Yosemite National Park
Epic hikes and wildlife on a shoestring budget
Highlights
Wander free trails beneath El Capitan and Half Dome for breathtaking granite views.
Gaze at Yosemite's high-country icons from an iconic free overlook.
Easy walk to a reflective lake with potential wildlife sightings amid serene woods.
Short hike to a thundering 620-foot waterfall in the heart of the Valley.
Spot deer and bears in lush Valley meadows during golden hour.
Where to Stay
1 pick
Curry Village Tent Cabins
Canvas tent with beds, blankets rentable, communal baths; central to all Valley action.
Where to Eat
4 picks
Valley Picnic Supplies
Grab cheap yogurt, fruit, and granola from Degnan's Deli for a packable meal; eat at a meadow picnic spot.
Curry Village Pizza Deck
Share a basic pizza or salad deck-side; outdoor seating with Valley views.
Free Meadow Picnic
Picnic with packed sandwiches from morning supplies or $10 deli wraps amid meadows for sunset wildlife watch.
Degnan's Deli Sandwiches
Affordable turkey or veggie sandwiches to-go for trail fueling.
What to Do
4 picks
Lower Yosemite Fall Trail
Easy 1-mile loop to the base of North America's tallest waterfall; spot birds and deer.
Mirror Lake Trail
1.5-mile gentle hike to seasonal lake reflecting Half Dome; prime for wildlife like mule deer.
Glacier Point Drive & Overlook
Scenic 1-hour shuttle or drive to stunning viewpoint of Half Dome and falls; short walks for panoramas.
Bridalveil Fall Trail
0.5-mile paved path to misty 620ft waterfall base; easy wildlife spotting nearby.
Good to Know
3 picks
Shuttle Mastery
Use free Valley shuttles every 15min; no car needed between Lower Fall, Mirror Lake, Curry Village.
Bear Safety Basics
Lock food in bear boxes; maintain 100yd distance; hike in pairs making noise on trails.
Pack Smart Layers
Yosemite weather shifts fast; bring rain jacket, sturdy shoes, 2L water, snacks for 4-6hr outings.
Map
Map unavailable
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