Yosemite Valley Chapel: A Sanctuary in Stone
Discover serenity and history at Yosemite Valley Chapel, the oldest structure in Yosemite Valley, offering stunning views and a peaceful retreat.
The Yosemite Valley Chapel, a Carpenter Gothic-style structure built in 1879, stands as the oldest building in Yosemite Valley. Originally located near the Four Mile Trail, it was moved in 1901 to its current picturesque spot, offering stunning views of Yosemite Falls. This interdenominational chapel hosts services and weddings, providing a serene space amidst Yosemite's grandeur.
A brief summary to Yosemite Valley Chapel
- 9000 Southside Dr, Yosemite Valley, California, 95389, US
- +1209-372-4831
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds, especially during peak season.
- Take a moment to appreciate the chapel's architecture and historical significance as the oldest structure in Yosemite Valley.
- Check the chapel's schedule for services or events if you wish to attend a religious gathering.
- Enjoy the views of Yosemite Falls from the chapel's surroundings.
Getting There
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Shuttle
The Yosemite Valley Chapel is accessible via the free Yosemite Valley Shuttle. From various points within Yosemite Valley, including Yosemite Village, Yosemite Valley Lodge, and Curry Village, visitors can hop on the Valleywide Shuttle, which operates from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. with buses arriving every 12 to 22 minutes. The chapel is located near shuttle stops. Riding the shuttle is free.
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Walking
From nearby locations like Yosemite Valley Lodge or Yosemite Village, the Yosemite Valley Chapel is easily accessible by foot. A leisurely walk along the paved paths offers scenic views of the valley and its iconic landmarks. The walk from Yosemite Valley Lodge is approximately 1.5 miles and should take about 30 minutes. From Yosemite Village, the walk is approximately 2 miles and will take about 40 minutes. There are no costs associated with walking.
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Driving
If driving, follow Southside Drive, where the chapel is located. Parking is available near the chapel, but it can be limited, especially during peak season. Arrive early to secure a spot. Parking is free within Yosemite Valley. Note that between 6 a.m. and 2 p.m. on certain days, a reservation may be required to enter Yosemite National Park. The standard entrance fee for a private vehicle is $35, valid for three days.
Discover more about Yosemite Valley Chapel
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Yosemite Valley Lodge
0.6 km
Experience Yosemite Valley from this ideally located lodge, offering comfortable rooms, convenient amenities, and easy access to park attractions.
Yosemite Cemetery
0.9 km
Discover the stories of Yosemite's pioneers in this peaceful and historic cemetery nestled in the heart of Yosemite Valley.
Yosemite Wilderness Center
0.9 km
Your gateway to Yosemite's backcountry: permits, bear canisters, expert advice, and essential resources for unforgettable wilderness adventures.
Housekeeping Camp
1.1 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.
Four Mile Trailhead
1.2 km
Hike Yosemite's Four Mile Trail for breathtaking views of Yosemite Valley, El Capitan, and Half Dome. A challenging climb to Glacier Point!
The Ahwahnee
1.6 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.
Curry Village
1.9 km
Experience Yosemite Valley's charm at Curry Village: lodging, dining, activities, and stunning views beneath Glacier Point.
El Capitan Picnic Area
2.9 km
Picnic beneath a giant: Enjoy stunning views of El Capitan in Yosemite National Park at this accessible and scenic picnic spot.
El Capitan Trail
3.9 km
Experience the awe-inspiring grandeur of El Capitan in Yosemite National Park, a world-renowned rock climbing destination and a symbol of nature's majesty, offering year-round beauty.
Vernal Falls Footbridge
3.9 km
Hike the iconic Mist Trail to Vernal Fall Footbridge for breathtaking views of Yosemite's powerful waterfall and stunning granite landscape.
El Capitan
4.1 km
Witness the majesty of El Capitan, Yosemite's iconic granite monolith and a world-class destination for climbers and nature enthusiasts.
El Capitan Meadow
4.4 km
Experience the awe-inspiring presence of El Capitan, the world's largest granite monolith, from the serene beauty of El Capitan Meadow in Yosemite Valley.
Vernal Falls
4.5 km
Explore the stunning Vernal Falls in Yosemite National Park, a breathtaking natural wonder perfect for hiking and photography enthusiasts.
