eastern Yosemite Valley, the Mist Trail starts begins with a steep ascent along a paved trail. After just 0.8 miles, you’ll reach the Vernal Fall Footbridge, an excellent vantage point for viewing the waterfall. About 0.2 miles past the bridge, the Mist Trail and John Muir Trail will diverge. Follow the Mist Trail 0.3 miles up for the most direct route to the top of Vernal Fall. This section involves climbing over 600 steps of potentially slippery granite—prepare to get wet from the waterfall spray in spring and early summer. 

Once you reach the top of Vernal Fall, you can either turn around and head for the bottom or continue up the Mist Trail for another 1.5 miles to reach the top of Nevada Fall. Alternatively, you can continue 0.2 miles from Vernal Fall to take a loop route back down via the John Muir Trail. If you choose to continue to Nevada Fall, you can still return via the John Muir Trail by continuing over the bridge and crossing the Merced River.

I recommend descending via the John Muir Trail. You’ll see different scenery, including views of Liberty Cap, than on the Mist Trail, and there will also be fewer crowds in this section. Just note that the John Muir Trail is nearly double the length of the Mist Trail, but the extra time is worth it.

How to Get to the Mist Trail

The best way to reach the Mist Trail is to take the Valleywide or East Valley Shuttles to Happy Isles (shuttle stop number 16). Follow the signs across the bridge to where the trail begins.

Where to Park for the Mist Trail

No parking is available at the Mist Trail, so we recommend taking the shuttle. If you want to drive, you can park at Curry Village, which is just under a mile from the trailhead, and walk. Plan to arrive early, as parking at Curry Village can fill up quickly, especially in the summer. 

How Long is the Mist Trail?

The Mist Trail is 5.4 miles roundtrip from the trailhead to the top of Nevada Fall and back. This trail gains 2,000 feet of elevation and is considered strenuous. Hiking the full Mist Trail will take an average of five to six hours.

If you want to turn around before the top of Nevada Falls, here are two shorter options:

Mist Trail to Vernal Fall Footbridge

Hiking to Vernal Fall footbridge and back will take approximately 1 to 1.5 hours and is moderately difficult. 

Distance: 1.6 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 400 feet

Mist Trail to Top of Vernal Fall

Taking the Mist Trail to the top of Vernal Fall is a strenuous hike that will take approximately three hours round trip.

Distance: 2.4 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 1,000 feet

Tips for Hiking the Mist Trail

If you plan on hiking the Mist Trail, follow these tips to stay safe and have a great time.

• Wear proper footwear with good traction, as the trail can get very wet and slippery
• Stay on the established trail
• Do not swim in the water along the trail. The hazardous current makes it not only dangerous but also illegal.
• Consider bringing hiking poles to help you descend
• Descend via the John Muir Trail for different views and less crowds
• Bring plenty of water (3-4 quarts if you are going to the top of Nevada Fall). Drinking water is only available at the shuttle stop and the Vernal Fall Footbridge (May to October only)
• Pack out all of your trash
• Restrooms are located at the shuttle stop and at the Vernal Falls footbridge. Vault toilets (with no running water) are located on the Mist Trail beyond the top of Vernal Fall and at the top of Nevada Fall. 
• Be prepared for crowds, especially during the summer—to avoid the crowds, start early.
• Strollers and bicycles are not allowed on the Mist Trail
• Carry a headlamp in case your hike takes longer than planned, and you have to walk back in the dark
• Be mindful of loose rock on the trail, which can be slippery
• Take care to eat salty snacks and drink lots of water to avoid dehydration, especially during the summer months
• You don’t need a permit to hike the Mist Trail

When is the Mist Trail Open?

Although you can hike to Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall year-round, the lower portion of the Mist Trail and the upper portion of the John Muir Trail are closed in the winter due to ice. To detour around the closures, you’ll need to follow instructions for the Vernal and Nevada Fall winter route. 

To see if the Mist Trail is open, view current conditions for trail closures here. The Mist Trail does not have designated hours and is open 24 hours a day.

When Is the Best Time of Year to Hike the Mist Trail?

The Mist Trail is at its best between April and June when the waterfalls flow the strongest due to the melting snow above. Springtime is also significantly less hotter and more comfortable than hiking the trail in the summer.

We recommend hiking the Mist Trail during the week, when there will be slightly less crowds than on a weekend.

Map of the Mist Trail

For the most accurate map of the Mist Trail, visit the National Parks Service website.

Where Is the Trailhead for the Mist Trail in Yosemite?

The trailhead for the Mist Trail can be found at Happy Isles in the eastern Yosemite Valley section of Yosemite National Park.

Solo Trip to Yosemite National Park: The Ultimate Guide

Planning a solo trip to Yosemite may seem overwhelming initially, but it can be an amazing adventure with the right preparation and mindset. Yosemite National Park is a great destination for solo travelers, as the focus here is on outdoor adventure and solitude. Traveling alone will give you the freedom to set your own schedule, choose your own activities, and immerse yourself in nature without any distractions.

This comprehensive guide to solo travel in Yosemite National Park is your one-stop resource, providing all the information you need to navigate the park on your own confidently. We’ve got you covered from the best activities for solo travelers to essential safety tips.

The Best Things to Do in Yosemite Alone

There’s no need to tailor your itinerary to solo-specific activities, as pretty much everything you’d do in Yosemite National Park with a group can be done alone. However, a few activities are even better when you’re traveling by yourself. These are the best activities that we recommend for solo travelers.

Watch the Rock Climbers From El Capitan Meadow

The massive granite walls of El Capitan, rising over 3,000 feet above the valley, are one of the most iconic sights in Yosemite National Park. Although conquering El Capitan requires extensive rock climbing experience and specialized equipment, watching the climbers from afar is an accessible and awe-inspiring experience that feels like an in-person version of the movie Free Solo.

Head to El Capitan Meadow for an incredible view of El Capitan and the intrepid climbers defying gravity. To reach the meadow, you can take the Valleywide Shuttle to stop number nine. If you’re driving, limited parking spots are available along Northside Drive. (Note that Northside Drive is one-way, so it’s best to stop at El Capitan Meadow on your way out of the park for the day.) Once there, relax in the meadow and watch climbers scale El Capitan’s sheer vertical face, with Cathedral Rocks providing an equally breathtaking backdrop. Pack a pair of binoculars to get an even better view.

Take a Stargazing Tour

Located in a remote area with minimal light pollution, Yosemite National Park is a great place for stargazing. Sign up for a stargazing tour if you’re a little apprehensive about going out after dark alone or just want to learn more about what you’re looking at. Led by knowledgeable naturalists, these tours illuminate the night sky in a whole new way, pointing out stars, planets, and constellations.

Rent a Bike

Bikes are among the best ways to get around Yosemite, especially for solo travelers. With over 12 miles of paved bike paths to explore, renting a bike lets you skip the traffic and parking hassles that come with driving and explore at your own pace. Bikes are also allowed on regular roads as long as riders obey traffic laws.

Bicycles are available for rent inside Yosemite National Park at Curry Village, Yosemite Village, and Yosemite Valley Lodge. 

Stay in a Hostel

If you’re hoping to meet new people on your solo Yosemite National Park adventure, consider staying in a hostel. There are three hostels near the park: Yosemite Bug Rustic Mountain Resort, Yosemite International Hostel, and Jackass Hostel.

These affordable accommodation options all offer shared kitchens and socializing spaces, making it easier to meet fellow solo travelers. 

Solo Camping in Yosemite

Even if you’re traveling alone in Yosemite, don’t expect to find solitude when you’re camping. Campsites in Yosemite National Park are typically crowded, especially in peak season (mid-April through October). 

During this time, there are no first-come, first-served campgrounds open, so you’ll need to make a reservation at one of the park’s 13 campgrounds well in advance. The National Parks Service (NPS) Warns that reservations sell out within minutes of being released, so be prepared. 

Since there will be so many other people at your campsite, solo camping in Yosemite is relatively safe. Just remember that you will need to be completely self-sufficient when camping alone, so make sure you know how to set up your tent, how to properly store your food, and what equipment you need to bring.

Hiking Alone in Yosemite

Yosemite Solo Travel Safety Tips

Yosemite National Park covers over 759,000 acres, of which 94 percent are designated wilderness. When hiking alone in the park, it’s important to follow safe hiking practices.

1. Arrange regular check-ins on your trip. Tell someone back home where you are going for the day and when you expect to be back.
2. Carry an emergency kit with you, especially when hiking, in case you get lost or hurt.
3. Always bring a headlamp on hikes, even if you plan to finish well before dark, in case you get lost or delayed.
4. Carry and drink plenty of water on your hikes. The NPS recommends drinking a minimum of one quart every two hours. 
5. Always stay on marked trails.
6. Know what to do in case you encounter a bear while hiking.
7. If you’re concerned about hiking alone, stick to popular trails in Yosemite, including the Mist Trail, Vernal Fall, and Mirror Lake. You’re very unlikely to be alone on these trails. You’ll need to exercise more caution if you plan on hiking alone in the backcountry.
8. Consider bringing a satellite phone to call for help in an emergency, as cell service can be limited in the park.

Weekend Alone in Yosemite

Need help planning the perfect weekend alone in Yosemite National Park? Follow our itinerary, which is designed with solo travelers in mind.

Friday

Arrive in Yosemite Valley and check into Yosemite Valley Hostel. Spend the afternoon exploring Yosemite Valley, starting with the Mist Trail. Next, drive or take the shuttle to El Capitan Meadow and watch the granite walls change color as the sun sets. 

Grab a casual dinner at the Pizza Deck at Curry Village Pavilion, where you can enjoy a pizza on the outdoor deck with amazing views of Glacier Point and Royal Arches.  

Head back to the hostel and hang out in the common area to meet and chat with fellow solo travelers.

Saturday

Wake up early to beat the crowds and avoid waiting in line at the park entrance. Use the hostel kitchen to prepare and pack yourself a picnic lunch for the day. Drive the scenic Tioga Road, stopping at Olmsted Point for panoramic views of Half Dome and Clouds Rest. (Be sure to check Tioga Road’s conditions to ensure it’s open before heading out.)

Continue on to Tenaya Lake to enjoy the small sandy beach and, if the water is warm enough, a swim. 

Finish your day with a walk through Tuolumne Grove’s giant sequoia trees. Here, you’ll find an easy, half-mile, self-guiding nature trail that will give you a good overview.

On the drive back to your hostel, stop at the Artisan Taproom in the Groveland Hotel for dinner and live music.

Sunday

Check out of your hostel and head back to the park for one last day of sightseeing, starting with Cook’s Meadow Loop, a short and easy hike with beautiful views of Yosemite Falls, Half Dome, Glacier Point, and Sentinel Rock.
In the afternoon, grab a quick lunch at the Base Camp Eatery in the Yosemite Valley Lodge before renting a bike next door. Take a leisurely loop ride along the park’s 12 miles of paved bike paths, enjoying exploring at your own pace.

Caroline Morse Teel and Carol McPherson contributed to this story.

Yosemite National Park: A Complete Guide for Visitors

Since its opening in 1906, Yosemite National Park has been one of the most popular national parks, attracting millions of visitors annually. Bursting with natural beauty, from towering granite cliffs like El Capitan and Half Dome to cascading waterfalls like the iconic Yosemite Falls (the tallest in North America) and the renowned giant sequoia trees, it is truly awe-inspiring.

Yosemite has a rich history of human connection to the land. Native American tribes inhabited the area for thousands of years, and their legacy remains in place names and archeological sites. The park’s preservation is a testament to the early conservation movement; visitors can learn about its fascinating past at visitor centers and museums within the park. 

Yosemite offers something for all types of travelers, whether you’re an adrenaline-seeking thrill-chaser or a nature enthusiast seeking a peaceful escape. There are a range of hikes, from leisurely ones through meadows to more challenging ones through rocky terrain. Rock climbing enthusiasts can test their skills on world-famous granite walls. Yosemite also offers swimming, white-water rafting, biking, and horseback riding- truly something for everyone.

Planning Your Trip to Yosemite

Where is Yosemite National Park? 

Yosemite National Park is in central California, within the Sierra Nevada mountain range. The nearest towns to Yosemite are El Portal, South Gate, Mariposa, Oakhurst and Groveland. There are four main entrances to the park: Big Oak Flat, Arch Rock, South Entrance, and Tioga Pass.  

Getting To Yosemite National Park 

Flying

The nearest major airport to Yosemite is Fresno Yosemite International Airport, about 75 miles south of the park’s entrance. While some busses and trains get you from the airport to Yosemite, the journey can be around six hours, so your best bet is to rent a car. Smaller nearby airports include Mammoth Yosemite Airport (about 42 miles away) and Merced Regional Airport (80 miles away), these smaller airports have less airlines and flights that fly in and out. 

Driving

Whether you are renting a car from the airport or live within driving distance of the park, having a car is useful for your stay as the park is 1,187 square miles, and while the park does have shuttles, having a car is useful. Yosemite is a day’s drive or less from: 

• Sacramento – 143 miles (just under 3 hours)
• San Francisco – 170 miles (3-4 hours)
• Reno – 229 miles (just under 5 hours)
• Los Angeles – 279 miles (4.5 – 5 hours)
• Las Vegas – 455.5 miles (7-8 hours)
• Boise – 648 miles (11.5 hours)
• Phoenix – 650 miles (10-11 hours)
• Portland, Oregon – 722 miles (11-12 hours)
• Salt Lake City – 743 miles (11-12 hours)

Please note: reservations to drive through the park are required on some days during peak visitation days. Reservations are $2 per vehicle and are valid for three consecutive days. This is in addition to the $35 park entrance fee. 

Highway 120, also known as the Tioga Road is the major road for accessing Yosemite National Park.  It is the most direct route from the San Francisco Bay Area and Northern California, leading to the park’s eastern entrance, Tioga Pass. At an elevation of 9,945 feet, Tioga Road often experiences road closures in the winter months, so be sure to check current road conditions. 

Some areas in the park can take nearly two hours to drive to, so check the Road Guide for the best routes to get from one spot to another. 

For auto touring, Yosemite Valley Loop and Glacier Point Road offer breathtaking views of some of Yosemite’s most iconic attractions, including Lower Yosemite Falls, El Capitan, and Yosemite Valley.

Visitor Centers

Visitor Centers are a good starting point for any visit to Yosemite. You’ll find park rangers to answer any questions, maps, and books available to purchase. There are four visitor centers throughout Yosemite Park: 

Yosemite Valley Visitor Center
The largest and most comprehensive visitor center in the park, located in Yosemite Valley.

Yosemite Exploration Center (formerly Valley Visitor Center)
Another location in Yosemite Valley that offers visitor services and information.

Tuolumne Meadows Visitor Center
Situated in Tuolumne Meadows, this center caters to visitors exploring the park’s higher-elevation areas.

Wilderness Center
Located in Yosemite Valley, this center focuses on wilderness safety, permits, and trip planning for treks into the park’s backcountry.

Yosemite App

Download the National Park Service App for interactive maps, accessibility information, and more. It is available for free through the App Store and Google Play.

Yosemite Entrance Fees & Permits

There are fees and permits required for certain activities at Yosemite.

Entrance Fee

All visitors entering Yosemite National Park by car must pay an entrance fee. Currently (April 2024), the cost is $35 per vehicle, valid for seven consecutive days. Yosemite National Park has implemented a reservation system during peak season (April through October) to manage park crowding. This means you’ll need a reservation in addition to the entrance fee to enter the park by car between 5 am and 4 pm on specific dates. 

The 2024 dates requiring reservations are as follows: 

• April 13 through June 30: Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays (May 27th and June 19th).
• July 1 through August 16: Every day.
• August 17 through October 27: Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays (September 2nd and October 14th).

Reservations can be made online through the National Park Service website, costing $2 per reservation. You don’t need a separate reservation if you have one of the following:

• In-park camping, lodging, or vacation rental reservation.
• Half Dome permit or wilderness permit reservation.
• Are entering via public transportation or authorized tour groups.

If you plan on visiting other national parks throughout the year, consider purchasing the America the Beautiful National Park Pass for $80. This pass grants entrance to all national parks, including Yosemite, and is valid for a year from the month of purchase.

Additional Permits at Yosemite

There are some activities and areas of the park that require additional permits. 

Camping 
Backcountry camping and some campgrounds within Yosemite require permits. You can obtain these through the NPS website or by visiting a park ranger station.

Half Dome Permit 
Hiking Half Dome requires permits due to its challenging terrain and limited space. Apply for Half Dome permits well in advance through a lottery system held several months before your visit.  

Wilderness Permits 
You’ll need a wilderness permit if you plan on backpacking in Yosemite’s wilderness areas. You can apply for one online or at a park ranger station beginning twenty-four weeks before your trip.

Before your trip to Yosemite National Park, it’s always a good idea to check online for the latest information on entrance fees, permits, and reservation requirements.

Things to Do in Yosemite

Yosemite is filled with fun activities(link to things to do story) for families, hiking enthusiasts, photographers, naturalists, and more. Things to do at Yosemite include:

Hiking

Yosemite boasts over 800 miles of hiking trails, all at different terrains and levels, from easier strolls to more adventurous, strenuous hikes through rough terrain. Popular hikes include Vernal and Nevada Falls via Mist Trail, Half Dome, and Lower Yosemite Falls trail. 

Rock Climbing 

Rock climbing in Yosemite is extremely popular with enthusiasts. The iconic granite cliffs, like El Capitan and Half Dome, offer a variety of routes with stunning views. Due to safety concerns, permits are required for climbing most major walls. Even if you are not a rock climber, watching the climbers at work can be fascinating. 

Sightseeing 

It’s nearly impossible to pinpoint what not to miss at Yosemite- it is all breathtaking. There are, however,  several iconic viewpoints not to miss. Visitors can witness the power of Yosemite Falls, the tallest waterfall in North America, or gaze up at the granite monolith of El Capitan. Take in panoramic views from Glacier Point, accessible by car or cable car. Tunnel View offers a classic postcard perspective of Yosemite Valley. A trip to Yosemite would not be complete without a visit to Mariposa Grove to be awed by the giant sequoias. 

Wildlife Watching 

Yosemite is home to ninety varieties of mammals, several amphibians and reptiles, fish, 262 species of birds, and course, countless bugs and insects. During your stay, you could glimpse a black bear, mule deer, bighorn sheep, coyotes, or John Muir’s favorite bird, the American Dipper. 

Tours

Like all national parks, Yosemite offers ranger-guided tours and interpretive programs. Choose from nature and history programs, bus tours, outdoor adventures like naturalist walks or the Yosemite field school. You mustn’t miss the stunning night sky, best seen with a naturist guiding you on what you see above.

Where to Stay at Yosemite

Yosemite offers a variety of places to stay within the park, and nearby towns are brimming with hotels and resorts. 

In-Park Lodging 

In-park lodging at Yosemite offers a variety of options, from rustic cabins to grand hotels. The historic Ahwahnee Hotel provides a luxurious experience, while Yosemite Valley Lodge is a family-friendly option with easy access to waterfalls. For a more rustic park stay, consider canvas tent cabins at Housekeeping Camp. History lovers will love staying at Curry Village in the Camp Curry Historic Disctrict. Most lodgings have dining options, WiFi (except the most rustic ones), electricity, and some have televisions. No matter where you stay, reservations are required and often hard to get, especially during peak summer months. Reservations can be made one year and two days in advance. 

Lodging in Nearby Towns

Since lodging inside the park is difficult to get, there are several options outside of the park in neighboring towns like Mariposa, Oakhurst, and Ahwahnee. There are luxury options like Yosemite View Lodge or Chateau Du Sureau, family-friendly options like Evergreen Lodge, and budget options like  Holiday Inn Express & Suites Oakhurst or Mountain Trail Lodge. You can also try a vacation rental on sites like Vrbo or Airbnb. 

