Yosemite Valley Loop Trail: A Valley Floor Journey
Hike the historic Yosemite Valley Loop Trail for iconic views, serene meadows, and a peaceful escape on the valley floor.
The Yosemite Valley Loop Trail offers a mostly level path around Yosemite Valley, showcasing iconic sights like El Capitan, Yosemite Falls, and Bridalveil Fall. This historic trail follows early wagon roads, providing a unique opportunity to experience the valley's beauty with relative solitude.
A brief summary to Yosemite Valley Loop Trail
- TUOLUMNE MEADOWS, California, 95389, US
Local tips
- Start early to avoid crowds and potentially spot wildlife along the trail.
- Bring a map, as route-finding can be tricky in places where the trail crosses old roads or seasonal creeks.
- Consider hiking the loop in sections to better enjoy specific areas like Sentinel Meadow or the El Capitan area.
- Be prepared for varying trail surfaces, including dirt, rocks, sand, and old pavement.
Getting There
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Public Transport
To reach the Yosemite Valley Loop Trail using public transportation, take the free Yosemite Valley shuttle to the Lower Yosemite Fall Trailhead (shuttle stop #6). The Valleywide Shuttle serves all stops in Yosemite Valley, including lodges, food services, campgrounds and trailheads. Buses arrive every 12 to 22 minutes from 7 am to 10 pm. There are no additional costs beyond the park entrance fee.
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Walking
If you are already in Yosemite Valley, you can easily access the Valley Loop Trail by walking to the Lower Yosemite Fall Trailhead. From Yosemite Village, follow the bicycle path to the trailhead, adding approximately 0.5 miles (0.8 km) to your hike. There are signs for the Valley Loop Trail. There is no cost associated with walking to the trailhead.
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Parking
Parking is available at the Yosemite Village and Yosemite Falls parking areas. From there, walk to the Lower Yosemite Fall Trailhead to begin the loop. Parking fees are not charged separately, but a park entrance fee is required. As of July 2025, the entrance fee for a private vehicle is $35, valid for three consecutive days. During peak season (June 15 - August 15), a peak-hours reservation is required to enter the park between 6 am and 2 pm, in addition to the entrance fee. The reservation costs $2. Reservations can be made online in advance. Note: Yosemite National Park does not accept cash.
Discover more about Yosemite Valley Loop Trail
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Four Mile Trailhead
0.7 km
Hike Yosemite's Four Mile Trail for breathtaking views of Yosemite Valley, El Capitan, and Half Dome. A challenging climb to Glacier Point!
Yosemite Valley Lodge
1.1 km
Experience Yosemite Valley from this ideally located lodge, offering comfortable rooms, convenient amenities, and easy access to park attractions.
El Capitan Picnic Area
1.5 km
Picnic beneath a giant: Enjoy stunning views of El Capitan in Yosemite National Park at this accessible and scenic picnic spot.
Yosemite Cemetery
2.1 km
Discover the stories of Yosemite's pioneers in this peaceful and historic cemetery nestled in the heart of Yosemite Valley.
Yosemite Wilderness Center
2.3 km
Your first stop for Yosemite wilderness adventures: permits, maps, and expert advice in the heart of Tuolumne Meadows.
Housekeeping Camp
2.6 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.
The Ahwahnee
3.1 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
3.3 km
Experience Yosemite Valley's charm at Curry Village: lodging, dining, activities, and stunning views beneath Glacier Point.
Cathedral Rocks
3.6 km
Experience the grandeur of Yosemite's Cathedral Rocks, a stunning natural landmark offering breathtaking views and challenging climbs.
Hanging Valley Viewpoint
4.0 km
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Yosemite's Tuolumne Meadows from Hanging Valley Viewpoint, where granite cliffs meet lush wilderness.
Nature Center at Happy Isles
4.3 km
Explore Yosemite's natural history through interactive exhibits and scenic trails at the family-friendly Nature Center at Happy Isles.
