nevada fall yosemite national park hikes — Best Hikes in Yosemite National Park (Shutterstock/Nyker)

Article Overview: Best Hikes in Yosemite National Park, Hiking in Yosemite

Yosemite National Park is often best described as majestic, which is easy to see when you look at the towering landscape that hasn’t changed for thousands and thousands of years.

That’s one of the things I like best about the park: Yosemite remains constant, no matter what happens in or around it. While places like Yellowstone appeal to some because its features are always in flux — being on an active volcano will do that — Yosemite feels perfectly timeless.

There might be temporary disruptions from floods, fires, or more and more people each year, but Yosemite remains breathtaking every visit, starting with driving through the Wawona Tunnel and seeing the splendid vista that includes El Capitan and Half Dome.

This park is home to some of the most beautiful hikes in the world. Several of them are obvious additions to a list of the best hikes in Yosemite but the park still has some hidden gems. In this article I’ll cover all the best hikes in Yosemite National Park based on my years of experience exploring this beautiful place.

Ready to get started? Let’s go!

Best Hikes in Yosemite

Table of Contents: Best Hikes in Yosemite National Park

Best Hikes in Yosemite

Things to Know Before Hiking in Yosemite National Park

Entrance Fees

$35 per vehicle OR if you plan to visit more National Parks within the next 12 months I suggest you go ahead and purchase the America the Beautiful Pass (which can be found at the entrance gates to most national parks). This pass gets you into all National Parks, Forests, Monuments, and more including 2,000 sites for free after a one-time $79 fee.

Sunscreen

Use it. Lots of it. Especially this one which I never leave the house without because it plays nice with our dear friend, earth 🙂

Insect Repellent

If you’re looking for a good insect repellent that plays nice with our good friend earth, we recommend this one or this one if you’re a DEET person.

Guide Book

The Best Guide Book for Yosemite National Park is this one which we’ve marked up and highlighted quite a bit.

Map

The Best Map: I like this map best for Yosemite National Park.

National Parks Checklist Map: This beautiful National Parks Checklist Map can be ordered to your house.

Framed National Parks Map: We’re a sucker for maps, this framed national parks map is the best.

Where to Stay in Yosemite National Park

Planning a trip to Yosemite but haven’t decided where to stay? Here’s our favorite place to stay when visiting Yosemite.

Top 20 Best Hikes in Yosemite National Park

20. Lukens Lake

Distance: 4.6 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation: 400 feet
Time required: 2-3 hours

Starting off our list of the best hikes in Yosemite National Park is on that falls squarely in the hidden gems category. Lukens Lake is a beautiful lake surrounded by a meadow located in the White Wolf Area.

This trail accessible by Tioga Road traditionally one of the last roads to open each year for hikes in Yosemite National Park. It typically isn’t ready for hikers until late spring or even early summer, and even then there could be lingering wet or muddy spots.

It’s also often the earliest area to close for winter, sometimes as soon as October. The Lukens trailhead also can only be reached by car, although there were some vehicle restrictions in 2022 and early 2023 due to earlier fires.

The lake can be reached on the easier Tioga Trail or the slightly longer but more scenic White Wolf Trail. The second one, an out-and-back, takes hikers through a forest and along the Middle Fork of the Tuolumne River. It also includes gradual elevation where you can see nice scenery and don’t have to be right along the shore.

19. Bridal Veil Falls

Distance: 1 mile round trip
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation: Minimal
Time required: 30 minutes

As one of the most recognizable waterfalls in the park, this is another great addition to your list of the best things to do in Yosemite National Park. Depending on where you enter the park, your first exposure to this stunner will probably be from the vista at Tunnel View (read on for more on that).

This 617 foot single drop waterfall is breathtaking and also famous for it’s role in the annual firefall festivities when lighting conditions conspire to create a dazzling visual effect.

During the spring this waterfall gushes as the snow melt adds significantly to its normal flow. For the rest of the year the flow is gentle but still impressive.