Camping 

You can camp for a natural national park experience. Yosemite has thirteen campgrounds that can accommodate RVs, tents, fifth wheels, camper vans, and more. Reservations are required for stays from April through October. The rest of the year, Camp 4, Wawona, and Hodgdon Meadow are first-come, first-served campgrounds. 

A wilderness permit is required for hikers and campers who plan to stay overnight. A lottery system makes 60% of these permits and they are available twenty-four weeks in advance. The other 40% of the permits are available seven days before the trip start date until three days before. Any remaining permits will be available on a walk-up basis same day.

Eating at Yosemite National Park

There are several dining options throughout the park to suit all tastes and budgets. The Ahwahnee Hotel treats guests to a fine dining experience, while in Yosemite Valley, you can even grab a bite while enjoying stunning scenery, with plenty of outdoor seating options available during warmer months.

Picnicking is allowed at the park, but visitors must practice safe eating habits- you should never let your food out of sight, lest a bear lurk around a corner. If you choose to picnic, you must eliminate all waste and not leave anything behind.

Yosemite National Park Additional Information

Park Regulations 

There are several regulations to follow during your visit to Yosemite:  

• Wildlife Safety
  Keep a safe distance from all wildlife, especially bears. Never feed them, and properly store your food and trash to avoid attracting them. When staying overnight, food must be stored in a food locker. 

• Leave No Trace
  Practice responsible recreation by picking up all trash and leaving campsites and natural areas as you find them.

• Fire Safety
  Campfires are only allowed in designated fire rings at campgrounds. Always extinguish fires completely before leaving your campsite. Fire restrictions may occur during dry seasons, so be sure to check current regulations before your visit.

• Stay on Trails
  Hikers and bikers should stay on designated trails to avoid damaging vegetation and wildlife habitat, as well as injuries that can occur on terrain that is not safe even for the most experienced hiker.
  
• Water Safety
  Never enter fast-moving water or swim unsupervised in park waters. Be aware of potential hazards like slippery rocks and uneven currents. Certain areas of rafting or boating require all passengers to wear personal flotation devices (PFDs), and anyone under age 13 must always wear one. Anyone boating or rafting must have a PFD in their possession in case of an emergency. 

Accessibility at Yosemite 

There is a wide range of accessibility features at Yosemite, all of which are highlighted in the Yosemite Accessibility Guide. A Braille Park Brochure and Visual Guides are available at the Visitor’s Center. Other accessibility features include: 

Accessible Parking

Accessible Restrooms
Restrooms with accessible stalls are found throughout the park, often near parking areas and visitor centers.

Accessible Shuttles
The free Yosemite Valley shuttle bus service is wheelchair-accessible with lifts and tie-downs to secure mobility devices.

Accessible Trails
Paved or hard-packed trails suitable for wheelchairs and other mobility aids are available in various locations. Popular options include a portion of the Lower Yosemite Fall Trail, Mirror Lake Loop, and sections of the Valley Loop Trail.

Assistive Listening Devices
These devices can be borrowed from visitor centers to enhance audio programs and presentations at ranger-led talks and events.

Yosemite FAQ

What are the opening hours of Yosemite National Park? 

Yosemite is open 24-Hours a day, 365 days a year. 

Where Can I Find Maps of Yosemite?

Maps are available at the visitor centers, and are also available to download online. 

Are there Museums at Yosemite? 

Yes, there is one main museum at Yosemite, the Yosemite Museum. It was the first building specifically constructed as a museum in the National Park system. The museum features a variety of exhibits, including cultural history, a recreated Native American Village of Ahwahnee behind it, and an art gallery. 

Are Pets Allowed At Yosemite? 

Yes, pets are allowed in certain areas of the park. They must be leashed, and leashes must be less than six feet long.

The Best Things to Do in Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park, a sanctuary in California’s heart of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, captivates visitors with its awe-inspiring natural wonders. Established in 1890, Yosemite encompasses nearly 750,000 acres of pristine wilderness. It boasts iconic granite cliffs such as El Capitan and Half Dome, cascading waterfalls like Yosemite Falls and Bridalveil Fall, and lush valleys adorned with ancient sequoia trees. Its diverse ecosystems provide habitat for various wildlife, from black bears to elusive mountain lions. Whether hiking along scenic trails, rock climbing on sheer cliffs, or simply marveling at the grandeur of nature, Yosemite offers unforgettable experiences for adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike.  Here are some of the best things to do while visiting Yosemite.

Hiking Trails and Wilderness Areas

Yosemite National Park offers various hiking trails for all experience levels, from short and easy family-friendly walks to challenging multi-day backpacking trips.

Some of the most popular hikes in Yosemite Valley include Lower Yosemite Fall, Upper Yosemite Fall, Mist Trail, and Vernal and Nevada Falls.

The Lower Yosemite Falls hike is one of the easier walks at Yosemite. It is just over one mile long and offers gorgeous views of Yosemite Falls. Perfect for all ages, this paved trail offers a refreshing mist in spring and spectacular views year-round. 

Try the Upper Yosemite Fall Hike for a more challenging hike to the Falls. This 7.6-mile round trip has an elevation gain of nearly 3,000 feet, and offers breathtaking views of Yosemite Valley and the top of North America’s tallest waterfall. Be prepared for a strenuous climb with switchbacks and rocky terrain. This is a hike for more experienced hikers. 

Another hike for experienced hikers is the Mist Trail, a 34.5-mile loop with stunning views throughout. This hike takes around 19 hours, so pack your camping gear and prepare ahead of time. If you’re looking for a shorter hike along a similar path, try the Vernal and Nevada Falls hike—a 6.4-mile loop that is challenging but doable in about 4 hours. 

Remember that all hikers must obtain wilderness permits for overnight backpacking trips. Permits are available 24 weeks in advance and are available on a first-come, first-served, lottery basis. To see what days are available you can check the Recreation.gov site, input the dates you are interested in, and how many people are in your group.

Rock Climbing and Bouldering

The sheer granite cliffs of Yosemite beckon rock climbers from all over the world.  Even if you’re not a climber, watching climbers on El Capitan or attending a climbing lesson can be thrilling. Spring and Fall are the most popular times for rock climbing, and while Summer can be hot, the Tuolumne Meadows may have cooler temperatures good for climbing. There are rock climbing experiences for climbers of all skill levels. Just be sure to choose the right climb for your ability, plan accordingly, and prioritize safety.

Where to Climb at Yosemite 

Popular climbing areas include El Capitan and Half Dome, Yosemite Valley, and Tuolumne Meadows. 

El Capitan and Half Dome –  the most famous rock faces in Yosemite, and they’re not for the faint of heart. El Capitan is a 3,000-foot vertical wall, while Half Dome features a challenging cable climb to the top. 

Yosemite Valley –  offers a variety of trad and sport climbing routes for all skill levels. Popular areas include El Capitan Meadow, Cathedral Rocks, and Salathé Wall.

Tuolumne Meadows – located at a higher elevation and offers granite domes and slabs with excellent climbing opportunities, especially in the summer months. Popular areas include Royal Arches, Fairview Dome, and Daff Dome.

Yosemite Mountaineering School offers lessons and guided climbs and has equipment rentals for less seasoned climbers looking to climb.  Wilderness permits are required for overnight big wall climbs. They can be obtained the day you start your climb, either in front of the Valley Welcome Center or near El Capitan Bridge at a kiosk near the food lockers.

Biking at Yosemite

Cruising the scenic paths on a bicycle allows you to experience the park in a whole new way. Yosemite Valley boasts over 12 miles of paved and mostly flat bike paths, making it perfect for a relaxing ride. You can take in breathtaking views of Half Dome and Yosemite Falls as you pedal alongside the Merced River, making for a perfect day of biking. For those seeking a challenge, some roads within the park are open to bicycles, allowing you to explore beyond the Valley. 

If you like to bike but are traveling without yours, a bike share program is available from June through October. There are two bike stations in the park: the Yosemite Village day-use parking area and the Yosemite Valley Lodge day-use parking lot. Those wanting to rent a bike must download the Yosemite Bike Share app, which is available for both Apple/iOS and Android.

Wildlife Viewing

The wildlife of Yosemite National Park plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecosystem’s health. They pollinate plants, disperse seeds, and control insect populations. While at Yosemite, it is important to observe wildlife from a respectful distance and avoid disturbing their natural behaviors. Remember, you are visiting their homes. To minimize your impact on wildlife, remember to: 

• Stay on designated trails and respect park closures.
• Never approach or feed wild animals.
• Dispose of trash properly to avoid attracting animals. 

Where Can You See Wildlife at Yosemite?

Yosemite offers various habitats that are perfect for wildlife to thrive in. The meadows and grasslands are perfect for spotting deer, coyotes, and foxes. Riparian zones (areas bordering rivers and streams) will provide views of birds, amphibians, and small mammals. The forests of Yosemite house typical forest creatures like squirrels and chipmunks and also provide glimpses of bears (remember to keep your distance!) Rockier areas are favorite spots for bighorn sheep and raptors to wander about. 

Specific spots for wildlife spotting are: 

• Yosemite Valley: The valley’s meadows and open areas attract mule deer, coyotes, foxes, and black bears, all of which enjoy grazing and foraging in the lower areas.
• Tuolumne Meadows: Early mornings and evenings bring mule deer, coyotes, marmots, and birds to this subalpine meadow.
• Glacier Point: At Glacier Point, you will not only have stunning panoramic views of Yosemite Valley but also a high chance of glimpsing some wildlife.
• Mariposa Grove: Home to the giant sequoia trees, Mariposa Grove is also a good place to see deer, chipmunks, and birds.

Before heading out to view wildlife, you can download the NPSpecies list of wildlife seen in the park. You can easily filter by category if there is one type of wildlife you are most interested in spotting (birds, fish, amphibians, etc.). According to the National Park website, the park is home to 262 species of birds, eleven native and one non-native amphibian species, several native and non-native fish, ninety mammal species, and thousands of insects. 

Mule deer, black bears, coyotes, gray foxes, and golden trout are some of the animals that call Yosemite home.

Scenic Drives and Viewpoints

Not interested in hiking to see the entire park? You can easily take in the beauties of Yosemite from the comfort of your car. Pick up The Yosemite Road Guide at the visitor center bookstore or online before you go. The most popular scenic road is Tioga Road, a 46-mile drive from Crane Flat to Tioga Pass, which is typically open from late May or early June through sometime in November. 

There are countless viewpoints throughout the park, and although there are more well-known spots, the NPS site encourages visitors to look at any turnout they encounter during their stay. The more popular viewpoints in the park are: 

• Glacier Point – offers stunning views of Yosemite Valley and Half Dome, and It is a great starting point for a hike to Yosemite Point or Cloud’s Rest.
• Tunnel View – for views of El Capitan and Bridalveil Fall. 
• Olmsted Point – is found along Tioga Road, and gives you views of Yosemite from the East. 
• O’Shaughnessy Dam – is found along Hetch Hetchy Road and provides a viewpoint of the Valley’s waterfalls, rock formations, and reservoir. 
• Valley View –  provides captivating views of Yosemite Valley alongside the Merced River. 
• Sentinel Meadow – has gorgeous views of Yosemite Falls.

Waterfalls

You can certainly go chasing waterfalls while at  Yosemite, as there are over twenty found throughout the park, including Yosemite Falls, Bridalveil Falls, and Vernal Falls. Admire their beauty from viewpoints or hike to their bases for a closer look. Yosemite Falls is the tallest waterfall in North America by total drop, and other falls provide just as awe-inspiring views. 

While the falls are spectacular all year round, they are at their most powerful in the spring, when the water is fueled by the melting snow in the park.

Stargazing

Yosemite boasts some of the darkest night skies in the lower 48 states, thanks to its distance from major cities and minimal light pollution. This translates into a breathtaking view of the Milky Way galaxy, constellations, planets, and even meteor showers, depending on the season. You can soak in the stunning night sky on your own while you camp or join a ranger-led astronomy program to get an expert guide for a deeper delve into the stars shining above.

Camping

Spend a night under the stars in one of Yosemite’s campgrounds. Whether you prefer a developed campground or backcountry camping, there are options for all experience levels. No matter what type of camping you do, campground reservations are required and are difficult to get, so be sure to make a reservation early. 

RVs & Trailers—Ten campgrounds can accommodate RVs and trailers, the maximum length for which is 40 feet, and the maximum trailer length is 35 feet. Only eight sites accommodate these sizes, but many sites are available for RVs up to 35 feet long or trailers up to 24 feet long.

Camping with your horse? Three horse campsites are available during summer at Wawona, Bridalveil Creek, and Tuolumne Meadows. Dogs are allowed on all campgrounds except walk-in campgrounds and group campsites.

Rafting and Swimming

During the summer, you can enjoy rafting down the Merced River or take a refreshing dip in one of the park’s lakes or streams. Swimming is allowed almost everywhere in the park, except for: 

• Hetch Hetchy Reservoir, and within one mile upstream along any tributary (e.g., Rancheria Falls).
• Dana Fork of the Tuolumne River
• Emerald Pool and Silver Apron (above Vernal Fall)
• Lake Eleanor Reservoir (when posted)
• Wawona Domestic Water Intake (and 100 yards upstream)

Rafting, kayaking, canoeing, and other non-motorized boats are allowed on the Merced River (when the gage height at Pohono Bridge is below 7 feet at 8 am), South Forked Merced River, and Tenaya Lake. Please note: when the gage height at the Pohono Bridge is above 4 feet at 8 am, every occupant of a boat, raft, or inflatable must wear a personal flotation device when rafting or boating on the Merced River. Otherwise, every person must have a personal flotation device immediately available for each occupant of the raft/boat. Children under the age of 13 must wear a personal flotation device at all times. 

Rafts are available to rent from Curry Village Raft Rentals.

The Giant Sequoias

Perhaps the most iconic part of Yosemite, the giant sequoias cannot be missed during your visit to Yosemite. Giant Sequoias are the third longest-lived tree species; Mariposa Grove features the Grizzly Giant, estimated to be 3,000 years old. A free shuttle service from the Mariposa Grove Welcome Center brings visitors to Mariposa Grove. 

You can hike trails among these mighty trees. Four trails take you through Mariposa Grove, ranging from the easy Big Trees Loop Trail (.3 miles) to the moderate Grizzly Giant Loop (2 miles) to the strenuous Mariposa Grove Trail (7 miles) and the Guardians Loop Trail (6.5 miles). The Mariposa Grove Trail passes by all of the major spots: the California Tunnel Tree, the Grizzly Giant (the oldest tree in the grove), the Clothespin Tree, and more. 

Hiking not for you? The Yosemite Grand Bus Tour takes you through Mariposa Grove.

Visitor Centers and Museums

Visit one of the park’s visitor centers or museums to learn about its natural and cultural history. Gain insights into Yosemite’s geology, Native American heritage, and conservation efforts. 

Visitor Centers

Yosemite National Park has four main visitor centers: 

• Valley Visitor Center: Yosemite Valley’s largest and most comprehensive visitor center. View The Spirit of Yosemite, a  23-minute film about Yosemite National Park at the West Auditorium Theater behind the Valley Visitor Center. It is open year-round. 
• Tuolumne Meadows Visitor Center: This visitor center serves the subalpine region of Tuolumne Meadows and is only open during the summer months. 
• Big Oak Flat Information Station: This is a smaller information station located near the park’s south entrance. It is also only open during the summer months. 
• Wawona Information Station: This is another smaller information station close to the park’s southwest entrance and only open in the summer months.

Museums

Yosemite Museum

Located in Yosemite Valley, this museum delves into the rich heritage of the Ahwahnechee people who lived there for centuries. It showcases their basketry skills, tools, and way of life. There is a reconstructed Indian Village of Ahwahnee behind the museum to explore.

Happy Isles Art and Nature Center

Nestled in Yosemite Valley, the Happy Isles Art and Nature Center offers a unique blend of artistic inspiration and natural exploration, perfect for visitors of all ages. Peruse the Natural History Exhibits that delve into Yosemite National Park’s fascinating flora and fauna, or take an art class run by Yosemite Conservancy. The classes allow you to connect with the beauty of Yosemite through watercolor painting, charcoal drawing, and more. Art classes range from beginner to experienced artists. Open April through October.

Ansel Adams Gallery

The Ansel Adams Gallery has been operating in the park since 1902 and features work of not only Ansel Adams but other artists and photographers as well. You can stock up on art supplies and books here too. 

Historic Buildings

Yosemite History Center

The Yosemite History Center showcases a collection of historic buildings like blacksmith shops, schools, and residences, providing a window into the lives of Yosemite’s past residents. Take a horsedrawn carriage ride around the center, or watch a blacksmith at work while you stroll along the interpretive center. 

LeConte Memorial Lodge

This historic lodge, built in 1903 and now operated by the Sierra Club, served as Yosemite’s first visitor center. It features a children’s corner and offers environmental education programs during the summer months.

The Ahwahnee

The Ahwahnee Hotel, a luxurious National Historic Landmark in Yosemite Valley, is a must-see for any visitor. Built in the 1920s, it boasts stunning architecture, elegant public spaces, and breathtaking views. Explore its shops, grab a sweet treat, or dine in style.

Cemeteries

Yosemite Cemetery

Located near the Yosemite Museum, this cemetery serves as the final resting place for various individuals who shaped Yosemite, including Native Americans, early park visitors, and park rangers.

Wawona Cemetery

Located in a “tucked away” corner of the Wawona section of the park, this smaller cemetery is marked by a small wooden fence. Many gravestones have nondescript names like “Pioneer Settler” and “Frenchman.” However, one named stone is the final resting place of Galen Clark, the first person known to count and measure the Sequoias.

Ranger-Led Programs and Activities

It wouldn’t be a national park without ranger-led programs and activities, and Yosemite is not without. There are a wide variety of ranger-led programs and activities throughout the year at Yosemite. Enjoy views of the park from a tram in one of the Yosemite Park Floor Tours. The Yosemite Conservancy offers guided nature walks, Yosemite after-dark walks, bus tours, photography walks, outdoor adventures like hikes, overnight stays and field schools. You can check out the 2024 outdoor adventure schedule here.

Dining and Shopping

There are several dining options while at Yosemite, from full-service restaurants to grab-and-go markets. 

Full-Service Restaurants:

• The Ahwahnee Dining Room (fine-dining experience)
• Yosemite Valley Lodge
• Glacier Point Hotel 

Quick-Service Cafes:

• Curry Village
• Yosemite Valley Lodge

Pizza:

• Curry Village 
• Yosemite Valley Lodge

Grab-and-Go Markets: Convenience stores located in various areas throughout the park stock snacks, drinks, and basic groceries. 

If you bring a picnic or get something to go at one of the grab-and-go markets, clean up after yourself, do not leave any trash behind, and never let your food out of your site. Black bears call Yosemite home, have a strong sense of smell, and are scavengers. If staying overnight, your food must be stored in a food locker. Food can be stored in cars during the day but NOT at night. According to the National Parks website, “failure to store your food properly may result in impoundment of your food or car and/or a fine of up to $5,000 and/or removal from your campsite or lodging facility.” Besides the fine, you don’t want a close encounter with a black bear for many reasons! 

Shopping

There are gift shops at Yosemite Valley Lodge, Half Dome Village, and Glacier Point. You can find souvenirs, clothing, and other Yosemite-themed memorabilia. The Village Store near Yosemite Valley Lodge has groceries and camping supplies for overnight guests.

The Ultimate Yosemite National Park Transportation Guide: How to Get to and Around Yosemite Valley

Yosemite National Park is one of America’s most iconic national parks, home to famous natural attractions, including Half Dome, El Capitan, and Yosemite Falls. It’s no surprise that a park this beautiful is the sixth-most visited national park in the country, drawing over 4 million visitors annually.

