Yosemite Insider: A Local Shares the Best Hikes, Views, and Eats in this Iconic National Park
Yosemite Insider: A Local Shares the Best Hikes, Views, and Eats in this Iconic National Park - Get Up Close to Nature Along the Mist Trail
Of all the hikes in Yosemite Valley, the Mist Trail stands out for getting visitors incredibly close to two of the park's most impressive waterfalls - Vernal and Nevada Falls. This moderately strenuous 5.4 mile roundtrip hike packs a big scenic punch as it winds past granite cliffs, pine forests, and cascading waters.
The journey starts at the Happy Isles trailhead, just across a footbridge over the Merced River. Early on, the well-maintained trail follows the river, with views of Yosemite Falls in the distance. Lush green forests frame the path before giving way to steep granite steps leading up to Vernal Fall.
Prepare to get wet from the mist generated by the 317-foot tall Vernal Fall. But the droplets are a welcome respite on a hot day and make for fun photos when backlit by sunshine. The Mist Trail lives up to its name here. Bring a raincoat if you want to stay dry.
Continue another half mile up steep and slippery stone steps to reach the top of Vernal Fall. Carefully walk across the footbridge spanning the waterfall's edge for a thrilling vantage point looking down on the cascades.
The trail keeps climbing via granite steps and rock stairs. Nevada Fall comes into full view up ahead, with Liberty Cap granite dome framing its cascades. The 594-foot waterfall powerfully plunges over a cliff near the trail. It's common to see rainbows in its mist when the sun is out.
The steep ascent is worth it for the unforgettable scenery along the Mist Trail. Nowhere else in Yosemite provides such thrillingly close access to two iconic waterfalls. The granite cliffs, cascading waters, and evergreen forests create an unforgettable outdoor experience. Just take care with footing on the slick granite steps and steep sections.
Yosemite Insider: A Local Shares the Best Hikes, Views, and Eats in this Iconic National Park - See Dramatic Waterfalls at Yosemite Falls
At 2,425 feet, Yosemite Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in the world and the undisputed centerpiece of Yosemite Valley. No trip to Yosemite is complete without marveling at this thundering natural wonder.
There are several vantage points to take in the majesty of Yosemite Falls. One of the most popular is from the Yosemite Falls Trail parking area off Northside Drive. This spot offers a head-on view of the upper cascades plunging down the sheer granite face of the valley. In spring, the volume and power of water is astounding, fed by snowmelt rushing down the falls. Even in summer when the flow lessens, wispy veils of water continuously cascade down the cliffside.
For a different perspective, take the short walk to the Yosemite Falls overlook. Gaze up at the tiered cascades, seeing how the falls split into three sections. The thundering Upper Yosemite Fall is the tallest single drop in North America at 1,430 feet. Below it, the cascades of Middle Cascades tumble another 675 feet. Finally Lower Yosemite Fall drops 320 feet into the valley below. Capture the entirety of this natural wonder by scanning your eyes from top to bottom.
Venturing onto the Yosemite Falls Trail allows you to get startlingly close views of the thundering waters. This strenuous 7.4 mile roundtrip hike climbs past switchbacks and steep granite steps into the cool recesses behind the falls. Peer through misty veils of water to the valley floor far below. Feel the power of the cascades reverberating in your chest. The thunderous sound of water crashing upon granite is unforgettable.
For distant views, Inspiration Point and Artist Point along the trail offer unobstructed panoramas of Yosemite Valley with Yosemite Falls as the star attraction. See how the tiered cascades cut through the green valley walls. Early morning and late afternoon are splendid times to capture the falls with soft, glowing light - or even glimpse moonbows at night.
No two experiences of Yosemite Falls are ever alike. The flow changes with the seasons and even the time of day. But one thing remains constant: beholding Yosemite Falls inspires a sense of wonder in the incredible power of nature. Photography enthusiast Curtis Perry commented, "I never tire of seeing Yosemite Falls, no matter how many times I've viewed it. There's something magical about its ever-changing beauty that draws me in time and time again."
Writer Christine Galib has a similar perspective: "Getting drenched in the mist of Yosemite Falls made me laugh like a kid and got my heart racing. I love how you can walk right up and feel its thundering power firsthand. The majesty of Yosemite Falls still gives me chills when I think back on it."
Yosemite Insider: A Local Shares the Best Hikes, Views, and Eats in this Iconic National Park - Marvel at the Granite Cliffs of El Capitan
Rising 3,000 feet above the valley floor, El Capitan is considered one of the world’s largest and most sought after granite monoliths for rock climbers. Even for non-climbers, marveling at its sheer vertical cliffs inspires awe and admiration.
