25 Best Yosemite Hikes

I have never been on a bad hike in Yosemite National Park

Charlie Pankey publisher Sierra Rec Magazine

Looking for a great hike for your visit to Yosemite National Park? Are you looking for Casual, moderately adventurous or the extreme hikes with the most iconic views? Often when people ask us about the best places to hike in Yosemite, we really need to start with questions like these. There are so many great hikes and your ability and desire to climb is sometimes the only challenge that needs to be assessed.

So here you go our list of the 25 best hikes in Yosemite National Park We will break this down into sections of the park for easier review and these are not ranked in any particular order.

Best Hikes in Yosemite National Park

Yosemite Valley Hikes

• Vernal/Nevada Falls/Mist Trail: This iconic day hike in Yosemite Valley takes you on a breathtaking journey to two stunning waterfalls. Starting at the Happy Isles trailhead, you’ll trek alongside the Merced River, passing through lush forests and granite staircases. As you ascend, you’ll witness the powerful beauty of Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall, with misty spray cooling your face. The Mist Trail offers close-up views of the falls and provides a refreshing and invigorating experience.
• Bridal Veil Falls: A short and accessible hike in Yosemite Valley, Bridal Veil Falls offers a delightful experience for nature lovers. The trail leads you to the base of the majestic waterfall, where you’ll witness its graceful descent from towering cliffs. The mist and spray create a shimmering effect in the sunlight, and the sound of rushing water fills the air, creating a serene atmosphere.
• Panorama Trail: For those seeking breathtaking vistas, the Panorama Trail is a must-visit. This longer day hike begins at Glacier Point and descends through forests and open meadows, offering panoramic views of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, Nevada Fall, and Yosemite Falls. As you traverse the trail, you’ll be treated to a stunning display of Yosemite’s natural wonders, with sweeping vistas at every turn.
• Valley Loop: The Valley Loop is a scenic hike that allows you to explore the beautiful landscapes of Yosemite Valley at your own pace. This relatively flat trail meanders along the valley floor, taking you past meadows, towering granite walls, and the serene Merced River. It offers opportunities to spot wildlife, appreciate the iconic landmarks of the valley, and immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature.
• Half Dome: Considered one of Yosemite’s most challenging but rewarding hikes, the Half Dome trail is an epic adventure for experienced hikers. This strenuous trek takes you through diverse terrain, including switchbacks, granite stairs, and the famous cable section. The ultimate reward awaits at the summit, where you can savor unparalleled panoramic views of Yosemite Valley and its surrounding wilderness.
• 4-Mile Trail: As the name suggests, the 4-Mile Trail is a popular hike that covers approximately four miles from Yosemite Valley to Glacier Point. Despite its moderate difficulty, this trail rewards you with astonishing vistas along the way. You’ll ascend through pine forests, passing by impressive rock formations and enjoying sweeping views of Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, and the valley below.
• Illilouette Falls: Nestled within the scenic Illilouette Creek drainage, the Illilouette Falls hike showcases the beauty of Yosemite’s lesser-known waterfalls. The trail starts at Glacier Point Road and leads you through forested slopes and rocky terrain. As you approach the falls, you’ll be captivated by their cascading plunge into the rugged canyon, surrounded by pristine wilderness.
• Taft Point and the Fissures: This unique hike offers a blend of awe-inspiring vistas and fascinating geological features. From the trailhead near Glacier Point, you’ll journey through a forested landscape before arriving at Taft Point. Here, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of Yosemite Valley, including El Capitan and the iconic Yosemite Falls. The hike also offers an opportunity to explore the intriguing Fissures, narrow and deep cracks in the granite formations that add an extra element of wonder to the experience.