The crowds of visitors make navigating transportation at Yosemite challenging, especially if you’re visiting during the peak season (May through September). If you’re driving, you could wait one to four hours just to make it through the park entrance and then wait another two hours for a parking space inside. 

Thankfully, a wide variety of transportation options exist for accessing Yosemite National Park without hassle. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about seamlessly getting to and expertly navigating around Yosemite National Park. 

There are pros and cons to both driving yourself around Yosemite National Park and taking the shuttle bus or public transportation. Driving allows you to see the park at off-hours and not be limited to shuttle routes or schedules. However, parking spots can be difficult to find, so you might not be able to stop and hike or see a sight you had planned on. When you take a shuttle bus, you won’t have to worry about finding parking, but the shuttles can fill up, and you may have to wait a long time between buses.

Yosemite Bus

Even if you’re staying outside of Yosemite National Park, you can still enjoy the park without a car. We highly recommend leaving your car at your hotel and taking YARTS (Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System), which offers regional bus service into Yosemite from nearby gateway towns. 

YARTS routes run between Yosemite Valley Visitor Center and the following towns:

• Sonora
• Jamestown
• Groveland
• Buck Meadows
• Merced
• Mariposa
• Midpines
• El Portal
• White Wolf
• Tuolumne Meadows
• Lee Vining
• June Lake Junction
• Mammoth Lakes
• Mariposa Grove
• Fish Camp
• Oakhurst
• Coarsegold
• Fresno

The routes and times change seasonally, so check the YARTS website for the most up-to-date information when planning your trip. 

Fares vary from $2-$44 one-way depending on your boarding location. Reduced rates for seniors, military, local residents and students are offered.

We recommend making an online reservation early, as only a limited number of reservations are available. Walk-ons are accepted on the bus if there is space, but buses fill up quickly in peak season. Tickets can be purchased online or on the bus via credit card or cash. 

Once the bus arrives at the Yosemite National Park visitor center, you can easily connect to the Yosemite Valley Shuttle, a free bus that runs within the park.

Yosemite Valley Shuttle System

The free Yosemite Valley shuttle system is the easiest and most convenient way to get around Yosemite National Park, and it’s also the best way to get around the park without a car. 

There are two shuttles, the Valleywide Shuttle (green route) and the East Valley Shuttle (purple route). There are 19 shuttle stops within Yosemite Valley, so that you can take the bus to popular attractions like El Capitan Meadow, Cathedral Beach, and Four Mile Trailhead. 

Valleywide shuttle buses arrive every 12 to 22 minutes from 7 am to 10 pm, and East Valley shuttles arrive every 8 to 12 minutes from 7 am to 10 pm. 

The shuttle is completely free to ride, and you cannot make reservations. Be prepared to wait in line during peak hours, as the shuttles do fill up.

Driving in Yosemite National Park

Driving in Yosemite allows you to explore the park without being limited by the shuttle schedule. However, you risk being turned away from certain areas because there is no parking. At most parking areas, if the lot is full, you won’t be allowed to wait for a space as it will cause congestion—you will just be directed away. Parking is only allowed in designated areas, and if you park on the roadside or create your own off-road parking space, you may be towed. Once all parking in Yosemite Valley is full, any incoming visitor vehicles will be diverted back out of Yosemite Valley near El Capitan. 

The National Parks Service (NPS) advises, “If you arrive early, parking is available at Yosemite Village, Curry Village, and near Yosemite Falls. If you find a parking space, plan to leave your car there; you will not be able to find another parking spot.”

Yosemite Traffic

Visitors to Yosemite, especially Yosemite Valley, should be prepared for traffic jams and extremely limited parking from April through October. Bring plenty of food and water in case you get stuck in traffic for hours. On the busiest weekend days, you may sit in hours-long traffic jams on the roads leading into the valley. Visitors cannot leave their vehicles and access facilities, so prepare accordingly for heavy traffic.

Tips for Avoiding Traffic in Yosemite National Park

1. The best way to avoid traffic in Yosemite National Park is by timing your visit for off-peak hours and days. Arrive early, stay late, and visit Yosemite during the week instead of on weekends, and you’ll experience significantly less traffic.
2. Consider biking or walking around the park if possible.
3. Park your car inside the park and take the free shuttle around.
4. Explore gateway communities to the Yosemite Valley, including Mariposa, Groveland, Mono County, and Oakhurst. 
5. Check Yosemite traffic updates and webcams before visiting. 

Drivers should be aware of seasonal road closures within Yosemite National Park. Tioga Road and Glacier Point Road are closed in November through late May or early June due to snow. Mariposa Grove Road closes for the season around November 30 and reopens in March or April, depending on road conditions. 

Always consult the NPS website for current road closures and conditions before traveling. 

Yosemite National Park is open 24 hours a day. Use caution when driving through the park at night, as there are no streetlights. Roads are windy in some areas, with steep dropoffs, so always obey posted speed limits. Keep alert for wildlife, especially during dawn and dusk. If you have an emergency, call or text 911. For non-emergency situations, call the park dispatch office at 209-379-1992.

If you plan on driving in Yosemite, check the park’s vehicle restrictions, especially if you’re bringing an RV. 

Size restrictions for vehicles vary by road.

Yosemite Vehicle Restrictions

Yosemite Viewpoints by Car

If you don’t want to walk far distances, a number of Yosemite viewpoints are easily accessible by car or by the shuttle. Note that the parking lots for these attractions fill up quickly, so we always recommend taking the shuttle instead of driving yourself.

These are the best Yosemite viewpoints you can see by car or shuttle without hiking:

• Glacier Point
• Yosemite Valley View
• Washburn Point
• Tunnel View
• El Capitan Meadow
• Yosemite Valley Chapel
• Bridalveil Fall

Yosemite Entrance Reservation

In an effort to prevent overcrowding, a reservation is required to drive into or through Yosemite National Park on certain days from April 13 through October 27, 2024 between 5 am and 4 pm as follows.

Yosemite entrance reservations will be required during the following periods:

• April 13 through June 30: A reservation is required from 5 am to 4 pm on Saturdays, Sundays, and on holidays (May 27 and June 19).
• July 1 through August 16: A reservation is required from 5 am to 4 pm daily.
• August 17 through October 27: A reservation is required from 5 am to 4 pm on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays (September 2 and October 14).

Yosemite entrance reservations can be made on Recreation.gov. Reservations for the year open in January. Additional reservations will open up seven days before the arrival date at 8 am Pacific Time.  For example, if you’re arriving on October 27, you can log in on October 20 to make a reservation. You’ll want to log on promptly, as reservations fill up almost immediately. Create an account on Recreation.gov ahead of time to help improve your chances of snagging a reservation. 

The Yosemite entrance reservation costs $2 (and does not include the $35 per car park entrance fee.) Reservations are valid for three consecutive days. 

You can also call 877-444-6777 to make a reservation—this could be a good backup option if the website is down. 

If you’re staying in lodging inside the park, you do not need to make an additional park entrance reservation, as your accommodation reservation will automatically grant you access to the park. This applies to reservations booked for Yosemite National Park campgrounds, Curry Village, Housekeeping Camp, Yosemite Valley Lodge, The Ahwahnee, Wawona Hotel, White Wolf Lodge, Tuolumne Meadows Lodge, and private lodging/vacation rentals in Wawona, Yosemite West, or Foresta. 

You also don’t need an entrance reservation if you have a wilderness permit reservation or Half Dome permit.

Biking in Yosemite

Biking is one of the easiest ways to get around Yosemite National Park. You’ll be able to enjoy the scenery at your own pace and skip all the traffic. There are over 12 miles of off-street paved bike paths in Yosemite Valley. Bicycles are also allowed on all regular roads within the park. 

There are a few rules you should be aware of if you plan on biking in Yosemite. Helmets are required for children under 18 years of age. E-bikes with two or three wheels, fully operable pedals, and motors less than 750 watts are allowed everywhere bicycles are allowed. E-scooters are allowed on bike paths but not on park roads. The speed limit on bike paths is 15 mph, and biking off-trail or mountain biking is not allowed in Yosemite National Park.

You can bring your own bike to Yosemite, rent a bike, or borrow one from the Yosemite Bike Share program. 

Where to Rent Bikes

Bicycles, tag-along bikes for children, trailers, and helmets are available for rent at Yosemite Valley Lodge, Curry Village, and Yosemite Village on a first-come, first-served basis. A limited number of tandem bikes (for one child and one adult) and hand-crank bikes are available and can be reserved in advance. 

The Yosemite Bike Share program is free and allows visitors to borrow a bike for up to two hours. To utilize the Yosemite Bike Share program, simply download the Yosemite Bike Share app and use it to unlock a bike from the Bike Share racks. The Bike Share stations can be found at the Yosemite Village Parking Area and in Yosemite Village between the Valley Wilderness Center and the Valley Visitor Center. Helmets are provided with the bikes. You must return the bike to the same station that you took it from.

Yosemite Airport

No airports exist within Yosemite National Park. The closest commercial airport is Fresno-Yosemite International Airport (FAT), which is approximately a 1.5-hour drive from Wawona and a 2.5-hour drive to Yosemite Valley.

Other airports close to Yosemite National Park include:

• Merced Airport (MCE): 2 hours driving time to Yosemite Valley
• Mammoth Yosemite Airport (MMH): 2.5 hours driving time to Yosemite Valley or 7 hours driving time if Tioga Road is closed
• Stockton Metropolitan Airport (SCK): 2.5 hours driving time to Yosemite Valley
• Oakland International Airport (OAK): 3.5 hours driving time to Yosemite Valley
• Sacramento International Airport (SME): 3.5 hours driving time to Yosemite Valley
• San Jose International Airport (SJC): 4 hours driving time to Yosemite Valley
• San Francisco International Airport (SFO): 4 hours driving time to Yosemite Valley
• Reno/Tahoe International (RNO): 3 hours driving time to Yosemite Valley or 5.5 hours when Tioga Road is closed.

Getting to Yosemite by Public Transportation

Thanks to a wide public transportation network, it’s possible to visit Yosemite National Park without a car. Public transportation to Yosemite National Park is available year-round via Amtrak or Greyhound from Fresno-Yosemite International, Stockton Metropolitan Airport, Oakland International, Sacramento International, San Jose International, San Francisco International, and Reno/Tahoe International. 

You’ll need to take the train or bus to Merced, California, then transfer to the YARTS bus. The YARTS shuttle from Merced to Yosemite Valley Visitor Center takes approximately three hours. There are YARTS stops at both the Merced Airport and Merced Amtrak station.

A round-trip ticket on YARTS from Merced to Yosemite Valley costs $44, plus a $1 “fuel and cleaning surcharge.” If you purchase your ticket online in advance (which we recommend doing in peak season to ensure you get a seat), you’ll pay an extra $2.50 convenience fee. Reduced fares are available for seniors (62 and above), veterans, and persons with disabilities—children five and under ride for free. 

If it’s your first time traveling to Yosemite by public transportation, we recommend reviewing the YARTS Bus Stop Guide, which shows pictures of the bus stops at each location. This can be helpful if you’re rushing to catch the shuttle and are unfamiliar with the stop. 

YARTS Parking

If you want to drive and then take the YARTS, you can park for free near bus stops in Merced, Mariposa, and Midpines.

YARTS Baggage

There are no luggage restrictions for the YARTS shuttle. If you have larger bags, they will be stowed underneath the bus. 

Can You Bring a Bike on YARTS?

Bicycles can be brought on YARTS buses, but they are only allowed on a first-come, first-served basis. All bikes must be disassembled in order to be transported, and they will be stored underneath the bus. 

Are Pets Allowed on YARTS?

Pets are not allowed—only service animals are allowed on YARTS buses. In Yosemite National Park, service dogs are legally permitted anywhere visitors can go.

YARTS Accessibility

All YARTS buses are wheelchair-accessible and feature wheelchair lifts. YARTS asks passengers who need an accessible seat on the bus to contact them 48 hours before departure or to note that an accessible seat is required when making a reservation.

Where to Stay in Yosemite National Park: A Guide for Every Traveler

While knowing what to do during your Yosemite National Park vacation is important, deciding where to sleep between adventures is just as important. A diverse range of lodging options are available within and around the park for every budget and type of traveler. 

Where you stay during your visit to Yosemite depends on several factors, including your personality, the types of activities you want to do, and your budget. To help you decide, we’ve categorized each accommodation according to the type of traveler it is best for. 

No matter where you stay at Yosemite, booking your stay well in advance is important. Reservations fill up quickly and are available one year and two days in advance. Guests are advised to book the day bookings become available for their chosen dates, especially for stays during peak summer months. 

Where to Stay in Yosemite – Inside the Park

The Ahwahnee

Great For: Luxury, Couples

Built between 1926 and 1927, The Ahwahnee is the only luxury hotel within the park’s grounds. You’ll find Art Deco, Middle Eastern, and native american influences throughout the buildings, architecture, and decor. The design of the building was specifically to highlight the beauty of Yosemite, with stunning views of the most recognizable spots in the park: Half Dome, Glacier Point, and Yosemite Falls. 

This 123-room hotel offers four types of accommodations: standard rooms, classic rooms, suites, or cottages, depending on your needs. All rooms and suites have hair dryers, flat-screen TVs, Nespresso coffee makers, and pillow-top mattresses. 

The Ahwahnee Dining Room is an upscale restaurant with a buffet breakfast and dinner and an a la carte lunch menu. There is a dress code for dinner: men must wear long pants with a button-down shirt, and women must wear dresses or skirts/long pants with a blouse. Children are also expected to dress accordingly. Shorts, T-shirts, tank tops, flip-flops, and baseball caps are prohibited. Casual attire is allowed during breakfast and lunch. For drinks, lighter meals, and snacks, the Ahwahnee Bar offers gorgeous park views and is perfect for relaxing after a long day of hiking or sightseeing. 

Besides the dining room, other on-site amenities include a heated swimming pool (undergoing rehabilitation at the time of publishing), a gift shop, a shuttle service, valet parking, and a concierge. 

Yosemite Valley Lodge 

Great For: Families, Groups

Want to roll out of bed and walk across the road to Yosemite Falls? Look no further than Yosemite Valley Lodge. The closest lodging to the falls, the classic design blends with natural surroundings, and large windows let in sunshine and glorious views. 

The 245-room lodge offers a variety of room options, including standard rooms, family rooms with bunk beds, and even ADA-accessible rooms. Families love the bunk rooms, which come with a queen bed and a bunk bed with a double-sized mattress on the bottom and twin on top. Family Rooms have a king-sized bed with a bunk bed, and traditional rooms have two double beds or 1 queen/king. 

Yosemite Valley Lodge has four dining options: The Mountain Room, a traditional restaurant for families; The Mountain Room Lounge, which has a large Swedish-style fireplace perfect for sitting by with a cocktail or roasting marshmallows; and the Base Camp Eatery, which has a counter service and the most substantial menu—there is indoor and outdoor seating, or you can take your food to go. Finally, there is a Starbucks for those who can’t go without some coffee in their day! 

Yosemite Valley Lodge offers various amenities to enhance your stay. There’s a restaurant and lounge for meals and drinks, a gift shop for souvenirs, and an outdoor swimming pool for a refreshing dip. The lodge is also conveniently located near a stop for the free Yosemite Valley Shuttle, allowing easy access to other park areas. Rent a bike directly on-site for easy riding. 

Curry Village

Great For: Budget Conscious, Families, Younger Travelers 

Curry Village (formally Half Dome Village) caters to diverse budgets and preferences. They offer cozy canvas tent cabins (some with heating), beds, and basic amenities for a classic camping vibe. If you prefer more comfortable accommodation, there are also wood cabins with private bathrooms and even standard motel rooms at Stoneman Cottage. Keep in mind that bathrooms for tent cabins are located in central bathhouses, which may not be ideal for everyone. It is also worth noting that fold-away cribs are not available at Curry Village, so families with toddlers and babies may not want to stay here. 

Similar to Yosemite Valley Lodge, Curry Village boasts an unbeatable location. You’ll be surrounded by towering granite cliffs and giant sequoia trees, with easy access to iconic landmarks like Half Dome and Glacier Point. Plus, the free Yosemite Valley shuttle stops nearby, making exploration of the valley a breeze. Love history? You’ll love the tour of the historic curry village, 

Although mostly rustic, Curry Village is not without its dining choices. There is a pizza deck, coffee shop, bar, and ice cream shop. 

Curry Village also offers plenty of amenities—a seasonal pool for a refreshing cool-down, a campfire program for evening entertainment, and even childcare services (availability may vary).

Wawona Hotel

Great For: History Buffs, Budget Travelers

Built in the late 1800s, the Wawona Hotel, a National Historic Landmark, exudes Victorian charm. You’ll find yourself surrounded by antique furnishings, spacious verandas with rocking chairs, and a slower pace, perfect for unwinding and appreciating Yosemite’s grandeur. Situated near the south entrance of Yosemite National Park, the Wawona Hotel is a good choice for those who want a base outside the busy Yosemite Valley. 

Wawona Hotel provides a variety of room options, depending on your needs. Choose from 50 standard hotel rooms with private baths for a comfortable stay or a more historic experience in one of 54 rooms featuring shared bathhouses. You are in for a truly historic stay at Wawona Lodge, as there are no TVs, telephones, or internet. 

While not offering the extensive amenities of some larger hotels, Wawona Hotel provides essentials for a relaxing stay. Enjoy meals at the on-site restaurant, unwind by the seasonal outdoor swimming pool, or challenge yourself at Yosemite’s only golf course located within park boundaries (subject to seasonal availability).

Housekeeping Camp

Great For: Budget Travelers, Hikers, Campers

Love to camp but hate bringing all of that gear? Housekeeping is for you. A hybrid between a tent and a cabin, 266 units throughout the camp have concrete walls, a canvas roof, and a screened porch. Each unit comes with beds that can sleep up to six people.

The cabins provide basic amenities like electricity (limited outlets), a table with chairs, and a fire ring with a grill for cooking outdoors. Restrooms with showers are located conveniently throughout the campground.

Perhaps the most luring part of Housekeeping Camp is its location. It is situated right alongside the Merced River in Yosemite Valley, providing stunning views. 

While beds are provided,  you’ll need to bring your own sleeping bags, pillows, and most cooking supplies (although some items can be rented on-site). Be prepared to cook your meals outdoors and enjoy evenings under the stars.  Like Wawona Lodge, Housekeeping Camp does not have TVs, telephones, or internet (although there is electricity!) 

White Wolf Lodge

Great For: Hikers, Campers, Budget Travelers

Another “glamping” option, White Wolf Lodge offers a unique escape within Yosemite National Park. Located 30 miles from Yosemite Valley along Tioga Road, this remote haven is ideal for those seeking a back-to-nature experience. 

There are twenty-four canvas-tent cabins featuring wood-framed floors and walls covered in canvas. Beds, linens, and a wood-burning stove for warmth are included, while guests use nearby communal showers and restrooms. Simplicity reigns supreme here, with no electricity or daily housekeeping services. There are four wooden cabins with private bathrooms and canvas tent cabins. 

There is a dining option on-site that serves buffet breakfasts and family-style sit-down dinners. There are no TVs, phones, or internet, but there is a shuttle service to and from the lodge. 

Tuolumne Meadows Lodge

Great For: Campers, Hikers

Like White Wolf Lodge, Tuolumne Meadows Lodge is a more remote and rustic accommodation option. It hosts sixty-nine canvas-tent cabins, each with metal frames and concrete floors, providing a comfortable yet rustic lodging option. Although these accommodations lack electricity, televisions, and phones, they have cozy beds, linens, and a wood-burning stove for warmth. Shared showers and restrooms are conveniently located throughout the central campground.

A dining tent beside the Tuolumne River serves family-style breakfasts and dinners. Despite the family-style nature, reservations are required. Guests can order box lunches at the front desk in the evenings to pick up the next morning before setting off for the day.

