10 Must-Do Easy Hikes in Yosemite for All Skill Levels

Easy Hikes in Yosemite National Park

1. Lower Yosemite Fall Trail

Get an up-close view of Lower Yosemite Fall, a stunning 320-foot cascade that makes up the lower portion of the iconic Yosemite Falls – one of the tallest waterfalls in North America.

This short, easy trail offers a fantastic view of Lower Yosemite Fall from the footbridge and from a more distant viewpoint.

On the western portion of the trail, you will get a great view of the entire Yosemite Falls.

There is no parking at the trailhead – the closest parking lots are at Yosemite Village and Yosemite Falls parking area.

You can take the Valleywide Shuttle to shuttle stop #6 (Lower Yosemite Fall Trailhead).

In late spring and early summer, be prepared to feel the cool spray of mist.

Also, at the right time, you can catch a rainbow at the base of the falls!

The eastern portion of the trail is wheelchair accessible when free of snow and ice.

Leashed pets and strollers are welcome on this paved trail.

Restrooms and drinking water are available at the trailhead near the western section of the loop.

2. Cook’s Meadow Loop

One of my favorite spots in Yosemite is Cook’s Meadow, also known as Sentinel Meadow.

This peaceful 1-mile loop trail offers stunning views of Yosemite Falls, Half Dome, Glacier Point, and Sentinel Rock.

One of the best photo ops is from Sentinel Bridge, where you can capture a picture-perfect view of Half Dome reflected in the Merced River.

The trail is mostly flat and easy to navigate, and it’s wheelchair accessible when not covered in snow or ice.

Leashed pets, bicycles, and strollers are allowed on the Cook’s Meadow Trail.

It’s important to stay on the marked trail to protect the delicate meadow ecosystem!

There is a small parking area near Sentinel Bridge off Sentinel Drive – you can try to snag a parking spot there, but good luck in peak season!

Your best bet for parking, especially in the summer months, is often the Yosemite Village parking area or the Yosemite Falls parking area.

You may need to take the Valleywide Shuttle to reach Cook’s Meadow, especially during peak season.

The shuttle stops conveniently at stop #1 (Yosemite Village parking area), stop #5 (Yosemite Exploration Center), and stop #6 (Lower Yosemite Fall Trailhead) – all within easy walking distance of the loop.

3. Bridalveil Fall Trail

Bridalveil Fall is one of Yosemite National Park’s most iconic waterfalls, visible from several popular viewpoints like Tunnel View and Valley View.

Plunging 620 feet, this powerful waterfall is one of the first major sights visitors experience when entering Yosemite Valley.

Did you know you can get up close and personal with this stunning waterfall?

There are two ways to reach the viewpoint near the base of the falls:

1. Start from the main trailhead for an easy 0.5-mile roundtrip walk.
2. Or start further down Southside Drive for a 1-mile roundtrip walk.

The trail starting from the main trailhead is paved and wheelchair accessible.

If the main parking lot (which fits about 60 vehicles) is full, you can continue a short distance along Southside Drive, where additional parking is available on either side of the road.

The paved Bridalveil Fall Trail is pet-friendly, but not the route starting from Southside Drive.

There is no shuttle service to Bridalveil Fall, so you’ll need to drive yourself and park at or near the trailhead.

Restrooms can be found at the main parking area.

4. Mirror Lake Paved Trail

Mirror Lake is a beautiful spot in Yosemite National Park offering amazing views of a lake and granite peaks.

You can keep it short and sweet with a 2-mile out-and-back walk along the paved path, or go for the full 5-mile loop if you have more time and energy.

The loop is generally rated as easy, but it can become a bit tricky in the spring when the snow starts melting and floods a portion of the trail which may require hopping onto slippery logs and bushwacking.

The paved portion of the trail is open to leashed pets, bicycles, and strollers, and it is wheelchair accessible.

Parking is not available at the trailhead – the closest parking area is at Curry Village.

You can also take the shuttle to stop #17.

Drinking water is not available at the trailhead or along the trail, so be sure to bring your own.

Vault toilets are located 0.5 miles from the trailhead and at Mirror Lake.

5. Taft Point

This scenic hike leads to Taft Point, one of Yosemite’s most jaw-dropping viewpoints.

From the top, you’ll enjoy stunning views of Yosemite Valley, including iconic landmarks like El Capitan and Yosemite Falls.

