Mirror Lake and Tenaya canyon
Available April 1 to October 31
Level: Easy
Mirror Lake is a seasonal, reflective lake surrounded by Yosemite’s towering cliffs. Located in the Tenaya Canyon, there is not a lot of climbing on this easy trail—much of which is paved. It is a pleasant walk, and about as close as you can get to the base of Half Dome, whose crown you can see reflected in the lake’s waters in some locations. Mirror Lake is also one of Yosemite’s most popular swimming holes. Enjoy your lunch in this beautiful and serene location!
- Total Distance: 2.5 miles (3.8 km) round-trip to Mirror Lake; 5 miles (6.4 km) Full Tenaya Canyon Loop
- Hiking Time: 2-3 hours
- Route Type: Loop
- Elevation Gain: 300 feet
- Age Requirement: 5+
Wawona Meadow
Available April 1 to October 31
Level: Easy
A peaceful, scenic trail through meadows and forests. This is a gentle walk along a wide, smooth trail. You’ll have a mild ascent on the first half of the hike and a corresponding descent on the second half. After your hike, you’ll relax and enjoy your lunch with plenty of time to explore the Wawona History Center.
- Total Distance: 3.5 miles (5.6 km) or 5-mile (8km) loop
- Hiking Time: 1.5 – 2.5 hours
- Route Type: Loop
- Elevation Gain: 230 feet
- Age Requirement: 5+
Sentinel Dome and Taft Point
Available June 1 to October 31
Level: Moderate
On this guided hike, you will reach the top of both Sentinel Dome and Taft Point, providing spectacular panoramic views of Yosemite Valley, including El Capitan, Half Dome and Yosemite Falls. Lower mileage options are available, including an out-and-back tours to Sentinel Dome (2.2 miles) and out-and-back tours to Taft Point (2.2 miles).
*Tours dates are dependent on the opening of Glacier Point Road.
- Total Distance: 4.9 miles (7.9 km)
- Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
- Route Type: Loop
- Elevation Gain: 1,105 feet
- Age Requirement: 7+
Mariposa Grove
Available June 1 to October 31
Level: Moderate
Come explore the world’s largest living organisms and the inspiration for wilderness conservation: the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias. This hike takes you on an invigorating adventure as you get close to the most famous trees on the planet, including the Bachelor and Three Graces, the Faithful Couple, and the Clothespin Tree. Continue to Wawona Point, an overlook with panoramic views. A lower mileage option along the Grizzly Giant Loop is also available (2.5 miles).
- Total Distance: 6.7 miles (10.78 km)
- Hiking Time: 4+ hours
- Route Type: Out-and-back
- Elevation Gain: 1,217 feet
- Age Requirement: 7+
Mist Trail to Vernal Falls
Available May 1 to October 31
Level: Advanced
Feel the power of Vernal Falls as you tackle the famous Mist Trail on this advanced hike. You’ll first approach the footbridge for an excellent view of Vernal Fall and continue up a steep granite stairway to reach the top. Prepare for slippery footing and a tremendous amount of waterfall spray in spring and early summer! Following the trail up to Clark’s Point, you will see Vernal Fall from above before descending. This “bucket-list” hike is certain to create unforgettable memories.
*Periodic closures of the Mist Trail to Vernal Fall can occur.
- Total Distance: 4.5 miles (7.9 km)
- Hiking Time: 4+ hours
- Route Type: Out-and-back
- Elevation Gain: 1,614 feet
- Age Requirement: 10+