High Sierra Camps

Great For: Hikers, Adventurers, Campers

If you want to hike and sleep in the heart of the wilderness but don’t want the weight of a camping backpack weighing you down, the High Sierra Camps may be your answer. One of the most remote options (besides pitching your own tent), the High Sierra Camps have five locations scattered throughout the backcountry. The five camps are spaced six to ten miles apart and are moderate, strenuous, or very strenuous. You can hike on your own, or on a guided tour by foot or mule. None of the camps are accessible by car. 

The five camps have anywhere from eight to twelve tents that accommodate up to 42 people. Two of the camps are currently not operating: Merced Lake and Vogelsang. The remaining three camps are: 

Glen Aulin High Sierra Camp: Located 7,800 feet above sea level, next to a waterfall. Features simple but comfortable tent cabins with beds and basic amenities. Shared restrooms with showers are available.

May Lake High Sierra Camp: Located 9,900 feet above sea level, near the shores of May Lake, reflecting the majestic Mount Hoffman. Provides tent cabins with beds, linens, and a wood-burning stove for warmth. Shared restrooms with showers are located nearby.

Sunrise High Sierra Camp: True to its name, Sunrise Camp boasts stunning sunrises over the Sierra Nevada from its 9,400-foot elevation. The surrounding wilderness offers opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing. Similar to the other camps, Sunrise provides basic but comfortable tent cabins with beds and a wood-burning stove. Shared restrooms with showers are also available.

The camps offer family-style meals for breakfast and dinner, as well as packed lunches to take with you on your day’s adventure. If you’re camping on your own but are not interested in providing your own food, there are meals-only options available. 

Stays at the High Sierra Camps are available by lottery only on a first-come, first-served basis. The Yosemite website lists the availability of guided and unguided trips. Guided trips are 5-7 days long. 

High Sierra Camps are operational from June to September. 

Glacier Point Ski Hut

Great For: Adventurers, Skiers

While several of the accommodations within Yosemite only operate during summer months, Glacier Point Ski Hut is only open in the winter as it is accessible only by skiing. After a 10.5-mile cross-country ski trip from Badger Pass, you’ll arrive at Glacier Point Ski Hut, which may be rustic but offers breathtaking views of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and the Yosemite High Country. The hut has a dining area, sofas, restrooms, and one large room that sleeps up to 20 people. 

Your overnight Guided Glacier Point ski trip includes all meals, including breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks.

Equipment rentals are available. It is strongly recommended that anyone embarking on the ski trip stay overnight in Yosemite Valley and either The Ahwahnee, Yosemite Valley Lodge, or Curry Village for convenience an also to adjust to that higher altitude. 

Camping

Great For: Hikers, Campers, Adventurers

Perhaps the most iconic way to stay at a national park is at a campground; Yosemite has thirteen of them. Campgrounds can accommodate RVs, fifth wheels, tents, pop-ups, and camper vans. 

Wilderness camping is also allowed in Yosemite, but you must obtain a wilderness permit. Permits can be obtained beginning twenty-four weeks before your trip. Occasionally, you can get an unused permit the day you arrive, but it is extremely rare, so be sure to grab your permit within the reservation window. Permits are given on a first-come, first-served basis.

Lodging Near Yosemite

Several accommodation options are available outside Yosemite, in nearby towns like El Portal or Oakhurst. Staying outside the park is often more affordable, less competitive, and offers a wider range of options. 

Evergreen Lodge

Nestled near Yosemite’s western border, Evergreen Lodge offers a cozy escape. Choose from rustic cabins with fireplaces and kitchens, perfect for families or groups, or standard hotel rooms with private bathrooms and patios. This mountain resort combines modern comforts with a classic feel, featuring an on-site restaurant, tavern, and swimming pool.

Rush Creek Lodge

Rush Creek Lodge features spacious cabin-style suites with fireplaces, private balconies, and stunning views of Yosemite Valley. Unwind after a day of adventure at the on-site spa or with a delicious meal at one of their fine-dining restaurants. 

Yosemite View Lodge

Yosemite View Lodge is a riverfront hotel with two restaurants and three pools, perfect for unwinding after a long day at the park. Choose from standard hotel rooms with balconies for enjoying scenic views, perfect for couples or solo travelers. Suites provide additional living space with fireplaces, ideal for families or groups seeking a more relaxing spread. All rooms include basic amenities for a convenient stay.

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Oakhurst

For a clean, no-nonsense, budget stay right outside of Yosemite National Park, you can’t beat a reliable Holiday Inn Express. There are standard rooms with twin, queen or king-sized beds, or suites with two queen-sized beds and extra living space.  Amenities include free WiFi, a pool, and free breakfast.

Yosemite National Park: A Complete Guide to Every Season

Yosemite National Park’s iconic landscape transforms throughout the year, bringing unique experiences each season. Every season has something equally magical to offer visitors, from the roaring waterfalls in spring to the snow-fallen trails of winter. 

Yosemite in Spring (March-May)

Spring is the perfect time to visit Yosemite. The waterfalls are at their peak due to the snowmelt creating a rush of water. Wildflowers begin to bloom in the lower areas of the park, making for a colorful spectacle. You’ll also find fewer crowds during spring, making popular attractions easier to access and hotel/campsite booking less competitive. 

Best Attractions in Spring: 

• Lower Yosemite Falls: While Yosemite Falls (the tallest waterfall in North America) is always magnificent, thanks to the snowmelt, it is particularly glorious in the spring.
• Mist Trail: This popular trail leads hikers past Lower Yosemite Falls and Vernal and Nevada Falls, offering close-up views of the cascading water. Find out how the trail got its name: you’ll likely feel a mist as you walk behind the falls!
• Mirror Lake: This reflective lake allows you to Capture stunning photos of Half Dome and other Yosemite landmarks. The calm water creates beautiful mirror-like reflections of the surrounding landscape.
• Yosemite Valley Loop: This popular scenic route is the perfect way to view Yosemite by car or bike and is much less crowded during spring months, allowing for a more leisurely tour without worrying about other tourists cramping your style. 

Temperatures: Spring temperatures are comfortable. March highs are in the high 50s, April highs are in the low 60s, and May highs are in the low 70s. It can get chilly at night, with lows in the 30s and 40s. 

Possible Downside: There is always potential snow cover at higher elevations in the spring months (especially in March), which can result in road closures.

Yosemite in Summer (June-August)

Yosemite bursts during the summer months, with reservations filling up quickly. The entire park opens up, with roads typically closed the rest of the year, fully accessible by car. The warmer temperatures make perfect conditions for swimming, camping, and other outdoor activities. The longer summer days allow visitors to explore the park as much as possible before sunset. 

Best Attractions in Summer: 

• Swimming in the Merced River: There are several designated swimming areas along the Merced River, perfect for cooling off on a hot summer day and the perfect activity for kids who may find other parts of the park “boring.”
• Mirror Lake: Mirror Lake provides stunning reflections of Half Dome and is the perfect spot for paddle boating or kayaking- both of which are available to rent.
• Hiking: Hiking is enjoyed year-round, but popular hikes for experienced hikers include the Half Dome and Cloud Rest Trails—both of which are extremely challenging. The Half Dome hike requires cables and ladders towards the end and takes 14-16 hours to complete. Cloud Rest is a 9-12 hour hike and is also strenuous. Easier hikes include Lower Falls Trail and the Mirror Lake Loop.
• Camping: Summer brings dryer weather and warmer temperatures, perfect conditions for camping. There are thirteen campgrounds at Yosemite, with sites for RVs, tents, camper vans, and fifth wheels. Reservations are required during the summer and are difficult to get, so book early. 

Temperatures: Summer at Yosemite brings dry weather and warm temperatures. June highs are in the low 80 degrees Fahrenheit (26 degrees Celsius), with July and August highs in the high 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Lows are comfortable, in the 50-degree Fahrenheit range (10 degrees Celsius). 

Possible Downsides: Summer is the most crowded time of year to visit Yosemite, making seeing some sights difficult and making reservations sometimes seem impossible. Booking early is essential to grabbing a stay within the park. You can book one year and two days in advance.

Yosemite in the Fall (September-October)

If you’re like me, you prefer visiting anywhere in the fall, and Yosemite is no exception. The cooler temperatures after the summer heat and the breathtaking fall foliage with vibrant hues make the fall an exceptional time to visit. Once school is back in session, the crowds also start to peter out, making reservations and sightseeing a more pleasant experience. 

Best Attractions at Yosemite in The Fall:

• Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias: While the Sequoias themselves are evergreen trees, the surrounding trees are not, so the stunning red wood against the fall hues of the surrounding trees creates a breathtaking view.
• Washburn Point: The Washburn Point Trail offers panoramic views of Yosemite Valley, highlighting the fall colors of the surrounding flora.
• Tunnel View: Tunnel View is another spot exquisite for viewing the foliage of Yosemite. See iconic sites like El Capitan and Half Dome juxtaposed with the fall colors of the surrounding area for unique photography opportunities.
• Bike Ride Along Yosemite Valley: The cooler temperatures make for perfect biking conditions, and biking along the valley floor will allow for gorgeous backdrops to your ride. 

Temperatures: Fall provides pleasant temperatures to Yosemite. Highs at the start of September can be warm, in the low 80s, but by the time October arrives, they are in the low 70s, and November highs are only in the high 50s. Lows start in the 50s in September, low 40s in October, and low 30s in November. 

Possible Downside: Waterfalls will have reduced flow; some may even be dry due to the summer heat and lack of rain.

Winter (November-February)

Yosemite transforms during winter months thanks to its snow-covered peaks and valleys, creating a whole new kind of beauty. Winter is the least popular time to visit, so getting a reservation is much easier than during peak times. The park has several winter activities, like skiing, sledding, and snowshoeing. 

Best Attractions in Yosemite During the Winter: 

• Badger Pass Ski Area: Located in the western part of the park, Badger Pass Ski Area is open for downhill skiing, snowboarding, and tubing from January through March. There are trails available for all skill levels. It offers a ski school and lessons; lift tickets can be purchased online.
• Cross-Country Skiing or Snowshoeing: Winter trails are marked with metal tags or signs. Popular spots are Crane Flat, Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias, and Badger Pass/Glacier Point Road, which offers the most marked winter routes. Ski rentals are available at Badger Pass.
• Curry Village Ice Rink: Who needs Rockafeller Center when you can ice skate with the majestic backdrop of the Half Dome? Curry Village Ice Rink has been open to the public since 1928 and is typically open from late November through early March. 

Possible Downside: Snow often leads to road and park closures, so it’s important to check the conditions before heading out. Some lodging and dining options are not open during winter months.

The Top 10 Spots to Watch the Sunrise in Yosemite National Park

There’s something magical in the morning hours at Yosemite National Park. The daily crowds have yet to roll in, allowing you to watch the sun break over iconic vistas without another soul in sight. For bright-eyed travelers willing to be up before dawn, here are the top spots to see the sunrise in Yosemite National Park.

For night owls, check out our companion roundup of the best places to catch the sunset in Yosemite National Park.

Shuttle service in Yosemite National Park runs from 7 am to 10 pm. Visitors who plan to be in the park past 10 pm should plan transportation accordingly.

1. Glacier Point

At 7,214 feet in elevation, Glacier Point is one of the best spots in Yosemite National Park for panoramic views. From the top, you’ll see the famous Half Dome and Yosemite Falls, as well as views of the sprawling Yosemite Valley. While Glacier Point is equally stunning at sunset, heading out at dawn guarantees fewer crowds and makes for a peaceful start to a day in the park.

How to Get There: Hikers can reach Glacier Point via the Four Mile Trail, a difficult 9.6-mile round trip hike beginning at the Four Mile Trailhead. This trail takes roughly three to four hours to complete. For guests who want the views without the trek, Glacier Point is accessible by car from May through October via State Highway 41.

2. Tunnel View

Another sunrise spot requiring no hiking is Tunnel View, one of the valley’s most famous lookout points. It’s located just outside Wawona Tunnel, a human-made passthrough carved into 0.8 miles of solid granite. On the other side of the tunnel, spectacular views of El Capitan, Half Dome, Sentinel Rock, Cathedral Rocks, and Bridalveil Falls await. From this vantage point, visitors will see the rising sun spill over the distant peaks, casting the landscape in a warm glow.  

How to Get There: There are several parking areas along Highway 41—also called Wawona Road—near the Tunnel View area. 

3. Sentinel Bridge

In the twilight hours, a phenomenon called alpenglow washes Yosemite National Park in pinks and purples ahead of the rising sun. Sentinel Bridge, as noted by the National Parks Service, is a top spot to catch these pre-dawn colors. Sunrise spotters can enjoy the bridge’s iconic views of Half Dome and its majestic reflection in the waters of the Merced River.

How to Get There: Sentinel Bridge has its own parking area nearby off Sentinel Road and is also accessible via the Valleywide Shuttle. 

4. Cathedral Lake

Cathedral Lake is a mile-wide lake situated snugly at the base of Cathedral Peak. The forested shoreline gives way to spiky spires of rock that create stunning silhouettes against the rising sun. Hikers who make the early-morning trip will be treated to scattered clouds dyed orange and pink in the rising sun and reflected in the glassy surface of the lake.

How to Get There: The Cathedral Lake Trail is a 7-mile subsection of the famous John Muir Trail, which stretches 211 miles from Yosemite National Park to Mount Whitney. The trek to Cathedral Lake takes four to six hours round-trip. 

5. Valley View

Valley View is a scenic spot along the Merced River. Located on the western outskirts of the valley just off Northside Drive, this spot is a popular last stop for visitors on their way out of the park. Here, park guests can take one last look as the dawn breaks over El Capitan, Sentinel Rocks, Cathedral Rocks, and Bridalveil Fall.

How to Get There: Valley View is located off Northside Drive near the park’s western boundary. Visiting at dawn increases the chance of snagging one of the limited parking spaces available at the turnout for the viewpoint.

6. Mariposa Grove

This wooded area in the southern portion of the park is home to more than 500 towering giant sequoias. Many trees in this grove are more than 3,000 years old and over 200 feet tall, including the Grizzly Giant—the 25th tallest tree in the world! Although Mariposa Grove has no overlooks or vistas to admire, there are miles of trails to wander as the morning sun filters through the canopy of these ancient giants. 

How to Get There: Visitors can hike the two miles from the Mariposa Grove Welcome Plaza parking area or hop on a free Mariposa Grove shuttle, which operates May through September.

7. Olmsted Point

Olmsted Point overlooks Yosemite Valley with iconic views of Half Dome, Tenaya Lake, and Clouds Rest. This trail actually begins at the overlook, so visitors can kick off their hike with epic sunrise views. Alternatively, embark on the half-mile hike before dawn for equally incredible sunrise views of Tenaya Lake and Half Dome further down the trail. This easy loop is an excellent early-morning warm-up for a day of hiking. 

How to Get There: The Olmsted Point parking area is off Tioga Road. The trailhead is also accessible via the Tuolumne Meadows Shuttle.

8. Clouds Rest

Clouds Rest may be the most intense trip on this list, but the payoff is worth it. If you can make the journey, you’ll be rewarded with 360-degree views of the park and unobstructed views of landmarks like Tenaya Lake, Half Dome, Sentinel Dome, North Dome, Cathedral Rocks, Merced Lake, El Capitan, and more.

How to Get There: At 12.5 miles, this trail rivals the famously challenging Half Dome hike in terms of distance. For the best chance to catch the sunrise here, begin your journey the previous day at the Sunrise Trailhead and camp overnight along the trail. You can apply for a wilderness permit, required to camp outside of designated frontcountry campgrounds, here. 

9. Panorama Trail

The Panorama Trail is a one-way path that runs between The Mist Trail, which leads to the top of Nevada Falls, and the Yosemite Falls Trail, which leads to the top of Yosemite Falls. The trail will lead hikers past Illilouette Fall, Nevada Fall, Vernal Fall, and Yosemite Valley, all prime spots to stop and take in the dawn before returning to the trailhead. Alternatively, hikers can continue after sunrise toward Yosemite Valley, where they can hitch a ride via shuttle back to Glacier Point (advanced tickets required).

How to Get There: The Panorama Trail begins at Glacier Point, which is accessible to cars May through October.

10. Tioga Road Scenic Byway

This National Scenic Byway offers several unnamed lookout points for visitors to pull off the road and admire the views of Yosemite. Depending on where you stop, you can view Tenaya Lake, the giant sequoias, Tuolumne Meadows, and more. Make a stop to watch the sunrise or continue to drive along the road to admire the ever-changing scenery as the sun creeps over the horizon. 

How to Get There: This scenic byway runs east to west throughout the park, starting from the Big Oak Flat Entrance and joining Interstate 395 at the opposite end. Tioga Road, which makes up a portion of Highway 120, is also known as Big Oak Flat Road.

The Best Time to Catch the Sunrise in Yosemite National Park

The sun will rise at different times depending on when you visit throughout the year. You can check the exact times for sunrise for your travel dates at TimeandDate.com, but generally, throughout peak season in Yosemite, the sun will rise: 

• May: Between 5:38 am and 6:02 am
• June: Between 5:38 am and 5:40 am
• July: Between 5:40 am and 6:01 am
• August: Between 6:02 am and 6:28 am
• September: Between 6:29 am to 6:53 am
• October: Between 6:54 am and 7:23 am

Camping in Yosemite National Park

Instead of driving into the park from your hotel, consider an overnight stay before your sunrise excursion. Reserve a spot at one of the thirteen designated campgrounds throughout the park, open from April to October. Depending on the campground, these reservation slots open for booking five months, two weeks, or one week in advance of the reservation dates. 

Although these designated campgrounds are equipped with appealing amenities like parking and restrooms, camping is permitted anywhere in the park. True wilderness explorers can pitch their tents along any trail with a wilderness permit, applications for which can be found here.

Tips for Night Hiking in Yosemite National Park

With sunrise on the mind, it’s easy to forget that a large portion of your early morning hike will occur in the dark. Night hiking safety still applies to pre-dawn excursions, and hikers should exercise caution when hiking in the dark. Keep aware of obstacles in your path, don’t rush or run on the trail, and avoid hiking in inclement weather. 

Your night hiking toolkit should include the following:

• Flashlights or headlamps to guide your way before the sun comes up
• Spare fresh batteries to keep the flashlights running
• Food and water
• A small first-aid kit
• Sunscreen—sun protection is a must as soon as the sun rises
• Bug spray

Visit the National Parks Service website for more tips on night hiking safety.

The Top 10 Spots to Watch the Sunset in Yosemite National Park

While Yosemite National Park is stunning at all hours of the day, there is something special about the sunset that brings the park to life. Whether capping off your day in the park with an evening hike or driving to a viewpoint to snap the perfect golden hour pic, here are the best places to see the sunset at Yosemite.

For early risers, check out our companion round-up of the best places to see the sunrise in Yosemite National Park.

*Shuttle service in Yosemite National Park runs from 7 am to 10 pm. Visitors entering the park for sunrise should plan transportation accordingly. 

1. Glacier Point

Known for stellar sunrise and sunset views in Yosemite National Park, Glacier Point gives visitors a clear view of Yosemite Valley and the high country. Here, visitors can watch as the setting sun washes the iconic Half Dome in hues of pink and orange and catch a glimpse of three of Yosemite’s renowned waterfalls—Vernal Falls, Nevada Falls, and the famous Yosemite Falls. 

How to Get There: The strenuous 9.6-mile trek to Glacier Point begins at Four Mile Trailhead and takes three to four hours. During peak season—May through October—Glacier Point is also accessible by car, with parking available off State Highway 41.

2. Tunnel View

In 1933, construction crews carved through 0.8 miles of tough granite to create the Wawona Tunnel. The result? Easy access to incredible views of El Capitan, Half-Dome, Sentinel Rock, Cathedral Rocks, and Bridalveil Falls just off the side of State Highway 41. The Tunnel View vista point is just beyond the Wawona Tunnel. The setting sun casts the valley below and the distant Bridalveil Fall in a stunning warm glow, highlighting why this viewpoint is considered a can’t-miss stop among park visitors. 