Vernal Falls Footbridge
5.1 km
Hike the iconic Mist Trail to Vernal Fall Footbridge for breathtaking views of Yosemite's powerful waterfall and stunning granite landscape.
Yosemite Valley View
5.2 km
Experience the iconic Yosemite Valley from this easily accessible viewpoint, offering stunning vistas of El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall, and the Merced River.
Vernal Falls
5.8 km
Explore the stunning Vernal Falls in Yosemite National Park, a breathtaking natural wonder perfect for hiking and photography enthusiasts.
Artist Point Trail
6.5 km
Hike to Yosemite's Artist Point for panoramic views of El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Fall, away from the crowds.
Unmissable attractions to see
Sentinel Beach Picnic Area
0.4 km
Discover the serene beauty of Sentinel Beach Picnic Area in Yosemite National Park, where nature meets relaxation for an unforgettable outdoor experience.
Swinging Bridge Picnic Area
0.8 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Swinging Bridge Picnic Area in Yosemite National Park, a perfect spot for family picnics and nature lovers.
Yosemite Falls Trailhead
0.8 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Yosemite Falls Trailhead in California, a must-visit for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Upper Yosemite Falls
0.8 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Upper Yosemite Falls, the tallest waterfall in North America, nestled in the stunning landscapes of Yosemite National Park.
Columbia Rock
1.2 km
Explore Columbia Rock: A Stunning Hiking Destination in Yosemite National Park with Breathtaking Views and Natural Beauty.
Lower Yosemite Fall Trailhead
1.5 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Lower Yosemite Falls, a stunning hiking area in the heart of Yosemite National Park, perfect for all adventurers.
Yosemite Valley Chapel
1.5 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Yosemite Valley Chapel, a historic gem nestled in the heart of Yosemite National Park, perfect for reflection and inspiration.
Yosemite Valley
1.6 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures in Yosemite Valley, a national reserve celebrated for its majestic granite cliffs and stunning waterfalls.
Sentinel/Cook's Meadow Loop
1.6 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.
Lower Yosemite Fall Trl
1.6 km
Explore the stunning Lower Yosemite Fall Trail in California, where breathtaking views and serene nature await every visitor in Yosemite National Park.
Cook's Meadow Loop
1.7 km
Experience iconic Yosemite views on this easy, accessible loop trail through Cook's Meadow, offering stunning perspectives of Yosemite's natural wonders.
Yosemite Falls View
1.7 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.
Sentinel Bridge
1.8 km
Experience the breathtaking views from Sentinel Bridge in Yosemite Valley, a must-see attraction for nature lovers and photographers.
Lower Yosemite Fall Vista Point
1.8 km
Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Lower Yosemite Fall, a scenic spot in Yosemite National Park, perfect for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Yosemite Village
1.9 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Yosemite Village, your gateway to California's iconic national park, rich in nature, history, and adventure.
Essential places to dine
Yosemite Lodge Food Court
1.1 km
Experience delicious meals amidst breathtaking views at Yosemite Lodge Food Court - where nature meets culinary delight.
The Mountain Room
1.1 km
Experience exceptional American cuisine with breathtaking views at The Mountain Room in Yosemite Valley Lodge.
Village Grill
2.3 km
Experience delicious American cuisine at Village Grill in Yosemite National Park - a perfect stop for hungry adventurers!
The Loft at Degnan's
2.3 km
Discover The Loft at Degnan's - where delicious pizzas meet stunning Yosemite Valley views.
The Ahwahnee Dining Room
3.1 km
Experience fine dining at The Ahwahnee Dining Room in Yosemite National Park - where culinary artistry meets breathtaking natural beauty.
The Ahwahnee Bar
3.2 km
Experience luxury dining at The Ahwahnee Bar amidst Yosemite's breathtaking scenery with craft cocktails and gourmet bites.
Curry Village Pizza Deck
3.2 km
Savor delicious pizza in the heart of Yosemite National Park at Curry Village Pizza Deck - where nature meets flavor.
