Yosemite National Park is a hiker’s dream, with its breathtaking vistas, iconic granite cliffs, and cascading waterfalls. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or just looking for a day trip, Yosemite offers some of the most spectacular day hikes in the world.
If you’re planning a visit and want to experience the best day hikes in Yosemite National Park, we’ve got you covered! Here are five unforgettable hikes that will leave you in awe of the natural beauty around every turn.
Mist Trail to Vernal and Nevada Falls
Distance: 6 miles/10km
Time to Complete: 3 hours
Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous
The Mist Trail is one of Yosemite’s most famous hikes, and for good reason. This trail brings you face-to-face with the park’s stunning waterfalls. The hike begins by following the Merced River and leads to Vernal Fall, where you’ll climb a steep set of stone steps right into the refreshing mist of the waterfall. Continue onward to Nevada Fall for more breathtaking views from a higher vantage point.
Why It’s a Must-Do: This trail is a crowd favorite for a reason—few experiences in Yosemite compare to feeling the spray of Vernal Fall and standing atop Nevada Fall, soaking in the grandeur of Yosemite Valley.
Taft Point and Sentinel Dome Loop
Distance: 5 miles/8km
Time to Complete: 2 hours
Difficulty: Easy
For those looking for jaw-dropping views without a grueling climb, the Taft Point and Sentinel Dome Loop offers two spectacular vistas in one relatively short hike. Taft Point is famous for its dramatic cliff-edge views, while Sentinel Dome provides a panoramic 360-degree perspective of Yosemite Valley, including views of Half Dome and El Capitan.
Why It’s a Must-Do: If you’re looking to pack in stunning viewpoints in a shorter time, this hike is unbeatable. You’ll be treated to two of Yosemite’s best viewpoints without the massive crowds.
Four Mile Trail
Distance: 9 Miles/15km
Time to Complete: 5 hours
Difficulty: Medium
The Four Mile Trail is a tough but rewarding climb, taking you from the valley floor to Glacier Point. Along the way, you’ll be treated to unbeatable views of Yosemite’s iconic landmarks like El Capitan, Half Dome, and Yosemite Falls. This hike is perfect for those who want a challenge and want to experience Yosemite from a higher perspective.
Why It’s a Must-Do: The views from Glacier Point are among the most famous in the park, and hiking up to them rather than driving adds a layer of satisfaction to the experience.
Yosemite Falls Trail
Distance: 6 Miles/10km
Time to Complete: 4 hours
Difficulty: Medium
The Yosemite Falls Trail takes you up close to one of North America’s tallest waterfalls—Yosemite Falls. This strenuous hike leads to the top of the falls, offering spectacular views along the way of both the waterfall itself and Yosemite Valley. As you ascend, the roar of the water grows louder, and the scenery gets better and better.
Why It’s a Must-Do: Yosemite Falls is a true icon of the park, and the chance to hike to the top of this majestic waterfall is an experience every Yosemite visitor should have.
Panorama Trail
Distance: 8 miles/14km
Time to Complete: 3 hours
Difficulty: Medium
The Panorama Trail lives up to its name, offering an all-day adventure with non-stop scenic views. This trail begins at Glacier Point and takes you past Illilouette Fall, Vernal Fall, and Nevada Fall, with expansive views of Half Dome and Yosemite Valley along the way. Many hikers opt to take a shuttle to Glacier Point and hike down into the valley for an easier descent.
Why It’s a Must-Do: This hike delivers constant visual rewards, offering some of the park’s most iconic viewpoints. It’s a must-do for hikers wanting a full day of exploration and photography opportunities.
Yosemite’s breathtaking hikes offer unforgettable views and experiences for every adventurer. From towering waterfalls to panoramic vistas, these trails capture the park’s essence. Before setting out, download the HiiKER app for reliable maps and trail information, ensuring your journey through Yosemite is safe and well-planned. Happy hiking!
