Yosemite Valley

Ravine · Mariposa County ·

Yosemite Valley

Ravine · Mariposa County ·

Iconic granite cliffs, waterfalls, meadows, and river exploration.

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@cntraveler

42,481 Postcards · 5,683 Cities

Are National Parks Closed During the Government Shutdown? | Condé Nast Traveler

"I found that in Yosemite Valley outdoor elements such as roads, trails, viewpoints and open-air memorials are expected to remain accessible, while visitor centers, caves, indoor museums, and some restrooms will be closed; Aramark-operated concessions there (for example The Ahwahnee and Curry Village) will remain open and honor guest reservations despite reduced NPS staffing." - Emily Pennington

https://www.cntraveler.com/story/what-the-government-shutdown-means-for-national-parks

Yosemite Valley

@travelleisure

28,641 Postcards · 5,542 Cities

13 Best Affordable California Vacations

"The iconic heart of a national park where towering granite monoliths and cascading waterfalls define the landscape and inspire awe. Guided valley-floor tours highlight famed vistas such as Tunnel View and Bridalveil Fall, while on-foot exploration reveals meadows and classic routes under El Capitan and Half Dome. Staying inside the valley ranges from comfortable lodge rooms within walking distance of major falls to canvas-tent accommodations and seasonal riverside “housekeeping” units that offer quieter mornings — though securing lodging requires planning well in advance, as reservations open a year and a day out." - Chelsee Lowe Chelsee Lowe Chelsee Lowe is a Los Angeles-based writer with an obsession with good eats and interesting stories. She regularly contributes to Travel + Leisure, TravelAge West, Ventura Blvd, and L.A. Parent, writing about food, family travel, and more. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines

https://www.travelandleisure.com/affordable-california-vacations-8670896

Yosemite Valley

@travelleisure

28,641 Postcards · 5,542 Cities

Guide to Yosemite National Park

"I consider Yosemite Valley a must-see section of the park, where iconic views of El Capitan, Half Dome, and Yosemite Falls converge, and where you’ll find the welcome and exploration centers; strolling the meadows and along the Merced River or taking the paved 11.5-mile loop by foot or bike is my favorite way to soak it all in." - Carrie Dennis Carrie Dennis Carrie Dennis is a New York City-based writer and editor with more than a decade of content strategy experience. Her work has appeared in Travel + Leisure, Gothamist, Time magazine, Men’s Journal, Redbook, and Thrillist. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines

https://www.travelandleisure.com/yosemite-national-park-guide-8636332

Yosemite Valley

@travelleisure

28,641 Postcards · 5,542 Cities

15 Most Beautiful Waterfall Hikes in the World

"The Yosemite Falls Trail, one of the oldest tracks in Yosemite National Park, is a strenuous 7.2-mile round-trip that starts near Camp 4 along the Valley Loop Trail and climbs steep switchbacks to views of North America's tallest waterfall—reaching the top rewards hikers with vistas of Upper Yosemite Falls, Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and Sentinel Rock, and depending on the season you may even feel the falls' mist; the trail is open year-round but check National Park Service alerts for closures due to snowstorms." - Evie Carrick Evie Carrick Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines

https://www.travelandleisure.com/trip-ideas/nature-travel/best-waterfall-hikes-in-the-world

Yosemite Valley

Chloe J.

Google

It's hard to explain how unbelievably beautiful this area is. The waterfalls, the river, the landscape are all breathtaking. Every corner you turn is another photo opportunity. Hiking, picnicing or just relaxing are all available when visiting the valley. A small restaurant, general store and public laundry are all available and easily accessible. Even if you aren't a huge hiker, you can take in the views from your car or pull offs at the side of the road. Absolutely gorgeous,just see area at least once in your lifetime.

Hareshkumar Chandulal M.

Google

I visited Yosemite Valley in August 2024 on a hot summer day, and it was absolutely breathtaking. Despite the heat, the valley was full of life, color, and natural grandeur. Towering cliffs like El Capitan and Half Dome looked stunning against the clear blue sky, and the Merced River winding through the valley added a peaceful charm to the entire landscape. The conservation efforts in Yosemite Valley really stood out — the area is remarkably clean, well-maintained, and thoughtfully managed. Trails were in excellent condition, signage was clear, and shuttle buses helped reduce traffic and pollution. It’s clear that preserving the natural beauty of the valley is a top priority, and it made the experience even more enjoyable. Even on a hot day, we found plenty of shaded areas, and the cool river breeze helped balance the temperature. The valley floor walk was calm and scenic, and we spotted deer, birds, and even a bear from a safe distance — a reminder of how alive this place truly is. Yosemite Valley is a true gem — a place where raw wilderness and careful stewardship come together beautifully. I couldn’t have asked for more. A solid 5 out of 5.

Kari

Google

I happened upon Yosemite Valley at a really unique time. I went up for the Firefall phenomenon, which...I got to see A TINY BIT (but nothing like the pictures we crave to re-enact). It was my first time to Yosemite, and I can't compare it to any other time of year, but being able to explore some parts with snow and some without was definitely the best of both worlds. While some of the trails were closed because of snow (I wish I had the right gear!) everything I did make it to was definitely worth the trek. If you need any points or tips on how I navigate this weekend, Firefall crowd & reservations, please contact me directly!!

Patrick X.

Google

It is a must see National Park. The Valley can get busy, even on a weekday in early May, so get into the park as early as possible. The water falls was stunning. The mountains were majestic. We did the Sentinel/Cook's Meadow loop, about 2 miles. It was a easy and wonderful hike.

Srijana M.

Google

I visited Yosemite on New year's day 2026 and had a great time wandering across the valley with majestic falls and granite rock structures. There was no snow at the time but it did rain a bit. Basically the weather was fine, not so cold, only needing jacket in the waterfall area. Once you get the ticket, it is valid for 7 days.

Yousef A. A.

Google

One of best national parks. The valley is easily accessible and offer specular views of the amazing Yosemite. Plenty of parking but can be so busy during holidays and summer time. 35$ for regular entry good for 7 days.

M N.

Google

We visited Yosemite valley on the 2nd day of our 3 day trip. It had been so long since our last visit, albeit during the drought. What a difference now. When we were last here, the waterfalls were a trickle, mirror lake was dry and the Merced in the valley barely running. Camping in my humble opinion was a mess. To cramped and crowded. If you can, try the camp grounds off Tioga pass, much less congested, and the views just as impressive. Unfortunately Tioga pass was still closed when we were there in June. We got to watch a national forest park service controlled burn when we were there. Very interesting and the supervisors were very open to questions.

Sreejith V.

Google

This is an awesome place to visit. There are a lot of scenic spots to see and beautiful long trails and waterfalls to go for trekking. A must see place. We went there during summer, so could utilize the day light and the falls were incredible!