Cathedral Rocks
4.9 km
Experience the grandeur of Yosemite's Cathedral Rocks, a stunning natural landmark offering breathtaking views and challenging climbs.
Half Dome
5.2 km
Conquer Yosemite's iconic Half Dome: a challenging hike with breathtaking panoramic views from the summit. Permits required.
Unmissable attractions to see
Sentinel Bridge
0.3 km
Experience the breathtaking views from Sentinel Bridge in Yosemite Valley, a must-see attraction for nature lovers and photographers.
Sentinel/Cook's Meadow Loop
0.5 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Sentinel/Cook's Meadow Loop, a serene hiking paradise in Yosemite National Park, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Yosemite Valley
0.5 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Yosemite Valley, a national reserve known for its majestic waterfalls and iconic granite formations, perfect for nature lovers.
Cook's Meadow Loop
0.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Cook's Meadow Loop in Yosemite Valley, a serene trail with iconic views and diverse wildlife.
Lower Yosemite Fall Trailhead
0.6 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Lower Yosemite Fall, a spectacular waterfall trailhead in Yosemite National Park, perfect for hiking and photography.
Yosemite Village
0.6 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Yosemite Village, your gateway to California's iconic national park, rich in nature, history, and adventure.
Yosemite Falls View
0.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Yosemite Falls View, a must-visit attraction in Yosemite National Park known for its stunning vistas and natural wonders.
Swinging Bridge Picnic Area
0.9 km
Discover the serene beauty of Swinging Bridge Picnic Area in Yosemite National Park, a perfect spot for picnics and outdoor adventures amidst stunning scenery.
Lower Yosemite Fall Trl
0.9 km
Explore the stunning Lower Yosemite Fall Trail in California, where breathtaking views and serene nature await every visitor in Yosemite National Park.
Yosemite Valley Welcome Center
0.9 km
Explore Yosemite Valley Welcome Center for essential information and exhibits that enhance your adventure in Yosemite National Park.
Yosemite Museum
0.9 km
Discover the captivating history and ecology of Yosemite at the Yosemite Museum, a key stop for all visitors to this stunning national park.
Yosemite Falls Trailhead
0.9 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Yosemite Falls Trailhead, a must-visit destination in Yosemite National Park, offering stunning views and hiking adventures.
Upper Yosemite Falls
0.9 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Upper Yosemite Falls, the tallest waterfall in North America, nestled in the stunning landscapes of Yosemite National Park.
The Ansel Adams Gallery
0.9 km
Discover the breathtaking artistry of Ansel Adams in Yosemite National Park, where nature and photography unite in a stunning gallery experience.
Indian Village of Ahwahnee
0.9 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
Yosemite Lodge Food Court
0.7 km
Experience delicious meals amidst breathtaking views at Yosemite Lodge Food Court - where nature meets culinary delight.
The Mountain Room
0.7 km
Experience exceptional American cuisine with breathtaking views at The Mountain Room in Yosemite Valley Lodge.
Village Grill
0.9 km
Experience delicious American cuisine at Village Grill in Yosemite National Park - a perfect stop for hungry adventurers!
The Loft at Degnan's
0.9 km
Discover The Loft at Degnan's - where delicious pizzas meet stunning Yosemite Valley views.
The Ahwahnee Dining Room
1.6 km
Experience fine dining at The Ahwahnee Dining Room in Yosemite National Park - where culinary artistry meets breathtaking natural beauty.
The Ahwahnee Bar
1.7 km
Experience luxury dining at The Ahwahnee Bar amidst Yosemite's breathtaking scenery with craft cocktails and gourmet bites.
Curry Village Pizza Deck
1.8 km
Savor delicious pizza in the heart of Yosemite National Park at Curry Village Pizza Deck - where nature meets flavor.
Curry Village Dining Pavilion
1.9 km
Experience delightful dining amidst breathtaking views at Curry Village Dining Pavilion in Yosemite Valley.
Seven Tents Pavilion
1.9 km
Experience delightful dining at Seven Tents Pavilion amidst Yosemite Valley's breathtaking landscapes.
Taqueria @ Meadow Grill
1.9 km
Experience delicious grilled dishes amidst the stunning scenery of Yosemite Valley at Taqueria @ Meadow Grill.
The Skiers Grill
10.8 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.
White Wolf Lodge Dining Room
15.2 km
Experience fine dining at White Wolf Lodge Dining Room amidst California's breathtaking High Sierra landscapes.
