Heres everything you’re gonna wanna know before planning a trip to Yosemite National Park.
There are over 1,500 different species of plants in Yosemite.
Mike Augustineis a T+L A-list advisor and U.S. national parks specialist.
Credit:Irjaliina Paavonpera/Travel + Leisure
The pass covers everyone inside the vehicle and is valid for seven consecutive days.
An annual entrance pass that costs $70 grants access to Yosemite for 12 months.
ASenior Lifetime Passis also available for $80.
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They’re sort of like buying concert tickets with how popular that park is.
You have to be on your game to get up during these times, said Augustine.
you’ve got the option to also take public transportation, which many people dont realize.
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It also has seasonal routes.
Best Time to Visit
Whats the best time to visit Yosemite?
But I think Yosemite has the best character whenever it’s about to snow or rain.
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That said, those moody days deliver.
The clouds are grazing the face of Half Dome; those are amazing, Goehring said.
It takes a little more planning, but those are some of the most magical times in Yosemite.
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Ultimately, the best time to visit depends on what youre after.
Just note there will be greater crowds.
They’ll thin in the fall, and September is just as spectacular as July and August.
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Best Things to Do
Explore Yosemite Valley.
Yosemite Valley is also where youll find the welcome and exploration centers and access to many trails.
Goehring suggests strolling through the meadows and along the river to fully appreciate the park’s beauty.
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An avid runner, Meyer echoes that sentiment, emphasizing the allure of the surrounding scenery.
See giant sequoias in Mariposa Grove.
It’s a grove of over 500 mature giant sequoias.
In a way, those sequoias helped birth the national park idea, said Goehring.
Watch the sunset at Glacier Point.
It’s easily accessible for wheelchairs and walkers.
Stay for twilight after the official sunset time for a prismatic experience.
Plan on staying at least 30 minutes, said Meyer.
Drive to the Tunnel View.
Take a guided hike.
Guided walks with anaturalistorpark rangeroffer in-depth insights into Yosemite’s geological history and diverse ecosystem.
Having someone knowledgeable makes the experience, said Augustine.
Join an astronomy program.
Yosemites stargazing opportunities are out of this world.
There’s a saying within the national parks that half the park is after dark, Goehring said.
At night, the cosmic wilderness unveils itself.
Best Hikes
Yosemite has no shortage of incredible hikes.
TheYosemite Valley Loop Trailoffers full- and half-loop options, spanning 11.5 miles or 7.2 miles, respectively.
Mist Trail to Vernal Falls is a three-mile, round-trip trek to the majestic Vernal Falls.
Goehrings favorite trail is the demanding, yet rewarding,Four-mile Trailto Glacier Point and the Panorama Trail.
Hike up to Glacier Point, so you get that view.
You get to climb out of the valley next to Sentinel Rock.
And then you get to come back down the Panorama Trail over Illilouette Falls.
Those stairs can be tough on your knees.
But you could come back down the John Muir Trail.
The Yosemite Conservancy helps fund a project to bring Sierra bighorns back into Yosemite.
you could get lucky if you’re up in the Tuolumne area, said Goehring.
Mountain lions also roam the area, though sightings are rare.
This nine-acre country house resort evokes the South of France with 10 guest rooms and an uber-luxe 2,000-square-foot manor.
Each accommodation features luxurious amenities like indoor/outdoor fireplaces and covered decks.
The Cottages feature private entrances, outdoor sitting areas, and fireplaces.
Famous climbers like Yvonne Chouinard and Alex Honnold once pitched their tents on the 11-acre campground.
For more camping options, check out T+L’sguide to the best Yosemite campgrounds.
Within the park,The Ahwahnees dining room has surreal views.
The best lodge and best restaurant in that area is the Ahwahnee, said Augustine.
That’s what it’s all about.
That’s the best table in the house, right?
