Yosemite National Park: A Granite Masterpiece
Discover Yosemite National Park: Majestic granite cliffs, giant sequoias, and unparalleled wilderness in California's Sierra Nevada.
Yosemite National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site in California's Sierra Nevada mountains, is famed for its giant sequoias, dramatic cliffs, and iconic landmarks like El Capitan and Half Dome. Visitors can explore its vast wilderness through hiking, camping, and scenic drives, experiencing the awe-inspiring beauty that inspired the national park concept.
A brief summary to Yosemite National Park
- California, US
- +1209-372-0200
- Visit website
Local tips
- Arrive early, especially during peak season, to avoid traffic and secure parking.
- Utilize the free Yosemite Valley shuttle system to navigate the valley and avoid congestion.
- Check the park's website for current conditions, including road closures and reservation requirements.
- Bring appropriate gear for hiking and outdoor activities, including sturdy shoes, water, and sunscreen.
- Store food properly to avoid attracting bears and other wildlife.
Getting There
-
Driving
From the town of Mariposa on Highway 140, the most direct route to Yosemite Valley, continue northeast. As you approach the park's Arch Rock Entrance, have your park pass or entrance fee ready [$35 per vehicle, valid for 7 days ]. If reservations are required during your visit, ensure you have the necessary documentation. After entering, it's approximately a 30-45 minute drive to Yosemite Valley. Parking within Yosemite Valley is free, but fills quickly, especially during peak season. Consider parking at Yosemite Village and utilizing the free shuttle system to access various points of interest.
-
Public Transport
Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System (YARTS) provides bus service to Yosemite Valley from several gateway communities. From Merced, board the YARTS bus on Highway 140. A one-way adult fare costs approximately $15-$20. The bus ride takes about 2.5 - 3 hours, offering scenic views along the way. YARTS buses make multiple stops within Yosemite Valley, allowing you to easily access various destinations. Once in Yosemite Valley, utilize the free shuttle system to get around.
Discover more about Yosemite National Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Ahwahnee
13.6 km
Experience Yosemite's grandeur at the Ahwahnee Hotel, a historic landmark offering luxury, stunning views, and a connection to the park's natural beauty.
Yosemite Wilderness Center
13.7 km
Your first stop for Yosemite wilderness adventures: permits, maps, and expert advice in the heart of Tuolumne Meadows.
Yosemite Cemetery
13.7 km
Discover the stories of Yosemite's pioneers in this peaceful and historic cemetery nestled in the heart of Yosemite Valley.
Housekeeping Camp
14.3 km
Experience Yosemite's beauty with a touch of comfort at Housekeeping Camp, offering rustic lodging and stunning views in the heart of Yosemite Valley.
Curry Village
14.5 km
Experience Yosemite Valley's charm at Curry Village: lodging, dining, activities, and stunning views beneath Glacier Point.
Yosemite Valley Lodge
14.5 km
Experience Yosemite Valley from this ideally located lodge, offering comfortable rooms, convenient amenities, and easy access to park attractions.
Little Yosemite Valley
15.5 km
Hike through Yosemite's Little Yosemite Valley for breathtaking views, access to Half Dome, and a true High Sierra experience.
Yosemite Valley Loop Trail
15.5 km
Hike the historic Yosemite Valley Loop Trail for iconic views, serene meadows, and a peaceful escape on the valley floor.
Vernal Falls Footbridge
15.5 km
Hike the iconic Mist Trail to Vernal Fall Footbridge for breathtaking views of Yosemite's powerful waterfall and stunning granite landscape.
Glacier Point
15.5 km
Experience Yosemite's grandeur from Glacier Point: panoramic views, hiking trails, and unforgettable vistas await. Open seasonally by car.
Four Mile Trailhead
15.6 km
Hike Yosemite's Four Mile Trail for breathtaking views of Yosemite Valley, El Capitan, and Half Dome. A challenging climb to Glacier Point!
Tuolumne Meadows
15.8 km
Discover Yosemite's high-country paradise: breathtaking meadows, granite domes, and endless outdoor adventures await in Tuolumne Meadows.
Sentinel Dome
16.3 km
Hike to Yosemite's Sentinel Dome for panoramic views of Half Dome, El Capitan, and iconic landmarks. An unforgettable vista awaits!
Washburn Point
16.4 km
Experience Yosemite's grandeur from Washburn Point: panoramic views of Half Dome, Nevada and Vernal Falls, and the High Sierra await along the scenic Glacier Point Road.
El Capitan Picnic Area
16.9 km
Picnic beneath a giant: Enjoy stunning views of El Capitan in Yosemite National Park at this accessible and scenic picnic spot.
Unmissable attractions to see
Tenaya Lake
7.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Tenaya Lake, a serene glacial lake nestled in Yosemite National Park, offering outdoor adventures and stunning views.
Olmsted Point
7.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Olmsted Point in Yosemite National Park, where stunning granite vistas await every traveler.
