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Spending a few days away from your work desk and routine is one of the truest rewards of hard work. We can’t think of a better place to do so than spending a few days in the wild. Luckily, the U.S. teems with splendid outdoors that make for wonderful family memories. Among these is Yosemite National Park, one of the country’s most revered national parks, welcoming 4-5 million visitors annually.
Nestled within its borders, Yosemite houses immense ancient sequoia groves, granite domes sculpted by glaciers, cascading waterfalls, and an extensive network of over 800 miles of developed trails. Renowned as one of California’s premier national parks, Yosemite consistently astonishes newcomers and returning visitors.
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Its landscapes boast towering granite walls that rank among the world’s loftiest, a captivating procession of thunderous waterfalls, and monumental domes and peaks etched by the potent forces of prehistoric glaciers and volcanoes.
The park has diverse wildlife, ranging from the endearing pika to the regal yet endangered Sierra Nevada bighorn sheep. Yosemite also revels in extremes, from approximately 1,800 feet elevation at its lowest point to soaring heights surpassing 13,000 feet at the glacier-adorned summit of Mount Lyell.
But just like any other trip, you will need to do some planning for a beautiful family getaway in Yosemite National Park. Our guide should help you do just that! It covers all the essential information for your family vacation in Yosemite.
When is the best time to visit Yosemite?
Much like numerous of America’s renowned national parks, Yosemite presents a diverse topography with varying elevations, leading to a stark contrast in conditions across distinct zones. The valley, which houses awe-inspiring granite formations like Half Dome and El Capitan and towering waterfalls, sits at 4,000 feet. During summer, temperatures range from 50 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit, while winters present minimal snowfall.
Heading towards the “high country,” accessible via Tioga Road to the north, you’ll encounter a vast elevated expanse adorned with snow-draped peaks of the Sierra Nevada, dense clusters of coniferous trees, and shimmering alpine lakes. These routes are generally open from late May through October, depending on weather conditions.
Spring is an exceptional season for chasing waterfalls in Yosemite Valley. At the same time, summer attracts crowds to lower areas and offers ideal hiking conditions in the highlands (don’t miss the captivating trails in Tuolumne Meadows).
As autumn arrives, the foliage along the Merced River in the valley transforms with vibrant colors, waterfalls dwindle, and cooler daytime temperatures create an excellent setting for extensive backpacking journeys throughout the park. Winter ushers in Yosemite’s tranquil period, yet the activity picks up with the opening of the Curry Village ice rink and Badger Pass Ski Area once the initial snowfall blankets the landscape.
What to do in Yosemite National Park
Before accessing the park, visitors are required to pay an entrance fee. Private vehicles pay $35 each, and the pass is valid for occupants for up to 7 days. The park also offers an annual pass at $70; however, if you plan on visiting several national parks across the U.S., you should opt for America the Blue Pass, which costs $80. The annual pass also allows you access to 2000 federal recreation centers nationwide.
Backpacking and Hiking
The best way to enjoy a family getaway in Yosemite is by taking a hike. The park has an array of awe-inspiring trails that rank among the most magnificent in the country. For family-friendly options, you can begin by strolling along the wheelchair-accessible Lower Yosemite Fall Trail, about one mile long, to witness the majestic spray of California’s tallest waterfall.
Next, venture to the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias, where you can stroll on the 0.3-mile Big Trees Loop or the more extensive two-mile Grizzly Giant Loop.
Scenic drives around the park
Yosemite offers impeccably maintained scenic routes for family travelers uninterested in long, tiring walks. During summer, when Tioga Road is accessible, explorers can traverse the breathtaking “range of light,” embarking from Lee Vining and journeying to El Portal on the park’s western periphery.
Along the road, one can revel in the beauty of purple spider lupine and vibrant pink penstemon flowers in Tuolumne Meadows, taking moments to appreciate the expansive vistas of Half Dome and Clouds Rest from Olmstead Point.
An early morning excursion is recommended to sidestep traffic congestion. Also, while on this venture, visit the waterfalls (we recommend Vernal, Yosemite, and Bridalveil). Stop at El Capitan and envision Alex Honnold’s daring ascent of the towering 3,000-foot cliff face, accomplished without ropes. Alternatively, you could venture far from the well-trodden paths, avoiding the crowds in Yosemite’s captivating Hetch Hetchy region.
