The best hikes in Yosemite wind through valleys, climb up granite faces to waterfall views, and traverse alpine meadows through some of the most spectacular scenery in the lower 48.
Yosemite National Park should be a top destination for anyone who loves the outdoors, whether you prefer hiking, climbing, camping, or photography. There are over 100 trails in the park, with something for every type of hiker.
Your idea of a perfect hike might involve strolling through a grove of giant Sequoias and having a picnic. Or perhaps you’d rather hike to the top of a mountain with expansive views. Whatever your preference, Yosemite has a trail to fit the bill.
After researching for hours and consulting with experienced Yosemite hikers, we have compiled a concise guide of the best hikes in Yosemite. This guide will get you started planning your Yosemite trip, whether it be 2 weeks long or a single afternoon. Pack your 10 hiking essentials and hit the trail!
Best Hikes in Yosemite National Park
Easy Hikes
Lower Yosemite Falls
Even if you only have an hour as you drive through the park on the way to your next destination, this short leg-stretcher is worth the quick hike. Yosemite Falls is one of the most iconic views in the park, visible from pretty much anywhere in Yosemite Valley.
You will be able to see the falls from the trailhead, but the short walk through the woods is worthwhile for an even better view. The falls are most spectacular in the spring due to the runoff from melting snow. The trail is usually busy due to its proximity to Yosemite Village, but if you don’t mind a few neighbors, this is a great short outing.
Glacier Point
![Glacier Point Sunset Yosemite Best Hikes Glacier Point Sunset Yosemite Best Hikes](https://s3.amazonaws.com/images.gearjunkie.com/uploads/2020/07/Glacier_Point_at_Sunset_Yosemite_NP_CA_US_-_Diliff.jpg)
Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias
![Mariposa Sequoia Yosemite Best Hikes Mariposa Sequoia Yosemite Best Hikes](https://s3.amazonaws.com/images.gearjunkie.com/uploads/2020/07/6297897948_170ba51158_k.jpg)
Lembert Dome Trail
![Lembert Dome Yosemite National Park Best Hikes Lembert Dome Yosemite National Park Best Hikes](https://s3.amazonaws.com/images.gearjunkie.com/uploads/2020/07/50038854843_ab575f611a_o.jpg)
Moderate Hikes
Cathedral Lakes Trail
Mist Trail to Vernal & Nevada Falls
![Vernal Falls Yosemite Best Hikes Vernal Falls Yosemite Best Hikes](https://s3.amazonaws.com/images.gearjunkie.com/uploads/2020/07/wallpaperflare.com_wallpaper-1.jpg)
Difficult Hikes
The Pohono Trail
![View from Crocker Point Yosemite Best Hikes View from Crocker Point Yosemite Best Hikes](https://s3.amazonaws.com/images.gearjunkie.com/uploads/2020/07/Crocker_Point_left_on_the_Pohono_Trail_-_panoramio.jpg)
Half Dome
![Half Dome Cables Yosemite Best Hikes Half Dome Cables Yosemite Best Hikes](https://s3.amazonaws.com/images.gearjunkie.com/uploads/2020/07/wallpaperflare.com_wallpaper-2.jpg)
John Muir Trail/Nuumu Poyo Thru-Hike
![Nevada Fall John Muir Trail Nevada Fall John Muir Trail](https://s3.amazonaws.com/images.gearjunkie.com/uploads/2020/07/7238612374_36eab58a9a_k.jpg)
Cloud’s Rest
![shutterstock_453300067 Clouds Rest](https://s3.amazonaws.com/images.gearjunkie.com/uploads/2020/07/shutterstock_453300067.jpg)
Tips for Hiking in Yosemite National Park
- Before you leave on your trip, check out the park’s website for current conditions and closures.
- Until September 30, 2021 (or until public health concerns improve), Yosemite National Park is accessible by reservation only. Reservations can be purchased up to one month in advance through recreation.gov. Each private vehicle entering the park will need a separate reservation.
- Overnight permits for camping or other lodging are purchased separately. If you have an overnight permit, you don’t need a day-use permit.
- Shuttle service will not be available in Yosemite during the 2021 season. This includes shuttles in Yosemite Valley, Mariposa Grove, and Tuolumne Meadows. Keep this in mind when planning hikes that might otherwise depend on shuttles.
- Dogs are not allowed on any trails in Yosemite National Park.