Embark on a seamless Yosemite adventure with our Yosemite Itineraries category. Explore meticulously crafted 1-day, 2-day, and 3-day itineraries, by our staff at Sierra Rec Magazine ensuring an immersive experience in this iconic national park. Uncover the best attractions, activities, and hidden gems, maximizing your time in Yosemite. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, our itineraries guide you through the wonders of Yosemite, creating unforgettable moments with every step.
Why Tioga Pass feels like a completely different way to experience Yosemite National Park. Every year when Tioga Pass opens for the season, something shifts in the Sierra Nevada. The mountains suddenly feel connected again. Backpacking trailheads reopen. Snow-lined roads begin winding back into the high country. Tuolumne Meadows slowly wakes up after another long … Read more
A road trip to Yosemite National Park is more than a scenic drive through the Sierra Nevada. For many travelers, it becomes something deeper — a moment when granite cliffs, alpine lakes, and quiet wilderness reconnect us with the landscapes that inspired John Muir and helped shape America’s national park system. Yosemite’s towering walls and … Read more
Setting out under heavy packs, we knew the day ahead would test our strength. Sixteen miles separated us from the ski hut in Yosemite’s Tuolumne Meadows. Starting at dawn, we hiked an hour to reach the snowline around 8,500 feet. From here, we expected difficult trailbreaking to last the rest of the day. But to … Read more
By Charlie Pankey | Sierra Rec Magazine | Sierra Rec Now Podcast This week on the Sierra Rec Now Podcast, we’re taking listeners to the southern gateway of Yosemite National Park, where community spirit, heritage, and mountain adventure come together for something entirely new — the first-ever Yosemite Celtic Festival & Highland Games, happening November … Read more
By Charlie Pankey | Sierra Rec Magazine | Trail-Tested Stories Podcast Thinking about visiting Yosemite this summer or fall? Confused by the reservation system, unsure where to stay, or want to avoid the crowds? You’re not alone—and you’re in the right place. Earlier this spring, I had the chance to drive Highway 49 through Mariposa … Read more
Stay in Yosemite’s quiet southern village of Wawona while exploring waterfalls, Sequoia groves, and scenic river trails. This 3-day itinerary combines cozy cabin living with snow-dusted spring adventure in Yosemite National Park.
May 7, 2025 | Sierra Rec Magazine Just in time for a spring Sierra escape—Yosemite National Park has announced the official reopening of Glacier Point Road this Saturday, May 10, at 8 a.m., along with the return of Mariposa Grove shuttle service! This is one of the most anticipated seasonal reopenings in Yosemite, offering visitors … Read more
Reduced capacity. Limited communication. Rising safety concerns. If you’re planning a wilderness trip into Yosemite National Park this year, take note—significant changes are underway that could impact your entire route. And with little notice or explanation, backpackers are scrambling to adjust. As of April 25, 2025, the Yosemite Valley Backpackers Campground will be temporarily relocated … Read more
Mirror Lake: When Timing and Curiosity Reveal One of Yosemite’s Most Peaceful Corners Let’s be honest: Mirror Lake is not a lake most of the year, and it can feel more like a tourist funnel than a backcountry escape. But when you time it right—or take the road less traveled—this mellow stretch of Tenaya Canyon … Read more
A Weekend Escape to Wawona: Experiencing Yosemite from The Redwoods in Yosemite Before the sun had fully risen, I stepped onto the wooden deck of our cabin in Wawona, coffee steaming in my hands. The air was sharp and fresh, carrying the scent of pine and damp earth from the melting snow. The chill in … Read more
For nearly a century, the Ahwahnee Hotel has stood as a grand testament to Yosemite Valley’s breathtaking beauty and timeless allure. Towering granite cliffs frame this historic lodge, while the Merced River winds its way through the valley floor, reflecting the golden hues of sunrise. To stay at the Ahwahnee is to step into a … Read more
Update March 14, 2025 – Yosemite National Park today announced plans to start Camp Ground Reservations for select campgrounds starting March 24th, 2025 – If you’re planning a camping trip to Yosemite between June 15 and August 14, here’s what you need to know: New Release Schedule for Wawona, Hodgdon Meadow, & Upper Pines (Sites … Read more