Along the way, you’ll pass by The Fissures which are narrow, deep cracks in the granite that drop as far as 2,000 feet straight down.

Admire from a safe distance! There are no guardrails at The Fissures or anywhere else at Taft Point except for one small overlook.

The hike begins at the Sentinel Dome and Taft Point Trailhead, located off Glacier Point Road.

From there, you’ll follow a well-marked trail for about 1 mile through peaceful forest and open meadows.

As you near Taft Point, the landscape changes to rocky terrain and a wide-open granite area.

Unfortunately, this trail isn’t wheelchair accessible or pet-friendly, but it is doable for families with children.

Just please keep a close eye on them once you get to Taft Point – there’s too many exposed cliff edges!

The main viewpoint, secured by a guardrail, offers a breathtaking, unobstructed look over Yosemite Valley.

It’s one of my favorite viewpoints in Yosemite!

Just a short distance away, you’ll also find a popular “Instagram spot” where you can stand on an outcrop and get an awesome photo!

But don’t just go for silly pictures – enjoy the beauty of nature!

Here’s a tip – get there early to watch the sunrise and avoid big crowds or stay later and watch the sunset.

6. Glacier Point Trail

From the Glacier Point parking area, a short, paved, wheelchair-accessible trail leads to a jaw-dropping viewpoint perched 3,214 feet above Yosemite Valley.

This overlook offers panoramic views including Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, and the park’s stunning high country.

⚠️ Glacier Point Road is opened seasonally from late May through October or November, depending on road conditions.

This paved path is perfect for anyone who wants easy access to one of the most incredible overlooks in Yosemite!

7. Grizzly Giant Loop Trail

The Grizzly Giant Loop Trail and Big Trees Loop Trail (described below) are located in Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias.

This area of Yosemite is home to over 500 mature giant sequoias!

This hike begins from the Mariposa Grove Arrival Area, but it’s important to note, that this parking lot is only accessible for visitors with a disability placard.

Everyone else must park at the Mariposa Grove Welcome Plaza – from here you can either hike the Washburn Trail (2 miles one-way) to reach the Arrival Area or take the free shuttle.

The shuttle operates seasonally, typically starting in April and running through November, though dates may vary based on weather and road conditions.

The trail is beginner-friendly and family-friendly – perfect for everyone of all skill levels!

For individuals with a disability placard, you can park at the Grizzly Giant parking area where there is a wheelchair accessible path leading to the Grizzly Giant.

The Grizzly Giant Loop Trail leads you through a forest of giant sequoias with the most notable being the Bachelor and Three Graces, Grizzly Giant, and California Tunnel Tree.

✨ READ THIS: Complete Guide to Visiting Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias

8. Big Trees Loop Trail

This short and scenic hike takes you along a paved, wheelchair-accessible path through a forest of giant sequoias.

One of the most iconic sights along the way is the Fallen Monarch, a massive sequoia lying on its side.

It’s a popular photo spot and shows the incredible scale of a giant sequoia’s roots.

You’ll find informational plaques that share the history and significance of the sequoias.

It’s the perfect trail for anyone looking for a quick but incredibly beautiful experience in Yosemite.

That said, this trail is no secret – expect large crowds during peak season, especially midday.

To enjoy a more peaceful walk, arrive as early as possible!

As mentioned earlier, visitors with a disability placard can park at the Arrival Area near the grove.

All other visitors must park at the Welcome Plaza and either take the shuttle or hike in via the Washburn Trail (2 miles one-way).

9. Soda Springs and Parsons Lodge

Hiking to Soda Springs and Parsons Lodge in Tuolumne Meadows is a super easy and scenic walk through Yosemite’s stunning high-country.

It’s a great little adventure for families or anyone wanting to stretch their legs and enjoy the wide-open views.

The trailhead is near the Tuolumne Meadows Visitor Center, and you can either park there or at another small parking area just east of the trailhead.

You’ll follow a flat, gentle path along the Tuolumne River, which leads to Soda Springs – a unique spot where naturally carbonated water bubbles right up out of the ground.

Just past that, you’ll reach Parsons Lodge, a historic stone building built by the Sierra Club back in the early 1900s.

It’s now used for educational programs and conservation events.

This short hike is perfect if you’re looking for something low-effort but still beautiful.

Definitely worth the stop if you’re exploring this part of the park.