Getting to the falls requires only an easy half mile hike from the parking area on the valley floor.

bridal veil falls, best hikes in yosemite national park, — Bridal Veil Falls | Best Hikes in Yosemite

18. Mirror Lake Trail

Distance: 2 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Elevation: 100 feet
Time required: 1 hour to lake and back, 2 to 3 hours for full loop

Mirror Lake is a good introduction to the best hikes in Yosemite before attempting some of the more strenuous hikes in Yosemite National Park. Start at the Mirror Lake Trailhead/Shuttle Stop 17, and follow the paved road for the first mile which goes directly to the beautiful lake.

After you’re done admiring the scenery, return the way you came or keep walking and complete a larger loop around Tenaya Canyon and Mirror Meadow.

The lake is full most of the year and always offers a great view of the mountains. Later in the summer and fall, the water level may be lower but still worth a visit.

Photographers who also enjoy hiking at Yosemite National Park appreciate Mirror Lake especially because it nicely reflects the surrounding hillsides well. Check with park personnel ahead of time since there could be high water or mud warnings in spring, or slippery conditions in winter.

Mirror Lake | Best Hikes in Yosemite (Shutterstock/Filip Fuxa)

17. Grizzly Giant Loop

Distance: 2 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation: 300 feet
Time required: 90 minutes-2 hours

Despite its potentially menacing name, the Grizzle Giant refers to one of the most gentle giants in the park. We’re talking about a beloved named Sequoia tree for which the trail gets its name. The incredible sequoias that can be seen on this trail are the reason it makes our list of the best hikes in Yosemite.

The Mariposa Grove Trail system offers all sorts of scenic opportunities for hiking in Yosemite National Park through beautiful, 3,000-year-old sequoias.

This particular trail, which starts at the Mariposa Grove Arrival Area, is considered the more moderate of the grove trails, but still lets you see the more prominent “celebrity” trees, including the California Tunnel and the Grizzly Giant.

This grove of sequoias, at the southern end of the park, is also the largest concentration of these special trees – more than 500!

The grove was closed between 2015 and 2018 for restoration, so much of the trail portion is fairly new. However, there was fire activity nearby in 2022 which closed nearby trails.

Hikers in Yosemite National Park are reminded that there aren’t services along this route, so consider getting water and using the bathroom at the Mariposa Grove Welcome Plaza. There are toilets but no running water at the Mariposa Grove Arrival Area.

mariposa grove — Mariposa Grove | Yosemite National Park (Shutterstock/Jarno Gonzalez Zarraonandia)

16. Wawona Meadow Loop

Distance: 3.5 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation: None
Time required: 2 hours

For those wanting something flat, smooth, and pet-friendly, yet still scenic for hiking in Yosemite National Park, this could be a contender for one of the best all-around choices.

The paved trail traverses the Wawona Golf Course and follows a fire road into a large meadow. Leashed pets can join you as well, but beware that it can be a popular (meaning crowded) trail for joggers at certain times of the day.

Of the best hikes in Yosemite National Park particularly because of the abundance of flowers, especially in spring and early summer. Wawona Meadow is one of the favorite places for fans of wildflowers in the park’s lower elevation areas.

You can start at the Lower Yosemite Fall Trailhead or any nearby parking lot near the fire road.

Top 15 Best Hikes in Yosemite National Park

15. Columbia Rock Trail

Distance: 2.2 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation: 1,013 feet
Time required: 2 hours

If you’re eager to see the Yosemite Valley under your own power, this out-and-back route gives you an opportunity to experience a significant rise in elevation. Word has spread that this is one of the best hikes in Yosemite, so be prepared to see many fellow hikers and perhaps let the faster ones play through if you’re trying to take your time.

Start at the Yosemite Falls Trailhead and go through a lot of switchbacks and opportunities to get close to beautiful waterfalls, as well as seeing Upper Falls. The end of the trail is worth it since you can see much of the park from a higher vantage point.

This trail may be easier to go up than down, especially for those with knee/mobility problems or low endurance. There also are some potentially sticky situations in the spring with mud, so consider bringing your hiking poles along or being cool with muddy shoes.