El Capitan’s enormous granite facade dominates the views along the western end of Yosemite Valley. While many visitors snap photos of Half Dome first, El Capitan is equally impressive. Sheer cliffs soar into the sky, forming the massive headwall of the valley. Dark shaded granite contrasts with sunlit walls streaked with dribbles of white granite.
There are several noteworthy spots to admire El Capitan. For panoramic views, check out spots like Tunnel View and Valley View. Gaze up at the golden granite forming the massive domed summit. El Capitan truly lives up to its name – “The Captain.”
For close-up views, park at El Capitan Meadow and take a short stroll to the clearing. Rising right in front of you are the immense southwest buttresses of El Capitan. Rock climbers clinging to the granite look miniscule against the sheer cliff face. Watch them inch slowly skyward and imagine the exhilaration and concentration needed to scale this vertical fortress.
Early risers can watch golden light slowly creep down El Capitan’s cliffs. “Seeing the first rays of sunlight hit El Capitan is an incredible sight. The granite glows, starting at the top, until eventually the whole monolith is bathed in warm light,” says photographer James Smart. Meanwhile, stargazers can spot constellations sparkling above the blackened cliffs at night.
While El Capitan’s vertical walls mesmerize from below, some intrepid climbers have admired its cliffs from above. Jimmy Chin recalls his historic free climb of El Cap’s Dawn Wall: “Looking down on El Cap from midway up the route was incredible. It reminded me how tiny humans are in relation to this massive granite monolith, yet we try to ascend its vertical fortress using just our hands and feet!”
Yosemite Insider: A Local Shares the Best Hikes, Views, and Eats in this Iconic National Park - Capture Iconic Views from Tunnel View
Of all the lookout points in Yosemite Valley, none is more iconic than Tunnel View. This famous vista delivers what is arguably the most spectacular panorama in the entire park. Visitors flock to Tunnel View to behold an unforgettable scene of towering granite monoliths rising above a lush green valley.
Tunnel View certainly earns its reputation. The overlook is perched at the end of Wawona Tunnel, affording sweeping views of Yosemite’s most famous landmarks. Directly across the valley rises the sheer granite face of El Capitan, considered one of the largest exposed granite monoliths in the world. To the left stands Yosemite’s crown jewel – the one-of-a-kind Half Dome, its rounded granite cresting at over 8,800 feet. Bridalveil Fall tumbles down a cliff on the right, often gently blowing mist into the valley when the wind kicks up. The emerald green valley floor contrasts beautifully with gray cliffs and blue skies above.
Ansel Adams’ famous black-and-white shot of Tunnel View helped cement this as Yosemite’s iconic viewpoint. The contrast of light and dark brings out the texture of the granite and the valley’s depth. Aspiring photographers still replicate his shot today. Best times to capture dynamic lighting are sunrise, sunset, or on moonlit nights. Regardless of time of day, Tunnel View deserves a spot on every Yosemite visitor’s itinerary.
Yosemite expert Scott Gediman explains why Tunnel View had such an impact: “Adams captured Yosemite’s essence in that shot - the towering cliffs, serene valley, and majestic waterfalls. At Tunnel View, visitors are transported into the heart of Yosemite. Looking out across this landscape, you immediately understand why preservationists like John Muir fought so hard to protect this place.”
First-time visitor Jamie Tan was awestruck seeing Tunnel View, saying “I’d seen countless photos of that view before, but nothing prepared me for seeing Yosemite Valley stretching out in its full glory in real life. No photo can do justice to the enormity and scale of the granite cliffs soaring above the valley. My neck actually hurt from staring up for so long!”
Photographer Chris Burkard offered advice for making the most of a Tunnel View visit: “Early morning is my favorite time to photograph Tunnel View and also avoids the biggest crowds. For epic photos, use a wide-angle lens to exaggerate the scale and capture as much of the panorama as possible. I like to expose for the bright granite cliffs, which often tricks the camera into darkening the valley area into a moody, majestic scene. Every minute, the light changes on the monoliths and falls, so keep shooting!”
Yosemite Insider: A Local Shares the Best Hikes, Views, and Eats in this Iconic National Park - Explore the Sequoia Groves Along the Mariposa Grove Trail
Of all of Yosemite's natural wonders, the towering giant sequoias of the Mariposa Grove truly inspire awe. Along this 2-mile loop trail, immerse yourself amongst the tallest trees on Earth and gain perspective on these ancient giants.