✨ Soda Springs and Parsons Lodge made it on my list of the best Tioga Pass hikes!

10. Tenaya Lake Trail

Tenaya Lake is the largest lake in Yosemite’s frontcountry and one of the most stunning high-country lakes you’ll find.

It’s easily accessible as it’s located right off Tioga Road.

The trail surrounding the lake is a must-do for those visiting the Tioga Pass area of Yosemite!

You can start this hike from either the east or west end.

Parking lots are available at each end of the lake with pit toilets.

On the east end, you’ll find designated accessible parking, an accessible vault toilet, and a paved path that leads to open, scenic views of the lake.

The east side features a sandy beach that’s perfect for swimming or relaxing on a summer day.

On the west end, you’ll get jaw-dropping views of the surrounding granite domes.

The trail is easy with little elevation gain, making it a great option for all skill levels, including families with kids.

In the summer, Tenaya Lake is a popular spot for picnicking, swimming, and simply enjoying the peacefulness of the high country.

⚠️ Tioga Road is typically open to vehicles from late May or early June through sometime in November – check current road conditions before heading out!

Short and Moderate Hikes in Yosemite

Mist Trail to Vernal Fall Footbridge

Honestly, this hike is more hard than moderately challenging but doable if you take it slow and pace yourself.

The path is paved the entire way to the Vernal Fall Footbridge, but it’s a steady uphill climb the whole time.

If you try to power through it quickly, it’s going to feel rough.

The trick is to take your time, rest often, and enjoy the journey.

It’s a short hike, and the way back is all downhill!

From the footbridge, you’ll get a beautiful distant view of the waterfall.

Even though this portion of the Mist Trail is completely paved, I wouldn’t consider it wheelchair accessible or stroller friendly due to it being very steep and the occasional bump in the trail.

Parking is not available at the trailhead – the closest parking area is at Curry Village.

You can also take the shuttle to stop #17.

Now, if you’re feeling spicy, you can continue on the Mist Trail past the footbridge.

This part of the hike takes you all the way to the top of Vernal Fall, and while it’s incredible, it’s also very tough.

The full hike is about 3 miles roundtrip with 1,000 feet of elevation gain, including over 600 granite steps.

In late spring and early summer, the mist from the falls drenches the steps, making them wet and slippery – be careful and know your limits.

The hike to the top of Vernal Fall shouldn’t be on this list but I wanted to mention it just in case you feel you are 110% prepared to tackle this hike!

Sentinel Dome

When I was reading through other blog posts about “easy hikes in Yosemite”, I was confused when some would mention Sentinel Dome.

The first 90% is considered easy, but the final 10% is not easy!

Therefore, I would categorize it as moderately challenging.

The hike begins at the Sentinel Dome and Taft Point Trailhead off Glacier Point Road.

From there, follow the well-marked trail as it gently winds through a peaceful forest for about a mile, with a gradual gain in elevation.

As you get closer to Sentinel Dome, the landscape begins to open up and change to granite slabs.

The final climb up the dome is short but steep, as you make your way up the granite slope.

At the top, you’ll be rewarded with a 360-degree view that includes Half Dome, El Capitan, Vernal and Nevada Falls, and even the distant peaks of the High Sierra.

For an even more magical experience, try hiking it at sunrise or sunset.

Don’t forget to bring a headlamp and some extra layers since it can get chilly!

Tuolumne Grove Trail

Located near Crane Flat along Tioga Road (Highway 120), the Tuolumne Grove of Giant Sequoias is a true gem within Yosemite.

The trail begins at the Tuolumne Grove Trailhead, which has limited parking, so it’s best to arrive early, especially during the busy summer season.

From the trailhead, the hike starts with a downhill walk along an old roadbed, which was once part of the historic Big Oak Flat Road.

The downhill portion will be easy but coming back up the trail will be a bit more challenging.

The terrain, despite it being paved, may be too challenging for wheelchairs and strollers.

Within the grove, you’ll find about two dozen giant sequoias, with the most notable being the Dead Giant Tunnel Tree.

This giant sequoia once stood at 200 feet tall and has a circumference of 120 feet.

Sadly, it has succumbed to the terrible effects of early tourism practices – carving tunnels through the sequoias.

Although it still stands, the upper portion is gone – hence the name Dead Giant Tunnel Tree.

Even though Tioga Road is closed from November to May/June, the grove can still be accessed by hiking or snowshoeing an additional 2 miles.

