Very Easy | Merced River - approximately 1 mile
Note: Cross
the road at the Happy Isles Bridge and take the trail that follows the Merced
River for about a mile where it meets the paved road. There are some possible
swimming areas along this route, and it’s a nice walk from there to the back of
the Ahwahnee Hotel.
Valley Shuttle Stop: 16
Easy | Lower Yosemite Falls - 1 mile
Note: There is a slight elevation gain on this walk.
Valley Shuttle Stop: 6
Easy | Bridalveil Fall - .50 miles
Note: There is a slight elevation gain on this walk.
Very Strenuous | Upper Yosemite Falls - 7.6 miles
Note: Take plenty of water, a hat, sunscreen, good hiking shoes (not tennis shoes), use trekking poles if you have them.
Valley Shuttle Stop: 7
Moderate | Mist Trail to Vernal Fall Bridge - 1.6 miles
Note: Stay away from the river and rocks; watch children carefully. Very dangerous. Heed signs and do not cross barriers. Most popular trail in the entire park.
Valley Shuttle Stop: 16
Moderately Strenuous | Mist Trail to top of Vernal Fall - 3 miles
Note: This trail features approximately 600 stone steps, some up to 1 foot high. Can be slippery in spring/early summer.
Valley Shuttle Stop: 16
Strenuous | Happy Isles to Nevada Fall - 7 miles
Note: Steep, with stone steps. For an easier return trek, take the John Muir Trail back down to Yosemite Valley.
Valley Shuttle Stop: 16
Strenuous | Four-Mile Trail - 9.2 miles to Glacier Point
Note: Closed in winter beyond Union Point.
Strenuous | Half Dome Substitute Hike - 14 miles
Note: Best hike for panoramic views of Yosemite Valley, plus no need for hikers’ bus or 2 cars. Four-Mile Trail up to Glacier Point, Panorama Trail to Nevada Fall, either Mist Trail or John Muir Trail back to valley.
Easy | Mirror Lake - 2 miles
Note: Slight uphill first half of hike; flat but rocky second half. Great view of the face of Half Dome.
Valley Shuttle Stop: 17