Mariposa Grove comprises over 500 mature giant sequoias, with some reaching over 250 feet tall and over 2,000 years old. Walking amongst these behemoths makes you feel small and humble. Lift your head skywards to see their sprawling crowns high above covered in green needles. These sequoias have lived through dozens of generations of humans; stand still to reflect on the small blip we represent in their lifetimes.
One of the first titans you encounter is the Bachelor and Three Graces, four trees growing in close proximity like they are gossiping. Grizzly Giant towers above the grove at 209 feet tall and estimated to be 2,700 years old. Its substantial girth took 17 people holding hands to surround back when protected in the 1930s.
Perhaps the most famous inhabitant of Mariposa Grove is the Wawona Tree, affectionately known as the Tunnel Tree. Visitors have traveled through its massive cut-out trunk for over a century, like walking through a granite tunnel. A fire in 2017 sadly toppled this beloved tree, but its enormous stump remains.
Mariposa Grove has withstood threats over the past 150 years from logging, fires, and visitors carving into bark. Thankfully conservation efforts now protect these ancient trees, some of which were already mature adults during the Roman Empire.
Yosemite educator Lara Anderson recommends taking time to really look at these giants: “Tune into the texture and colors in the deeply furrowed bark. Check out the rich green canopy soaring hundreds of feet above you. Notice the enormous trunks and exposed roots, many large enough to walk through.”
Photographer Kenny Braun advises shooting the sequoias using a wide angle lens up close: “Compose your image so visitors are dwarfedtiny by the massive trunks. A wide angle lens emphasizes the scale and grandeur of these ancient trees compared to people. Side lighting illuminates all the nooks and crannies in the textured bark.”
Conservationist Diane Smith notes, “Nothing tunes you into the rhythms of nature quite like walking amongst these ancient sequoias. Their enormity and longevity provide perspective on humanity’s fleeting presence. Yet they remind us of nature’s power to endure when protected.”
Ranger Alison Chan shared, “I love seeing children's faces light up when they step into the grove and crane their necks up. They exclaim, 'It’s so big!' and want to hug the huge trunks. The magnitude of the sequoias sparks their imagination.”
Yosemite Insider: A Local Shares the Best Hikes, Views, and Eats in this Iconic National Park - Savor Local Flavors at the Majestic Yosemite Hotel Dining Room
After a day exploring Yosemite’s natural wonders, head to the Majestic Yosemite Hotel for a fine dining experience that spotlights quality regional ingredients. Since 1927, its expansive Dining Room has served upscale cuisine in an elegant and historic setting. Beyond the delicious food, the ambiance transports diners back to a bygone era of luxurious national park lodging.
“Walking into the Majestic Yosemite Hotel feels like taking a step back in time,” says chef Daniel Murillo. “Between the giant fireplace, beamed wooden ceilings, and piano music, it harkens back to a refined age of travel. We embrace that spirit at the Dining Room through white tablecloths, polished service, and creatively plated dishes.”
Executive Chef Percy Whatley adds, “Yosemite's breathtaking landscapes inspire our culinary team. We craft menus paying homage to the valley’s beauty and California's incredible bounty. Ingredients are locally sourced to showcase the region's flavors.”
Start off your evening with Yosemite’s iconic views during cocktail hour on the Dining Room patio. Sip regional wines as the golden glow of sunset paints Half Dome. Try an artisanal hor d'oeuvre like the rainbow beet tartare. Then head inside to be seated under soaring ceilings for an unforgettable meal.
Popular menu selections include trout caught just outside the park, tenderloin of locally raised beef, and even Yosemite-inspired cocktails like the Camp Curry Cooler. End your dinner on a sweet note with the legendary Yosemite Apple Galette, baked fresh in the pastry kitchen.
Travel writer Alicia Huntley describes her delightful experience: “Everything from the food presentation to the ambiance made for an incredible evening. Our server Danny did a wonderful job explaining the sourcing of ingredients. You get a real sense of place through the cuisine.”
She continues, “The Chef’s tasting menu provided a symphony of flavors in one meal, from the velvety foie gras to the gorgeously plated scallops with preserved Meyer lemon. And seeing Half Dome turn pink during sunset from the patio was just magical.”
Photographer Kenny Braun advises, “Be sure to capture the beautiful venue. The dark wood panelling and Dalton carved lounge are the perfect backdrop for photos. Explore different angles of the ornate ceiling. At sunset, take some shots from the patio with Half Dome lit up peach and pink.”
Reservations are recommended as the Dining Room often books up months in advance. While a pricier affair, splurging for a special occasion is worthwhile. Beyond world-class cuisine, the chance to dine in such a historic and scenic lodge is a travel experience to savor.
