5 Day Yosemite Itinerary: Epic Adventures in Yosemite National Park

Planning Your Trip

Before diving into the day-by-day itinerary, let's cover some essential planning tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable Yosemite adventure.

Best Time to Visit

Yosemite National Park is a year-round destination, but each season offers a unique experience:

• Spring (March to May): Waterfalls are at their peak, and wildflowers bloom in the meadows. However, some high-elevation roads may still be closed due to snow[1].
• Summer (June to August): The most popular time to visit, with warm weather and all park areas accessible. Be prepared for crowds and make reservations well in advance.
• Fall (September to November): Enjoy cooler temperatures, fall foliage, and fewer crowds. Some facilities begin to close for winter.
• Winter (December to February): A magical time with snow-covered landscapes and winter activities like skiing at Badger Pass. Many roads and trails are closed, and chains may be required for driving.

Getting to Yosemite

Yosemite National Park is accessible by car, public transportation, and air:

• Driving: The most flexible option, allowing you to explore at your own pace. The park has four entrances, with the most popular being the west entrance via Highway 140.
• Public Transportation: YARTS (Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System) provides bus service to the park from surrounding communities.
• Flying: The nearest major airports are Fresno-Yosemite International (FAT) and San Francisco International (SFO). From there, you can rent a car or take YARTS to the park.

Where to Stay

Accommodation options in and around Yosemite include:

• Inside the Park:
  • Yosemite Valley Lodge: Comfortable rooms close to Yosemite Falls
  • The Ahwahnee: Luxurious historic hotel with stunning views
  • Curry Village: Rustic cabins and tent cabins for a more affordable option
• Campgrounds: 13 campgrounds within the park, including popular sites like Upper Pines and North Pines
• Outside the Park: Various hotels and vacation rentals in nearby towns like El Portal, Mariposa, and Oakhurst

Entrance Fees and Reservations

As of 2024, a 7-day pass for Yosemite National Park costs $35 per vehicle. During peak season (typically late May through September), a reservation may be required to enter the park. Make sure to check the official Yosemite National Park website for the most up-to-date information on fees and reservation requirements.

Essential Packing List

• Hiking boots or sturdy walking shoes
• Layered clothing (temperatures can vary greatly)
• Rain jacket
• Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
• Reusable water bottle
• Daypack
• First aid kit
• Bear canister (if backpacking)
• Camera
• Binoculars for wildlife viewing

Day 1: Iconic Yosemite Valley

Morning: Yosemite Valley Loop Trail

Start your Yosemite adventure by immersing yourself in the heart of Yosemite Valley. After arriving and parking at Curry Village or Yosemite Village, hop on the free shuttle to explore the Yosemite Valley Loop Trail. This gentle path offers stunning views of iconic landmarks like Half Dome, El Capitan, and Yosemite Falls.

Key Stops:

• Sentinel Bridge: Capture a postcard-perfect reflection of Half Dome in the Merced River
• El Capitan Meadow: Watch rock climbers scale the massive granite face of El Capitan

Afternoon: Lower Yosemite Fall and Yosemite Village

After lunch at the Yosemite Valley Lodge Food Court or a picnic by the Merced River, head to the Lower Yosemite Fall trail. This easy, accessible 1-mile loop brings you close to the base of North America's tallest waterfall.

Next, explore Yosemite Village:

• Browse the Ansel Adams Gallery for iconic Yosemite photography
• Visit the Yosemite Museum to learn about the park's natural and cultural history
• Stop by the Yosemite Visitor Center for park information and exhibits

Evening: Dinner and Stargazing

For a memorable dining experience, make reservations at The Ahwahnee Dining Room, known for its stunning architecture and gourmet cuisine. Alternatively, enjoy a picnic dinner by the Merced River.

End your day with stargazing at Sentinel Dome or Glacier Point, where the dark skies offer breathtaking views of the Milky Way (weather permitting).

Day 2: High Country Views from Glacier Point & Sentinel Dome

Morning: Glacier Point and Sentinel Dome Hike

Drive or take the shuttle to Glacier Point for panoramic views of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and the High Sierra. From here, embark on the moderate 2.2-mile round-trip hike to Sentinel Dome.

