Take a Walk Around Yosemite’s Most Beautiful Landscapes
Hiking is very popular in Yosemite National Park as you’ll have over 800 miles of scenic trails to choose from. Great for exploring the American wilderness, these well-maintained paths pass through oak and pine forests, alpine lakes, and iconic lookouts. Maps and trail guides are available at any of the concessions in Yosemite Village.
While most of the trails are open year-round, some can only be tackled in the summer to ensure your safety. However, you’ll still find plenty of challenging routes taking you to steep cliff edges and roaring rapids. Check out our guide to the best hiking trails in Yosemite National Park.
1. Half Dome day hike
Stand triumphant at the summit and enjoy spectacular views
- Adventure
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Having conquered the Half Dome day hike at Yosemite National Park, you’ll have one of the most famous, most challenging, and yet most memorable hikes under your belt. Half Dome itself is one of the most striking features on Yosemite’s landscape, towering about 5,000 ft above the valley. This view has been heavily featured on film and canvas.
The day hike is a 15-mile roundtrip, best started out at sunrise. Your journey to the granite giant will be complemented by soothing nature sights, such as the Vernal and Nevada Falls, along with Liberty Cap, another standout formation. Reaching Half Dome, the real thrill begins with the climb up the cables, 400 ft below the summit. All your effort is paid off once you scramble to the top, with the panorama of the valley and the High Sierra to enjoy.
Location: Happy Isle Loop Rd, Yosemite Valley, CA 95389, USA