Clouds Rest
11.7 km
Discover the breathtaking views and unforgettable hiking experience at Clouds Rest, a must-visit peak in California's stunning Yosemite National Park.
Upper Yosemite Falls Trail
12.9 km
Explore the stunning Upper Yosemite Falls Trail, a breathtaking hike in Yosemite Valley offering unparalleled views and natural beauty.
Mirror Lake
13.1 km
Discover the captivating beauty of Mirror Lake in Yosemite National Park, where serene reflections and stunning landscapes await nature enthusiasts.
Upper Yosemite Falls
13.1 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Upper Yosemite Falls, a majestic waterfall in Yosemite National Park, perfect for adventure and stunning vistas.
Upper Yosemite Fall
13.1 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Upper Yosemite Fall, a towering waterfall in Yosemite National Park, ideal for hiking and nature lovers.
Yosemite Falls
13.1 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Yosemite Falls, a must-see natural wonder in Yosemite National Park, California.
Sub dome
13.1 km
Experience the stunning views and exhilarating hikes at Half Dome in Yosemite National Park, a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts.
Half Dome
13.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Half Dome, a must-visit peak in Yosemite National Park, California, offering stunning views and unforgettable adventures.
Half Dome Trailhead
13.5 km
Experience the thrill of hiking the iconic Half Dome Trailhead in Yosemite National Park, where adventure and breathtaking views await every trekker.
Yosemite Exploration Center
13.6 km
Yosemite Exploration Center: Your Gateway to Unlocking the Wonders of Yosemite National Park's Natural Beauty.
Yosemite Valley Welcome Center
13.6 km
Explore the breathtaking Yosemite National Park from the Yosemite Valley Welcome Center, your gateway to adventure and discovery in nature's masterpiece.
Yosemite Valley Visitor Center
13.6 km
Discover Yosemite's wonders: exhibits, films, and expert advice await at the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center, your gateway to an unforgettable park experience.
Indian Village of Ahwahnee
13.6 km
Explore the Indian Village of Ahwahnee in Yosemite Valley, a cultural gem showcasing the heritage of the Ahwahneechee people amidst stunning natural beauty.
Essential places to dine
White Wolf Lodge Dining Room
9.7 km
Experience fine dining at White Wolf Lodge Dining Room amidst California's breathtaking High Sierra landscapes.
The Ahwahnee Bar
13.6 km
Experience luxury dining at The Ahwahnee Bar amidst Yosemite's breathtaking scenery with craft cocktails and gourmet bites.
The Ahwahnee Dining Room
13.6 km
Experience fine dining at The Ahwahnee Dining Room in Yosemite National Park - where culinary artistry meets breathtaking natural beauty.
The Loft at Degnan's
13.7 km
Discover The Loft at Degnan's - where delicious pizzas meet stunning Yosemite Valley views.
Village Grill
13.8 km
Experience delicious American cuisine at Village Grill in Yosemite National Park - a perfect stop for hungry adventurers!
Taqueria @ Meadow Grill
14.5 km
Experience delicious grilled dishes amidst the stunning scenery of Yosemite Valley at Taqueria @ Meadow Grill.
Curry Village Pizza Deck
14.5 km
Savor delicious pizza in the heart of Yosemite National Park at Curry Village Pizza Deck - where nature meets flavor.
The Mountain Room
14.5 km
Experience exceptional American cuisine with breathtaking views at The Mountain Room in Yosemite Valley Lodge.
Seven Tents Pavilion
14.5 km
Experience delightful dining at Seven Tents Pavilion amidst Yosemite Valley's breathtaking landscapes.
Curry Village Dining Pavilion
14.5 km
Experience delightful dining amidst breathtaking views at Curry Village Dining Pavilion in Yosemite Valley.
Yosemite Lodge Food Court
14.6 km
Experience delicious meals amidst breathtaking views at Yosemite Lodge Food Court - where nature meets culinary delight.
The Skiers Grill
25.1 km
Discover The Skiers Grill: A cozy dining gem in Badger Pass Ski Area offering hearty breakfasts and delicious lunches amidst Yosemite's stunning scenery.
The River Restaurant & Lounge
28.8 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at The River Restaurant & Lounge, where breathtaking views meet delicious flavors in El Portal.
The Restaurant at Rush Creek Lodge
30.7 km
Experience authentic American cuisine amidst stunning natural beauty at The Restaurant at Rush Creek Lodge in Groveland.
Wawona Hotel Dining Room
37.9 km
Experience delectable American cuisine surrounded by Yosemite's breathtaking beauty at Wawona Hotel Dining Room.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Ahwahnee Gift Shop
13.6 km
Discover unique souvenirs and outdoor gear at The Ahwahnee Gift Shop, nestled in Yosemite Valley, capturing the spirit of nature's beauty.
The Ahwahnee Sweet Shop
13.6 km
Discover sweet delights at The Ahwahnee Sweet Shop in Yosemite National Park, where delectable confections meet breathtaking natural beauty.