Curry Village Dining Pavilion
3.2 km
Experience delightful dining amidst breathtaking views at Curry Village Dining Pavilion in Yosemite Valley.
Seven Tents Pavilion
3.2 km
Experience delightful dining at Seven Tents Pavilion amidst Yosemite Valley's breathtaking landscapes.
Taqueria @ Meadow Grill
3.3 km
Experience delicious grilled dishes amidst the stunning scenery of Yosemite Valley at Taqueria @ Meadow Grill.
The Skiers Grill
9.7 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
15.3 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
22.6 km
Experience delectable American cuisine surrounded by Yosemite's breathtaking beauty at Wawona Hotel Dining Room.
The Restaurant at Rush Creek Lodge
25.4 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
1.1 km
Experience the flavors of Yosemite Valley at Base Camp Eatery, where delicious meals meet breathtaking views in a casual atmosphere.
Starbucks Yosemite
1.1 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
1.1 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
1.2 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
2.2 km
Discover the heart of Yosemite National Park with easy parking access to breathtaking views and a free shuttle service around the valley.
Yosemite Visitor Center
2.2 km
Explore Yosemite National Park's breathtaking beauty starting at the Visitor Center, your gateway to adventure, information, and unforgettable experiences.
Degnan's Deli
2.3 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
2.3 km
Discover the ultimate convenience at The Village Store in Yosemite Valley, offering groceries and unique souvenirs for an unforgettable experience.
Housekeeping Camp Store
2.6 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
3.2 km
Discover sweet delights at The Ahwahnee Sweet Shop in Yosemite National Park, where delectable confections meet breathtaking natural beauty.
The Ahwahnee Gift Shop
3.2 km
Discover unique souvenirs and outdoor gear at The Ahwahnee Gift Shop, nestled in Yosemite Valley, capturing the spirit of nature's beauty.
Glacier Point Gift Shop & Snack Stand
3.2 km
Explore the Glacier Point Gift Shop & Snack Stand for unique souvenirs and tasty snacks amidst Yosemite's stunning beauty.
Curry Village Coffee Corner
3.2 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
3.3 km
Explore the heart of Yosemite with unique souvenirs and grocery essentials at Curry Village Gift and Grocery.
Mountain Shop at Curry Village
3.3 km
Explore Yosemite with ease - the Mountain Shop at Curry Village is your go-to for outdoor gear, groceries, and expert advice.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Mountain Room Lounge
1.1 km
Experience the breathtaking views and delicious local cuisine at The Mountain Room Lounge in Yosemite National Park.
Bar 1899
3.2 km
Experience the rustic charm of Bar 1899 in Yosemite Valley, where refreshing drinks and breathtaking views create unforgettable moments.
Dry Creek Bar
51.0 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
51.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Tusks Bar in Mammoth Lakes, where live music and sports create an unforgettable experience.
Steeps Bar
51.9 km
Discover Steeps Bar in Mammoth Lakes for a cozy atmosphere, delicious American cuisine, and stunning mountain views, perfect for any traveler.
Basin Bar
52.8 km
Unwind at Basin Bar in Mammoth Lakes, where friendly vibes and local brews blend seamlessly for an unforgettable après-adventure experience.
Grizzly Bar
54.3 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
55.6 km
Discover the perfect blend of exquisite wines and delightful cuisine at Side Door Wine Bar & Cafe in Mammoth Lakes, California.
Clocktower Cellar
55.8 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
55.8 km
Experience the best of Mammoth Lakes at Mammoth Brewing Company, where craft beer meets breathtaking scenery and great food.
Salsa's
56.2 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
56.8 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
56.8 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
56.9 km
Experience the perfect blend of exquisite wines and artisanal charcuterie at The Shed | Wine & Charcuterie in Mammoth Lakes, CA.
Distant Brewing
57.5 km
Discover the best of craft brews and delicious American cuisine at Distant Brewing in Mammoth Lakes, the perfect spot for beer lovers.