Toulumne Meadows Hikes

• Cathedral Lakes: Located in Yosemite’s High Country, the Cathedral Lakes hike takes you to two pristine alpine lakes nestled beneath towering granite peaks. The trail begins at Tuolumne Meadows and winds through lush meadows and dense forests. As you reach the lakes, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding Cathedral Range, with crystal-clear waters reflecting the majestic beauty of the surrounding landscape.
• Mono/Parker Pass: This challenging day hike explores the rugged beauty of Yosemite’s High Country. Starting from the Mono Pass trailhead near Tioga Pass, the trail ascends steeply through alpine meadows and rocky terrain. As you traverse the pass, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of Mono Lake, the Eastern Sierra Nevada, and the dramatic Yosemite landscape.
• Glen Aulin and Tuolumne Falls: The Glen Aulin hike offers an enchanting journey through the Tuolumne River Canyon, showcasing the beauty of cascading waterfalls and vibrant wildflowers. Beginning at the Tuolumne Meadows area, the trail winds along the river, leading you to the picturesque Tuolumne Falls and eventually to the tranquil Glen Aulin High Sierra Camp. The hike provides a serene escape into Yosemite’s wilderness.
• Lembert Dome/Dog Lake: This moderate hike offers a diverse range of scenery and experiences. Starting from the Tuolumne Meadows area, the trail leads to the summit of Lembert Dome, a granite formation that offers panoramic views of the surrounding High Country. Continuing on, you’ll reach the serene Dog Lake, nestled amidst alpine meadows and surrounded by picturesque peaks.
• Nelson Lake: A hidden gem in Yosemite’s High Country, Nelson Lake offers a peaceful and less crowded hiking experience. Accessed from the Tioga Road, the trail takes you through a forested landscape and gentle slopes, leading you to the pristine lake. The tranquil atmosphere and stunning mountain views make Nelson Lake a serene retreat.
• Sunrise Lakes and Clouds Rest: This challenging but rewarding hike combines the beauty of high alpine lakes and panoramic vistas. Beginning at Tenaya Lake, the trail ascends through granite slopes, leading you to the picturesque Sunrise Lakes. From there, the trail continues to the iconic Clouds Rest, offering unparalleled views of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and the surrounding wilderness.
• Gaylor Lakes: The Gaylor Lakes hike is a scenic adventure that showcases the unique alpine beauty of Yosemite’s High Country. Starting near Tioga Pass, the trail meanders through wildflower-filled meadows and rocky slopes, eventually leading you to the stunning Gaylor Lakes. Nestled amidst towering peaks, the lakes provide a serene setting for relaxation and exploration.
• Lyell Canyon: For those seeking a gentle and picturesque hike, Lyell Canyon is a perfect choice. Located near Tuolumne Meadows, the trail follows the meandering Lyell Fork of the Tuolumne River. The path takes you through a lush meadow surrounded by snow-capped peaks, offering a tranquil and idyllic wilderness experience.
• Rafferty Creek to Vogelsang: This challenging backpacking hike takes you deep into Yosemite’s High Country, traversing the rugged beauty of the Clark Range. Starting at Tuolumne Meadows, the trail follows Rafferty Creek, leading you through dense forests, alpine meadows, and eventually to the stunning Vogelsang High Sierra Camp. Along the way, you’ll be treated to breathtaking vistas and the chance to spot wildlife.
• Elizabeth Lake: Tucked away in the rugged wilderness of Yosemite’s High Country, Elizabeth Lake offers a secluded and picturesque hiking destination. Accessed from Tuolumne Meadows, the trail leads you through dense forests and open meadows, gradually ascending to the pristine lake. Surrounded by granite cliffs and stunning mountain

Everything Else in between

• May Lake & Mt. Hoffmann: Ideal for first-time visitors, this moderate hike begins at May Lake High Sierra Camp and takes you to the summit of Mt. Hoffmann, the geographical center of Yosemite National Park. The trail offers stunning views of May Lake and the surrounding granite peaks, providing a taste of Yosemite’s alpine beauty. From the summit, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic vistas that stretch across the park, making it a memorable experience for newcomers.
• North Dome & Indian Arch: This moderate hike offers a unique perspective of Yosemite Valley and its iconic landmarks. Starting from the Porcupine Creek trailhead, the trail winds through forests and granite slopes, leading you to North Dome. From the summit, you’ll be treated to a spectacular view of Half Dome, El Capitan, and the valley below. Along the way, you’ll also have the opportunity to visit Indian Arch, an impressive natural rock formation.
• Sunrise Lakes: Providing a taste of Yosemite’s High Country, the Sunrise Lakes hike is a picturesque adventure suitable for beginners. Beginning at Tenaya Lake, the trail takes you through granite terrain and alpine meadows, leading you to a series of serene lakes. The tranquil setting, surrounded by towering peaks, offers a peaceful escape into Yosemite’s wilderness.
• Mariposa Grove: A must-visit for first-timers, the Mariposa Grove hike allows you to explore one of the largest and most famous sequoia groves in Yosemite. The trail takes you through a magnificent forest of giant sequoias, including the famous Grizzly Giant and California Tunnel Tree. As you wander among these towering giants, you’ll gain a deep appreciation for the grandeur and majesty of Yosemite’s ancient trees.
• Hetch Hetchy to Wapama Falls: This scenic hike in the less crowded Hetch Hetchy area offers a chance to witness the power and beauty of waterfalls. Starting at the O’Shaughnessy Dam, the trail follows the shoreline of Hetch Hetchy Reservoir, leading you to the magnificent Wapama Falls. The trail provides impressive views of the reservoir, towering granite cliffs, and the thundering cascades of the falls, creating a memorable experience for first-time visitors.
• Olmsted Point: Offering a unique perspective of Yosemite’s dramatic landscapes, Olmsted Point is a short and accessible hike suitable for all skill levels. Located along Tioga Road, the trail takes you to a viewpoint overlooking the iconic Half Dome and the majestic Tenaya Canyon. The rugged granite formations and panoramic vistas make Olmsted Point a great introduction to Yosemite’s natural wonders.
• Ten Lakes: Nestled in the remote wilderness of Yosemite’s High Country, the Ten Lakes hike is a moderate to strenuous adventure that rewards hikers with pristine alpine lakes and breathtaking vistas. The trail begins at the Ten Lakes trailhead near Yosemite Creek, leading you through meadows and forests before ascending to the shimmering Ten Lakes. Surrounded by towering peaks, the lakes offer a serene and picturesque setting that will leave a lasting impression on first-time visitors.

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