The River Restaurant & Lounge
16.8 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at The River Restaurant & Lounge, where breathtaking views meet delicious flavors in El Portal.
Wawona Hotel Dining Room
23.4 km
Experience delectable American cuisine surrounded by Yosemite's breathtaking beauty at Wawona Hotel Dining Room.
The Restaurant at Rush Creek Lodge
26.7 km
Experience authentic American cuisine amidst stunning natural beauty at The Restaurant at Rush Creek Lodge in Groveland.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Base Camp Eatery
0.7 km
Experience the flavors of Yosemite Valley at Base Camp Eatery, where delicious meals meet breathtaking views in a casual atmosphere.
Starbucks Yosemite
0.7 km
Experience a unique coffee haven in the heart of Yosemite National Park, where nature meets the comfort of Starbucks.
Yosemite Valley Lodge Gift Shop
0.7 km
Discover unique souvenirs and essential supplies at Yosemite Valley Lodge Gift Shop, your gateway to capturing the essence of Yosemite National Park.
Yosemite Valley Lodge Bike Stand
0.7 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.
Yosemite Village Parking
0.7 km
Discover the heart of Yosemite National Park with easy parking access to breathtaking views and a free shuttle service around the valley.
Village Store
0.9 km
Discover the ultimate convenience at The Village Store in Yosemite Valley, offering groceries and unique souvenirs for an unforgettable experience.
Yosemite Visitor Center
0.9 km
Explore Yosemite National Park's breathtaking beauty starting at the Visitor Center, your gateway to adventure, information, and unforgettable experiences.
Degnan's Deli
0.9 km
Discover the delicious flavors of Degnan's Deli in Yosemite, where fresh ingredients meet stunning natural beauty for the perfect dining experience.
Housekeeping Camp Store
1.1 km
Explore Yosemite National Park with ease at Housekeeping Camp Store, your go-to for groceries and camping essentials amidst stunning natural beauty.
The Ahwahnee Sweet Shop
1.6 km
Discover sweet delights at The Ahwahnee Sweet Shop in Yosemite National Park, where delectable confections meet breathtaking natural beauty.
The Ahwahnee Gift Shop
1.7 km
Discover unique souvenirs and outdoor gear at The Ahwahnee Gift Shop, nestled in Yosemite Valley, capturing the spirit of nature's beauty.
Curry Village Coffee Corner
1.8 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.
Curry Village Gift and Grocery
1.8 km
Explore the heart of Yosemite with unique souvenirs and grocery essentials at Curry Village Gift and Grocery.
Mountain Shop at Curry Village
1.9 km
Explore Yosemite with ease - the Mountain Shop at Curry Village is your go-to for outdoor gear, groceries, and expert advice.
Glacier Point Gift Shop & Snack Stand
2.1 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
0.6 km
Experience the breathtaking views and delicious local cuisine at The Mountain Room Lounge in Yosemite National Park.
Bar 1899
1.8 km
Experience the rustic charm of Bar 1899 in Yosemite Valley, where refreshing drinks and breathtaking views create unforgettable moments.
Dry Creek Bar
49.6 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
49.8 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Tusks Bar in Mammoth Lakes, where live music and sports create an unforgettable experience.
Steeps Bar
50.6 km
Discover Steeps Bar in Mammoth Lakes for a cozy atmosphere, delicious American cuisine, and stunning mountain views, perfect for any traveler.
Basin Bar
51.5 km
Unwind at Basin Bar in Mammoth Lakes, where friendly vibes and local brews blend seamlessly for an unforgettable après-adventure experience.
Grizzly Bar
53.0 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
54.3 km
Discover the perfect blend of exquisite wines and delightful cuisine at Side Door Wine Bar & Cafe in Mammoth Lakes, California.
Clocktower Cellar
54.4 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
54.5 km
Experience the best of Mammoth Lakes at Mammoth Brewing Company, where craft beer meets breathtaking scenery and great food.
Salsa's
54.8 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
55.4 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
55.5 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
55.6 km
Experience the perfect blend of exquisite wines and artisanal charcuterie at The Shed | Wine & Charcuterie in Mammoth Lakes, CA.
Distant Brewing
56.1 km
Discover the best of craft brews and delicious American cuisine at Distant Brewing in Mammoth Lakes, the perfect spot for beer lovers.
