Here's our favorite things to do when visiting Yosemite and Mariposa.
* Yosemite National PArk *
Hikes
Super Easy: Walk the paved path to the base of Yosemite Falls and marvel at its 2,400-foot drop
Easy: Take the mostly flat Mirror Lake trail to the lake and bask in a Half Dome reflection view
Moderate: Nothing beats the Mist Falls Trail to Nevada Falls (particularly in waterfall season of May to June/July) & looping back via the incredibly scenic John Muir trail
Challenging:If it's a one-of-a-kind Stairmaster hike with a view you're seeking, try Yosemite Falls before late summer when the falls loses a lot of its majestic power
Other Ways To Move
Go horseback riding:The national parkhas a stablewith horses and mules right on the valley floor
Bike the valley floor: Spend more time outdoors byrenting a bikeand cruising the park's great network of paths
Go rock climbing:The park has a mountaineering school thatoffers lessonsfrom beginner to advanced
Glide on ice: From Nov-March, it's a wondrous feeling to skate outdoors atCurry Village Ice rinkin the heart of the valley
Float the Merced:A refreshing way to explore the valley. Great for a calm-water, summer day.Rent a raftto float from Curry Village to Sentinel Beach
Mellower Activities
Picnic on a beach:There are actually beaches in Yosemite. We like the view at Sentinel Beach. Grab some picnic supplies at Curry Village before heading over
Get the Tunnel View:You'll want to visit this spot on your trip. We recommend later in the day while the sun is still up. You want the light behind you, lighting up this famous view
Drive to Glacier Point:Yes, it's worth the driving time to arrive at one of themost unique viewpointsin the park
Take a park tour:Choose from 2-hour, 4-hour, or all-day tram andbus toursof park highlights
Do Yoga in Yosemite:Sign up for an unforgettable, guided yoga or meditation class held inside the park with our friends fromYogasemite.
Beer: We love the wide variety of tasty brews at 1850 Brewery
Wine: Just one mile from your tent or cabin, we recommend swinging byCasto Oaks on main street
Cider:Take a short country drive to sample the tasty offerings and scenic outdoor tasting room at Sierra Cider. Enjoy their petting zoo, tours, and beautiful orchard views
Water Activities
Rafting: Run the wild Merced river with OARS or Zephyr
Boating: Visit the marina at Bass Lake in Oakhurst for boat & jet ski rental. 45 minutes away
Swimming: TheBriceburg areahas great summertime swimming holes. Head downriver from Highway 120 on the dirt road to find some beautiful spots to jump in. 20 minutes away
Fishing:Check outthe best spots for fishing and fly fishing
Waterfall Hike & Bar With a View:Travel to Bass lake to hike theAngel Falls trailand wash it down with a tasty meal at themarina bar, seated over the water
Hite's Cove:A beautiful hike just outside the park isHite's Cove, which follows a scenic section of the Merced River. Best in April (when wildflowers bloom) or Fall/winter (since there isn't much sun protection)
Skydive: Get a bird's eye view of the Sierra Nevadas and Yosemite with Skydive Yosemite
Climbing Museum:Learn about the history and evolution of climbing by exploring the photography, artifacts, and hardware at theYosemite Climbing Museum.
CLOSEST ESSENTIALS
Grocery Stores:Pioneer Marketis the main game in town, whileHigh Countryoffers a great selection of healthier items
Pharmacy:Check out theRite Aidat the north end of town
Gas Station:You've got 3 options in Mariposa (Grizzly, Stage Stop, and Chevron) as well as Cathy's Valley Food & Gas 11 miles back toward Merced
Electric Car Charging:There's a Tesla Supercharger at the Pioneer Market mentioned above. Wildhaven currently does not provide electric car charging stations
Camping Supplies:TheAce Hardwareat the corner of 49 and 120 has a great selection.
Need more Tips?
Ask away! Call our Guest Services Team from 9-6 any day at 209-966-4808.