Yosemite National Park is one of our favorite places on Earth. Every turn in the road reveals something jaw-dropping: thundering waterfalls, towering granite cliffs, lush meadows, and sweeping valley views. It’s the kind of place where you half-expect a film crew to pop out and say, “And… cut!” because the scenery is that cinematic.
While there’s no shortage of ways to explore this natural wonder, we’ve packed our favorite highlights into the perfect two-day itinerary. Whether you’re here for short scenic stops or full-on hikes, this plan will help you soak in Yosemite’s magic.
Day 1: Classic Valley Views & Waterfall Wonders
Stop 1: Tunnel View – The Iconic First Glimpse
Your Yosemite adventure starts with a bang at Tunnel View. As you emerge from Wawona Tunnel on Highway 41, the scene opens up like a painting: El Capitan to your left, Half Dome in the distance, Bridalveil Fall cascading to the right. No hiking boots needed, just step out, breathe in, and let it sink in.
This view has been immortalized by countless photographers, including Ansel Adams’ Clearing Winter Storm. Fair warning: it’s a popular spot, so arrive early if you want space to soak it in.
Feeling adventurous? Try one of these short hikes that give you the same fantastic views without the crowds, starting right here:
- Inspiration Point Trail – 4 km round trip, about 2 hours.
- Artist Point Trail – 3.5 km round trip, slightly more moderate.
Stop 2: Valley Loop Trail – Choose Your Adventure
The Valley Loop Trail is a 33 km route circling the Yosemite Valley floor, offering postcard views of almost every major landmark: Sentinel Rock, Cathedral Rocks, Half Dome, El Capitan, Yosemite Falls, and more.
The good news is that there are plenty of options for shorter loops depending on which part of the valley you want to see most. We love the West Valley Loop, a 9.5 km section (about 2 hours) that passes El Capitan and Bridalveil Fall. The path is mostly peaceful, except near the big-name sights.
Not in the mood for that much walking? The free Valleywide Shuttle does a full circuit in about 1 hour 20 minutes.
Stop 3: El Capitan & Yosemite’s Waterfalls
Even if you’ve seen Free Solo, it’s another thing entirely to stand at the base of El Capitan and spot climbers making their way up like tiny ants on the granite wall. It’s humbling, awe-inspiring, and maybe a little vertigo-inducing.
From the road, short walks take you to the base of Bridalveil Fall and Lower Yosemite Falls, both of which pack a punch in spring when snowmelt fuels their thundering cascades. By late summer, they can slow to a trickle, so timing matters.
Pro tip: Drive between trailheads if you have your own car, or hop on the shuttle to mix and match stops.
Day 2: The Mist Trail & A Sweet Reward
Stop 1: Vernal & Nevada Falls (Plus Half Dome, If You Dare)
For a challenging but unforgettable hike, head to the Mist Trail from Happy Isles Trailhead. The 10 km round trip brings you face-to-face with Vernal Falls and then Nevada Fall, prepare for steep, sometimes slippery sections and plenty of spray (hence the name).
If you’ve got the stamina, experience, and a permit, you can push onward to Half Dome, a bucket-list climb with cables to help you ascend the final stretch. It’s a full-day, strenuous trek.
We like looping back via part of the John Muir Trail, it’s gentler on the knees and lowers the odds of Quinn taking an unplanned tumble.
Stop 2: Curry Village — Souvenirs & Ice Cream
After your hike, reward yourself with a stop at Curry Village. Sure, it’s a little overpriced, but the t-shirts, mugs, and Christmas ornaments are worth it for the memories they’ll spark each year. Plus, they sell ice cream, and that’s basically mandatory after the Mist Trail.
Bonus Wildlife Spotting
Keep your camera ready, we once had a bear stroll across the road right in front of us as we were leaving the valley. (We stayed in the car. The bear did not ask for a selfie.)
Planning Essentials
- Park Entry: You’ll need a pass. We usually get the America the Beautiful pass ($80) for unlimited entry to all U.S. National Parks for a year.
- Peak-Time Reservations: Required in summer and during certain holidays. Book at Recreation.gov. Peak hours usually run from 6 AM to 2 PM.
- Best Waterfall Season: Early spring, when snowmelt is at its peak.
Yosemite Top Tips
- Arrive early for the big viewpoints as parking fills fast.
- Waterfalls are most impressive in spring; don’t expect roaring cascades in late summer.
- The Mist Trail is gorgeous but wet so waterproof gear is your friend.
- Bears are beautiful from a distance. Give them space.
- Ice cream tastes better after 1,000 feet of elevation gain.
- Some roads and trails close in the winter. Check the National Parks website for an up to date status.
- Visit in mid to late February to witness the sunset lighting up Horsetail Fall and briefly transforming it to molten orange in the annual Firefall event
Packing List for Hiking Yosemite
- 🎒 Daypack
- 💧 Water bottle or hydration pack
- ⛑ First aid kit
- 🧢 Hat & 🕶 Sunglasses
- 🌧 Rain jacket
- 🧥 Warm layers
- 🧦 Hiking socks
- 👟 Hiking shoes/boots
- 🍫 Snacks + packed lunch
Go Together Life 
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