How to Get There: Visitors can reach Tunnel View by following Highway 41, also called Wawona Road, to one of several parking areas around the tunnel.

3. Cook’s Meadow

End the day with an easy sunset stroll through Cook’s Meadow. Less of a hike and more of a walking path, this trail will guide visitors past views of Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, Glacier Point, and Sentinel Rock. Take your time wandering through the swaying grass as the lowering sun illuminates the landscape on all sides. 

How to Get There: The Cook’s Meadow Loop is an easy 1-mile path. It begins at Lower Yosemite Falls Trailhead, walking distance from the Valley Visitor Center. It’s also accessible via the Valleywide Shuttle.

4. El Capitan Picnic Area

El Capitan Picnic Area may seem dull compared to the incredible vistas of Glacier Point and Tunnel View. Still, one unique feature of the area merits its position on this list: It is the designated viewing area for Yosemite’s famous Firefall. 

For just three weeks out of the year in February, the setting sun shines at just the right angle to make Horsetail Falls, which rushes over the eastern side of El Capitan, appear as if it’s made from fire. The cascade of misty orange and gold only lasts about ten minutes in the right conditions, but is stunning enough that the event draws crowds of thousands every year. 

How to Get There: The El Capitan Picnic area is accessible by car just off Northside Drive. Guests can also take the El Capitan park shuttle to stop E3. During the Firefall event, visitors must have a permit to enter the park on the weekends. Parking restrictions and road closures around the viewing area will be in place, so stay up-to-date with closures on the National Parks Service website.

5. Sentinel Dome

Sentinel Dome is another popular spot for sunset seekers due to its high elevation—8,127 feet above sea level—providing scenic 360-degree views. Major park features like Half Dome, Yosemite Valley, El Capitan, and the Three Brothers are visible from the top. Often compared to Glacier Point but with fewer crowds, this sunset viewing spot provides clear views of the sun slipping beneath the horizon.

How to Get There: The Sentinel Dome hike is easy to moderate. The 3-mile round trip distance should take most hikers about two hours to complete. The hike begins at Taft Point Trailhead and requires some scrambling towards the end to scale the final dome.

6. Sentinel Bridge

Sentinel Bridge is known for its iconic views of Half Dome reflected in the waters of the Merced River. The National Parks Service notes that the effect is especially beautiful in the alpenglow—an effect that occurs in the twilight hours when the remaining light from the setting sun is scattered, washing the park in shades of purple and pink.

How to Get There: Sentinel Bridge is located off the aptly named Sentinel Road. It has its own parking area nearby, and it’s also accessible via the Valleywide Shuttle.

7. Valley View

Bid farewell to Yosemite with one last stop at Valley View lookout point, located toward the western exit of Yosemite Valley. Here, visitors can see El Capitan, Sentinel Rock, and Cathedral Rocks and catch a glimpse of Bridalveil Fall. It’s popular for its expansive vista and views of the Merced River, which offers a perfect photo op as it shimmers in the light of the setting sun.

How to Get There: Drive west along Northside Road until you reach the turnout for Valley View, which includes several parking spaces.

8. Tenaya Lake

Tenaya Lake, the largest lake in Yosemite National Park, is a hot spot for swimming, kayaking, and enjoying nature on the shore. It’s located between Yosemite Valley and Tuolumne Meadows and is surrounded by imposing granite rock formations on three sides. Visitors can stroll the Tenaya Lake Trail, which meanders along the shoreline for 3.4 miles. At sunset, the warm light bathes the towering peaks surrounding the lake and the alpenglow reflects in the calm, rippling waters. Set up on the western side of the lake for the best views. 

How to Get There: Lake Tenaya is accessible by car via Tioga Road. Two parking lots are located on either side of the lake. It is also accessible via the Tuolumne Meadows shuttle.

9. Swinging Bridge Picnic Area

A popular spot for weddings due to its impressive scenery, Swinging Bridge Picnic Area is the ideal location for an Instagram-worthy shot of the Yosemite sunset. While you can drive to the area itself, it’s connected to the 0.25-mile Canyon Nature Trail, a refreshing jaunt for visitors who want to stretch their legs before sunset. From this viewpoint, onlookers have a clear view of Yosemite Falls as well as its mirror image reflected in the Merced River. The National Parks Service also notes that this picnic area is an ideal spot to view the full moon.

How to Get There: Swinging Bridge Picnic Area’s parking lot is located off Southside Drive. Visitors can also take the Valleywide Shuttle to the Camp Four stop or the El Capitan Shuttle (which runs during the summer) to stop E6.

10. Taft Point

Taft Point offers another angle of Yosemite Valley, with a clear view of Yosemite Falls and El Capitan. Although hikers gain only 200 feet in elevation along the trail, Taft Point sits a total of 7,500 feet in elevation and towers above the valley, providing soaring views of the surrounding landscape. The jutting cliffs of Taft Point silhouetted against the setting sun make for an extra dramatic view.

How to Get There: The Taft Point hike departs from the Taft Point Trailhead, the same starting point as Sentinel Dome. At 2.2 miles roundtrip, it is slightly longer than the Sentinel Dome trail and should take about 2 hours.

The Best Time to Catch the Sunset in Yosemite

The sun will set at different times depending on when you visit throughout the year. You can check the exact times for sunset for your travel dates here, but generally, throughout peak season in Yosemite, the sun will set: 

• May: Between 7:49 pm and 8:14 pm
• June: Between 8:15 pm and 8:24 pm
• July: Between 8:24 pm and 8:07
• August: Between 8:06 pm and 7:28 pm
• September: Between 7:26 pm and 6:41 pm
• October: Between 6:40 pm and 6:00 pm

Night Hike Safety in Yosemite National Park

To catch the sunset, you must complete at least half of your hike after dark. While Yosemite’s trails are open 24 hours a day, hikers should exercise increased caution when hitting the trails sans the sun. Pay extra attention to obstacles on the path and avoid hiking during rain and conditions with poor visibility. 

Make sure to bring along flashlights or headlamps and spare fresh batteries. Even on a short hike, food, water, and a first aid kit are essentials. Remember to apply sunscreen for the first half of your journey and bug spray to keep away the mosquitos and other insects that come out at dusk.

Visit the National Parks Service website for more tips on night hiking safety.

Where to Eat in Yosemite National Park

Worked up an appetite exploring Yosemite National Park? Whether you’re seeking a celebratory meal after conquering El Capitan or a quick bite to fuel your next hike, there are plenty of places to eat in Yosemite National Park. Within the park’s borders, you’ll find everything from historic dining rooms full of rustic charm to grab-and-go eateries perfect for adventurers on the move. 

However, all of the food options within Yosemite National Park are managed by Yosemite Hospitality, so if you’re looking for something a little different, you may prefer to find somewhere to eat outside the park.  

These are our picks for the best places to eat inside and near Yosemite National Park.

Where to Eat Inside Yosemite National Park

There are five main places in which you’ll find restaurants inside Yosemite National Park: 

• The Ahwahnee Hotel
• Yosemite Valley Lodge
• Yosemite Village
• Wawonoa Hotel
• Curry Village. 

The Ahwahnee Hotel

The historic Ahwahnee Hotel has two eateries, The Ahwahnee Dining Room and The Ahwahnee Bar. Reservations are highly recommended for The Ahwhanee Dining Room, and tables book up far in advance, so snag your spot via OpenTable well ahead of time. Note that having a reservation at the hotel does not guarantee you a reservation in the dining room, so you’ll still need to book a table even if you’re staying at the hotel.

The Ahwahnee serves food throughout the day:

• Breakfast is a self-serve buffet in the dining room. The breakfast buffet costs $32 per adult and $14.50 per child. Children four and under eat for free.
• Lunch is served in the Main Lobby Bar and is à la carte
• Dinner is a buffet-style service served in the dining room that costs $63 per adult and $29.50 for children. Children four and under eat for free.

The Ahwahnee Bar is open for grab-and-go breakfast and also serves a light lunch and dinner menu. Reservations are not accepted at The Ahwahnee Bar. 

Pack accordingly if you plan to dine at The Ahwahnee, as there is a dress code. According to the restaurant, “For dinner, we require gentlemen to wear long pants and a shirt with a collar and ask women to wear a dress, skirt, or long pants with a blouse. Please refrain from wearing shorts, T-shirts, tank tops, flip-flops, and baseball caps. Children over the age of four are asked to dress for the occasion as well. Breakfast and brunch are always casual.”

Yosemite Valley Lodge

The Yosemite Valley Lodge, located near Yosemite Falls, has a wide variety of dining options. 

Restaurants here include: 

• The Mountain Room: This restaurant is open daily for dinner from 5 pm to 10 pm and features views of Yosemite Falls. Reservations are recommended. The last seating for dinner is 8:30 pm.
• The Mountain Room Lounge: Open for lunch and dinner on Saturday and Sunday; Dinner only Monday through Friday. There is an outdoor patio available in warmer months. Last call for hot food is 7:30 pm.
• Base Camp Eatery: Serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a food court style setting. Indoor and outdoor seating is available. 
• Starbucks: Open daily from 6:30 am through 6:30 pm. Pro tip: Order on mobile to skip the line.

Yosemite Village

Located near the Yosemite Welcome Center, Yosemite Village is a great place to start or end your day in the park. If you’re in a hurry to get on the trails, there are a number of quick restaurant options in Yosemite Village. 

• Degnan’s Kitchen: Open daily from 7 am – 11:00 am and 11:30 am – 6:00 pm serving sandwiches, salads, pizza, breakfast, coffee, and baked goods. 
• Village Grill Deck: Open seasonally starting April 8 from 11:00 am – 6:00 pm. Sandwiches, burgers, hot dogs, and more are served on a massive deck with beautiful views.  
• Village Store: A small grocery store with supplies, food, and drinks. Open 8:00 am – 9pm (10 pm starting April 19)

Wawona Hotel

The Wawona Hotel is open to non-hotel guests and serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the Wawona Hotel Dining Room. In the summer, dine on the beautiful outdoor verandah. Reservations are highly recommended for dinner. 

On select holiday weekends, the Wasona Hotel hosts a barbeque, where your meal price will include an entrée, unlimited side dishes, and a dessert. 

Special holiday meals are also served on Mother’s Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve.

Curry Village 

Located near Glacier Point, Curry Village is a prime place to stay in Yosemite National Park, offering hotel rooms, wood cabins, and canvas tent accommodations, along with a variety of restaurants. 

Note that Curry Village is open seasonally under the following schedule:

• Winter: Open for lodging on Friday and Saturday nights
• Horsetail Fall Event: Daily February 9, 2024 – February 25, 2024
• Spring – Fall: March 15, 2024 – December 1, 2024

The best places to eat in Curry Village are:

• Taqueria @ The Meadow Grill: Quick-service Mexican cuisine. Hours: 11:00 am – 8:00 pm.
• Pizza Deck: One of the most popular restaurants in Yosemite National Park for a good reason the pizza deck serves hand-tossed pizzas and fresh salads on a large outdoor terrace with great views of Glacier Point. Hours:
• Coffee Corner: Serves Peet’s Coffee, pastries, and light breakfast fare from 6:00 am – 2:00 pm daily.
• Seven Tents Pavilion: Open for breakfast (7:00 am – 10:00 am) and dinner (5:30 pm – 8:30 pm) daily. Offers a small menu of simple items like pasta.
• Bar 1899: Serves cocktails and beers along with small plates. Open 11:30 am – 10:00 pm daily.
• Jennie’s Ice Cream: Seasonal scoop shop open after May 24 from 11:00 am – 8:30 pm daily.

The Best Restaurants Near Yosemite National Park

Charles Street Dinner House, Mariposa

The Charles Street Dinner House in Mariposa is a fine dining restaurant with a relaxed atmosphere. It’s known for steaks, seafood, and other classic dishes but vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are also available.

Elderberry House, Oakhurst

Located within the upscale Chateau du Sureau hotel, the Elderberry House serves prix fixe menus with options for three or five courses. It’s a great choice for a special occasion near Yosemite’s south entrance. For something more casual, The Cellar serves a less expensive bar bites menu.

1850 Restaurant and Brewery, Mariposa

The 1850 Restaurant and Brewery serves fast-casual lunch and full-service dinner. Grabbing a locally brewed beer to enjoy on the restaurant’s patio is one of the best ways to end a day in Yosemite. 

Oakhurst Grill and Whiskey 41 Lounge, Oakhurst

The lively Oakhurst Grill and Whiskey Lounge offers American cuisine with a focus on wood-fired grilled meats and seafood. They also have a great whiskey selection and a beautiful patio.

South Gate Brewing Company, Oakhurst

The South Gate Brewing Company is a popular choice for craft beer lovers. They also have a menu of elevated pub fare, like burgers, pizzas, and wings.

June Bug Cafe, Midpines

The June Bug Cafe, located in the Yosemite Bug Rustic Mountain Resort, is one of the best places near Yosemite for vegans and vegetarians, but meat-eaters will be happy here too. 

Yosemite National Park Dining Tips

There are a few important things you should know about dining in Yosemite National Park:

1. Restaurants can be extremely busy during peak season. Make reservations as far in advance as possible, or go during off-hours. Dining reservations are open 366 days in advance for The Ahwahnee Dining Room, the Mountain Room, Tuolumne Meadows Lodge, and White Wolf Lodge, so book early.
2. Many eateries are open seasonally, so check hours before visiting. 
3. Going to a grocery store outside of Yosemite National Park and packing a picnic can be a good way to save money while eating out.
4. Remember to always pack out all your trash and food scraps from the park. 

Megan Johnson contributed to this story.

How to Plan a Trip to Yosemite: The Ultimate 3-Day Itinerary

Planning a trip to Yosemite National Park is a dream for many outdoor enthusiasts. This breathtakingly beautiful park in California’s Sierra Nevada mountains offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in nature. With towering granite cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and ancient sequoia groves, Yosemite offers plenty to see. If you only have three days to explore the park, follow this itinerary designed to help you make the most of your time in this natural paradise.

Who’s This For?

This itinerary is ideal for first-time visitors seeking a balanced mix of iconic sights, moderate hikes, and historical exploration. 

Pro Tip: Yosemite gets extremely busy during peak season (late spring to early fall) and over holiday weekends, especially Memorial Day, Labor Day, and July 4th. Consider planning your three-day trip for shoulder seasons (early spring/late fall) for smaller crowds and pleasant weather. Note that reservations are required to drive into or through Yosemite on some dates and times from April 13 to October 27.

Day 1: Yosemite Valley

Yosemite Valley is the heart of the park and a must-visit destination for any first-time visitor. This area of the park is accessible by car and bus year-round. The entrance to the park and Yosemite Valley tend to get congested with traffic, so taking the free Yosemite Valley shuttle bus or public YARTS bus is a good alternative to driving yourself. 

Beat the crowds by starting your day early (we recommend before 8:00 am) and entering the park through the Arch Rock Entrance on the western side of the valley. This will allow you to witness the iconic El Capitan and Bridalveil Fall as you make your way into the valley. Pack a breakfast to enjoy as a picnic after entering the park.

Your first stop should be the Yosemite Valley Welcome Center, where you can pick up maps, inquire about ranger-led programs, and gather information about the area’s various hiking trails and attractions. A ranger-staffed information desk allows you to ask questions about any hikes or activities you have planned for the day and check weather and trail conditions. The park rangers are a wealth of information and can recommend hikes based on the amount of time you have and how strenuous you want them to be. 

Next, head to the iconic Yosemite Falls, the tallest waterfall in North America. The best time to see the waterfall is in spring when snowmelt increases the water flow. If you’re visiting in August, the waterfall could be a trickle or completely dry, so check with a ranger before heading out if you don’t want to be disappointed by a lack of water. 

Yosemite Falls comprises three separate falls: Upper Yosemite Fall, the middle cascades, and Lower Yosemite Fall. Take the one-mile loop trail around the base of Yosemite Falls for an up-close view, or challenge yourself with the strenuous Yosemite Falls Trail for a panoramic view of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and Sentinel Rock. At the top, you’ll be rewarded with an incredible vantage point from which to watch Upper Yosemite Fall. This trail is 7.2 miles round trip, with 2,700 feet of elevation gain, and takes an average of six to eight hours to complete. Drinking water is unavailable along the trail, so ensure you bring enough for your entire hike.

Trail Options

End your day with a visit to Glacier Point, a stunning overlook that offers unparalleled views of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and the High Sierra. Depending on conditions, the Glacier Point Road is typically open to cars in late May through October or November. In the winter, you can access this postcard-perfect view by cross-country skiing for 10.5 miles. 

If you still have energy in the afternoon, explore the Mist Trail, a popular hike that takes you to the bases of Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall. You’ll be so close to the falls that you can expect to get wet from the misty spray, especially when the falls are the strongest in spring and early summer. The trail will be slippery, so wear appropriate footwear and consider bringing hiking poles. The National Parks Service (NPS) recommends taking the Mist Trail to the falls, looping around, and taking the John Muir Trail back down to the valley. If you’re visiting in the winter, note that the lower portion of the Mist Trail along Vernal Fall closes due to the risk of falling ice and rock. End your day with a visit to Glacier Point, a stunning overlook that offers unparalleled views of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and the High Sierra. Depending on conditions, the Glacier Point Road is typically open to cars in late May through October or November. In the winter, you can access this postcard-perfect view by cross-country skiing for 10.5 miles. 

Day 2: Discover Mariposa Grove and Wawona

On your second day, head to the southern portion of Yosemite and explore the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias. This awe-inspiring grove is home to over 500 mature giant sequoias, some over 3,000 years old. We recommend a walk along the Grizzly Peak Loop Trail, a moderate 2-mile hike that takes you through the heart of the grove, allowing you to marvel at the massive trunks and intricate details of these ancient giants. This relatively flat hike takes about 1.5-2 hours. If you’re looking for something easier, the 0.3-mile Big Trees Loop Trail is a wheelchair-accessible path that winds through the forest.

You cannot drive directly to Mariposa Grove in your car. Mariposa Grove Road is only open to vehicles with a disability placard. All other visitors must park at Mariposa Grove Welcome Plaza, located near the south entrance to the park, and take a free shuttle. There are 300 parking spots at the welcome plaza, and they tend to fill up by late morning. We advise arriving early to guarantee a parking space. Depending on conditions, Mariposa Grove Road is generally open from April 15 through November 30.

If you don’t want to take the shuttle, the Washburn Trail is a nice two-mile (each way) hike to the grove. 

After visiting Mariposa Grove, head to the Wawona area, a historic district within the park. Stop by the Wawona Hotel, a grand Victorian-era hotel built in 1856, for lunch in the main dining room.

In the afternoon, stop by the Yosemite History Center, where you can learn the stories of the people who settled here, walk across a covered bridge, and even watch blacksmiths forge iron tools.

Once the sun goes down, don’t miss the chance to stargaze. Yosemite National Park has minimal light pollution, making it a great place to see constellations. Many amateur astronomers set up telescopes at Glacier Point on Saturdays in June, July, and August.

Day 3: Tuolumne Meadows

On your final day in Yosemite, head west to visit Tuolumne Meadows, a sublime alpine meadow. Situated at an elevation of around 8,600 feet, it offers breathtaking vistas of granite domes, jagged peaks, and vibrant wildflower-dotted meadows. To access Tuolumne Meadows, take the Tioga Road, a scenic 47-mile drive between Crane Flat and Tiagoa Pass, leaving plenty of time to stop at all the pullouts to take photos of the stunning views.

