A few weeks ago, I was able to take a few days and head to Yosemite National Park. It was an amazing time of reconnecting with a college roommate, disconnecting from the daily pressures of life, and enjoying creation for all that it has to offer. While I was only there for two days, we were able to hike around 15 miles and see the highlights of the park. I’m thinking I’ll be visiting one of my favorite national parks more often, now that I have made this trip. Keep reading for my favorite hikes in Yosemite!
1. Four Mile Trail: Head to this trail for stunning views of El Capitan, Half Dome, and Yosemite Falls. Beginning at the Glacier Point vista point, this hike will take around 4-6 hours and is around 9 miles in length. You will hike along switchbacks from the Point to the Valley floor and back up. Be prepared with plenty of water and food on this hike as the ascent back up is rather strenuous and taxing. One of my favorite parts about this hike were the incredible vistas available around every switchback. If you are here for a short trip, make sure you head here to take in some of the most beautiful vistas in the park.
2. Tunnel View Road and a hike to Inspiration point: Tunnel View road is iconic, spectacular, and breath-taking. Easy to get to with pull offs and parking along the road, make sure you stop here and take numerous pictures. From the parking lot, take the short 1.3 mile hike to inspiration point. I loved this option as it provided the same views of the park, but felt more secluded.
3. Yosemite Falls: With both hikes to upper and lower falls, make sure you head to this majestic waterfall. During the summer you will find shuttle routes that will take you to all of the falls in the park. With flat and paved paths through Yosemite Village, this trail is accessible and easy for anyone to accomplish. It made for a nice break as we had completed the hike in Glacier Point the previous day.
4. Giant Sequoia Grove of Yosemite: If you’re looking to find some majestic towering sequoias in the park, look no further than here. In this area you will find a variety of easy trails and walking paths to various trees in the grove. While you’re there make sure to see the fallen tree with beautiful exposed and woven roots and take your picture in the cutout tree. I loved heading here as I knew our trip wouldn’t allow for time to visit Sequoias National Park.
The mountains called and I went. It was one of the best decisions all spring.
