2023 Update: I wrote this post a while ago. Here is my honest opinion about visiting Yosemite in 2023
Yosemite implemented a reservation system for day-use visitors, limiting the number of people entering the park at any given time. While this system was effective in reducing overcrowding and preserving the park’s ecology, it has also caused frustration for those trying to plan a visit. With the reservation system ending, there is that the park will once again be overwhelmed with visitors.
As much as I want to visit Yosemite and experience the thrill of hiking Half Dome, I have decided to put it on hold for now. The park has experienced an overwhelming amount of visitors, causing overcrowding and damaging the natural environment. Although I am disappointed that I will not be able to visit Yosemite anytime soon, I believe it is the responsible decision to wait until the park will put in the reservation system again.
Yosemite National Park is located in the Sierra Nevada mountain range in eastern California and is known for its breathtaking natural beauty and diverse wildlife. The park is huge, it covers an area of over 1,100 square miles and includes a variety of landscapes, including granite cliffs, waterfalls, meadows, and forests. We visited park twice before pandemic spending 3 days and 2 days in the park. Here is my two days itinerary for you.
Interesting facts about Yosemite
Yosemite National Park was established in 1890 and was the third national park established in the United States, after Yellowstone and Sequoia.
Yosemite is home to more than 400 species of animals, including black bears, mountain lions, and bighorn sheep.
The tallest waterfall in North America, Yosemite Falls, is located in Yosemite National Park and drops a total of 2,425 feet.
Yosemite Valley, located in the heart of the park, was carved out by glaciers over millions of years and is known for its stunning granite cliffs and rock formations.
Half Dome, one of Yosemite’s most iconic features, rises nearly 5,000 feet above the valley floor and is a popular hiking destination.
The park is also home to giant sequoia trees, some of which are more than 3,000 years old.
Yosemite’s El Capitan, a 3,000-foot vertical rock face, is a popular destination for rock climbers.
Yosemite has an extensive system of hiking trails, with more than 750 miles of trails to explore.
John Muir, the famous naturalist and conservationist, played a significant role in the establishment of Yosemite National Park and helped to preserve many other natural areas in the United States.
Yosemite has been the setting for many famous works of art and literature, including Ansel Adams’ photographs and John Steinbeck’s novel “To a God Unknown.”
How much time to spend in Yosemite
A recommended amount of time to spend in Yosemite National Park depends on what you want to see and do. However, to get a comprehensive experience of the park, I suggest to spend at least 2-3 days there. With this time frame, you can explore some of the park’s iconic landmarks like Yosemite Valley, El Capitan, Half Dome, and Glacier Point. They can also go hiking, camping, and enjoy various outdoor activities. However, if you have less time, it is still worth visiting the park even for a day to take in the stunning natural scenery and appreciate the unique features of the park.
How to spend 2 days in Yosemite
Day 1
Start early in the morning and head to Yosemite Valley.
Hike the Mist Trail to reach Vernal and Nevada Falls. This hike is about 7 miles round trip and takes about 4-5 hours to complete.
After the hike, grab lunch at the Yosemite Village.
Drive to Glacier Point and take in the breathtaking views of Yosemite Valley.
Hike the Sentinel Dome trail, which is a 2.2-mile hike round trip that offers panoramic views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains.
End the day by driving back to the Yosemite Valley for dinner.
Day 2
Wake up early and drive to the Hetch Hetchy area.
Hike to the Wapama Falls, which is a 5-mile round trip hike that takes about 3-4 hours to complete.
After the hike, enjoy a picnic lunch at the Hetch Hetchy Reservoir.
Drive to Tuolumne Meadows and hike the Lembert Dome trail, which is a 2.8-mile round trip hike that offers stunning views of the Tuolumne River and surrounding mountains.
End the day by driving back to the Yosemite Valley for dinner.
Here are 10 of the best hikes in Yosemite National Park
Half Dome
This strenuous hike is about 16 miles round trip and includes a steep climb up the famous Half Dome granite formation.
Mist Trail to Vernal and Nevada Falls
This 7-mile round trip hike takes you through the lush forests of Yosemite Valley to two stunning waterfalls.
Four Mile Trail
This challenging 9.6-mile hike climbs from Yosemite Valley to Glacier Point, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Panorama Trail
This 8.5-mile trail starts at Glacier Point and takes you through lush forests and past stunning waterfalls before ending at Yosemite Valley.
Upper Yosemite Falls Trail
This strenuous 7.2-mile hike climbs up to the top of Yosemite Falls, offering incredible views of the surrounding landscape.
Clouds Rest
This 14.5-mile hike is strenuous but rewarding, taking you to the summit of Clouds Rest for panoramic views of the entire park.
Cathedral Lakes
This 7-mile hike takes you to two stunning alpine lakes surrounded by towering granite peaks.
North Dome
This moderate 9.5-mile hike takes you to a granite dome with stunning views of Half Dome and Yosemite Valley.
Sentinel Dome
This easy 2.2-mile hike offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and Yosemite Valley.
Hetch Hetchy
This area of the park offers several beautiful hikes, including the Wapama Falls Trail and the hike to Rancheria Falls.