Stop at Olmsted Point, which offers a unique eastern view of Yosemite Valley. Tioga Road is open from approximately late May or June through October or November, depending on conditions. Parking is limited, so plan to arrive early in the day to secure a spot. Before heading out, check the NPS website for the most up-to-date information on Tioga Road closures. 

Pack a swimsuit and a picnic and while away the day swimming and lounging at Siesta Lake or Tenaya Lake. If you’re feeling adventurous, take the steep trail to the top of Lembert Dome for the best views of the Tuolumne Meadows area. The trail begins at the Dog Lake parking area and is just 0.75 miles to the summit. 

End your trip on a high note by hiking to Parsons Memorial Lodge, the place where John Muir and Robert Underwood Johnson first considered establishing Yosemite National Park. The lodge is a flat one-mile hike from the Tuolumne Meadows Visitor Center.

Yosemite During Holiday Weekends

If you have three days off of work for a holiday weekend, Yosemite National Park may seem like a great vacation destination, but you’re not the only one who will have that idea. Long weekends are some of the most popular times to visit Yosemite, and the park can get extremely crowded. Prepare for campgrounds and hotels to fill up well in advance, and expect significant traffic and limited parking throughout the park.

Yosemite Memorial Day Weekend

Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of summer in Yosemite, and the park comes alive with visitors eager to bask in the warm weather and explore the blossoming landscapes. This is an ideal time to witness the park’s waterfalls at their peak flow as the snowmelt from the High Sierra cascades over granite cliffs in a spectacular display of nature’s power.

During Memorial Day weekend, the NPS advises visitors to arrive in the park before 9:00 am or after 5:00 pm and to take the free shuttle bus service around the park in lieu of driving. 

Parts of Yosemite National Park, such as Tioga Road, may still be closed over Memorial Day weekend, and higher-elevation hiking trails will likely remain snow-covered. The Half Dome Cables might not be up by Memorial Day weekend (and note that you will need a permit to climb Half Dome any time the cables are up). 

Yosemite July 4th Weekend

Celebrating the Fourth of July in Yosemite is a truly patriotic experience. The park’s iconic scenery is the perfect backdrop for this quintessential American holiday. July is one of the hottest and driest months to visit Yosemite, offering good trail conditions and warm water for swimming or kayaking.

The NPS has previously warned Fourth of July visitors to Yosemite National Park, “Based on past holiday weekends, visitors arriving during peak hours have been delayed for up to two hours in east Yosemite Valley.” Plan accordingly and opt for the shuttle bus around the park (which can use HOV lanes to avoid traffic) to get around more efficiently and not have to fight for parking.

Fireworks pose a serious fire hazard and are strictly prohibited in the park. Consider taking a Yosemite stargazing tour for a nighttime Fourth of July show to celebrate the holiday instead.

Yosemite Labor Day Weekend

As summer draws to a close, Labor Day weekend offers one last opportunity to soak up the warmth and beauty of Yosemite before autumn sets in. The weather over Labor Day weekend is typically hot and dry, with clear skies offering great views.

Many schools are back in session by now, so Labor Day can be less crowded compared to other holiday weekends in Yosemite—however, you can still expect more crowds and traffic than during regular summer weekends, so be prepared.

The Best 4-Day Yosemite National Park Itinerary: A Complete Guide to Planning Your Trip

Yosemite National Park boasts some of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders on Earth.  With so much to see and do, planning a perfect 4-day trip might be overwhelming. We’ve compiled the ideal itinerary for exploring Yosemite’s iconic landmarks, hidden gems, and diverse landscapes. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a casual nature enthusiast, this itinerary caters to all interests and activity levels. 

Day 1: Immerse Yourself in Yosemite Valley

Morning – Tunnel View, Yosemite Valley Lodge

You might as well start your Yosemite visit with some of the park’s most familiar spots. Start your day at the iconic Tunnel View, capturing the postcard-perfect panorama of Yosemite Valley with El Capitan, Half Dome, and Yosemite Falls in the distance. Continue the drive towards Yosemite Valley Lodge, stopping briefly at Lower Yosemite Fall to witness the power and beauty of the cascading water. This excursion should take around two hours or less, so depending on when you set off, it could be time for an early lunch at the Base Camp Eatery by the time you get to Yosemite Valley Lodge. If it’s too early, or you’d rather bring a picnic lunch with you, the Eatery has plenty of Grab and Go options. 

Mid-day – Biking Yosemite Valley Lodge, El Captian Meadow, Mirror Lake

Once you have lunch figured out, you can rent bikes from Yosemite Valley Lodge and explore the valley floor at your own pace on the 12-mile bike trail loop. The trail takes you through Cook’s Meadow and El Capitan Meadow, where you can soak in the tranquility. You’ll want to make sure you stop for a photo at Mirror Lake, where the reflection of Half Dome creates a stunning mirrored image (depending on water levels). 12 miles too much? Just turn around whenever you feel the need. You’ll want to end your ride at Yosemite Valley Lodge, return your bikes, and head off to hike. 

Afternoon – Lower Yosemite Fall Hike 

Embark on the moderate Lower Yosemite Fall Hike, a 2.5-mile round trip that lasts about 2-3 hours. The well-maintained trail offers gradual inclines and switchbacks leading to the base of the falls. You may get misted as you approach the falls- a refreshing experience on a warm day. 

Evening  – Relax and Stargaze

Enjoy a delicious dinner at one of the restaurants at Yosemite Valley Lodge– like the Mountain Room or Mountain Room Lodge or Base Camp Eatery for a more relaxed atmosphere.  Afterward, experience the night sky like never before, either heading out into the valley on your own, or by joining a stargazing program.

Day 2: Challenge Yourself with Waterfalls and Vistas

Morning – Conquer the Exhilarating Mist Trail

Put on your sturdiest, most comfortable shoes to prepare for this challenging 3.1-mile round-trip hike. The uneven terrain (and likely crowded) trail takes you alongside Vernal and Emerald Falls, offering up-close views and the refreshing spray of the mist, which you will be grateful for on particularly hot days. The trailhead is near the Happy Isles Nature Center on a park map or follow signs within Yosemite Valley. 

Afternoon –  Glacier Point Road

Take a scenic drive (about 1.5 hours) along Glacier Point Road, stopping at Washburn Point for a breathtaking panorama of Yosemite Valley from a different perspective. Chinook Point Pullout is another scenic pullout offering stunning vistas of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and the surrounding mountains. Important tips when driving Glacier Point Road: 

• Check road conditions before your visit- Glacier Point Road may be closed due to weather or construction.
• Parking at Glacier Point can be limited, especially during peak season. 
• Be aware of the switchbacks and steep drop-offs along Glacier Point Road. Drive slowly and cautiously.

Afternoon/Evening – Hike to Glacier Point 

Your final stop along the way will be Glacier Point, where you can witness the jaw-dropping views encompassing Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and surrounding peaks. This is an easier one-mile round trip hike starting at the Glacier Point Parking Lot. For a more adventurous option, hike to Sentinel Dome or Taft Point for even more stunning vistas, especially at sunset (reservations required during peak season). These trails share a trailhead, and the parking lot is before you reach the Glacier Point Parking Lot. While the hikes are relatively easy, they are longer than the Glacier Point Hike, at 2.2 miles round-trip.

Day 3: Mariposa Grove, Badger Pass Ski Area and Wawona

Morning – Mariposa Grove

Travel south on Wawona Road to Mariposa Grove home to the stunning, towering giant sequoia trees. Walk amongst these ancient giants on the Grizzly Giant Loop and be humbled by their size and resilience. You’ll see highlights such as the Fallen Monarch, which offers a glimpse into the stunning shallow roots of a Sequoia. See the nearly 3000-year-old Grizzly Giant and the California Tunnel Tree- the last remaining sequoia that was cut to allow horse-drawn carriages to pass through in the late 19th century. If you want to make a day of it, the Guardians Loop Trail and the Mariposa Grove Trail are longer, more strenuous trails amongst the trees that will take 4-6 hours. If you’ve done enough hiking, consider taking the Grand Tour, an 8-hour bus tour that takes you through Yosemite Valley, Glacier Point, and Mariposa Grove.

Afternoon – Badger Pass Ski Area/Wawona

The afternoon will be your chance to explore the lesser-known wonders of Yosemite. You can opt for a scenic drive to Badger Pass Ski Area for breathtaking views of the Sierra Nevada mountains; or, if you’re interested in history, visit Wawona, a historic settlement with preserved buildings offering a glimpse into Yosemite’s past.

Evening – Campfire

Take the night to sit by a campfire and get a traditional Yosemite experience. Roast some marshmallows while you gaze at the stunning night sky.

Day 4: Hike to Half Dome or Relax at the Valley Floor

Option 1 – Hiking

If you’re a true adventurer and can never get enough hiking in, use your last day for the ultimate hiking experience: summiting Half Dome. This is a 14-16 mile round trip hike, taking most hikers 10-12 hours to complete, so you will need to leave by sunrise or before. The national parks website suggests anyone hiking the trail set a “must turn around time.” Be sure to tell yourself if you haven’t reached the summit by a certain time, you will turn around. The last 400 feet of the summit utilize cables to allow hikers to climb the summit without rock equipment. While injuries (and death) are rare, acting responsibly, taking your time, and allowing faster hikers to pass you is essential. The panoramic views from the top are unparalleled.

Option 2 – Slow Down and Relax

Morning – Explore the Valley Floor

Enjoy a relaxed morning exploring the valley floor by bike. Rent bikes from Yosemite Valley Lodge and follow the paved paths along the Merced River. Stop for photos at picturesque spots like Sentinel Beach and Cook’s Meadow. Take a detour to Yosemite Museum to learn about the park’s geology, natural history, and human history. Through the exhibits, you’ll learn about the formation of Yosemite Valley, the diverse plant and animal life, and the fascinating history of the park’s indigenous people.

Afternoon – Picnic Lunch

Before heading off on your bike, stop in at Degnan’s Deli or the grocery store located at Yosemite Valley Lodge and pick up food to take with you for lunch. Then, have a picnic lunch in El Capitan Meadow, soaking in the sunshine and the views of the surrounding cliffs. 

Late Afternoon – Treat Yourself 

After a busy three days, you deserve a little pampering. After lunch, drive to the Yosemite Health Spa to treat yourself to a massage (reservations recommended). If a spa treatment isn’t for you, continue on a leisurely bike ride towards Bridalveil Fall. 

Evening – Farewell Dinner

Whether you’ve taken the day to do your most challenging hike yet or to slow down and soak in the beauty of Yosemite, a farewell dinner is in order. Enjoy fine dining at the Mountain Room at Yosemite Valley Lodge.

How Long Do I Need In Yosemite National Park? 

There is no straight answer to this because the real answer is that it depends. One or two days means you will have to skip some highlights, but three, four, and five days are perfect for fitting in everything you want to see and do.  Four days allows you to see and do a lot without getting overwhelmed.

Other Tips for Your Four-Day Yosemite Stay

Safety 

There are many things you can do to stay safe during your Yosemite stay. Here are a few basic tips to keep in mind: 

• Always wear a helmet when bike riding. 
• Be aware of wildlife – many animals call Yosemite home. 
• Do not leave food out. It attracts bears and other wildlife. 
• Remember to stay hydrated. 

Book your Accommodation Well in Advance

Yosemite lodging, especially during peak season (summer) fills up quickly. Consider your budget and preferred location (Yosemite Valley, gateway towns) when choosing your stay.

Purchase Park Entrance Passes

You’ll need a park entrance pass to enter Yosemite. Purchase them online or at entrance stations. Consider annual passes if you plan on visiting other national parks during the year.

Plan your activities

While this is just one itinerary, make sure you research the different areas of Yosemite (Yosemite Valley, Glacier Point, Mariposa Grove) and choose activities that suit your interests and fitness level. Obtain permits for Half Dome or other permit-required hikes in advance.

Pack Appropriately 

Bring layers of clothing for changing weather conditions, sturdy hiking shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and a refillable water bottle. Consider insect repellent and a rain jacket depending on the season. Check out our packing list for more packing tips.

The Best 5-Day Yosemite National Park Itinerary: A Complete Guide to Planning Your Trip

Spanning over 748,542 acres of pristine wilderness, Yosemite National Park is a true jewel in the crown of America’s national parks system, enticing adventurers and nature-lovers from around the globe. The park is home to some of the most famous natural sites in America, including El Capitan, Yosemite Falls, and Half Dome.

Planning a five-day trip to Yosemite National Park can seem daunting, with so many incredible sights and activities to choose from but with limited time to see them all. However, with careful planning and a well-crafted itinerary, you can make the most of your trip. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best way to plan a trip to Yosemite and provide you with a detailed five-day itinerary to ensure you don’t miss any of the park’s highlights. This travel plan is designed for a first-time visitor to Yosemite National Park who wants to see all the can’t-miss highlights as well as discover some hidden gems.

Day 1: Explore the Iconic Yosemite Valley

Your Yosemite adventure begins in the heart of the park, the legendary Yosemite Valley. This glacially carved valley is home to some of Yosemite National Park’s most iconic landmarks and viewpoints.

Start your day early to avoid traffic at the park entrance and head to Tunnel View, a breathtaking vantage point offering a panoramic vista of El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Fall. This is one of the most photographed spots in the park, so be sure to have your camera ready. Tunnel View can get crowded, which is why we recommend making it your first stop of the day (before everyone else arrives). If you’re seeking solitude, Artist Point is a good alternative to Tunnel View that’s a bit more under-the-radar.

Next, venture to the Yosemite Village, where you’ll find the Yosemite Exploration Center, amenities including restaurants and water, and the Ansel Adams Gallery, a showcase of works by the renowned photographer who captured the essence of Yosemite so beautifully. If you’re ready for lunch at this point, Yosemite Village has a number of options. Degnan’s Kitchen is a good spot for a quick grab-and-go casual sandwich or salad, or you can relax for a bit by the fire at The Loft at Degnan’s for a sit-down meal.

Take the free park shuttle from the village or drive to the trailhead for the Lower Yosemite Fall hike. This easy one-mile loop walk takes you to the base of the iconic waterfall via a paved trail and takes about 30 minutes to complete. The waterfall is most powerful during the spring and early summer, so expect to get soaked with spray if you’re standing on the footbridge closest to the waterfall. It’s a great way to cool off on a hot day!

In the afternoon, explore the Merced River and its beautiful surroundings at the Sentinel Beach Picnic Area. If you’re visiting in late spring or summer, when the water levels are high, bring a raft or rent one and float down the river for a unique way to take in the sights. Watch out for swimmers jumping off bridges along the river, an illegal but popular summer activity. Before leaving, be sure to stand on Swinging Bridge and see if you can spot the reflection of Yosemite Falls in the river. 

As the sun sets, head to the El Capitan Meadow to watch El Capitan and Half Dome appear to change colors as the last rays of the day hit the granite cliffs.

Day 2: Hike to Iconic Vistas and Waterfalls

Yosemite National Park has incredible hiking trails, so make your second day the time you get out and explore them. There are all levels of trails to choose from, from short and flat walks to strenuous all-day hikes, so you’ll be able to find something that suits your ability. The National Parks Service (NPS) has a great list of hikes broken down by mileage to help you find the perfect challenge.

Start your day early by driving to the John Muir trailhead, the starting point for some of the most popular parks in Yosemite. This is a choose-your-own-adventure hike, with options to make the walk as long or short as you like. Some options include:

• Vernal Fall Footbridge (1.6 miles)
• Top of Vernal Fall (2.4 miles)
• Top of Nevada Fall (5.4 miles)

Be prepared for steep, slippery sections of the trail, especially around the waterfalls, and bring plenty of water and snacks for the journey. The NPS recommends bringing 3-4 quarts of water per person if you’re headed to the top of Nevada Fall. 

After conquering the hike, take a well-deserved break and refuel at the Curry Village Pizza Patio, where you can enjoy hand-tossed pizza and a cold drink in the sunshine on an outdoor deck overlooking Glacier Point and Royal Arches. 

If you’re up for a post-lunch hike, head to the Mirror Lake trailhead, where you can embark on a relatively easy walk to the Mirror Lake, known for its photogenic reflections of the surrounding cliffs. There is a one-mile paved path from the parking lot to Mirror Lake, and you can extend the hike to a five-mile loop around the lake if you’re feeling ambitious. Mirror Lake is best visited in the spring and summer when the snowmelt makes the water level high—be aware that the lake may be completely dry by the end of summer. 

Don’t head back to your hotel once the sun goes down—minimal light pollution makes Yosemite Valley an incredible destination for stargazing. Sign up for a two-hour Naturalist Walk: Explore Yosemite’s Night Sky tour with Yosemite Conservancy, an unforgettable experience where you’ll see stars, planets, and constellations. You’ll need to register in advance and be prepared to walk for two miles with a guide.

Day 3: Explore Mariposa Grove and Wawona

On your third day in Yosemite National Park, venture beyond Yosemite Valley to explore the park’s ancient giants at Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias. Mariposa Grove is home to over 500 towering sequoia trees, some over 3,000 years old. Take the time to walk among these ancient giants on one of the many paths winding through the forest. Trail options range from easy (like the 0.3-mile Big Trees Loop Trail) to strenuous (the 6.5-mile Guardians Loop Trail). 

To reach Mariposa Grove, park at the Mariposa Grove Welcome Plaza and take the free shuttle. Only vehicles with disability placards can drive on Mariposa Grove Road and park at the grove. The parking lot fills up early in peak season, so plan to arrive before 11 am to ensure you can visit. If you can’t find parking or prefer to walk, you can hike two miles (each way) from the Welcome Plaza on the Washburn Trail or the Mariposa Grove Road to reach the sequoias. 

After your scenic sequoia stroll, drive to the nearby Wawona area and visit the Yosemite History Center, a collection of historic buildings, to get a glimpse into the park’s past. The History Center is open 24 hours a day, and informational signs in front of each building can help you learn more, even if no rangers are around. 

If you’re visiting in the summer, stop by the scenic Merced River swimming hole near Chilnualna Road, where you can swim or tube the chilly waters. If you’d prefer to stay on dry land, take a 0.75-mile round-trip walk to the Wawona Swinging Bridge, a swaying suspension bridge over the South Fork of the Merced River. 

Another great way to experience the Merced River is to sign up for a rafting trip with OARS River Rafting. In April and May, the Merced offers up Class III-IV whitewater to challengers brave enough to take on the rapids. This day-long trip takes place just outside of Yosemite National Park.

Day 4: Explore Tuolumne Meadows and Tenaya Lake

On your fourth day, venture into the high country of Yosemite, exploring the scenic Tuolumne Meadows and the pristine Tenaya Lake.

Begin your day by driving along the Tioga Road, a scenic byway that winds through the park’s high-altitude regions. The Tuolumne Meadows Shuttle is not operating in 2024, so driving is the best way to reach this area of the park. (Note that this road is closed in the winter due to heavy snowfall. Your first stop will be the Tuolumne Meadows, a vast subalpine meadow surrounded by towering granite domes and peaks. Take a 1.5-mile round-trip walk to Soda Springs, where you’ll find cold, carbonated mineral water bubbling straight out of the ground. Don’t be tempted to drink this rust-colored water—the parks service recommends against imbibing due to potential contamination. 

If you’re looking for a longer hike in the meadows, we love the Cathedral Lakes Trail. It’s a moderate 7-mile round-trip hike with 1,000 feet of elevation gain that takes you to a stunning alpine lake basin tucked beneath the iconic Cathedral Peak. Along the way, you’ll enjoy breathtaking vistas of the surrounding peaks and meadows and opportunities for wildlife spotting. This hike generally takes around 4-6 hours.

After your hike, continue along Tioga Road to Tenaya Lake, the largest lake in Yosemite’s front country. The lake’s crystal-clear waters and stunning reflections of the surrounding granite domes make it one of the most popular destinations in Yosemite National Park in the summer. Spend time relaxing by the lake, swimming, or picnicking in this serene setting.