Yosemite Visitor Center
13.6 km
Explore Yosemite National Park's breathtaking beauty starting at the Visitor Center, your gateway to adventure, information, and unforgettable experiences.
Degnan's Deli
13.7 km
Discover the delicious flavors of Degnan's Deli in Yosemite, where fresh ingredients meet stunning natural beauty for the perfect dining experience.
Village Store
13.8 km
Discover the ultimate convenience at The Village Store in Yosemite Valley, offering groceries and unique souvenirs for an unforgettable experience.
Yosemite Village Parking
14.0 km
Discover the heart of Yosemite National Park with easy parking access to breathtaking views and a free shuttle service around the valley.
Housekeeping Camp Store
14.3 km
Explore Yosemite National Park with ease at Housekeeping Camp Store, your go-to for groceries and camping essentials amidst stunning natural beauty.
Yosemite Valley Lodge Bike Stand
14.4 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Yosemite National Park on two wheels with the Yosemite Valley Lodge Bike Stand, an ideal adventure for all outdoor enthusiasts.
Mountain Shop at Curry Village
14.5 km
Explore Yosemite with ease - the Mountain Shop at Curry Village is your go-to for outdoor gear, groceries, and expert advice.
Curry Village Gift and Grocery
14.5 km
Explore the heart of Yosemite with unique souvenirs and grocery essentials at Curry Village Gift and Grocery.
Yosemite Valley Lodge Gift Shop
14.5 km
Discover unique souvenirs and essential supplies at Yosemite Valley Lodge Gift Shop, your gateway to capturing the essence of Yosemite National Park.
Curry Village Coffee Corner
14.5 km
Experience the charm of Curry Village Coffee Corner, your perfect retreat in the heart of Yosemite National Park, offering delicious coffee and breathtaking views.
Starbucks Yosemite
14.5 km
Experience a unique coffee haven in the heart of Yosemite National Park, where nature meets the comfort of Starbucks.
Base Camp Eatery
14.6 km
Experience the flavors of Yosemite Valley at Base Camp Eatery, where delicious meals meet breathtaking views in a casual atmosphere.
Glacier Point Gift Shop & Snack Stand
15.5 km
Explore the Glacier Point Gift Shop & Snack Stand for unique souvenirs and tasty snacks amidst Yosemite's stunning beauty.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Mountain Room Lounge
14.5 km
Experience the breathtaking views and delicious local cuisine at The Mountain Room Lounge in Yosemite National Park.
Bar 1899
14.5 km
Experience the rustic charm of Bar 1899 in Yosemite Valley, where refreshing drinks and breathtaking views create unforgettable moments.
Dry Creek Bar
49.9 km
Discover unique cocktails and cozy lodging at Dry Creek Bar, a must-visit cocktail haven in the heart of Mammoth Lakes, California.
Tusks Bar
50.1 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Tusks Bar in Mammoth Lakes, where live music and sports create an unforgettable experience.
Steeps Bar
51.0 km
Discover Steeps Bar in Mammoth Lakes for a cozy atmosphere, delicious American cuisine, and stunning mountain views, perfect for any traveler.
Basin Bar
52.1 km
Unwind at Basin Bar in Mammoth Lakes, where friendly vibes and local brews blend seamlessly for an unforgettable après-adventure experience.
Grizzly Bar
53.1 km
Experience the warmth and charm of Grizzly Bar, a cozy destination in Mammoth Lakes offering delicious American cuisine and refreshing drinks.
Side Door Wine Bar & Cafe
54.1 km
Discover the perfect blend of exquisite wines and delightful cuisine at Side Door Wine Bar & Cafe in Mammoth Lakes, California.
Clocktower Cellar
54.3 km
Discover the charm of Clocktower Cellar, a cozy bar and restaurant in Mammoth Lakes, offering fine wines, delicious food, and a warm atmosphere.
Mammoth Brewing Company
54.4 km
Experience the best of Mammoth Lakes at Mammoth Brewing Company, where craft beer meets breathtaking scenery and great food.
Salsa's
54.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Salsa's in Mammoth Lakes, offering a fantastic drink selection and lively atmosphere amidst breathtaking mountain views.
Liberty Sports Bar and Grill
55.3 km
Experience the best of American cuisine and lively sports atmosphere at Liberty Sports Bar and Grill in Mammoth Lakes.
Black Velvet Coffee Roaster | Espresso & Wine Bar
55.3 km
Discover Black Velvet Coffee Roaster, a delightful espresso bar in Mammoth Lakes offering artisanal coffees and exquisite wines in a cozy atmosphere.
The Shed | Wine & Charcuterie
55.4 km
Experience the perfect blend of exquisite wines and artisanal charcuterie at The Shed | Wine & Charcuterie in Mammoth Lakes, CA.
Distant Brewing
56.2 km
Discover the best of craft brews and delicious American cuisine at Distant Brewing in Mammoth Lakes, the perfect spot for beer lovers.
