I’ve walked through the souks of the Marrakech medina, sat on the rock beaches of the Côte d'Azur, toured the Duomo in Firenze, and listened to the astronomical clock in Prague at the top of the hour, and yet when people ask me what one of my favorite places I’ve ever explored is, my answer is often, Yosemite National Park. One of the West Coast’s finest, it is a place unlike any other and I never tire of making the long drive up there. In just a few miles the winding incline shifts from the cool shade of dense forest and sequoia trees, to a grand sweeping view of the valley with El Capitan and Bridalveil Falls on either side of Half Dome like bookends. Just as I crossed borders to see those amazing landmarks abroad, each summer thousands of travelers come the U.S. to hike, bike, climb, and camp through the famous valley in Mariposa County, California. This summer season has been greater than years’ past, as the winter’s large amounts of rainfall made for exceptional waterfalls, and even overflowing rivers. Though Yosemite is an adventurer’s playground, the atmosphere itself is enough reason to visit. There’s no better way to unwind from a hike than standing in a tall grass meadow watching the last bit of sunlight paint the tops of the towering valley walls pink.
Here are some of my favorite things to do in Yosemite:
Lower Yosemite Falls- A quick and easy paved walk will take you to stunning views of Lower Yosemite Falls, where you’ll also be able to see a closer view of the Upper Falls.
The Mist Trail and Vernal Falls- Along Vernal Falls is the mist trail, a steep hike in constant mist due to its proximity to the falls. It’s about a 1.6 mile hike to get to the trailhead. If you’re an avid hiker, continue the trek by going a few more miles to Nevada Falls. This route is also one of the options to take on your way to hiking Half Dome.
Biking the valley- The valley is very accessible via bike, and a morning ride through the valley is a great way to get a lay of the land as an introduction to what all there is to see and do.
Panorama Trail- This roughly 9 mile hike begins at Glacier Point and concludes either via Mist Trail or John Muir trail. It’s a long trek but provides unique views of the valley you can’t really get anywhere else.
Glacier Point- This view is absolutely stunning and shows off the whole valley. If you’ve had enough hiking this is a great spot to reach via shuttle or car.
End your day with a well-deserved dinner and beer at the Pizza Deck at Half Dome Village (previously called Curry Village)- This outdoor dining area is a prime location for gazing up at the valley walls and convenience shops are located nearby for anything you may need after a long day in the park. It’s the perfect place to meet fellow hikers and campers.
Half Dome
Upper Yosemite Falls