“It felt like we had been transported back to the 1920s, like we were among the elite travelers who first dined at the Majestic when it opened,” says Holly Chang. “I’ve eaten at Michelin star restaurants around the world, but our meal at the Majestic Yosemite dining room stands out as something extra special. Between the food and the ambiance, it was a once-in-a-lifetime evening.”
Yosemite Insider: A Local Shares the Best Hikes, Views, and Eats in this Iconic National Park - Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth at the Yosemite Valley Lodge Food Court
After scaling Half Dome or hiking the Mist Trail, treat yourself to a sweet snack at the lively Yosemite Valley Lodge food court. This bustling eatery may lack the pomp and sophistication of the Ahwahnee dining room, but it excels at fueling famished adventurers with a dizzying array of quick bites. From hot fudge sundaes to freshly baked cookies, indulge your inner child’s sweet tooth here!
No mountain trek feels complete without an obligatory ice cream cone. At the self-serve counter, take your pick from 16 silky smooth ice cream flavors and myriad toppings to create an Instagram-worthy blizzard of a sundae. Go classic with chocolate-dipped waffle cones, or opt for chocolate malted shakes, banana splits, or ice cream sandwiches on warm brownies or oatmeal cookies. For a lighter dessert, order up fruit smoothies or fro-yo with berries and granola.
After scaling Vernal Falls or tromping through Mariposa Grove, quench your thirst with a fountain drink or milkshake. The old-fashioned soda counter conjures memories of corner drugstores, with its swivel stools and curving glass-front refrigerator stocked with bottled drinks. Savor an egg cream, malt, or phosphate soda in classic flavors like lime rickey.
Satisfy your sweet tooth with freshly baked cookies, brownies, and turnovers still warm from the oven. The intoxicating aroma of chocolate chip cookies wafts through the bustling food court. Chocolate junkies will swoon for the fudgy pecan brownies and chocolate walnut tea cookies. Fruit lovers should try the tangy raspberry-filled turnovers or apple crumble cookies with streusel topping. Watching your waistline? Opt for an oatmeal raisin or low-fat blueberry muffin instead.
Packing provisions for a backcountry expedition? Stock up on trail mix, protein bars, candy bars, and other grab-and-go snacks. Treat the whole hiking crew to shareable sweets like bags of jelly beans, licorice ropes, or caramel popcorn. Searching for regional specialties? Pick up cajeta caramel sauce, Californian dried fruits like apricots and figs, or a jar of Sierra wildflower honey.
Yosemite Insider: A Local Shares the Best Hikes, Views, and Eats in this Iconic National Park - Camp Under the Stars at Camp 4 in Yosemite Valley
Of all the places to spend the night in Yosemite, none offer a more authentic experience than Camp 4. This backpackers' campground lets you bed down under the stars in the heart of the valley, surrounded by towering cliffs. Feel the crisp mountain air, hear the nearby river, and drift off to the sound of owls hooting. Waking at dawn to golden light creeping across Half Dome is magical. There’s no better way to immerse yourself in Yosemite’s wilderness.
Camp 4 provides an affordable and old-school camping experience for those looking to connect with nature. This walk-in campground has 7 sites available on a first come, first served basis year round. Arrive early in the day to claim a coveted spot. The communal camping creates a social vibe, with climbers swapping stories around the campfire. Bathrooms and fresh drinking water are available onsite. No need for camping gear – simply show up with a sleeping bag!
Photographer Matty Hong described the camaraderie he found, saying “Camp 4 attracts adventurers from all over the world. Our neighbors that night were climbers from France who shared their wine and cheeses. I’ll never forget stargazing and conversing in a mix of broken English and French!”
Sierra blogger Lila Meyers remarks, “Rising at dawn immersed in the wilderness is a magical experience. I glimpsed rock climbers scaling El Capitan in the golden light and listened to the echoing chorus of birds welcoming the new day. The fresh morning air fills you with motivation to seize the day.”
Backpacker Ernest Chu advises, “Be prepared for cold nights and freezing early mornings, even during summer! I was glad I packed my warmest sleeping bag and thermal layers. The clear nights cause temperatures to really plummet once the sun sets. But waking up to frosted meadows is gorgeous.”
Camp 4 lets you soak up Yosemite Valley’s natural beauty cost-free. Savvy travelers on a budget love the convenience of waking up already within the park landmarks. Treat yourself to picnic provisions from the lodge food court, then watch the light fade on Half Dome while you dine creekside. As the Milky Way emerges, curl up next to the campfire for unforgettable stargazing. You might even glimpse lunar rainbows at night.