Is Yosemite Worth Visiting? Here’s 8 Reasons You NEED To Visit!

Planning a trip to Yosemite but starting to wonder if it’s worth it?

Yosemite is one of the most popular national parks in the USA, known for its stunning natural beauty and iconic landmarks like Half Dome and El Capitan.But with increasing crowds, and restrictions on reservations, you may be starting to wonder if it’s really worth planning a trip to Yosemite.

There is something about being in Yosemite that just feels magical. Whether it’s the fresh mountain air, the majestic waterfalls, or the towering granite cliffs, there is no denying that Yosemite offers a unique experience unlike any other national park.

I have been to Yosemite on numerous trips, and it has never disappointed! The views of El Capitan alone are enough to make me want to return. So, to help you make the decision, I’ve put together this list of reasons why Yosemite is definitely worth visiting!

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Is Yosemite Worth Visiting?

Simply put, yes Yosemite is worth visiting! If it wasn’t I (and many others) wouldn’t keep returning!

As soon as you enter Yosemite National Park you will immediately see why this special place is worth visiting. From the towering granite cliffs to the serene meadows, the scenery is truly one-of-a-kind.

One of Yosemites most iconic features is the dramatic granite cliffs, including Half Dome and El Capitan. The park is also home to stunning waterfalls, such as Yosemite Falls, the tallest in North America.

Yosemite also boasts lush meadows filled with wildflowers in the spring and vibrant autumn foliage in the fall. The ancient ecosystems of Yosemite National Park are also highlighted by the giant sequoia trees in Mariposa Grove, some of which are over 3,000 years old.

Aside from the jaw-dropping scenery, there are a plethora of things to do in Yosemite from hiking and camping, to rock climbing and whitewater rafting. Even with the occasional crowds, the natural beauty in Yosemite make it a destination you won’t want to miss.

Reasons to Visit Yosemite National Park

1. There Views In Every Direction You Look

The words Yosemite and amazing views go hand in hand. From the moment you enter the park, you will be surrounded by breathtaking landscapes that seem almost unreal. You will find yourself looking up the whole time!

You can see El Capitan from almost anywhere in the Yosemite Valley – I loved driving through the valley early in the morning.

Yosemite is renowned for its spectacular vistas – below are some of the top viewpoints in Yosemite:

• Glacier Point: One of the premier viewpoints in Yosemite, Glacier Point stands at an elevation of 7,214 feet, and provides panoramic views of the entire Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and the Sierra Nevada mountain range.

• Tunnel View: Located at the entrance to Yosemite Valley, Tunnel View is a must-see when visiting the park. From this vantage point, you can see El Capitan, Half Dome, Bridalveil Fall, and the beautiful Merced River winding its way through the valley.

• Olmsted Point: For a unique perspective of Half Dome and Clouds Rest, head to Olmsted Point on Tioga Road. This viewpoint also offers stunning views of Tenaya Canyon and Tenaya Lake below.

• Valley View: As the name suggests, this viewpoint provides an incredible view of Yosemite Valley with El Capitan and Bridalveil Fall in the foreground. It is a popular spot for photographers looking to capture the postcard-worthy views.

2. The Sunsets & Sunrises Will Take Your Breathe Away

The sunsets and sunrises were one of the highlights of my most recent trip to Yosemite. I really did create core memories here!

I know early mornings and late evenings aren’t for everyone, but watching at least one sunrise or sunset during your trip will absolutely not disappoint.

Sunsets are generally busier than sunrise (I get it, it’s easier to stay up late than get up early!) I’ve already mentioned a bunch of epic viewpoints above (which are great for both sunrise and sunset) but I have a few personal favourite places that I highly recommend below:

• Artist Point: Artist Point is a lesser-known hike in Yosemite, it’s an easy hike but can get steep in some sections. This trail leads to a similar view to that of Tunnel View, with views of El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridal Veil Fall. I hiked this trail at sunrise at 5am when it was pitch black (I had a headlamp) when I came across a deer in the bushes – you may encounter wildlife on this trail, so just be aware of that.

• Taft Point: The sunset at Taft Point has to be one of my favourite sunsets I have ever witnessed! This has also become one of my favourite hikes ever. The trail isn’t too hard, but it’s hard enough to be considered a “hike” – there isn’t much elevation until you get closer to the viewpoint, and even then it’s really not too bad. This leads to a view of Yosemite Valley from above, with prime views of the majestic El Capitan.

3. The Hikes Are World Class

One of the things Yosemite is known for is its hikes, in fact it’s incredibly famous for one hike in particular – Half Dome!

Standing at 8,844 feet, Half Dome is a hike that’s known around the world, but it should only be attempted by experienced and advanced hikers. This final ascent on this hike involves an incredibly steep incline to reach the top of this granite rock. This section known is as the cables, which involves climbing a series of cables fixed to the rock face. This section is not for the faint of heart and requires a steady nerve and good physical condition.