Cycling
Yosemite’s mesmerizing valley hosts one of the finest and most level multi-use bicycle routes you will ever encounter. Bring your bikes or rent some from Curry Village, Yosemite Village, or Yosemite Valley Lodge. Once equipped, you can embark on over 12 miles of dedicated cycling paths that meander alongside iconic landmarks like Half Dome, Happy Isles, Mirror Lake, the Merced River, and Lower Yosemite Fall.
Visit Nature Center at Happy Isles
Discover Yosemite’s remarkable wildlife and native ecosystems by embarking on a summer excursion to the Nature Center at Happy Isles. Immerse yourself in the captivating indoor displays before venturing onto the beautiful trails. These pathways offer an up-close experience of the forest, river, fen, and talus habitats, allowing you to gain firsthand insights into Yosemite’s natural wonders.
Wade in the Merced River
Regardless of your location along the river, taking the opportunity to dip your toes in its waters is always an excellent idea! In the summer, the Merced River meanders gently through the valley, offering an ideal setting for activities like rafting, wading, and swimming. While the river’s waters can become perilous in spring, the summer beckons with refreshing but chilly currents.
Seek out serene and shallow swimming spots characterized by sandy shores, such as those near Happy Isles, Housekeeping Camp, Stoneman Bridge, Superintendents Bridge, or El Capitan Meadow.
Get the kids sworn in as Jr. Rangers
Once they finish a compact workbook, participate in a ranger session, and contribute to tidying up Yosemite by collecting litter, children can proudly display their Jr. Ranger badges! Throughout this journey, they’ll gain insights into the park’s wildlife and gather fascinating knowledge from the park rangers. The kids will surely cherish this wonderful adventure and hold the title of Yosemite Jr. Ranger with great pride.
Where to stay in Yosemite National Park
Are you looking forward to a night of car camping beneath the twinkling stars? Craving the experience of sleeping in a classic Airstream? Or maybe you’re inclined towards a luxurious lodge offering top-tier amenities and a delectable dinner menu? Whatever your preference, there’s undoubtedly an option that will cater to even the most discerning traveler in your group.
Camping
Yosemite National Park has thirteen easily car-accessible campgrounds, but snagging a spot can be challenging. These campgrounds, available for reservation from April to October, tend to fill up within minutes. If you want a prime location in the coveted valley area, like the highly sought-after Upper, Lower, or North Pines campgrounds beneath the iconic Half Dome, thorough preparation is a must.
Keep in mind that booking timelines vary: some sites become available five months ahead, some two months ahead, and others just two weeks before your planned trip. Stay ahead of the competition by constantly checking the park’s official website and making your reservation whenever you can.
During the winter season, numerous campgrounds shut down. However, a small selection, including Camp 4, Wawona, and Hodgdon Meadow, transitioned to a first-come, first-served approach. For those unfazed by the cold, Upper Pines in Yosemite Valley offers reservations throughout the year.
Hotels
Yosemite offers luxurious accommodations on the outskirts of its boundaries. Just a five-minute drive from the Big Oak Flat Entrance lies Rush Creek Lodge & Spa, a haven for families with tastebuds for fine dining. The lodge offers families a chance to unwind with a massage after hiking.
Vacation rentals
For travelers seeking impeccable service and exceptional gourmet experiences, head south to the Château du Sureau. This European-style castle, nestled on nine acres of secluded land in the charming mountain town of Oakhurst, is home to the remarkable restaurant known as The Elderberry House.
Glamping
Among the historic lodges within the park, The Ahwahnee, in Yosemite Valley, is the ultimate gem. This iconic lodge first welcomed guests in 1927. Renowned for its elegant dining hall and unparalleled location, The Ahwahnee is a testament to the park’s rich history. Adventurous park enthusiasts yearning for the comforts of home might find solace in the stylish Airstream accommodations at AutoCamp Yosemite.
A trip to Yosemite with kids promises to be a truly memorable and enriching experience for the whole family. The park’s awe-inspiring natural beauty, diverse ecosystems, and captivating activities offer a unique opportunity for children to connect with nature, learn about wildlife, and engage in outdoor adventures.
From the iconic granite cliffs and breathtaking waterfalls to the tranquil meadows and ancient sequoia groves, Yosemite’s wonders provide a captivating backdrop for exploration and discovery.