Nature Center at Happy Isles: Yosemite's Family-Friendly Gateway
Explore Yosemite's natural wonders at this family-friendly center, the gateway to iconic trails and hands-on discovery. Open seasonally.
The Nature Center at Happy Isles in Yosemite Valley is a family-oriented destination offering interactive exhibits about the park's natural history. Open from May to September, it's a perfect starting point for exploring Yosemite's diverse environments.
A brief summary to Nature Center at Happy Isles
- John Muir Trail, TUOLUMNE MEADOWS, California, 95389, US
- +1209-372-0200
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-4 pm
- Thursday 9 am-4 pm
- Friday 9 am-4 pm
- Saturday 9 am-4 pm
- Sunday 9 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit between May and September, as the Nature Center is closed during the winter months.
- Take advantage of the free Yosemite Valley shuttle to reach Happy Isles, as parking is limited.
- Explore the short nature trails surrounding the center to experience Yosemite's diverse ecosystems.
- Check the Yosemite Conservancy's website for art programs and workshops offered at the center.
Getting There
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Shuttle
The easiest way to reach the Nature Center at Happy Isles is by utilizing the free Yosemite Valley Shuttle. From anywhere in Yosemite Valley, board the shuttle and disembark at Shuttle Stop #16, which is directly adjacent to Happy Isles. From the shuttle stop, follow the short, paved path to the Nature Center. The shuttle operates frequently throughout the day, with buses arriving every 12-22 minutes. This service is free of charge.
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Walking
If you are staying in Curry Village, you can walk to Happy Isles. From the center of Curry Village, follow the paved path east towards the Happy Isles Loop Road. Continue on this road; the walk is approximately 0.75 miles and should take about 15-20 minutes. Once on Happy Isles Loop Road, follow the signs for Happy Isles Art and Nature Center. There is no fee for walking.
Discover more about Nature Center at Happy Isles
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Vernal Falls Footbridge
0.9 km
Hike the iconic Mist Trail to Vernal Fall Footbridge for breathtaking views of Yosemite's powerful waterfall and stunning granite landscape.
Curry Village
1.3 km
Experience Yosemite Valley's charm at Curry Village: lodging, dining, activities, and stunning views beneath Glacier Point.
Housekeeping Camp
2.1 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.
The Ahwahnee
2.2 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
3.1 km
Your first stop for Yosemite wilderness adventures: permits, maps, and expert advice in the heart of Tuolumne Meadows.
Yosemite Cemetery
3.3 km
Discover the stories of Yosemite's pioneers in this peaceful and historic cemetery nestled in the heart of Yosemite Valley.
Yosemite Valley Lodge
3.7 km
Experience Yosemite Valley from this ideally located lodge, offering comfortable rooms, convenient amenities, and easy access to park attractions.
Four Mile Trailhead
3.7 km
Hike Yosemite's Four Mile Trail for breathtaking views of Yosemite Valley, El Capitan, and Half Dome. A challenging climb to Glacier Point!
Upper Yosemite Falls Trail
4.6 km
Hike to the top of Yosemite Falls for unparalleled views of Yosemite Valley and a challenging workout amidst stunning natural beauty.
El Capitan Picnic Area
5.4 km
Picnic beneath a giant: Enjoy stunning views of El Capitan in Yosemite National Park at this accessible and scenic picnic spot.
Cathedral Beach Picnic Area
5.8 km
A scenic picnic spot in Yosemite Valley with stunning El Capitan views and Merced River access, perfect for a relaxing day in nature.
El Capitan Trail
6.5 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.
El Capitan Meadow
6.7 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.
El Capitan
6.9 km
Witness the majesty of El Capitan, Yosemite's iconic granite monolith and a world-class destination for climbers and nature enthusiasts.
Cathedral Rocks
7.0 km
Experience the grandeur of Yosemite's Cathedral Rocks, a stunning natural landmark offering breathtaking views and challenging climbs.
Unmissable attractions to see
Happy Isles Bridge
0.3 km
Discover the natural beauty of Yosemite at Happy Isles Bridge, your gateway to unforgettable adventures and breathtaking views.
Mirror Lake Trail
1.2 km
Explore the stunning Mirror Lake Trail in California, where serene waters meet majestic mountain views for an unforgettable hiking experience.
Panorama And Pohono Trailheads
1.2 km
Discover the breathtaking trails of Panorama and Pohono, where adventure and stunning views await in the heart of Tuolumne Meadows, California.
Glacier Point Trailside Museum
1.2 km
Explore the Glacier Point Trailside Museum and immerse yourself in the stunning natural beauty and rich history of Yosemite National Park.
Glacier Point
1.2 km
Experience the majestic beauty of Yosemite National Park from Glacier Point, where breathtaking vistas and nature's wonders await every traveler.
Vernal Fall
1.4 km
Discover Vernal Fall, a stunning waterfall in Yosemite National Park, offering breathtaking views and invigorating hikes amidst California's natural beauty.
Vernal Falls
1.4 km
Explore Vernal Falls, a breathtaking waterfall and scenic spot in Tuolumne Meadows, California, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Washburn Point
1.6 km
Experience breathtaking views of Yosemite's iconic landscapes at Washburn Point, a must-visit vista in California's natural paradise.
Mist Trail
1.8 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Mist Trail in California, where stunning waterfalls and picturesque landscapes await every adventurer.
Yosemite Conservation Heritage Center
2.0 km
Explore the Yosemite Conservation Heritage Center: A blend of nature, history, and conservation in the heart of Yosemite National Park.
Mirror Lake
2.1 km
Discover the captivating beauty of Mirror Lake in Yosemite National Park, where serene reflections and stunning landscapes await nature enthusiasts.
