Explore the stunning natural beauty of Yosemite National Park with this comprehensive 3-day hiking itinerary. From the iconic Yosemite Valley to the majestic Mariposa Grove and the high-elevation Tioga Road, this guide will help you discover the park’s most breathtaking trails and viewpoints.
Day 1: Yosemite Valley & Glacier Point
Begin your Yosemite adventure by entering the Yosemite Valley through the Wawona Tunnel. Stop at the Tunnel View for a panoramic vista of El Capitan, Half Dome, Clouds’ Rest, and Bridalveil Fall. Hike to the base of Bridalveil Fall, one of the park’s most accessible and impressive waterfalls.
Continue your journey along Southside Drive and loop around the valley to Northside Drive, where you can take a short hike to Lower Yosemite Fall. For the more adventurous, consider the 7.5-mile round-trip hike to Upper Yosemite Falls.
Explore the hidden gem of the Valley Loop Trail, a 13-mile path that hugs the base of the granite walls. Break for lunch at one of the cafes or restaurants in Curry Village. In the afternoon, challenge yourself with the famous Mist Trail to Vernal and Nevada Falls or opt for the classic Mirror Lake Trail for up-close views of Half Dome.
Before the day ends, visit the Ansel Adams Gallery to admire the iconic Yosemite works of the renowned photographer.
Day 2: Wawona and Mariposa Grove
Venture to the Mariposa Grove, home to over 500 mature giant sequoias. Hike the Mariposa Grove Trail to see the Grizzly Giant and the California Tunnel Tree, two of the park’s most impressive ancient trees.
Next, drive to Glacier Point for a panoramic view of Half Dome, El Capitan, Yosemite Falls, and more from the edge of the world. If you’re up for another hike, tackle the 2.2-mile round-trip trail to Sentinel Dome for stunning vistas.
Day 3: Tioga Road
Explore the high-elevation Tioga Road, which offers awe-inspiring views, numerous hiking trails, and fewer crowds. Stop at Olmsted Point, Tenaya Lake, and other scenic spots to take in the panoramic vistas of Half Dome, Clouds Rest, and other famous peaks.
Hike in the Tuolumne Grove of giant sequoia trees, with a 2.5-mile round-trip route that takes you down 500 feet from the trailhead.
Advanced Details and Specifications:
- Yosemite National Park entrance fee: $35 per vehicle, valid for seven days.
- Yosemite Valley shuttle bus: Free, operates from late May through early October.
- Mariposa Grove shuttle bus: Free, operates from late May through early October.
- Tioga Road is typically open from late May through early November, depending on weather conditions.
- Cell phone reception is limited in Yosemite National Park, especially in the valley and remote areas.
- Yosemite Valley has several accommodation options, including hotels, lodges, and campsites. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak season.
- Drinking water is available at various locations throughout the park, including Yosemite Valley, Wawona, and Tuolumne Meadows.
- Pets are allowed in Yosemite National Park but are restricted to certain areas and must be on a leash at all times.
Real-life Incident:
In June 2011, a hiker was rescued after falling 60 feet while hiking the Mist Trail. This incident highlights the importance of proper preparation, equipment, and awareness when hiking in Yosemite National Park.
References:
- California Wayfaring, “3 Days in Yosemite: Itinerary for the National Park & Beyond,” July 5, 2023, https://californiawayfaring.com/3-days-in-yosemite/
- Yosemite First Timers Itinerary, https://www.yosemite.com/itineraries/first-time-itinerary/
- TravelYosemite.com, “Sample Itineraries | Yosemite National Park,” https://www.travelyosemite.com/things-to-do/sample-itineraries/
- Shoot From The Trip, “Yosemite 3 Day Itinerary: Seeing the best of California’s iconic…,” February 11, 2023, https://www.shootfromthetrip.com/yosemite-3-day-itinerary/
- Well Planned Journey, “Ultimate Yosemite Itinerary: How to Spend 1 to 4 Days,” https://www.wellplannedjourney.com/yosemite-itinerary/
- National Park Service, “Injured Hiker Rescued from Mist Trail,” June 17, 2011, https://www.nps.gov/yose/learn/news/injured-hiker-rescued-from-mist-trail.htm