Columbia Rock View, best hikes in yosemite — View from Columbia Rock | Best Hikes in Yosemite (Shutterstock/topseller)

14. Cook’s Meadow Loop

Distance: 1 mile
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation: None
Time required: 30 minutes

This easy, flat loop can be a satisfying outing with little ones who may not be up for larger hiking in Yosemite National Park quite yet, or maybe an easy morning warm-up to get the blood flowing before venturing into the park, or even a scenic stroll with a leashed pet.

On the Cook’s Meadow Loop you still get to appreciate the amazing views of Half Dome, El Capitan, and Sentinel Rock, plus you can have the opportunity to explore amazing meadows, which are especially vibrant with flowers in the spring.

The trailhead for this hike starts at the Yosemite National Park visitor center, and you can walk in either direction for the loop. If you do the whole thing, you can enjoy great views of Lower Yosemite Falls. Sentinel Bridge also provides amazing sights.

You’ve got to stay on the boardwalk to avoid damaging soil and plants, and it can get slippery during colder times of the year. Note that you won’t find services like bathrooms or water along this route – this is one of those hikes in Yosemite National Park where you’ll have to wait to finish the whole loop for a break.

13. Taft Point

Distance: 2.2 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation: 250 feet
Time required: 1-2 hours

First off, the stats: The Taft Point trail is a relatively short and sweet 2.2-mile round trip with a moderate elevation change of around 250 feet. It’s a manageable hike that can be completed in about 1-2 hours, depending on how long you linger at the point (and believe me, you’re going to want to linger).

The trail begins at the Taft Point trailhead on Glacier Point Road. It meanders through a beautiful forest of red fir trees, with the occasional break in the canopy giving you a sneak peek of the stunning views to come. Don’t rush this part, folks. The quiet solitude of the forest is part of the charm of this hike.

As you emerge from the forest, the trail opens up to the grand finale: Taft Point. The viewpoint sits on the edge of a vertigo-inducing cliff that drops 3,000 feet straight down to the valley floor. From here, you get a unique perspective of El Capitan and Yosemite Valley that you just can’t get from anywhere else in the park.

But what really sets Taft Point apart are the fissures – deep, narrow cracks in the cliff face that offer a heart-stopping view straight down to the valley floor. Standing on the edge of these fissures, with nothing but open air between you and the valley far below, is an experience like no other. It’s a humbling reminder of the sheer power and beauty of nature.

taft point, best hikes in yosemite national park — Taft Point | Best Hikes in Yosemite National Park (Shutterstock/Michael Carni)

12. Panorama Trail

Distance: 9.4 miles
Difficulty: Strenuous
Elevation: 3,200 feet (mostly down)
Time required: 6-8 hours

Setting out on the Panorama Trail, you’re looking at approximately 9.4 miles of ground to cover, with a total elevation change of around 3,200 feet. Prepare for a 6-8 hour journey, depending on your pace. The trail begins at Glacier Point and descends to Yosemite Valley, meaning you’ll want to arrange transportation back to your starting point or be prepared for the steep hike back up.

The journey is best undertaken early in the day, allowing plenty of time to soak in the views and rest when needed. And trust me, the views on this trail are worth taking your time over. Make sure to pack plenty of water, snacks, and sun protection – the summer sun can be relentless on the exposed parts of the trail.

The Panorama Trail is aptly named, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Yosemite National Park. The trail descends from Glacier Point, giving you a bird’s eye view of Half Dome, Vernal Fall, and Nevada Fall. The majesty of these sights is truly something to behold.

As you make your descent, you’ll pass Illilouette Fall – a less-visited but nonetheless stunning waterfall. From there, the trail climbs to Panorama Point. This often-overlooked viewpoint offers an expansive view of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and the High Sierra. You’ll want to take a moment here to just breathe it all in.

Descending again, the trail brings you to the top of Nevada Fall. From here, you can choose to take the steep and rocky Mist Trail, passing by Nevada Fall and Vernal Fall, or the longer but less steep John Muir Trail. Both options offer incredible views and will lead you back to Yosemite Valley.

panorama point, best hikes in yosemite national park — Panorama Point | Best Hikes in Yosemite (Shutterstock/Maks Ershov)

11. Vernal Falls (Mist Trail)

Distance: 1.6 miles to footbridge
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation: 400 feet
Time required: 1 hour to 90 minutes

Waterfall lovers go ahead and add this to your list of best trails in Yosemite National Park. The Happy Isles trailhead gives access to two of the most beautiful waterfalls in Yosemite. Either the John Muir Trail or the Mist Trail reaches Vernal Falls and Nevada Falls. Plus, if it’s a clear day, you can spot Illilouette Fall early on.