The hike to Sentinel Dome offers 360-degree views of Yosemite, including Yosemite Falls, Half Dome, and El Capitan. The final ascent involves a short scramble up the granite dome.

Afternoon: Tunnel View and Bridalveil Fall

On your way back to Yosemite Valley, stop at the famous Tunnel View for the iconic vista of El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Fall framed by the valley walls.

Take a short detour to visit Bridalveil Fall, a 620-foot waterfall that's often the first one visitors see when entering Yosemite Valley. The paved trail to the base of the fall is just 0.5 miles round trip.

Evening: Ranger Program

Attend an evening ranger program at the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center to learn more about the park's geology, wildlife, and conservation efforts. These informative talks cover various topics and are a great way to deepen your appreciation for Yosemite's natural wonders.

Day 3: Hiking to Vernal & Nevada Falls

Morning: Mist Trail to Vernal and Nevada Falls

Embark on one of Yosemite's most popular and rewarding hikes: the Mist Trail to Vernal and Nevada Falls. This challenging but spectacular trail offers close-up views of two powerful waterfalls and stunning vistas of Yosemite Valley.

Hike Options:

• Vernal Fall only: 3 miles round trip, moderate difficulty
• Vernal and Nevada Falls: 7 miles round trip, strenuous

Start early to avoid crowds and bring plenty of water and snacks for the journey.

Afternoon: John Muir Trail Descent

For your return trip, take the John Muir Trail for a different perspective and gentler descent. This route offers additional views of Liberty Cap and the back of Half Dome.

Evening: Relaxation and Dining

After your challenging hike, relax by the Merced River at Curry Village. Take a refreshing dip in the river (when conditions allow) or simply enjoy the scenery.

For dinner, try the Pizza Deck at Curry Village for a casual meal or head to the Mountain Room Restaurant at Yosemite Valley Lodge for a more upscale dining experience with views of Yosemite Falls.

Day 4: Majestic Mariposa Grove & Wawona

Morning: Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias

Start your day with a visit to the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias, home to over 500 mature giant sequoias, including the famous Grizzly Giant and California Tunnel Tree.

Take the free shuttle from the Mariposa Grove Welcome Plaza to the grove. Choose from several hiking options:

• Big Trees Loop: 0.3 miles, easy
• Grizzly Giant Loop: 2 miles, moderate
• Guardians Loop: 6.5 miles, strenuous

Afternoon: Wawona and Pioneer Yosemite History Center

After exploring the grove, head to the historic Wawona area. Enjoy lunch at the charming Wawona Hotel Dining Room, known for its Victorian-era ambiance.

Spend the afternoon at the Pioneer Yosemite History Center, where you can step back in time and learn about Yosemite's early days. Explore historic buildings, take a horse-drawn wagon ride, and watch blacksmithing demonstrations.

Evening: Wawona Stargazing

If available, join a ranger-led stargazing program at the Wawona Campground. Learn about Yosemite's night sky and observe celestial objects through telescopes.

Day 5: Tioga Pass & Tuolumne Meadows (Summer Only)

Morning: Scenic Tioga Road Drive

On your final day, explore Yosemite's high country along the scenic Tioga Road (typically open from late May or early June through November, weather permitting).

Stop at Olmsted Point for a unique view of Half Dome from the east, and take in the beauty of Tenaya Lake, often called the "jewel of the high country."

Afternoon: Tuolumne Meadows Exploration

Arrive at Tuolumne Meadows, a vast subalpine meadow surrounded by granite domes and peaks. Choose from several hiking options:

• Lembert Dome: 2.8 miles round trip, moderate, offering panoramic views of Tuolumne Meadows
• Soda Springs and Parsons Lodge: 1.5 miles round trip, easy, featuring bubbling mineral springs and historic sites
• Dog Lake: 2.8 miles round trip, moderate, leading to a beautiful alpine lake

Visit the Tuolumne Meadows Visitor Center to learn about the unique ecosystem of Yosemite's high country.

Evening: Farewell Dinner and Reflection

As you return to Yosemite Valley or your chosen accommodation, reflect on your incredible 5-day journey through Yosemite National Park. Enjoy a farewell dinner at your lodging or have a final picnic surrounded by Yosemite's majestic landscape.