Get ready to pack your bags and lace up those hiking boots! Yosemite National Park has announced its six fee-free days for 2025. These special dates are your golden opportunity to experience one of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world without paying an entrance fee. Mark your calendars for: While entrance fees are waived … Read more
Tioga Pass (State Route 120) has officially closed for the 2024 winter season. Caltrans, in coordination with the National Park Service and Tuolumne County, announced the seasonal closure on Monday, November 25, 2024, at 6:45 p.m. The closure begins at Crane Flat Road inside Yosemite National Park, as winter weather conditions have made the high-altitude … Read more
Unveiling Hidden Gems and Creating Lasting Memories in Yosemite National Park I’ve returned to Yosemite’s high country for the past seven summers, each trip revealing new wonders among the granite peaks and alpine lakes of the High Cathedral Range. I’ve trekked through the rugged beauty near Mt. Conness and North Peak and swooned beneath the … Read more
The continuing saga of learning to Paddleboard in the Sierra. Yosemite National Park holds a special place in my heart. Over the past decade, I’ve become a regular visitor, making the trip 4-6 times a year. Tenaya Lake, centrally located between May Lake and Cathedral Peak at the foot of the Cathedral Range, is always … Read more
Backpacking Itineraries Yosemite National Park Wilderness One of the most diverse and exciting Backpacking routes in Yosemite is the route from Tuolumne Meadows to Yosemite Valley via the Vogelsang High Camp and Rafferty Creek. Backpackers looking to experience a little bit of everything Yosemite is known for will find this 27-mile-plus route filled with options, … Read more
When you think of winter vacations in California, popular destinations like Lake Tahoe and Mammoth Mountain probably come to mind. While these ski havens have their own allure, there’s a hidden gem in the heart of the Golden State that offers a winter experience unlike any other. Yosemite National Park, with its extraordinary landscape and … Read more
Yosemite Valley is renowned globally for its stunning landscapes, towering granite cliffs, and cascading waterfalls. But, have you ever wondered what makes Yosemite Valley a must-visit destination in the winter? This article will unravel the unique allure of this extraordinary location during the winter season. In winter, the Yosemite Valley transforms into a tranquil beauty, … Read more
Yosemite National Park is a treasure trove of natural wonders, but one gem that often remains hidden from the spotlight is Chilnualna Falls. Located in the southern part of the park, this cascading wonder comes to life in high-water years, offering visitors an unforgettable experience. Join me on a journey to explore the magic of … Read more
The 2023 Summer YARTS Schedule will Begin Monday June 19th 2023 for Sonora Highway Sonora Ca, June 16, 2023 – Highway 120 has reopened! With that Yosemite regional Transportation Systems (YARTS) will begin rolling out of its summer schedule on the Sonora Route HWY 120 starting on Monday. YARTS will begin summer service on Highway … Read more
Groveland California – May 8, 2023 – Yosemite Valley may be inaccessible from Groveland, but don’t cancel your trip! There are so many fun adventures to be had in Groveland California and the national forest lands outside the Yosemite gates on Highway 120. Last week news broke about Highway 120 being closed for the next … Read more
June 2023 Update: Because of historic snow pack at Yosemite’s ability to get into the high camps this season they have canceled the opening of the 2023 high camps and issued refunds to all lottery winners for the camps in 2023. Lottery winners were notified by email that the Parks service decided that by time … Read more
A snowy romp never felt better. Skiing along the rolling hills from Badger Pass to Dewey Points separates the adventurous from the tourists and delivers a breathtaking view of a snowy El Capitan. I arrived just in time for sunset and, after a comfortable night in my bivvy sack, caught a glorious sunrise on the … Read more
As temperatures in the evening start to drop and we tumble forward toward the Fall Equinox in the northern hemisphere, the time to visit your national parks is now. Yosemite National Park in Autumn is our favorite time of year in the park. Crowds have diminished from the summer rush. Wildlife seems to be more … Read more
ROAD CONSTRUCTION, PARKING CHANGES AND CAMPING CLOSURES MAKE FOR HARDER THAN NORMAL EXPERIENCE IN YOSEMITE’S EAST ACCESS Yosemite National Park – Summer 2022 – If you have followed us for any amount of time, you know that we have a special affinity for Yosemite National Parks East high country region of Tioga Pass . Over … Read more
