Top 15 Things to Do in Yosemite National Park: Must-See Sights, Hikes & Hidden Gems
- Colby Blum
- Nov 6
- 4 min read
Yosemite National Park is one of America’s most breathtaking natural treasures — a place where granite cliffs, roaring waterfalls, and ancient sequoia groves come together to create pure magic. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to explore deeper trails, Yosemite offers unforgettable experiences for everyone.
Here are the top 15 things to do in Yosemite National Park, from iconic must-sees to hidden gems worth adding to your itinerary.
🏞️ 1. Visit Yosemite Valley
No trip to Yosemite is complete without exploring Yosemite Valley, the heart of the park. Towering cliffs like El Capitan and Half Dome rise dramatically above lush meadows and the Merced River.Don’t miss: Swinging Bridge, Sentinel Bridge, and the views from Valley View at sunset.
📸 Photo idea: Wide shot of Yosemite Valley with Half Dome in the distance — best taken from Tunnel View.
💦 2. Chase the Waterfalls
Yosemite is home to some of the tallest and most beautiful waterfalls in North America.
Yosemite Falls: The park’s crown jewel — best seen in late spring.
Bridalveil Fall: The first waterfall many visitors see upon entering the valley.
Vernal and Nevada Falls: Accessible via the Mist Trail, one of the park’s most scenic hikes.
View of the waterfall from below
📸 Photo idea: Mist Trail hike with Vernal Fall in the background — rainbow mist if conditions are right!
🧗 3. See El Capitan Up Close
Standing at over 3,000 feet, El Capitan is a granite giant that draws climbers from all over the world. You can spot climbers with binoculars from El Capitan Meadow or hike closer via the El Capitan Trail.
📸 Photo idea: Sunrise shot of El Capitan reflecting in the Merced River.
🌄 4. Take in the View from Glacier Point
Arguably the best view in Yosemite National Park, Glacier Point offers an unforgettable panorama of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and several waterfalls. It’s accessible by car (seasonally) or via a steep hike.Tip: Visit at sunrise or sunset for golden light.
📸 Photo idea: Wide-angle sunset view from Glacier Point with Half Dome glowing orange.
🌉 5. Capture Tunnel View
If you’ve ever seen a postcard of Yosemite, it was probably taken from Tunnel View. This viewpoint delivers a jaw-dropping look at El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall, and Half Dome all in one frame.
📸 Photo idea: Classic panorama at golden hour — or a foggy morning for a dramatic vibe.
🌲 6. Walk Among Giants in Mariposa Grove
Home to over 500 mature giant sequoias, Mariposa Grove near Wawona is one of Yosemite’s most peaceful and awe-inspiring areas. Don’t miss the Grizzly Giant and the California Tunnel Tree.
📸 Photo idea: Traveler standing beneath the Grizzly Giant for scale.
🥾 7. Hike the Mist Trail
The Mist Trail is one of Yosemite’s most famous hikes, taking you right alongside Vernal and Nevada Falls. Be prepared to get soaked in spring and early summer!
📸 Photo idea: Rainbow spray at Vernal Fall on a sunny morning.
⛰️ 8. Summit Half Dome (for Experienced Hikers)
If you’re up for an adventure, the Half Dome hike is one of the most iconic climbs in America. It’s a strenuous 14–16 mile trek with cables assisting the final ascent — permits are required.
📸 Photo idea: Hiker silhouetted on Half Dome summit at sunrise.
🚗 9. Take the Tioga Road Scenic Drive
During summer and early fall, Tioga Road (Highway 120) opens up Yosemite’s high country with alpine lakes, meadows, and granite domes. Stop at Tenaya Lake and Olmsted Point for stunning views.
📸 Photo idea: Tenaya Lake reflecting the surrounding granite peaks.
🏕️ 10. Camp Under the Stars
Few experiences rival camping under Yosemite’s night sky. Popular campgrounds include Upper Pines, Lower Pines, and Tuolumne Meadows. Reservations fill up fast, so book early.
📸 Photo idea: Tent under the Milky Way — Yosemite’s low light pollution makes for incredible astrophotography.
🌅 11. Enjoy a Sunrise at Sentinel Dome
Short, scenic, and rewarding, the Sentinel Dome Trail offers one of Yosemite’s best panoramic sunrise spots. From the top, you’ll see Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, and El Capitan.
📸 Photo idea: Early morning light hitting Half Dome from Sentinel Dome viewpoint.
🦌 12. Spot Wildlife
Keep an eye out for black bears, deer, coyotes, and marmots. Early morning and dusk are prime viewing times. Remember to maintain a safe distance and never feed wildlife.
📸 Photo idea: Deer grazing in a Yosemite meadow with cliffs in the background.
🚴 13. Rent a Bike in Yosemite Valley
Cycling is one of the best ways to explore Yosemite Valley’s flat terrain and scenic paths. You can rent bikes at Yosemite Valley Lodge or Curry Village.
📸 Photo idea: Bicyclists crossing a bridge with Half Dome behind them.
🧺 14. Picnic at Cathedral Beach
For a quieter escape, pack a lunch and relax at Cathedral Beach. This riverside spot offers gorgeous views of El Capitan and fewer crowds.
📸 Photo idea: Picnic setup with El Capitan towering in the distance.
💎 15. Discover Hidden Gems Like Taft Point & Artist Point
If you want to escape the crowds, Taft Point offers dramatic drop-offs and views without the hustle of Glacier Point. Another secret spot, Artist Point, provides a quieter alternative to Tunnel View.
📸 Photo idea: Traveler standing at Taft Point with the valley stretching below.
🏕️ Tips for Visiting Yosemite National Park
Best time to visit: Late May through early October (most roads open, waterfalls full).
Entrance fee: $35 per vehicle (valid for 7 days).
Reservations: Required for certain dates — check the National Park Service site.
Packing essentials: Hiking boots, refillable water bottle, layers (it gets cold at night), sunscreen, and bug spray.
✨ Final Thoughts
From the thunder of Yosemite Falls to the stillness of a sunrise over Half Dome, Yosemite National Park offers endless ways to connect with nature. Whether you’re hiking, camping, or simply soaking in the views, Yosemite’s beauty is something you’ll carry with you long after your visit ends.
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