The main trail to Vernal Falls takes you on a footbridge so close you can feel the powerful spray and often see rainbows in the water. This might be lovely for hiking in Yosemite National Park on a hot day.

But in chillier weather, it may not be so awesome to get soaked with cold water, so plan ahead and either have your raincoat on or spare clothes in your waterproof pack.

There is a more strenuous trail here for hiking in Yosemite National Park that takes you to the top of the falls, but this is usually closed in winter due to icy spots/hazardous conditions. Beware that the footbridge can also sometimes be slippery, especially if the falls are running strong.

vernal fall, best hikes in yosemite national park — Vernal Fall | Best Hikes in Yosemite National Park (Shutterstock/dorcel)

Top 10 Best Hikes in Yosemite National Park

10. Nevada Falls

Distance: 5.4 miles
Difficulty: Strenuous
Elevation: 2,000 feet
Time required: 5-6 hours

Continuing on with our list of the best hikes in Yosemite National Park is another great waterfall pick. If you’re already reached Vernal Falls from the Happy Isles trailhead and have the energy (and dry clothes) to keep going, the good news is you’re already halfway to Nevada Falls, another spectacular waterfall in Yosemite National Park.

This hike along the Mist Trail lets you see Vernal Falls from different angles as well as other beautiful water features like Silver Apron and Emerald Pool. After switchbacks, you’ll reach this impressive 594-foot cascade that empties into the Merced River. From there you can either return on the Mist Trail or get on the John Muir Trail and see new scenery.

The same guidelines for hiking in Yosemite National Park apply to Nevada Falls as at Vernal Falls: it’s impressive yet slippery, and you’ll likely get splashed, so plan to have waterproof items or dry gear.

In the winter it can get icy, and some parts are usually closed due to the risk of falling ice chunks. Some hikers warn of mini-waterfalls along the way that can create big, sometimes deep, puddles. Spare socks are a good idea for these hikes in Yosemite National Park.

9. Mariposa Grove Trail

Distance: 7 miles
Difficulty: Strenuous
Elevation: 1,200 feet
Time required: 4-6 hours

Giant tree lovers add this one to your list of best hikes in Sequoia National Park. If you enjoyed the Grizzly Giant hike and still have the inclination and energy, consider continuing your hiking in Yosemite National Park along the larger Mariposa Grove Trail.

From the Mariposa Grove Trail you can see the larger grove area plus other impressive overlooks into the rest of the park.

Start at the Mariposa Grove Arrival trailhead area, follow the Grizzly Giant path, and keep going toward Wawona Point. This is actually one of the older hikes in Yosemite National Park and was restored a few years ago.

In winter, it’s ideal for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. There are also camping options, provided you have a valid wilderness permit. Vehicles, including buses, can also get you pretty close to the starting point.

mariposa grove, best hikes in yosemite national park california — Mariposa Grove | Best Hikes in Yosemite National Park (Shutterstock/My Good Images)

8. Tuolumne Grove and Nature Trail

Distance: 2.5 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation: 500 feet
Time required: 1-2 hours

Though most of the hikes in Yosemite National Park are fairly impressive this particular one in the Crane Flat Area was specifically designed with impressive scenery in mind. This is an easy add to your list of the best hikes in Yosemite.

It’s in a slightly different part of the park from the last Yosemite hike and away from some of the more frequented areas and lets you see a smaller but still-impressive grove of sequoias than the Mariposas. There will still be plenty of people, but fewer than some of the more popular trails.

The Tuolumne Grove and Nature Trail starts at the Tunnel Tree, popular for drivers and pedestrians, so watch out for each other!

In winter, hiking in Yosemite National Park brings encounters with snowshoers and cross-country skiers. You’ll likely experience compact snow and ice along the trail even into spring, especially in shadier spots, of which there are many.

