Yosemite National Park

4.5 star rating: Recommended 180 Reviews | Add review

  • Address: Yosemite
  • Hours: Open 24 hours every day
  • Admission: US$20 per car entrance fee

Yosemite National Park
Passing clouds. Refreshingly cool.
12:48 PM Wednesday, May 22
Passing clouds. Refreshingly cool.
7 day forecast
Yosemite is the Taj Mahal of national parks and packs in acres of jaw-dropping beauty. But no matter how crowded Yosemite is, just lift your eyes ever so slightly above the people and you’ll feel your heart instantly moved by the park's unrivaled splendors.

Marvel at the majestic profile of Half Dome, climb the mighty mecca that is El Capitan, or hike into Tuolumne Grove, where gigantic, stunning Sequoia’s surround you. Immerse yourself in the drenching mists of Yosemite Falls, the gemstone lakes of the high country’s subalpine wilderness, and Hetch Hetchy’s pristine pathways.

There are walking trails everywhere, flat and steep, short and long, waterfalls to see, and beautiful swimming spots on the river. There are bike trails throughout the valley, dead flat, and on a hot day mainly off the roads and under the forest cover; the coolest spot to be.

In the middle of the valley, flat green meadows flanked by tall stands of trees surrounded by the most amazing rock faces unfold in every direction. Here you’ll find the Visitor’s Center, which is handy if you want to stock up on water, find a bathroom, or maybe just seek out some shade.

Latest Reviews

I can thoroughly recommend this 1 day trip to Yosemite - ideal if you are short on time. We were picked up from our hotel in the wharf area and after several more stops throughout the city we were on our way. Our driver, Paul was very knowledgeable about the area and kept us informed about the history of the area. We stopped at Oakdale for breakfast; there were numerous choices for food. The drive to Yosemite, although long, went incredibly fast due to the stories and information given by Paul. The photo stops in the park were spectacular and enough time to get some great shots. We were fortunate that there was still snow in the area, however the track to the giant sequoias was not safe so we didn't get to see the trees. We had about 3 hours in the valley on our own which we trekked one of the tracks recommended by Paul. The weather was sunny and clear on the day we went so we had great views from the vantage points. The trip back to SF was just as comfortable with a stop for dinner at Oakdale (can recommend the Mexican restaurant there) and then a short stop on Treasure Island for a photo opp of the lights of the city (breathtaking!). We were then dropped back to our hotel with memories of a fabulous day.

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My trip to Yosemite was probably the highlight of my holiday to America. The views and scenery were spectacular and just absolutely stunning! I enjoyed every moment. I'm glad that I did the two days as the first day was quite tiring, getting up so early and then having a 5 hour drive. I would dread to think what doing just the day trip would be like. Staying over for a second day meant I could really appreciate the park.

The company was well organised. We were the only ones booked in on the two day tour so they arranged for us to go up to Yosemite with one day group and then return to San Francisco with another day group the following day. They provided a schedule for us and bus tickets to get us back in to the park in lieu of a guided tour. Everything went very smoothly and allowed us to have an amazing time.

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I went to Yosemite with Andy as my guide in March and had a fantastic trip. He was very knowledgeable. This trip is a must when visiting the San Francisco area. Yosemite is a beautiful place to visit, the day goes by so fast. One of my favorite days for my trip.

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Practical Info

Yosemite is accessible year-round from the west (via Highways 120 W and 140) and south (Highway 41) and in summer also from the east (via Highway 120 E). After crossing the San Francisco Oakland Bay Bridge, you'll travel through the Great Central Valley and into the Sierra foothills. Following the beautiful Merced River to the Sierra Nevada Mountains, you'll enter Yosemite National Park. Roads are plowed in winter but snow chains may be required at any time.
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