Yosemite National Park is a true gem of the United States, offering breathtaking natural beauty and a wealth of outdoor adventures. For families with children, the park provides a range of kid-friendly hikes that cater to different age groups and abilities. From easy, paved trails to more challenging routes, Yosemite has something for everyone.
Lower Yosemite Falls Trail
The Lower Yosemite Falls Trail is a must-do hike for families visiting Yosemite. This 1-mile round-trip trail is paved, making it accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. The trail offers stunning views of the 320-foot waterfall, and the entire hike takes about 30 minutes to complete.
| Details | |
|---|---|
| Distance | 1 mile |
| Trailhead | Lower Yosemite Fall Trailhead |
| Getting There | Take the YARTS Bus or drive to the Yosemite Village or Yosemite Falls parking areas. |
Valley Loop Trail/Mirror Lake
The Valley Loop Trail is a blend of paved and dirt paths, offering a moderate level of difficulty. The trail leads to the shimmering Mirror Lake, which is a hub for ducks, birds, and assorted wildlife. The walk to the lake is approximately an hour, with a full circumnavigation taking 2-3 hours.
| Details | |
|---|---|
| Distance | To the lake is 2 miles; around the lake is 4 miles |
| Trailhead | Mirror Lake Trailhead |
| Getting There | Take the YARTS Bus or drive to the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center, then transfer to the free Yosemite Shuttle. |
Vernal Falls Footbridge
The Vernal Falls Footbridge trail offers an awe-inspiring view of Vernal Falls, one of the most impressive waterfalls in Yosemite Valley. The path has a steep incline and may prove difficult for children under 4 unless they are carried.
| Details | |
|---|---|
| Distance | 1.6 miles |
| Trailhead | Happy Isles Trailhead |
| Getting There | Ride the Valleywide or East Valley Shuttles to shuttle stop #16. |
Glacier Point Trail
The Glacier Point Trail is a short and easy trail that offers breathtaking panoramic views of Upper and Lower Yosemite Falls, Yosemite Valley, Clouds Rest, Half Dome, and Vernal and Nevada Falls.
| Details | |
|---|---|
| Distance | 0.6 miles |
| Trailhead | Glacier Point Parking Lot |
| Getting There | Follow Glacier Road until it ends after 16 miles. |
Mariposa Grove
The Mariposa Grove provides a variety of trail options suitable for various age groups, including the Big Trees Loop Trail, which is stroller and wheelchair accessible.
| Details | |
|---|---|
| Big Trees Loop Trail Distance | 0.3 mile |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Getting There | Take the complimentary shuttle from the Mariposa Grove Welcome Plaza, located near the South Entrance. |
Yosemite National Park is a true outdoor paradise, and these kid-friendly hikes offer families the opportunity to explore the park’s natural wonders while creating lasting memories. Whether you’re looking for an easy stroll or a more challenging adventure, Yosemite has something for everyone.
References:
– AllTrails
– Utah’s Adventure Family
– Yosemite Resorts
– AllTrails