Your Guide to Some of the Best Yosemite Hikes

Hiking is the remedy to a multitude of troubles!  This refreshing physical activity clears the mind, relieves stress, and creates a more positive attitude.  If you’re looking for the best place for a rejuvenating hike, filled with gorgeous scenery and breathtaking natural features, Yosemite, California, is the ideal destination for you.  This area is bursting with countless trails, each one containing their own unique components and landmarks.  Discover some of the best Yosemite hikes to help you start planning your grand escape to the great outdoors today!

5 of the Best Yosemite Hikes

  1. Half Dome

Although this is a challenging activity- Yosemite hikes to Half Dome usually take 10 to 14 hours- the stunning views are well worth the exertion.  After climbing to the top of this towering peak, partly by cable ascent, you’ll be treated to panoramic views that continue for miles and miles.  This is one of the more dangerous Yosemite day hikes and should only be taken by experienced hikers.

  1. Cloud’s Rest

About 14 miles round-trip, Cloud’s Rest is a slightly less strenuous trail that still results in scenic overlooks with incredible views.  Named for the low-hanging clouds that surround this area, Cloud’s Rest is an enjoyable excursion for any avid hiker.  From the top of this pinnacle, you can see numerous Yosemite monuments, including Tenaya Lake, Sentinel Dome, and Half Dome.  Make sure to take precaution here; there’s a narrow ridge at the top that should be navigated carefully.  

  1. Mist Trail

See not one, but two magnificent waterfalls when you hike along the Mist Trail!  This is one of the more relaxing Yosemite day hikes; it’s a 7-mile round trip to see Nevada Falls and only a 3-mile round trip to see Vernal Falls.  You’ll love the overlooks of the falls, as well as the picturesque views along the way.  

  1. Yosemite Falls

One of the oldest paths on the Yosemite trail map, the Yosemite Falls hike is a beloved spot of countless visitors.  Ascend to the crest of Yosemite Falls, North America’s tallest waterfall, to gaze upon the expansive Yosemite Valley spread below.  This is a difficult trail, so if you’d prefer something easier, you can take the Lower Yosemite Falls Trail for a quick, one-mile loop that still offers great views of the falls.  

  1. Glacier Point

One of the easiest Yosemite hikes, Glacier Point is a brief loop that offers amazing views, especially at sunset.  Another way to get here is via the 4-Mile Trail, which connects Glacier Point and Yosemite Valley and provides its own special attributes, like the Swinging Bridge and wildflowers in the spring.  

Come Stay with Us at Hotel Charlotte!

After a thrilling day of exploring Yosemite’s best trails, treat yourself to a stay in the most luxurious lodging possible!  Hotel Charlotte is a historic bed and breakfast in Groveland, California, located conveniently at the gateway of Yosemite, that offers comfortable furnishings and excellent amenities within a charming, rustic environment.  Choose from staying in one of our twelve lovely rooms or renting one of our cozy vacation cottages.  You can explore the many attractions of our surrounding area, or simply spend time unwinding in our relaxing environment; we have an elegant living room, friendly and helpful staff, and even our very own restaurant to accommodate all of your needs!  Don’t wait another minute to start planning your dream vacation; check our availability and book your stay today!

Photo by lzf / Thinkstock

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