7. Wapama Falls

Distance: 5 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation: 507 feet
Time required 2-3 hours

The out-and-back is part of the scenic Hetch Hetchy area and trail system, which includes everything from the 2-mile Lookout Point Loop to the 29-mile Laurel/Vernon/Rancheria Loop.

The former is fine for everyone seeking scenic hikes in Yosemite National Park, but the latter is recommended for the ‘more-than-day’ hikers with appropriate wilderness permits for overnight stays.

Much of the area revolves around the Hetch Hetchy Valley and Reservoir with lots of waterfalls, wildflowers, gorgeous views, and even a few tiny lakes tucked into the canyons.

The Wapama Falls Trail starts at the entrance station, and then heads to the Lookout Point Trail, which gives a good view of the valley. Then it continues along the reservoir’s shores, giving views of Wapama Falls and Tueeulala Falls.

You can travel through the tunnel, which can provide nice shade on warm days. Hikers in this part of Yellowstone National Park can turn around or continue to Rancheria Falls, another 8 miles away.

wapama falls things to do yosemite — Wapama Falls | Best Hikes in Yosemite National Park (Shutterstock/Colin D. Young)

6. Clouds Rest

Distance: 12.2 miles
Difficulty: Strenuous
Elevation: 3,100 feet
Time required: 7-10 hours

Now we’re really getting into the cream of the crop of this best hikes in Yosemite National Park list! Let’s start this one with a quick note that climbing Half Dome should only be attempted by serious hikers (more on that below).

But what if you could take an easier (but still grueling) hike that puts you above Half Dome?

That’s part of the appeal of Clouds Rest. It’s still not an easy hike, as far as the best hikes in Yosemite National Park go, but it’s certainly rewarding to see the whole valley from a higher vantage.

This out-and-back starts at the Sunrise Lake trailhead, just past Tioga Lake. The trail goes into a forest, then through a series of switchbacks in rocky areas as you start ascending. Alternating between plateaus and steep inclines you’ll eventually reach the summit where I believe it’s mandatory to exclaim “woo!” and take your time soaking everything in.

Some hikers like to stop for a dip at nearby Tenaya Lake or Lower Sunrise Lake on the way down. It is a fairly popular hike, so plan for plenty of folks on the trail unless you start early (like pre-sunrise).

The usual safety recommendations for hiking at Yosemite National Park apply: start as early as possible so you get as much daylight in since it’s no fun to try to scramble down trying to beat the sunset, or realizing you’re not going to make it to the top before dark and having to turn around.

Clouds Rest | Best Hikes in Yosemite National Park (Shutterstock/Pugventure)

Clouds Rest Hike: Hike Clouds Rest in Yosemite, NOT Half Dome (Honest Guide)

Top 5 Best Hikes in Yosemite National Park

5. North Dome

Distance: 9.2 miles
Difficulty: Challenging
Elevation: 2000 feet
Time required: 90 minutes-2 hours

North Dome may not be as famous as Half Dome or El Capitan, but the panoramic views you get from its peak are unrivaled. From the top, you get to see Half Dome up close and personal, as well as Yosemite Valley and the High Sierra.

The trail to North Dome isn’t overly strenuous, but with about 9 miles round trip, you’re in for a good day’s hike. The trail starts at the Porcupine Creek Trailhead off Tioga Road. The path meanders through Yosemite’s signature scenery, dense forests, open meadows, and granite outcrops.

There’s a moment, about two-thirds of the way in, where you emerge from the tree line, and the view of Half Dome hits you square in the face. It’s awe-inspiring, to say the least. Remember to pack a lunch because the top of North Dome is a perfect picnic spot.

The highlight is the incredible spectacle of Half Dome. Looking out you’ll see a landscape that seems too beautiful to be real. Add this one to your list of best hikes in Yosemite if you’re looking for a unique epic view of the valley.

north dome, best hikes in yosemite national park — North Dome | Best Hikes in Yosemite National Park (Shutterstock/The Outdoors Dream)

4. Half Dome

Distance: 14-16 miles
Difficulty: Strenuous
Elevation: 4,800 feet
Time required: 10-12 hours

This hike is no walk in the park. It’s a full-on, tough-as-nails, day-long slog. But the reward at the end is so worth it. Picture this – standing on top of the world, with views of the Sierra Nevada that stretch out as far as the eye can see. Sounds great, right?