The full hike is approximately 14 to 16 miles round trip, depending on the route taken, and features an elevation gain of about 4,800 feet. You should be prepared for a strenuous hike that typically takes 10 to 12 hours to complete.

It’s essential to plan ahead, as permits are required for the cables and are often in high demand. The lottery to hike Half Dome usually opens in May, but there is also a daily lottery that you can enter should there be any no-shows or cancellations. You can enter the lottery through this link.

Yosemite has over 800 miles of hiking trails, so if Half Dome sounds too daunting for you (I know it does for me!) there are plenty of other hikes to enjoy in Yosemite.

In addition to the two hikes I mentioned above, other popular trails include:

• Yosemite Falls Trail: The Yosemite Falls Trail is an iconic hike that brings you face-to-face with Yosemite Falls. Spanning approximately 6.5 miles (10.6 kilometres) round trip, the hike takes you to the top of Yosemite Falls, which is the tallest waterfall in North America at an impressive 2,425 feet. Expect to spend about 6 to 8 hours on this hike, as it involves a significant elevation gain of around 992 metres(3,254 ft).
• Mist Trail: The Mist Trail is one of Yosemite National Park’s most popular hiking routes, spanning approximately 3 miles/4.8km (round trip) to the base of Vernal Falls. As you gain elevation you’ll start to feel the mist from the falls, particularly during the spring melt. The trail then continues uphill to Nevada Falls.

4. Yosemite Is Home To A Variety Of Wildlife

Yosemite is home to a diverse array of wildlife, and it’s always exciting to spot some of the park’s inhabitants during your visit. I wasn’t expecting to encounter much wildlife on my most recent trip to Yosemite, since I was there on a weekend during August which is peak season. But to my surprise I encountered quite a few mule deer!

I encountered a Mule Deer while hiking the Artist Point trail for sunrise, which really scared me! (I thought it was a cougar). We also saw a bunch of Mule Deer with big antlers near the Ahwahnee Hotel.

Yosemite is home to black bears, deer, coyotes, and even bighorn sheep (Thankfully there are no grizzly bears in California!)

You may be lucky to encounter some of these residents during your trip. Just remember to keep a safe distance and never feed or approach any wild animals.

5. The Scenic Drives Are Out Of This World

Yosemite National Park offers several scenic drives that allow visitors to enjoy the stunning landscapes without the need for extensive hiking.

One of the most popular routes is the Glacier Point Road, which takes you to Glacier Point, where you can see views of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and the High Sierra peaks.

A bucket-list drive is the Tioga Pass Road, especially famous for its stunning alpine scenery. This route offers access to Tuolumne Meadows, a beautiful area filled with wildflowers and granite domes.

The Yosemite Valley Loop Drive runs through the heart of Yosemite Valley, and showcases iconic sites such as El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall, and the impressive views of the valley itself.

6. Yosemite is Close to Other Attractions

A trip to Yosemite can be paired with other nearby attractions or places, making it a perfect destination for an extended vacation. Some popular options include:

• San Francisco: Just a four-hour drive from Yosemite, San Francisco is a vibrant city with plenty to see and do.
• Lake Tahoe: A two-and-a-half-hour drive from Yosemite will take you to the stunning Lake Tahoe, where you can enjoy water sports, hiking, and scenic drives.
• Napa Valley: For wine lovers, Napa Valley is a must-visit destination, and it’s only about three hours away from Yosemite.
• Big Sur: Big Sur is a beautiful coastal drive that takes about four hours from Yosemite. I love this area of the Pacific Coast Highway, and recommend spending a couple of days here.
• Pacific Coast Highway: The famous Highway 1 runs along the California coast and offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. It’s about a four-hour drive from Yosemite.

7. Yosemite Has A Rich History

Yosemite National Park not only boasts stunning landscapes but also a rich history that dates back thousands of years.

The area has been inhabited by Native American tribes for millennia, with the Miwok people being the most prominent group in the region. They have left an indelible mark on the culture and history of Yosemite, with many historical sites and artifacts still visible today.

In the mid-19th century, the park gained national attention following the writings of naturalists like John Muir, who advocated for the preservation of this unique landscape. Muir’s efforts ultimately contributed to the establishment of Yosemite as a national park in 1890.

Did you know it was Yosemite that helped pave the way for the National Park system in the United States?

In 1864, President Abraham Lincoln signed the Yosemite Grant Act, which protected Yosemite Valley and the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias from commercial development. This act is considered to be a significant moment in the history of conservation and led to the formation of the National Park System in 1916.

Today, visitors can still see historic buildings and landmarks within Yosemite that showcase its rich past, such as the Ahwahnee Hotel and the Wawona Hotel.

