Best of Yosemite National Park
A valley floor you can circle in a day, with the high country and the big trees an hour's drive apart.
Checking live park conditions…
Waterfalls run hardest in late spring, and early autumn is clear and quiet. The high country is under snow well into June.
Day 1·Welcome to the Valley
Open in MapsSightseeing
Tunnel View
The iconic, postcard view of Yosemite Valley, El Capitan, and Bridalveil Fall, best at sunset.
Sightseeing
Valley View
A less crowded, equally stunning perspective of El Capitan and the Merced River, especially beautiful at sunset.
Day 2·Giants of the Forest
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Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias
Walk among the largest trees on Earth; a humbling and awe-inspiring experience.
Day 3·The Grandeur of Glacier Point Road
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Glacier Point
Unparalleled views of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and Yosemite Falls; especially striking at sunset.
Activity
Sentinel Dome Trailhead
A granite dome above Glacier Point Road with a full circle of valley views. Best at sunset.
Day 4·Valley Floor Exploration
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Lower Yosemite Fall Trail
A paved walk to the base of Yosemite Falls, close enough to feel the spray in spring.
Activity
Bridalveil Fall
The first waterfall you meet coming into the valley, loud and misting in spring.
Activity
Mirror Lake
Enjoy serene reflections of Half Dome and the surrounding cliffs, especially picturesque in the morning.
Sightseeing
Yosemite Valley Visitor Center
Learn about the park's natural and cultural history, and plan your next adventure.
Day 5·Goodbye from the Sierra
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Cook's Meadow Loop
A leisurely stroll through a scenic meadow with stunning views of Yosemite Falls and Half Dome.
Make it your own
Start from this curated plan — Runes copies it into your trips so you can tweak dates, budget, pace, and stops. Personalized to your style soon.