Well, first things first, let’s talk numbers. The Half Dome hike is a whopping 14-16 miles round trip, with an elevation gain of about 4,800 feet. Yeah, you read that right. It’s a beast.

You’ll need to set aside a whole day for this one. We’re talking 10-12 hours, depending on your pace. It’s important to start early in the morning (we’re talking before sunrise early) to avoid the afternoon heat and to give yourself plenty of time to complete the hike.

Now, the Half Dome hike isn’t just challenging because of its distance and elevation. The last section involves climbing up the dome itself using a pair of metal cables. It’s not for the faint-hearted. Be sure to bring along a good pair of gloves for this section – they’ll make your life so much easier. And remember, permits are required for the cables, so make sure you’ve got that sorted before you go.

Hiking Half Dome

I won’t sugarcoat it – this hike is tough. The trail starts off easy enough at the Happy Isles trailhead, but don’t let that fool you. Before long, you’ll be ascending the Mist Trail, with its steep granite staircases. It’s a good warm-up for what’s to come. Once you’ve passed Nevada Fall, the trail levels out a bit before the final climb up to the dome.

The last part of the hike is the most challenging, but also the most exhilarating. Climbing the cables up Half Dome is an experience like no other. It’s a steep climb, and it can be pretty daunting, but the sense of accomplishment at the top is indescribable.

Just remember to take it slow and steady, and you’ll be fine. And the views from the top? They’re out of this world.

For more read everything you need to know about hiking Half Dome.

Half Dome Hike, Best Hikes in Yosemite National Park — Half Dome Hike | Best Hikes in Yosemite National Park (Shutterstock/Sundry Photography)

3. Cathedral Lakes

Distance: 7 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation: 1,000 feet
Time required: 4-6 hours

Depending on what you’re into, this could easily be the best hike in Yosemite for you. If you’ve gotten your fill of the valley from all the different angles then this is a must.

Upper and Lower Cathedral lakes are both worth the effort as some of the best hikes in Yosemite National Park. The hike is in the Tioga area, which, like Lukens Lake, can only be accessed by cars in summer and early fall.

After starting at the Cathedral Lakes Trailhead, you gradually climb to the Upper Lake. Then you can either enjoy it, turn around, or take a side trail to Lower Cathedral Lake. In my opinion, Upper Cathedral Lake is the more stunning of the two.

Because of the scenery and the “twice the fun” approach to reaching two beautiful lakes, Cathedral Lakes is frequented by hikers, backpackers, as well as horses. Though the trails might be crowded, the numbers do seem to thin nicely round the lakes.

This means you can still enjoy some degree of solitude for your hiking in Yosemite National Park. The NPS has also recently made improvements to this area, including more parking, new signage, and trail upkeep.

upper cathedral lake, best hikes in yosemite national park — Upper Cathedral Lake | Best Hikes in Yosemite National Park (Shutterstock/Tomas Tichy)

2. Four Mile

Distance: 4.8 miles (one way), 9.6 miles (round trip)
Difficulty: Strenuous
Elevation: 3,200 feet
Time required: 3-4 hours

Glacier Point is one of the most scenic hikes in Yosemite National Park providing excellent views of the waterfalls. It’s generally suitable for more advanced trail users. There’s also limited access to vehicles, including a scheduled paid shuttle that only comes a few times a day. (The Glacier Point Road also was closed for construction in 2022 and isn’t expected to open until at least spring 2023, maybe summer, if at all.)

With all of these warnings out of the way, Four Mile is a lovely hike and one of the oldest in the park. This trail used to be so popular that there was once a toll area where payment was required to continue on the path.

The Four Mile trail takes hikers to Glacier Point, and they can either access other trails or return to the Four Mile trailhead. There is a snack bar in summer plus restrooms for tired hikers in Yosemite National Park.

The trail passes by Sentinel Rock, another beautiful sight, and provides amazing views of the whole Yosemite Valley. It can get slippery in heavy rain and icy days.

