Best Yosemite National Park Attractions – 2025 Guide
Yosemite National Park is a world-renowned natural wonder, celebrated for its majestic granite cliffs, thundering waterfalls, ancient forests, and endless adventure. Whether you’re making your first trip or returning for another epic experience, here’s your information-rich, up-to-date guide to must-see attractions in Yosemite for 2025.
1. Yosemite Valley: The Iconic Heart of the Park
Why Go:
Yosemite Valley is the park’s central showpiece, lined with towering granite, roaring waterfalls, serene meadows, and photo-ops at every turn. You’ll find many of the park’s most famous sights and easiest access for hiking, biking, and scenic drives.
Don’t Miss:
- Yosemite Falls: One of the tallest in North America (2,425 feet). Best in spring.
- El Capitan: The world’s most legendary rock climbing monolith. Watch climbers with binoculars, or stroll to its base for a thrilling view.
- Half Dome: The park’s most iconic summit. View it from the valley floor or—if you’re up for a strenuous challenge and have a permit—hike to its famous cables.
- Sentinel Meadow & Chapel: Peaceful spot for epic views and history.
- Valley Loop Trail: Discover hidden corners and up-close wildlife on this scenic trail.
- Tunnel View: The classic panoramic vista of the valley, El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Fall all in one frame.
Best Time:
Year-round, but waterfalls are at their mightiest April–June.
2. Hetch Hetchy Valley: Yosemite’s Hidden Gem
Why Visit:
Quieter than the valley but with similar dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, and hiking opportunities.
Top Features:
- Hetch Hetchy Reservoir: A breathtaking lake surrounded by granite walls—a stunning spot for solitude and photos.
- Wapama Falls: Reachable by a relatively easy trail for an up-close waterfall experience, especially in spring and early summer.
- Wildflower trails and tranquil vistas: Fewer crowds mean more personal space for enjoyment.
Best Time:
Spring for waterfalls, year-round for peaceful hiking.
3. Glacier Point: Awe-Inspiring Overlook
Why Go:
This 7,214-foot-high viewpoint offers one of the most spectacular panoramas in North America—down into Yosemite Valley, across to Half Dome, and out to the High Sierra.
Perfect for: Sunrise, sunset, and stargazing.
4. Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias
Why Visit:
Home to over 500 ancient sequoias, including the Grizzly Giant (about 2,000 years old), this grove feels otherworldly and serene.
Must-Sees:
- Fallen Monarch
- California Tunnel Tree
- Accessible walking trails through cathedral-like forests.
Tip:
Spring to fall is easiest for access. Arrive early for tranquil exploration.
5. Tuolumne Meadows
Why Go:
A vast subalpine meadow in Yosemite’s high country, ringed by granite domes and bisected by the Tuolumne River.
Great for: Picnics, wildflower walks, wildlife spotting, tranquil scenery, and high-elevation hikes.
Access: Tioga Road (seasonally open late May–October).
6. Crane Flat Forest and Meadows
Why Visit:
Just 16 miles from Yosemite Valley, Crane Flat offers peaceful forests and wildflower meadows away from the crowds.
Ideal for: Picnic stops, leisurely walks, and wildlife observation.
Access: Late spring through early fall.
7. World-Famous Rock Climbing
Top Spots:
- El Capitan: For thrill-seekers and pros.
- Half Dome: For the ambitious (permit required).
- Cathedral Spires: Suitable for a range of skills.
Climbing Season:
Spring and fall for best conditions.
8. Water Activities & Outdoor Fun
- Merced River Rafting: Family-friendly, scenic floats (May–July).
- Fishing, swimming, and boating: Multiple options throughout the park’s lakes and rivers—permits required where applicable.
9. Stargazing
Why Go:
Yosemite’s clear skies are perfect for viewing stars, constellations, and meteor showers.
Best Spots: Glacier Point, Tuolumne Meadows, Wawona Meadow.
Season: Best in summer, when nights are warm and dry.
10. Scenic Drives & Lookouts
- Tioga Road (Highway 120): High-elevation drive (seasonal) to Tuolumne Meadows with granite domes and pristine lakes.
- Tunnel View: Iconic drive-up viewpoint—don’t miss it at sunset.
11. Must-See Waterfalls
Yosemite’s waterfall season peaks in spring. Besides Yosemite Falls:
- Bridalveil Fall: Stunning all year, especially lush in May.
- Vernal and Nevada Falls: Mist Trail rewards hikers with up-close roaring cascades and rainbows in the spray.
12. Mariposa Town (Gateway Experience)
Extend your adventure with Mariposa’s charming restaurants, museums (like the Mariposa Museum & History Center), art galleries, and local lodging—an ideal base for exploring the park and unwinding after your trip.
Yosemite Essentials At-a-Glance
| Attraction | Best Feature | Top Season/Time |
|---|---|---|
| Yosemite Valley | All-in-one icons | Year-round |
| Yosemite Falls | Spring runoff | April–June |
| Glacier Point | Panoramic vistas | Late May–October |
| Hetch Hetchy | Solitude, wildflowers | Spring/Early Summer |
| Mariposa Grove | Giant sequoias | Spring–Fall |
| Tuolumne Meadows | Alpine wildflowers, hiking | Summer–Early Fall |
| Tunnel View | Best valley photo | Anytime, best at sunset |
| El Capitan/Half Dome | Epic views & climbing | Year-round/viewpoints |
| Water Activities | Rafting, fishing, swimming | Late spring–Summer |
| Stargazing | Dark skies, ranger programs | Summer |
Pro Tips for Your Yosemite Experience
- Arrive early for popular spots, especially in peak season.
- Download trail and park maps ahead of time—cell reception is limited.
- Pack layers—weather can change suddenly.
- Permits: Required for Half Dome, wilderness backpacking, and certain trailheads (especially in summer).
- Check Tioga Road and Glacier Point Road seasonal status each year if you’re heading to high country.
- Consider a guided tour for insights and effortless navigation.
Yosemite’s attractions awe every type of traveler, from thrill-seeking rock climbers to families seeking peaceful picnics. Every season has its special joys, so use this guide to zero in on the best this wild, legendary park has to offer in 2025.