On your way out of the park, stop at Olmsted Point, a parking lot with epic views of Half Dome, Tenaya Lake, and Clouds Rest. The easy 0.4-mile out-and-back Olmsted Point Nature trail is worth the extra effort to get a better vantage point.

Day 5: Glacier Point and Concluding Your Yosemite Adventure

We’ve saved the best for your last day in Yosemite National Park. Begin your day early by driving to Glacier Point, one of the best places in the park to watch the sunrise. From here, you can tackle the Sentinel Dome trail, a 2.2-mile round-trip hike that ends at the top of Sentinel Dome, where you’ll be rewarded with 360-degree views of the Yosemite Valley.

If you’re looking for a long hike to cap off your Yosemite trip, we recommend the 11.4 miles round-trip Ostrander Lake hike, which winds through forest and meadow before climbing up to views of Yosemite Valley domes and Mount Starr King and ending at Ostrander Lake. 

For a shorter hike, take the hikers’ bus to Glacier Point and hike down for a 4.8 mile one-way trip. (Leave your car at the end of the hike so you don’t have to walk back up.)

On your way out of the park (acrophobics, skip this next recommendation) stop by Taft Point and the Fissures, which offer vertigo-inducing views down a sheer cliff straight into the valley below with no walls or guardrails.

Important Notes

When planning your five-day Yosemite trip, there are a few important things you should know.

1. Reservations are required to drive into or through Yosemite National Park on certain dates and times between April and October. Click here to find out how to get a reservation.
2. An entrance pass to Yosemite National Park costs $35 for a private vehicle, and cash is not accepted. A reservation costs an additional $2.
3. GPS can be inaccurate within Yosemite National Park. Use this NPS guide for the most accurate driving time estimates.
4. Parking can be difficult to find within the park, especially on weekends and during the summer. We recommend using the free Yosemite shuttles or public transportation to get around. 
5. Tire chains may be required from fall through spring if you’re driving in Yosemite National Park.
6. A permit is required to hike the famous Half Dome when the cables are up, in order to protect the highly-trafficked area. 
7. Permits are also required for backpacking and overnight climbing.  
8. Tioga Road, Glacier Point Road, and Mariposa Grove are open seasonally due to snowy conditions in the winter. Always check with the NPS for the most up-to-date information to see if these roads are open before visiting. Note that Tioga Road has opened in seasons with heavy snow as late as July.

The Best Things to Do Near Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park stands as one of America’s most beloved and visited natural wonders, drawing visitors from around the world to behold its awe-inspiring scenery and famous landmarks. Yet Yosemite is just the crown jewel in an area filled with natural treasures.

If you can’t get an entrance reservation for Yosemite National Park—or if you’re just looking for things to do on your drive to or from the park— there are plenty of hidden gems near Yosemite to uncover. From sipping your way through local vineyards to stepping back in time aboard a historic steam train, there’s an endless amount of things to do and places to see beyond the park’s borders.

In this guide, we’ll provide suggestions for things to do near Yosemite National Park, in addition to highlighting the best state and national parks to explore as part of an extended visit. 

Madera Wine Trail

Take a well-deserved break from hiking in Yosemite National Park and spend a day on a different type of trail—the Madera Wine Trail. Located about an hour outside of Yosemite National Park, Madera is known as Yosemite’s wine region and is home to eight beautiful wineries. 

Follow the trail independently (just make sure to designate a driver) or book a tour so everyone in your group can indulge in samples. Note that reservations are required for tastings at some vineyards. Visit the website for each winery to find reservation requirements and tasting prices. (A full list of wineries on the trail can be found here.)

Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad

Travel back in time with a ride on the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad, a historic steam train running through the Sierra National Forest—just four miles from the South Entrance of Yosemite National Park.

The scenic trip takes you on a one-hour ride along the old Madera Sugar Pine Railroad. Throughout the journey, a narrator will regale you with stories of the area and point out the best sights. 

For a unique experience, sign up for the Moonlight Special, a dinner train package that includes a meal and a three-hour train ride with a stopover at Lewis Creek Canyon for some live entertainment. 

Reservations are not required, but it’s recommended that tickets for the train be bought online in advance in case they sell out. The one-hour train ride costs $30 for adults and $18 for children, and the Moonlight Special costs $75 for adults and $45 for children. 

Exchequer Mountain Bike Park

Although mountain biking is not allowed within Yosemite National Park, there is a stellar mountain bike park just about an hour outside the park. Featuring 700 acres of varied terrain, the Exchequer Mountain Bike Park is exclusively for mountain biking (so you don’t have to compete with hikers for paths). 

This beautiful bike park overlooks Lake McClure and the Barrett Cove Recreation Area, offering stunning views from the tops of many trails. Exchequer Mountain Bike Park is open from dawn to dusk, and admission is included with the $10 entrance fee to Barrett Cove Recreation Area.

Download the Trail Forks app before visiting the park for the best trail maps and park information. 

Mammoth Lakes

Located just 45 minutes south of Yosemite National Park, Mammoth Lakes is the perfect gateway for your trip to the park. This mountain town has its own airport, Mammoth Yosemite Airport, which is the closest airport to Yosemite National Park. 

Of course, Mammoth Lakes is more than just a good launching-off point for Yosemite—it’s a destination in its own right. Home to Mammoth Mountain, there’s incredible skiing in the winter and challenging hiking in the summer. No trip to Mammoth would be complete without getting out on the lakes by swimming, boating, or kayaking. 

This lively town has many restaurants, shops, and lodging options, making it a great choice if you’re looking for somewhere to stay near Yosemite with plenty of amenities.  

Rainbow Pools

Rainbow Pools is a collection of natural swimming pools along the Tuolumne River, just off Highway 120 on the way to Yosemite National Park. In addition to small swimming holes, you’ll find a beautiful waterfall, as well as cliffs that the more adventurous swimmers jump off of. 

Rainbow Pools offers limited amenities, including a small parking lot (get there early to find a spot), vault toilets, and picnic tables. However, there are no garbage cans, so you must pack out everything you bring in. The Rainbow Pools are located in the Stanislaus National Forest, which costs $10 per car to enter.

The Best State Parks Near Yosemite National Park

California is home to 280 state parks, meaning there’s much more to explore out here than just Yosemite National Park. From secret giant sequoias groves to otherworldly spires, these under-the-radar state parks are worth adding to your Yosemite itinerary. 

Mono Lake Tufa State Natural Reserve

Located in Mono County, just a 13-mile drive east of Yosemite National Park, lies one of nature’s most peculiar and mesmerizing sights—Mono Lake Tufa State Natural Reserve. This ancient lake features otherworldly-looking tufa towers protruding from the water. Formed when freshwater springs mingle with the highly alkaline lake water, these spires are a unique site.

The best way to experience the tufas up close is by hiking the gentle South Tufa Trail, a flat one-mile loop past some of the biggest formations. Start your trip at the Mono Basin Scenic Area Visitor Center, where you can learn about the area’s unique geology, ecology, and human history.

National Parks annual pass holders receive free admission to Tufa State Natural Reserve, otherwise, it costs $3 per adult. Children under 16 are free. 

Bodie State Historic Park 

Want to escape the crowds at Yosemite National Park? Head about 45 minutes northeast from the park to Bodie, California, an abandoned gold-mining town frozen in time. This ghost town was formerly home to 8,000 people but was left deserted after the mine went bust. 

Bodie was designated a National Historic Site and a State Historic Park in 1962. It has been well-preserved, so it looks almost as it did 50 years ago. Entrance to Bodie costs $8 per adult and $5 per child. Admission can be paid at a kiosk in the parking lot; however, in winter months, the kiosk is closed, and self-payment envelopes will be available. 

For an extra $3, you can pick up a self-guided tour book from the front of the Red Barn, which explains the town’s history. There is a small museum within Bodie, which is open seasonally from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. 

Calaveras Big Trees State Park

If you want to see California’s famous giant sequoias without the crowds, skip the Mariposa Grove of the Giant Sequoias in Yosemite National Park and head to Calaveras Big Trees State Park, approximately 40 miles from Yosemite. Here, you’ll find two massive groves of these stately trees—the North Grove and the South Grove. 

The South Grove is home to the Louis Agassiz tree, the largest sequoia in the park. The tree is 250 feet tall and over 25 feet in diameter and is truly a sight to behold. Take the five-mile South Grove Trail to see the Agassiz Tree and the Palace Hotel Tree (the second largest tree in the park). If you’d prefer a shorter walk, the North Grove Trail is an easy and flat 1.5-mile self-guided trail equipped with markers explaining the history of some of the most prominent trees on the trail. 

A day-use permit for the park costs $10 per car, except for holidays when the permit costs $12.

What Other National Parks are Near Yosemite National Park?

While Yosemite National Park is an iconic destination itself, those exploring this region of California can extend their adventures to several other nearby national parks. Just a few hours’ drive from Yosemite, a trio of parks offer vastly different but equally awe-inspiring landscapes to discover. To the southeast lies the combined wonder of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, famed for their towering groves of giant sequoia trees, including the largest living tree in the world. Meanwhile, to the southwest sits Pinnacles National Park, a geological spectacle marked by otherworldly rock spires, talus caves, and valleys sculpted by ancient volcanic forces that today provide a haven for majestic birds of prey like the California condor.

Pro tip: If you plan on visiting more than two national parks in a year, buying the America the Beautiful Pass is more economical. It covers unlimited entrance fees and day-use fees at federal recreational sites (including national parks) for one year. The pass costs $80 and can be purchased at any national park entrance. You can also order the America the Beautiful Pass online. 

Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks

For the ultimate National Parks road trip, consider hitting the trifecta of Yosemite National Park, King’s Canyon National Park, and Sequoia National Park. Although Sequoia National Park and King’s Canyon Park are two separate parks, they are jointly administered, so you’ll pay just one entrance fee ($35 per car) and can seamlessly travel between each park.

Depending on your route, it’s about a 2.5-hour drive (130 miles) from Yosemite National Park to King’s Canyon National Park. Sequoia National Park borders King’s Canyon, so it’s easy to head there after you’re done with King’s Canyon. Reservations are not required or accepted for Sequoia and King’s Canyon National Parks. 

As the name implies, the top attraction at Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks is the giant sequoia groves. There are around 40 groves within the park, many of which can be reached by road. Others are more remote and require hiking to visit. The largest sequoia grove in the park is Giant Forest, which is also home to the largest living sequoia, the General Sherman Tree. To see the General Sherman Tree, park at the lot on Wolverton Road and follow the signs. There is an easy half-mile paved trail from the parking lot to the tree. There is also a wheelchair-accessible trail to the General Sherman Tree from the small parking lot on the edge of the Generals Highway. Note that you must have a disability placard to park in this lot. 

Pinnacles National Park

If you’re planning a long trip to California and don’t mind driving, Pinnacles National Park is only about a 3.5-hour drive from Yosemite and offers a completely different landscape. The unique geology of Pinnacles was formed over 23 million years ago by multiple volcanic eruptions. Today, this national park offers a diverse terrain with over 30 miles of hiking trails to explore.

Pinnacles is also a paradise for birdwatchers, as it’s home to golden eagles, peregrine falcons, and the massive California Condor—which is unmissable with its nine-foot wingspan. 
Don’t miss the Bear Gulch Reservoir, one of the most famous sights in the park, which is a manmade reservoir surrounded by Pinnacle’s signature rock formations.

1. Ask for Late Hotel Check Out

If you’re stuck with a late return flight and could do with some extra time in your room, then asking for a late check out right when you first check in is one of the most important things to do upon arrival. Ask politely, talk up your loyalty to the hotel, and don’t be shy to tip the concierge for the favor. And if you need to know more, here’s a more in depth guide to getting a free late check-out.

2. Ask for a Hotel Room With a View

While a crummy view from your hotel window due to unforeseen building works isn’t necessarily the hotel’s fault, keeping guests happy is in their best interests. If the view from your window is important — let’s face it, sometimes it’s the reason you booked — then confirm you’re getting the room with the view you requested. And even if you didn’t plan ahead, it’s worth asking for a room with a view upon check-in; you just might snag an upgrade for free!

3. Ask About a List of Hidden Hotel Fees

Hidden fees, city taxes, and extra VAT can all add up to an annoying surprise when you come to pay your bill. Make sure you know what to expect regarding added extras and whether Wi-Fi, parking, newspapers, breakfast, and in-room entertainment are free. This way, you won’t be surprised when you check out.

4. Ask About Hotel Rentals

While you may have heard about the electric guitar and amp rentals offered by Hard Rock Hotels, many properties aren’t so big on advertising their available loaners. From bicycles to golf buggies to trusty umbrellas, hotel rentals are worth finding out about upfront. Many hotels on the beach have water gear you can rent- like kayaks, snorkeling gear, and other items you won’t be checking onto your flight. It’s always worth asking what fun rentals they have available so you don’t miss out.

5. Ask About Extra Hotel Amenities

Not all hotels have their own spas, pools, saunas, and steam rooms, but many that don’t often compensate by partnering up with nearby establishments or sister properties to offer guests free use of the amenities at a nearby location (or a discount). As well as spas and saunas, hotels offer practical extras like airport shuttle runs and private cars to make your stay as smooth as possible, so just ask.

6. Ask for Unbiased Hotel Recommendations

Whether budget, mid-range, or luxury properties, hotels often have official and unofficial affiliate establishments that they work with locally. As a result, some hotels will send you to the nearest, overpriced tourist trap via their websites — so remember to also ask the concierge/doorman/waiter for an unbiased recommendation, too. Their job is to help you and offer suggestions, so they should have answers. If you ask about something they aren’t familiar with, hopefully, there is another worker nearby they can ask. Getting the local’s favorite spots around town is always a good idea.

7. About About Complimentary Hotel Toiletries

Hotel toiletries are like bread in restaurants; they should always be free, and you should always be given more when you ask. If you’ve forgotten your toiletry bag and have a bad case of airplane breath, ask reception — and more often than not the hotel will be able to provide you with a complimentary toothbrush and toothpaste to go with the plentiful toiletries (shampoo, conditioner, and a sewing kit) every guest deserves.

8. Ask About Netflix in Your Hotel Room

Select Marriott hotels, like the San Francisco Marriot Marquis, allow guests access to their internet-connected TVs to sign into their Netflix account and stream whatever they want. The partnership between the streaming company and hotel group was one of the first of its kind, so remember to ask for Netflix next time you’re staying in a Marriott. Many hotels now feature smart TVs, and you can log into various streaming services without having to stare at the small screen of your laptop. Just remember to log out before you check out – some hotels will do it automatically, but many don’t, so log out to avoid future guests using your account!

9. Ask About a Hotel Upgrade

You want an upgrade — who doesn’t — but you don’t want to pay for it, which leaves you and the hotel in a stalemate. The best trick for a free upgrade is to discreetly ask if a corner room is available at the same pricing level, which should afford you more space and a better stay. The same goes for if you booked a queen room; it’s worth asking if any King rooms have opened up. You may score an upgrade to a bigger bed if one is available at no extra cost. Granted, this depends on how full the hotel is, and sometimes, just depends on who you get at the desk. But, like everything else- it never hurts to ask.

10. Ask About Anti-Allergy Bedding

Your average hotel can’t offer you the likes of Conrad Hotel Miami’s “pillow menu,” but most — if not all — should be able to swap animal down duvets and pillows for synthetic alternatives that tend to be easier on allergies.  You can also ask for extra pillows (although typically you’ll have more than enough in your room).

11. Ask for Extra Clean Linens

Generally, hotels clean bed linens every day, but chances are the comforters and blankets on your bed might have had more than a few days of other peoples’ use. Make sure to request a full set of clean linens — from bed sheets to blankets — upon check-in. If you ask, they practically have to do it; no hotel wants a review that a guest was denied a clean spot to rest his head.

12. Ask for a Quiet Hotel Room

No hotel wants you to leave having had a bad experience, so most are likely willing to listen to genuine concerns on behalf of their guests. And at a hotel, what’s more concerning than getting a good night’s sleep? Always ask to be put in a room away from the elevator and large groups that might make noise, and definitely not in a room with a connecting door.

You’ll Also Like:

• 10 Ways to Avoid Being the Hotel Guest No One Likes
• 8 Awesome Hotel Features You Can Recreate at Home
• 5 Weird Hotel Amenities You Never Knew You Needed (Till Now)

1. Cayman Islands

With its relative wealth, stable economy, and strong gun laws, the Cayman Islands is one of the safest destinations in the entire Caribbean. It consists of three islands to the west of Jamaica and is home to some of the Caribbean’s most beautiful beaches. You’ll also find some of the world’s best scuba diving here, with notable spots like Bloody Bay Marine Park, Stingray City, and Keith Tibbetts shipwreck. Other attractions include a lovely nature preserve, turtle farm, and forested hiking trail to the island’s undeveloped center. The Cayman Islands also has one of the world’s lowest murder rates, far below that of the United States. In recent years, the island has also seen a drop in robberies and petty theft, according to the Royal Cayman Islands Police Service.

Perhaps a bigger concern in the Cayman Islands is the history of hurricanes during the summer. Luckily, it’s been spared the worst in recent years. Meanwhile, The US Department of State says: “The Cayman Islands are a relatively safe place with little criminal activity affecting tourists. Robberies occasionally occur and we recommend keeping your doors and windows locked.” In the end, though, you’d probably do exactly this in your hometown anyway, which is something to keep in mind before you worry too much about traveling abroad.

Cayman Islands Hotel Pick: Caribbean Club Luxury Boutique Hotel

The Caribbean Club sits on Grand Cayman’s famous Seven Mile Beach and features 37 spacious villas. All are exquisitely decorated and all have full kitchens plus large furnished balconies with ocean views. It also has one of the nicest stretches of beach along the Seven Mile shore, with white sand and calm waves, plus the hotel offers free cabanas. Luca, the restaurant, is one of the best on the island.

Book Now

2. St. Barts (St. Barth)

St. Barts is one of the Caribbean’s must-visit destinations, and it’s perhaps no surprise that St. Barts (short for Saint-Barthélemy and also known as St. Barth) is quite safe, considering it is one of the Caribbean’s most exclusive islands. It pulls in the rich and famous in droves, many of whom appear on yachts in the capital’s harbor. For everyone else, there are only two ways to arrive on this small, volcanic island in the northwest Caribbean Sea — via a small prop plane from St. Martin or by ferry. Once you’re here, the island offers 22 white sand beaches, charming gingerbread-style cottages, designer shops, colorful beach bars, and luxury spas.

There are no advisories of any note issued by any governments for St. Barts, though you will find cautions against petty theft, which is an issue in any destination frequented by tourists. Keep your belongings close to you always, and utilize your hotel’s safe for valuable items.

Hotel Pick in St. Barts: Christopher St. Barth

Easily one of the most exclusive getaways on the island, the 42-room Christopher St. Barth balances an urban chic ethos with contemporary French design and tropical island vibes. The lush grounds house a Sisley Spa, a pricey ocean-front restaurant, and an elegant infinity pool overlooking the ocean. There’s no beach, but that doesn’t stop this from being the most popular hotel in St. Barts.

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3. Bonaire

Part of the Netherlands Antilles, or the ABC Islands (as they’re also known), Bonaire is one of the safest Caribbean destinations year after year. In fact, murder is almost unheard of here, and U.S. Department of State advisories are few and far between for the island. Perusing a list of recent crimes from 2022, you’ll find that attempted thefts and petty crimes are the only noted incidents, with violent crimes almost nonexistent. s.

Aside from incredibly low crime rates, what is Bonaire known for? You’ll find perfect beaches, clear water, sunny skies, and amazing snorkeling off of its shores. It is also less developed than its neighbor, Aruba, and has a more laid-back island-style pace of life without the influx of major resorts. Cruises do dock here, so it can get crowded in Kralendijk when they are in town. However, there are numerous small beaches all over the island where you can escape on your own almost private stretch of sand. And if you want to really feel like you’re getting away from it all, head to Klein Bonaire, an uninhabited island off the coast of Bonaire with stunning beaches and no development.