Sentinel Dome
2.3 km
Hike to the top of Sentinel Dome for unmatched 360° views of Yosemite Valley, including Half Dome and El Capitan.
Nevada Fall
2.4 km
Explore the breathtaking Nevada Fall in Tuolumne Meadows, a natural wonder offering scenic views and unforgettable hiking experiences in Yosemite National Park.
Four Mile Trail
2.4 km
Explore the breathtaking Four Mile Trail in California, where panoramic views and diverse landscapes await every nature lover and hiker.
Yosemite Valley Welcome Center
2.8 km
Explore Yosemite Valley Welcome Center for essential information and exhibits that enhance your adventure in Yosemite National Park.
Essential places to dine
Curry Village Dining Pavilion
1.3 km
Experience delightful dining amidst breathtaking views at Curry Village Dining Pavilion in Yosemite Valley.
Seven Tents Pavilion
1.3 km
Experience delightful dining at Seven Tents Pavilion amidst Yosemite Valley's breathtaking landscapes.
Taqueria @ Meadow Grill
1.3 km
Experience delicious grilled dishes amidst the stunning scenery of Yosemite Valley at Taqueria @ Meadow Grill.
Curry Village Pizza Deck
1.3 km
Savor delicious pizza in the heart of Yosemite National Park at Curry Village Pizza Deck - where nature meets flavor.
The Ahwahnee Bar
2.2 km
Experience luxury dining at The Ahwahnee Bar amidst Yosemite's breathtaking scenery with craft cocktails and gourmet bites.
The Ahwahnee Dining Room
2.2 km
Experience fine dining at The Ahwahnee Dining Room in Yosemite National Park - where culinary artistry meets breathtaking natural beauty.
Village Grill
2.8 km
Experience delicious American cuisine at Village Grill in Yosemite National Park - a perfect stop for hungry adventurers!
The Loft at Degnan's
3.0 km
Discover The Loft at Degnan's - where delicious pizzas meet stunning Yosemite Valley views.
Yosemite Lodge Food Court
3.7 km
Experience delicious meals amidst breathtaking views at Yosemite Lodge Food Court - where nature meets culinary delight.
The Mountain Room
3.7 km
Experience exceptional American cuisine with breathtaking views at The Mountain Room in Yosemite Valley Lodge.
The Skiers Grill
11.9 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
17.4 km
Experience fine dining at White Wolf Lodge Dining Room amidst California's breathtaking High Sierra landscapes.
The River Restaurant & Lounge
19.0 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
23.1 km
Experience delectable American cuisine surrounded by Yosemite's breathtaking beauty at Wawona Hotel Dining Room.
Jackalope's Bar and Grill
29.4 km
Discover Jackalope's Bar and Grill in Fish Camp - where hearty American grill favorites meet stunning Sierra Nevada views.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Glacier Point Gift Shop & Snack Stand
1.2 km
Explore the Glacier Point Gift Shop & Snack Stand for unique souvenirs and tasty snacks amidst Yosemite's stunning beauty.
Mountain Shop at Curry Village
1.3 km
Explore Yosemite with ease - the Mountain Shop at Curry Village is your go-to for outdoor gear, groceries, and expert advice.
Curry Village Coffee Corner
1.3 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
1.3 km
Explore the heart of Yosemite with unique souvenirs and grocery essentials at Curry Village Gift and Grocery.
Housekeeping Camp Store
2.1 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
2.2 km
Discover sweet delights at The Ahwahnee Sweet Shop in Yosemite National Park, where delectable confections meet breathtaking natural beauty.
The Ahwahnee Gift Shop
2.2 km
Discover unique souvenirs and outdoor gear at The Ahwahnee Gift Shop, nestled in Yosemite Valley, capturing the spirit of nature's beauty.
Yosemite Village Parking
2.7 km
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Village Store
2.9 km
Discover the ultimate convenience at The Village Store in Yosemite Valley, offering groceries and unique souvenirs for an unforgettable experience.
Degnan's Deli
3.0 km
Discover the delicious flavors of Degnan's Deli in Yosemite, where fresh ingredients meet stunning natural beauty for the perfect dining experience.
Yosemite Visitor Center
3.2 km
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Base Camp Eatery
3.7 km
Experience the flavors of Yosemite Valley at Base Camp Eatery, where delicious meals meet breathtaking views in a casual atmosphere.
Starbucks Yosemite
3.7 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
3.7 km
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Yosemite Valley Lodge Bike Stand
3.8 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar 1899
1.3 km
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The Mountain Room Lounge
3.7 km
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Dry Creek Bar
46.7 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
46.8 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Tusks Bar in Mammoth Lakes, where live music and sports create an unforgettable experience.
Steeps Bar
47.6 km
Discover Steeps Bar in Mammoth Lakes for a cozy atmosphere, delicious American cuisine, and stunning mountain views, perfect for any traveler.
Basin Bar
48.5 km
Unwind at Basin Bar in Mammoth Lakes, where friendly vibes and local brews blend seamlessly for an unforgettable après-adventure experience.
Grizzly Bar
50.0 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
51.3 km
Discover the perfect blend of exquisite wines and delightful cuisine at Side Door Wine Bar & Cafe in Mammoth Lakes, California.
Clocktower Cellar
51.5 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
51.5 km
Experience the best of Mammoth Lakes at Mammoth Brewing Company, where craft beer meets breathtaking scenery and great food.
Salsa's
51.9 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
52.4 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
52.5 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
52.6 km
Experience the perfect blend of exquisite wines and artisanal charcuterie at The Shed | Wine & Charcuterie in Mammoth Lakes, CA.
Distant Brewing
53.1 km
Discover the best of craft brews and delicious American cuisine at Distant Brewing in Mammoth Lakes, the perfect spot for beer lovers.