8. Yosemite is Well-Kept

One of the things that I loved about Yosemite, was how well the park has been kept. After hearing about how busy it has become in recent years I was surprised to see how untouched it looked. Sometimes when a place experiences over-tourism, things like garbage start to pile in place (Sadly, I’ve seen this too often in Banff).

It was pristine, I did not see garbage anywhere or anyone violating Leave No Trace practices (other than the family encouraging their kids to jump the fences in Mariposa Grove to hug the Sequoias! – please do not do this!)

I also loved how well organized the park was and the little traffic we encountered, despite higher visitation numbers over the years.

Where To Stay In Yosemite

• Rush Creek Lodge at Yosemite: Rush Creek Lodge This property is beautiful and located just about 5 minutes from the Big Oak Flat entrance to Yosemite, making it the closest accommodation to the park without being inside it. Amenities include a pool, hot tub, unlimited s’mores, and a nice spa.

• Yosemite View Lodge: I’ve stayed at the Yosemite View Lodge twice when visiting Yosemite, and it’s a great place to base yourself. The rooms are spacious, featuring two queen beds and a large bathroom. There is a kitchenette in the room, but the highlight is the huge balcony that offers stunning views of the Merced River! Yosemite View Lodge is located in El Portal, just a 10-minute drive from the Arch Rock entrance to the park.

Do You Need A Reservation To Visit Yosemite?

Due to the high demand for visiting Yosemite, a reservation is now required to enter the park in peak season. This is part of the National Park Service’s new entry system that aims to manage visitor capacity and reduce traffic congestion within the park.

Reservations can be made online in advance and are valid for three consecutive days. It’s essential to plan ahead and secure your spot before heading to Yosemite, as reservations fill up quickly during peak season. If you arrive without a reservation, you will be turned away.

Here are the times and dates when you need to book a reservation:

• April 13 through June 30: Reservations are required from 5 am to 4 pm on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays (May 27 and June 19).
• July 1 through August 16: Reservations are required from 5 am to 4 pm every day.
• August 17 through October 27: Reservations are required from 5 am to 4 pm on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays (September 2 and October 14).

When To Visit Yosemite National Park?

The best way to fully experience the park is by spending at least 2 days in Yosemite. One important factor to consider when planning a trip to Yosemite is the time of year. The park is open year-round, but certain activities and areas may be closed during specific times.

The peak season for visitors is from June to August, when the weather is warm, and all roads & facilities are open. However, this also means larger crowds and higher prices for accommodation.

The shoulder seasons of April-May or September-October are great if you want cheaper hotels and less crowds. You’ll still have access to most facilities, but with smaller crowds and possibly lower rates. In winter, Yosemite receives heavy snowfall, making some popular areas inaccessible.

FAQ: Is Yosemite Worth It?

Is Yosemite expensive?

Visiting Yosemite is actually cheaper than other national parks in North America, as you can see from my comparison between Yosemite vs Banff. However it is not a budget trip, and you should aim to spend a minimum of $5,000 CAD if you are planning a 4 day trip (for 2 adults)

Which entrance to Yosemite is best?

To explore Yosemite Valley, the best way in is through the Big Oak Flat Entrance, which is the park’s west entrance. This entrance provides access to iconic sights like Tunnel View, Glacier Point, and Yosemite Falls.

Is Yosemite worth visiting if you don’t hike?

Yes! You don’t need to hike to visit Yosemite, there are so many parts of the park that are not only great for non-hikers but accessible and wheelchair friendly. Mariposa Grove is a great area to visit if you don’t hike, as well as Glacier Point and Tunnel view – which is a 10 second walk from the parking lot (you can see the viewpoint from your car!)

Do you need a car in Yosemite?

While you don’t need a car in Yosemite, driving is the best way to see the park. The shuttle system is small and only goes to the main tourist spots. You will miss out on a lot if you do travel by car.

Can you enter Yosemite for free?

Yes! There 6 designated “Free park days” that you can enter Yosemite for free, without paying an entrance fees. The 6 dates are:

• January 15: Birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr.
• April 20: First day of National Park Week
• June 19: Juneteenth National Independence Day
• August 4: Anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act
• September 28: National Public Lands Day
• November 11: Veterans Day

Remember Your Responsibility

When visiting any national park, it’s important to remember that we all have a responsibility to protect these areas for future generations. As visitors, it’s crucial to follow Leave No Trace principles and respect the rules and regulations set in place by the National Park Service.

This includes disposing of waste properly, staying on designated trails, and being mindful of wildlife. We all play a role in preserving Yosemite’s beauty for years to come, so let’s do our part to keep it clean and pristine.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it – Yosemite is absolutely worth your time and money. You really need to see these fantastic views for yourself, and even if you don’t hike you can still witness some of the best views in the park.

But don’t just take my word for it – go experience it for yourself, I promise you won’t regret it!