Bonaire Hotel Pick: Harbour Village Beach Club

As one of the more polished resorts on Bonaire, Harbour Village Beach Club has a lot to like. The 43 rooms, suites, and beach houses — many with ocean views — are spacious and decorated with details like hardwood furniture and clawfoot bathtubs. La Balandra, the resort’s nautically-themed restaurant, serves up decent fare and is especially nice at night, with the sea illuminated. The resort also has a dive shop, fitness center, and full-service spa.

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4. Anguilla

Anguilla continues to retain its easy-breezy pace of life — one that’s especially great, as the island is consistently one of the safest in the Caribbean. The U.S. Department of State reports that Anguilla’s crime rate is relatively low, and as of 2024, there were no travel advisories for the island nation. Hurricanes are a threat here, so consider the time of year you plan to visit for weather-related concerns.

Yes, this British Overseas Territory depends on luxury tourism — the rich and famous, like Jennifer Aniston and Jimmy Buffet, frequently travel to Anguilla — but it hasn’t lost its charm or relaxed authenticity and appeals to a wide swath of travelers. There are miles of white-sand beaches (like Rendezvous Bay, overlooking neighboring Saint Martin island) and secluded coves reached by boat, such as at Little Bay. After a day in the sun, hit up great restaurants and a low-key nightlife with live music that spans from reggae to string bands.

Hotel Pick in Anguilla: Four Seasons Resort and Residence Anguilla

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5. British Virgin Islands

The British Virgin Islands, or BVI, is the name given to an archipelago of more than 60 islands, some of which are protected national parks. It’s best known for its white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and rainforests. This is a big boating destination, where sailboats can make stops between the hubs of Tortola, a popular cruise port, and Virgin Gorda, where smaller boats can put down anchor and head for shops and restaurants in the village of Spanish Town. While the islands do sit within the hurricane zone — and were ravaged during the 2017 season — the recovery has been relatively swift and most of the tourist infrastructure is back in place.

Wikitravel reports that the British Virgin Islands have a much lower incidence of crime than many other Caribbean countries, and wandering about alone, even at night, is not considered particularly risky. Another reason crime is low: Penalties for possession and supply of narcotics can be severe. The British Government says: “Although most visits to the BVI are trouble-free, serious incidents, including armed robbery, do occur. You should take sensible precautions against petty crime.” Frommer’s states: “The British Virgin Islands are very safe. Crime is practically nonexistent on these islands. Minor robberies do occur on Tortola, with less trouble reported on Virgin Gorda.” So if you’re seeking the safest locale, we’d recommend spending the majority of your time on the latter. Unfortunately, the more densely populated cities and islands of the U.S. Virgin Islands are a bit more dangerous, so if safety is your top concern, ensure your passport is up to date and head to the British islands instead.

Hotel Pick in the British Virgin Islands: Rosewood Little Dix Bay

The Rosewood Little Dix Bay is a luxury property located just north of Spanish Town. The jungle-meets-ocean setting makes it one of the most romantic spots on this sparsely populated island, and the thick tropical grounds allow for utmost tranquility and relaxation. The hotel is directly on a beautiful sandy beach, and most units are just a couple dozen yards from the water. Expect chic contemporary interiors throughout the property.

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6. Martinique

The French territory of Martinique is somewhat of a secret gem, especially considering that it’s one of the Caribbean’s most cosmopolitan destinations for those who prioritize gourmet beach cuisine, live music, and natural beauty. Here, you’ll find white-sand beaches and tropical rain forests — not to mention a live volcano that looks over the harbor town of St-Pierre. Visitors can choose between big luxury resorts, stylish small hotels, or private luxury villas. Caribbean magazine editor Ed Wetschler told Yahoo Traveler: “[Martinique] is for sophisticated travelers who want not just beach. They want history and culture, geography, and cuisine…It helps if you can speak French.”

As for safety, Frommer’s states: “Crime is hardly rampant on Martinique, yet there are still those who prey on unsuspecting tourists. Follow the usual precautions, especially in Fort-de-France and in the tourist-hotel belt of Pointe du Bout. It’s wise to protect your valuables and never leave them unguarded on the beach.” The U.S. State Department lists no active threats on the island, or anywhere in the French West Indies, though hurricanes can be a seasonal risk.

Hotel Pick in Martinique: Hotel Plein Soleil

Hotel Plein Soleil is a 16-room boutique hotel set amid beautiful gardens and with views of the Bay of Thalémont. Attentive staff caters to guests, though the vibe here is more suited for travelers who prefer to explore and be left to their own devices (rather than resort-goers who need every whim catered to). The five colorful Caribbean-Creole style villas often feature their own pools and terraces with kitchenettes. The main house holds a cool, carefully curated collection of the owner’s artwork. It’s not on the beach, but that’s never far away in Martinique.

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7. Guadeloupe

Guadeloupe is a group of five islands in the Lesser Antilles for outdoorsy types who seek authentic culture and natural beauty. The two largest islands, separated by a river and accessed by bridges, resemble a butterfly: On the eastern side is Grande-Terre, where several uncrowded beach towns offer visitors long stretches of sand for relaxing and waters sports. On the west is the more mountainous Basse-Terre, which is home to Guadeloupe National Park, where visitors can hit the two-hour trail to see a spectacular active volcano. Another day trip: Ferry over to Les Saintes, recognized as one of the most beautiful bays in the world by UNESCO.

Guadeloupe rarely sees criminal activity and is rarely the subject of U.S. State Department travel advisories. But Lonely Planet says that occasional islandwide strikes can disrupt travel; the site also warns visitors to avoid the shady side of Pointe-à-Pitre. The British Government also suggests that visitors avoid isolated areas, including beaches, after dark. The only mention of crime cited by the U.S. Department of State is “pretty street crime, including purse snatching” — which is common in every major tourist destination, from New York City to Paris.

Keep in mind that mosquito-borne illnesses, including dengue fever and Zika, persist here. Come armed with effective bug spray and follow common-sense mosquito protection regimens, and you should be fine.

Hotel Pick in Guadeloupe: La Toubana Hotel & Spa

This 44-room, 121-acre hotel is the top upscale option on Guadeloupe. From its mountainside perch, the resort descends gradually to the ocean where a small beach cove is a favorite for families and couples. If the sea isn’t your favorite place to get wet, an infinity pool has stunning view of waves crashing against the cliffside below. It’s a Caribbean setting lifted straight out of a dream, and the rustic-luxe bungalows have enormous terraces — many with terrific ocean views.

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8. Aruba

If you’re looking for a vacation that’s free of the devastating potential of hurricanes, is incredibly user friendly, and safe, look no further than Aruba. This tiny island is one of our favorites in the region, and is blessed with everything from stunning natural scenery and beautiful beaches to casinos, all-inclusive resorts, and secluded boutique hotels. It also has broad appeal, drawing solo traveler, couples, families, and retirees.

Aruba is rarely subject to U.S. State Department travel advisories and currently has none. Part of the reason for this is due to economics. Unlike many other Caribbean islands here, the middle class is strong, and most of the island’s residents’ quality of life is relatively high. Good wages mean that less people are driven into poverty and, thus, petty crime and opportunistic crimes of desperation are kept to an absolute minimum. Of course, exercise the normal precautions you would when traveling anywhere, though you’ll likely have no problems here.

Aruba’s drier climate and southern location in the Caribbean also means it’s rarely hit with hurricanes. In fact, at the time of writing, the last glancing blow was by weak Hurricane Felix back in 2007. Despite being incredibly safe and easy to visit, check out our list of things you should know before traveling to Aruba, as some may be surprising.

Hotel Pick in Aruba: Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort Aruba

Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort is an adults-only hotel at the southern end of Eagle Beach. Guest rooms are attractive and feature higher-end amenities. Of course, the beachfront setting it the highlight here, and there’s plenty around to see and do for travelers looking to explore.

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9. Antigua

Antigua is known for its low crime rates, making it a great choice for a relaxing and secure vacation. Antigua boasts stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and historical sites like Nelson’s Dockyard, a meticulously restored 18th-century British naval base. Besides its pristine beaches, Antigua also boasts a lush rainforest. Take a hike through the Fig Tree Drive, a scenic route lined with towering fig trees, or explore the Devil’s Bridge National Park, a volcanic rock formation with tide pools and a natural archway. 

Like many other islands, most crimes reported are petty theft, nothing to be overly concerned about, and something we should all be aware of when traveling. The U.S. Department of State considers it a low-risk destination. Like many Caribbean islands, police presence is strong in tourist-heavy areas, and Antiguans are known for their hospitality and friendliness.  

Hotel pick in Antigua: Curtain Bluff Resort

Curtain Bluff is an all-inclusive resort located on Morris Bay on the island’s southwest end. Their seventy-two rooms include beachfront rooms, blufftop suites, and their Hulford collection which includes plunge pools and unparalleled water views. Meals, watersports, beach lounges, yoga, and more are all included in your stay.

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10. Curaçao

Curaçao is a stunning island in the southern Caribbean Sea, known for its rich cultural heritage, and beautiful beaches. It boasts a unique blend of Dutch and Caribbean influences, reflected in its colorful architecture, lively music, and delicious cuisine. There are a variety of stunning beaches, from secluded coves with calm waters perfect for snorkeling to lively stretches with restaurants and water sports activities. Playa Kenepa, also known as Playa Grandi, is a popular choice for its calm waters and sea turtles, while Knip Beach offers white sand and clear turquoise waters. 

Curaçao boasts relatively low crime rates, particularly violent crime. However, tourists are more likely to encounter petty theft, so keeping an eye on their belongings is important. Tourism is a major part of Curaçao’s economy, so the government and local businesses prioritize visitor safety.

Hotel pick in Curaçao: Sunscape Curaçao Resort and Spa

This 341-room resort has a large beach perfect for swimming and snorkeling and three pools for those who prefer poolside to beachside. There is an ever-popular swim-up bar and an on-site spa. Rooms and suites include garden views and ocean views. 

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St. Lucia

St. Lucia creates a diverse and dramatic backdrop for your Caribbean vacation, with its volcanic peaks dominating the landscape, the lush rainforests, hidden waterfalls, and volcanic black sand beaches. From snorkeling to exploring the rainforest, there is something for thrill seekers, and the crystal clear waters make it an ideal destination for those looking to laze on the beach. 

As beautiful as St. Lucia is, it is also relatively safe. Theft is the most common crime, especially during popular events like the Saint Lucia Jazz and Arts Festival (held April 30 to May 12) and Saint Lucia Carnival (held July 1-17). Authorities suggest taking precautions to ensure your safety, like not wearing expensive jewelry or leaving drinks unattended. While more serious crimes occur, if you take precautions- especially at night and in secluded areas – your stay should be uninterrupted by any major crime.

Hotel Pick in St. Lucia: Jade Mountain Resort

This adults-only resort offers breathtaking island views on the southwestern Caribbean corner of St. Lucia. The rooms of the hotel, dubbed “sanctuaries,” all feature private infinity pools with stunning ocean views. 

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Other locations currently considered safe by the U.S. government in the Caribbean are:

• Barbados

• Bermuda

• Dominica

• Grenada

• Montserrat

• St. Kitts and Nevis

• St. Vincent and the Grenadines

• Sint Maarten

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• 12 Things You Should Know Before Traveling to Aruba
• Is the Dominican Republic Safe to Visit?
• 15 Private Plunge Pools with Stunning Views

Sin City has a scene that’s unique among tourist destinations. In particular, Las Vegas Boulevard, otherwise known as The Strip, is famous for its mix of opulence, kitsch, and debauchery. And the hotels that line it have their own — often over-the-top — personality. So, whether you want to dance the night away, try your luck at a casino, or have a romantic getaway, check out our picks for the best Las Vegas Strip hotels for every type of traveler.

Additional reporting by Megan Johnson

Best Las Vegas Strip Hotel for Gambling: The Cromwell Hotel Las Vegas

This boutique hotel is somewhat of a well-kept secret among those who come to Vegas to roll the dice — literally and figuratively. The Cromwell is the only location on the Strip that offers 100x odds on craps, with affordable table limits. They also boast some of the lowest minimum bets on 3-2 shoe and double-deck blackjack. Visitors can also expect commission-free EZ Baccarat, as well as European roulette on the main casino floor, usually found only in high-limit areas. If you are looking to spend some time in a high-limit enclave, The Abbey is a secluded and posh casino lounge with 31 of the newest high-limit slots on the Strip, plus a private restroom. You’ll come out a winner at The Cromwell’s happy hour as well, which is more like a happy day — it runs from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Monday through Friday. Get beer specials and vodka cocktails at the Interlude lounge for $2. Thanks to its intimate casino and elegant jazz-club vibe, The Cromwell offers the Strip experience without the accouterments of a theme park — a plus for many.

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Best Las Vegas Strip Hotel for Relaxing: The Venetian Resort

The Venetian Resort is like a city unto itself. Everything you might want or need can be found here, making it a wonderful choice if you just want to plant yourself in one (palatial) place and de-stress. Top-flight restaurants, countless shops, authentic gelato, famous gondola rides, legendary nightlife at Tao, and, of course, a vast gaming floor, all await. The spa, a Canyon Ranch outpost, tempts with supreme relaxation and wellness offerings, like nutritional counseling, posture analysis, and acupuncture. Plus, if you feel like torching a few calories, there’s always the climbing wall. To top it off, the Renaissance-Italian style standard rooms are the largest on the Strip.

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Best Cheap Las Vegas Strip Hotel: Luxor Hotel & Casino

If you don’t need any frilly excesses when traveling, Luxor Hotel & Casino rings up relatively bargain rates for The Strip. Known for its imposing sphinx and nightly light beam visible from 100 miles away, this distinctive property offers plenty of bang for your buck. For starters, guests get incredible views of the Strip from an elevator that goes up at a 40-degree angle. Its 125,000-square-foot pool deck is one of the most expansive in Vegas — and that’s saying a lot. Furthermore, guest rooms are clean and comfy, and remodeled in a minimalist design. And while there are no high-brow restaurants helmed by celeb chefs, visitors will have a multitude of dining options with a much lower tab. Plus, it’s the home to HyperX Esports Arena, the first dedicated esports venue in North America. Overall, it’s an inexpensive source of fun for Vegas: Gaming passes start at $15; spectators are free.

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Best Las Vegas Strip Hotel for a Young, First-Time Visitor: The LINQ Hotel & Casino

Newbies tend to want to soak up as much as possible in just a few days — and do it in style. If that sounds like you, then this hipster crash pad may be your best bet. It’s near some of the most popular casino resorts, including Flamingo, Bellagio, and Treasure Island. The LINQ Promenade is full of diversions like Brooklyn Bowl, as well as sumptuous snack havens like Sprinkles and Haute Doggery. You’ll also be able to get the lay of the land on the world’s biggest observation wheel, the High Roller, and relax at the 21-and-over pool. Tip: Consider booking a cabana room with a private patio.

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Best Las Vegas Strip Hotel for Over-the-Top Luxury: Encore At Wynn Las Vegas

The Encore at Wynn Las Vegas, which sits beside its sister property, Wynn Las Vegas, is all about opulence. The unparalleled extravagance begins with the Wynn Dream Bed, which has 507-thread-count linens, a heavenly mattress, and overstuffed, high-end pillows. Golf enthusiasts can spend quality time at the renowned 18-hole course, while those seeking a bit of retail therapy will discover shops like Chanel, Prada, and Dior. The giant suites are some of the biggest on the Strip (starting at 745 square feet) and one-up even the Wynn’s. Two nightclubs regularly host top DJs,  plus there’s a luxe casino, decadent spa, and attractive outdoor pools (including a European-style option with topless sunbathing). Of course, it all comes at a high price.

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Best Las Vegas Strip Hotel for a Romantic Getaway: Bellagio Las Vegas

Best known for its iconic dancing fountains, which appear in movies like “Ocean’s Eleven,” the Italian-themed Bellagio is the perfect place for a romantic vacation. Start your stay with a couples massage at the spa, then reserve a cabana or daybed and snuggle up poolside. Guests can also stroll the naturally-lit, sweet-smelling Conservatory & Botanical Gardens, which transform with the seasons. To complete the fantasy-world feel, Chihuly stained-glass flower sculptures are suspended overhead. Be sure to request a patio table at the intimate eatery Lago. Here, you’ll be so close to the fountains that you can feel the mist if the breeze is blowing in the right direction.

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Best Las Vegas Strip Hotel for an Adrenaline Rush: STRAT Hotel, Casino and Tower, BW Premier Collection

Thrill-seekers should head straight for this skyline-dominating resort at the northern tip of the Strip, where the real fun happens 1,000 feet in the air. The main attraction here is the SkyJump, in which harnessed guests can jump to the ground from the tower’s edge (it holds the world record for the highest decelerator descent). You’ll also find a cloud-grazing zip line and three other daredevil-courting rides, one of which is aptly named Insanity. The Top of the World observation deck and 107 SkyLounge display vertigo-inducing views. Even the rooftop pool may have your heart in your throat a little.

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Best Las Vegas Strip Hotel for Partiers: MGM Grand Hotel and Casino

If you and your friends have something to celebrate, you’d do well to drop your bags here. The MGM Grand is one of the biggest hotels in the U.S., making it ideal for large groups, like bachelor and bachelorette parties. Its size also means you’ll find a wide range of room rates, from less than $100 to more than $1,000 per night. It’s easy to accommodate your entire crew’s budget, whether your best friend just got a huge bonus or your cousin recently got laid off. The MGM Grand also hosts Wet Republic, one of the wildest pool parties on the Strip. Late-night mischief is also in full swing at Hakkasan. After an epic night, spend the next day relaxing at the six-and-a-half-acre pool area, which has five pools, one of which is a long winding river for inner tubes.

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Best Las Vegas Strip Hotel for Casino-Haters: Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas

Seeking a casino-free hotel in Sin City? Yes, it’s possible. If you’re visiting Vegas for the shows, stellar dining options, and general spectacle, look to the Art Deco-inspired rooms at Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas. Occupying the top four floors of the Mandalay Bay Resort, this property is a gaming-free sanctuary at the southernmost end of the Strip. It has a completely separate entrance and lobby, as well as a serene pool and stunning spa. (Your blackjack-hungry companion need not worry, though, as the host hotel’s casino craziness is just a private elevator ride away.) Another perk: Charlie Palmer Steak and Veranda’s breakfast buffet won’t disappoint.

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Best Las Vegas Strip Hotel for Families: Circus Circus Hotel and Casino 

This iconic hotel is a haven for families. It features an Adventuredome, a 5-acre indoor amusement park with rides, shows, and attractions. It offers some of the most affordable rooms on the Las Vegas Strip. The rooms are basic but comfortable, with two queen bed options available, but no suites. There is an RV park on-site for those families who enjoy camping and have an RV or fifth wheel. There is a large arcade with video games, skeeball, and other classic arcade games, two indoor pools, a splash pad, and a lazy river. Free circus acts are performed daily in the hotel’s Midway to the delight of both young and old.

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Best Las Vegas Strip Hotel for Families with Teens: New York New York Hotel & Casino

This hotel brings the excitement of New York City to Las Vegas. It features a roller coaster that zips around a replica of the Manhattan skyline, a Brooklyn Bridge walkway, and family-friendly shows like the Cirque Du Soleil’s “Mad Apple.” Restaurants are all New York-inspired, with Italian classics, a classic steakhouse and Shake Shack. You can choose from a variety of rooms to suit your needs and budget- from standard rooms to suites for a bit more space. Teens will love the pool with cabanas and loungers – perfect for lazing by the pool, the Starbucks for their caffeine fix, and shopping at Hershey’s Chocolate World.

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