#Half moon village yosemite how to

As you wander through the grove, imagine the lives that these astonishing trees have lived. This 30-foot wide tree is estimated to be about 1,800 years old. This massive dead tree is about 15 feet wide at its base. The trail to see the Grizzly Giant, the largest of the Yosemite Giant Sequoias, is slightly uphill. The first tree you pass as you enter the grove is the Fallen Monarch. The lower grove tends to be more crowded than the upper grove, so plan accordingly. Shuttle busses run every 10-20 minutes to the grove (except during summer 2021 due to COVID-19 restrictions). There is limited parking at the trailhead, but most people park about 2 miles away at the southern park entrance. Whether you’re looking for a 7-mile hike in the woods or a short trip to see some of the biggest trees in the world, Mariposa Grove is a great hike. Need to know: Pit toilets in the parking lot trail is mostly wheelchair accessible - some unpaved portions Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias Grizzly Giant, Yosemite National Park photo credit: Allie_Caulfield via Flickr

#Half moon village yosemite how to

How to get there: Drive to the end of Glacier Point Road The trail is short, paved, and exposed, so make sure to stay on the path behind the barriers. Sunset is the best time to visit, as the light will be shining on Half Dome instead of in your face. However, the whole half-mile trail is spectacular, so make sure to take the time to enjoy it. The hike itself is short, more of a walk to a viewpoint. It’s still worth it to make the drive out to the viewpoint, especially if you’re in the park for an extended trip. This, of course, means that everyone and their father will be at the lookout trying to get the best spot for photos. The expansive views of the valley, and specifically Half Dome, are arguably some of the best in California. Glacier Point is one of the iconic views that comes to mind when you think about Yosemite National Park.

Need to know: Restrooms at the trailhead trail is wheelchair accessible Glacier Point Glacier Point, Yosemite National Park photo credit: David Iliff via Wikimedia How to get there: Access via Yosemite Valleyĭistance: 0.5 miles round trip from the trailhead or 1.5 miles round trip from Yosemite Village If you stay out late enough, you could even catch a glimpse of the “moonbows” - rainbows created by the mist from the falls and the light of the moon. The trail is usually busy due to its proximity to Yosemite Village, but if you don’t mind a few neighbors, this is a great short outing. The falls are most spectacular in the spring due to the runoff from melting snow. You will be able to see the falls from the trailhead, but the short walk through the woods is worthwhile for an even better view. Yosemite Falls is one of the most iconic views in the park, visible from pretty much anywhere in Yosemite Valley.

Pack your 10 hiking essentials and hit the trail! Best Hikes in Yosemite National Park Easy Hikes Lower Yosemite FallsĮven if you only have an hour as you drive through the park on the way to your next destination, this short leg-stretcher is worth the quick hike. This guide will get you started planning your Yosemite trip, whether it be 2 weeks long or a single afternoon.

Whatever your preference, Yosemite has a trail to fit the bill.Īfter researching for hours and consulting with experienced Yosemite hikers, we have compiled a concise guide of the best hikes in Yosemite. Or perhaps you’d rather hike to the top of a mountain with expansive views. Your idea of a perfect hike might involve strolling through a grove of giant Sequoias and having a picnic. There are over 100 trails in the park, with something for every type of hiker. Yosemite National Park should be a top destination for anyone who loves the outdoors, whether you prefer hiking, climbing, camping, or photography. The best hikes in Yosemite wind through valleys, climb up granite faces to waterfall views, and traverse alpine meadows through some of the most spectacular scenery in the lower 48.