Likewise, there isn’t a lot of shade in summer, so hikers should make sure they keep hydrated. Hikers are also asked to stay on the trails, since past trail users have bypassed switchbacks and damaged plants.

four mile, best hikes in yosemite national park — View from Four Mile Trail | Best Hikes in Yosemite National Park (Shutterstock/Sundry Photography)

1. Lower Yosemite Falls

Distance: 1 mile
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation: 50 feet
Time: 30 minutes

Saving an easy one for the top spot, Lower Yosemite Falls should be on everyone’s best hikes in Yosemite list for good reason. At a staggering 2,425 feet tall, Yosemite Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in North America and a highlight of a any trip to Yosemite.

The trail itself is easy at 1 mile round trip with minimal elevation gain. Hikers can follow along several viewpoints where you can see Lower Falls from different views. There’s plenty of signage around sharing info about the falls and history.

Start on the trailhead at the Valley Visitor Center, and the path can be walked clockwise or counter-clockwise. You can also get close enough to feel the power and hear the roar of the falls. There’s a convenient footbridge, perfect for pausing to take in the sights, but doing so brings a chance of getting soaked.

Lower Yosemite Falls Hike, Best Hikes in Yosemite National Park — Lower Yosemite Falls Hike | Best Hikes in Yosemite National Park (Shutterstock/Boris Edelmann)

Map of Best Hikes in Yosemite National Park

Summary of the Best Hikes in Yosemite National Park

Lower Yosemite Falls Hike
Four Mile Hike
Cathedral Lakes Hike
Half Dome Hike
North Dome Hike
Clouds Rest Trail
Wapama Falls Trail
Toulumne Grove & Nature Trail
Mariposa Grove Trail
Nevada Falls Hike
Vernal Falls (Mist Trail)
Panorama Trail
Taft Point Hike
Cook’s Meadow Loop
Columbia Rock Trail
Wawona Meadow Loop
Grizzly Giant Loop
Mirror Lake Trail
Bridal Veil Falls Trail
Lukens Lake Trail

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Why Trust Us About the Best Hikes in Yosemite National Park?

We’re Will Pattiz and Jim Pattiz, collectively known as the Pattiz Brothers (and sometimes the Parks Brothers) and we absolutely LOVE the national parks.

We’ve worked with the National Park Service, the Department of Interior, USDA, and the U.S. Forest Service for years creating films on important places and issues. Our work has been featured in leading publications all over the world and even some people outside of our immediate family call us experts on the national parks.

Our goal here at More Than Just Parks is to share the beauty of America’s national parks and public lands through stunning short films in an effort to get Americans and the world to see the true value in land conservation.

We set out to create a stunning film on the absolute best things to do in New River Gorge National Park and along the way learned a great deal that we’re sharing here.

If you’d like to follow along our journey we’d be delighted to have you!

pattiz brothers new river gorge national park — The Pattiz Brothers of More Than Just Parks (left: Jim, right: Will)

Tips for Visiting Yosemite National Park (or any national park)

Permit Systems and Reservations

Check to see if the national park you’re visiting has a permit or reservation system in place before visiting. As parks become increasingly crowded more has to be done to safeguard them which means controlling the hundreds of millions of people who visit these places each year.

Popular national parks with reservation systems of some kind include Yosemite, Yellowstone, Zion, Rocky Mountain, Glacier, Arches, Acadia, Denali, and more.

Want Less Crowds? Try a National Forest!

Try visiting a national forest while you’re on your trip to avoid the crowds. There are 155 national forests in America, many of which are equally as beautiful as the national parks they neighbor and only see a fraction of the visitors.

For example, try the Flathead National Forest next to Glacier National Park, the Bridger-Teton next to Grand Teton, and the Dixie which borders nearly all of the Utah National Parks.

Practice Safety, Seriously

National parks are amazing but wild places so it is essential to practice basic safety while visiting them. Every year people die while vacationing in national parks. This is easily avoided by:

Sticking to trails
Checking the weather before going out on a hike
Maintaining a safe distance between wildlife which means at least 25 yards from most wildlife and 100 yards from predators
Avoid ledges with steep drop offs