Evergreen Lodge in Yosemite National Park Continues Celebrating 100 Years Of Family Adventures You know this place if you have ever driven to Hetch Hetchy Reservoir for a day hike or backpack trip. But did you know that for 100 years, it has been the secret sauce for family magic in Yosemite National Park? Hidden … Read more
Tioga Pass Will Open to Vehicle Traffic Friday May 27, 2022 Tioga Road (the continuation of Highway 120 through the park) is scheduled to open to vehicular traffic on Friday, May 27, 2022, at 9 am. A reservation is required to drive into *or through* Yosemite between 6 am and 4 pm through September 30; … Read more
The summer Season officially kicks off today in Yosemite requiring all visitors from 6am till 4pm to have a reservation for entry into the park. Yosemite National Park- May, 20, 2022 – A reservation will be required to drive into or through Yosemite National Park from May 20 through September 30, 2022, for those driving into the … Read more
Transportation Into Yosemite National Park on YART is now Open for the Summer of 2022. Yosemite National Park Transportation – May 17, 2022 – Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System (YARTS) is pleased to announce the Summer 2022 schedules are now available for reservation for all YARTS services into Yosemite Valley. The Yosemite National Park entrance … Read more
Yosemite National Park announces the opening season for climbing the Half Dome cables in 2022 Yosemite National Park – May 17, 2022 – Exciting news! The Half Dome cables will be up for the season on Thursday, May 19, 2022. A permit is required to summit Half Dome. Most permits are available via a preseason … Read more
2022 marks the 40th anniversary of the Conservancy’s art programs in the park Yosemite National Park – 2022 – Yosemite Conservancy will celebrate a 40th year of art programs in the park with a Celebrations that will commence with the grand reopening of Happy Isles Art and Nature Center in Yosemite Valley on April 4, … Read more
Summer Camping Updates in Yosemite National Park Yosemite National Park – March 21, 2022 – Are you considering a visit to Yosemite national Park in 2022? Several changes are in place for 2022 that can effect how you enjoy your stay. This is a quick post to get an update on Camping, Entry and Backpacking … Read more
How Can You travel To And In Yosemite National Park In Responsible Eco-friendly Ways? Yosemite National Park – March 2022 – Let’s face it we seem to be facing a very challenging time for travel to and from some of our favorite locations the United States. Not only are gas prices soaring making trips more … Read more
A reservation will be required to drive into Yosemite National Park from May 20 through September 30, 2022 Yosemite National Park – February 16, 2022 – Yosemite National Park today announced it will once again return to a summer reservation travel system in the park starting May 20, 2022. A reservation will be required to … Read more
Sierra Rec Magazine – November 18, 2021 – Yosemite National Parks Largest Campground has huge plans for renovations and recovery in 2022 and 2023. A major project to rehabilitate the Tuolumne Meadows Campground is underway. As a result, the campground will be closed until 2024 or 2025 (depending on length of construction season, weather delays, … Read more
The first wave of Yosemite Wilderness Permits Early in November Each Year. Yosemite National Park, November 11, 2021 – Yosemite National Park features 1,200 square miles of iconic landscapes with millions of visitors traveling to Yosemite to experience the park and its wilderness each year. In 1984 Congress designated 95 percent of what is today … Read more
Sierra Nevada Scenic Passes Temporarily Closed for Winter Storm Activity. Sierra Nevada – Yosemite National Park News Updates – Tioga Road (the continuation of Highway 120 through the park) and Glacier Point Road will temporarily close on Thursday, October 7, at 5pm, due to an incoming storm. Tioga Pass will join other Scenic Routes through … Read more
Fall Family Vacation or Day Trip to Yosemite Yosemite National Park’s temporary day-use vehicle reservation system comes to an end on Friday, October 1, giving more visitors an opportunity to explore Yosemite Mariposa County in full and removing restrictions from the trip-planning process. The expiration of required reservations comes at a great time as lodging … Read more
It’s easy to fall in love with Yosemite in fall . Cooler temperatures and fewer people make exploring easier and more comfortable. There’s nothing better than the fall season in California for hiking and other outdoor activities. The maples and dogwoods put on their fall colors, and prices fall with the temperatures meaning that this is … Read more
