Best Hikes at Yosemite National Park

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The Best Hikes in Yosemite: Trails You Can’t Miss

I was chatting with my friend today, who is excited about her first family camping trip in Yosemite. She wanted to know which hikes I would recommend, and I was so excited to tell her about my favorites.

Yosemite National Park is truly a magical place. And it’s a hiker’s paradise, with trails that showcase towering granite cliffs, rushing waterfalls, and breathtaking vistas. Whether you’re looking for a challenging ascent or you’re interested in some of the many kid-friendly Yosemite hikes, there’s a hike for everyone in this iconic park. Here are some of the best hikes in Yosemite, along with details on what makes them so special.

If you’re limited on time in the park, check out my 1 day in Yosemite itinerary to fully maximize your time.

1. Mist Trail to Vernal and Nevada Falls– My vote for best hike in Yosemite

Hands-down my pick for a must-do hike in Yosemite. You can shorten it by simply hiking to the Vernal Falls, but the Mist Trail is a must!

• Distance: 5.4 miles round trip (to Nevada Fall)
• Elevation Gain: 2,000 feet
• Why It’s Great: This hike offers up-close views of two of Yosemite’s most stunning waterfalls. The trail follows the Merced River, and as you ascend the famous granite steps near Vernal Fall, you’ll likely get drenched in mist—hence the name! If you continue past Vernal Fall to Nevada Fall, you’ll be rewarded with an even more spectacular panorama.

2. Half Dome via the Cables Route– One of the best hikes at Yosemite N.P. that requires a permit

• Distance: 14-16 miles round trip
• Elevation Gain: 4,800 feet
• Why It’s Great: One of the most iconic hikes in the world, the Half Dome trek is both physically and mentally demanding. The final ascent up the famous cables is exhilarating, and the summit rewards you with an unbeatable view of Yosemite Valley. A permit is required for this hike, so plan ahead!

3. Glacier Point via the Four-Mile Trail

• Distance: 9.6 miles round trip
• Elevation Gain: 3,200 feet
• Why It’s Great: This hike climbs steadily from Yosemite Valley to Glacier Point, offering breathtaking views along the way. At the top, you’ll be treated to one of the best panoramic views in the park, with Half Dome, Nevada Fall, and Yosemite Falls all in sight. If you want to skip the climb, you can take a bus to Glacier Point and hike down instead — this is known as the Panorama Trail.

4. Yosemite Falls Trail

• Distance: 7.2 miles round trip
• Elevation Gain: 2,700 feet
• Why It’s Great: This hike takes you to the top of North America’s tallest waterfall, Yosemite Falls, which plunges a staggering 2,425 feet. The trail is steep and strenuous, but the sweeping views of Yosemite Valley make the effort worth it. If you’re not up for the full hike, the shorter trek to Columbia Rock still offers fantastic vistas.

5. Cathedral Lakes (via John Muir Trail)

• Distance: 8 miles round trip
• Elevation Gain: 1,000 feet
• Why It’s Great: If you’re exploring the Tuolumne Meadows area, this hike is a must. The trail leads to two pristine alpine lakes, Lower and Upper Cathedral Lakes, surrounded by towering granite peaks. It’s a peaceful escape from the busier Yosemite Valley trails.

6. Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias

• Distance: Varies (2-7 miles round trip)
• Elevation Gain: 500-1,200 feet
• Why It’s Great: For a break from the granite landscapes, head to Mariposa Grove to see some of the largest trees on Earth. Trails range from short strolls to longer loops that take you past famous trees like the Grizzly Giant and the Tunnel Tree.

7. Taft Point & Sentinel Dome Loop

• Distance: 5.1 miles round trip
• Elevation Gain: 1,000 feet
• Why It’s Great: This relatively short hike offers some of the best sunset views in Yosemite. Taft Point features dramatic cliffside views with famous fissures, while Sentinel Dome provides a stunning 360-degree panorama of the park.

Final Thoughts About the Best Hikes at Yosemite N.P.

Yosemite’s hiking trails offer some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world. Whether you’re looking for adventure, solitude, or just an incredible view, there’s a trail for you. If you’re able to snag a campsite in one of the Yosemite campgrounds or secure lodging at one of the hotels nearby, you can get an early start on these hikes without having to deal with traffic or parking.

Pack plenty of water, wear sturdy shoes, and get ready for an unforgettable hiking experience! If you’re hiking with kids, check out my kids hiking essentials post along with my Amazon hiking essentials storefront.

Note: As an Amazon affiliate, I may earn commission on qualified purchases.