✨ READ THIS: Complete Guide to Visiting Tuolumne Grove in Yosemite

Lembert Dome

The hike to the top of Lembert Dome is a short yet rewarding adventure that leads to one of the best panoramic views in the Tuolumne Meadows area.

The trail begins from a small parking area near the Tuolumne Meadows Lodge, with a clearly marked path winding through a quiet forest.

After a short, steady climb, you’ll reach a junction – take a left onto the Lembert Dome Trail to head toward the summit.

From the base, you’ll get an awesome view of the towering granite dome, and if you’re up for it, you can continue your climb for even more incredible views.

The final push to the summit involves a steep rock scramble across exposed granite.

It might look intimidating at first, especially if you’re uneasy with heights, but the climb is more manageable than it seems.

The easiest approach is at the left side of the dome – the AllTrails map shows exactly where to go.

Make sure to wear sturdy hiking shoes or boots with good grip!

Once you reach the top, you’re treated to 360-degree views of Tuolumne Meadows and the surrounding High Sierra peaks.

⚠️ Lembert Dome sits at 9,455 feet above sea level, so it’s important to acclimate to the elevation prior to this hike to reduce risk of altitude sickness – pay attention to your body, stay hydrated, and take breaks as needed.

Tips for Hiking in Yosemite National Park

1. Yosemite’s Entrance Fee and Reservation:

Entrance to Yosemite National Park costs $35 per vehicle for a 7-day pass. However, if you have the America the Beautiful Annual Pass, your entry is free!

For those who love exploring national parks, investing in the Annual Pass is a smart choice. At just $80, it grants you access to over 2,000 federal recreation sites across the country!

A reservation is required to enter Yosemite National Park from 6 AM to 3 PM on:

• Weekends from May 24 to June 15 and August 16 to August 31
• Daily from June 16 to August 15

You can purchase reservations on recreation.gov.

As of April 17, nps.gov does not have any official information on their website, but other sources have provided these dates. I will update if things change!

2. Download Offline Maps: Most of the trails are easy to follow and well-marked, but having offline maps downloaded on your phone can give you peace of mind.

3. Start Early: Beat the crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures by starting your hike early in the morning, especially during peak season.

✨ READ THIS: 15 Ways to Avoid Crowds in the Great Outdoors

4. Check the Weather Forecast: Do not attempt to hike any of these trails in inclement weather!

Always check the weather forecast for thunderstorms and stay alert for dark clouds.

5. Be Bear Aware: Black bears are active within Yosemite.

Follow these guidelines to avoid any negative interactions with a black bear.

🐻 Note: bear spray is illegal in Yosemite!

6. Check Road Status: Glacier Point Road and Tioga Road are seasonal and typically closes from November to May/June – confirm it’s open before heading out.

7. Respect Nature: Follow Leave No Trace principles – plan ahead, pack out all trash, avoid disturbing wildlife, be considerate of others, and respect the natural beauty of Yosemite National Park.

8. Pack the 10 Essentials: Although these hikes are short and easy to moderate in difficulty, it’s always a good idea to carry these items for ultimate safety just in case!

• Navigation – A map, compass, or GPS device to help you stay on course and find your way in unfamiliar terrain.
• Food – Energy-rich snacks or meals to keep your energy levels up during the hike.
• First-Aid Kit – A basic first-aid kit with items like bandages, antiseptic, pain relievers, and any personal medications you may need.
• Sun Protection – Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from harmful UV rays.
• Insulation – Extra layers of clothing (such as a jacket or fleece) to stay warm in changing weather conditions.
• Rain Gear and Emergency Shelter – A rain jacket or poncho and an emergency bivy sack or space blanket for shelter in case of sudden weather changes.
• Fire – A lighter, matches, or fire starter to help you build a fire for warmth or signaling in case of emergency.
• Multi-tool or Knife – A versatile tool or knife to handle any tasks, from preparing food to making repairs.
• Headlamp/Flashlight – A reliable light source with extra batteries, in case you end up hiking in the dark or need it for emergency situations.

Conclusion

While Yosemite National Park might seem like a playground for experienced hikers, there are plenty of easy trails that are perfect for all skill levels!

You’ll find them scattered throughout the park, with many of the best ones located right in Yosemite Valley.

One thing I truly love is that some of these trails are wheelchair accessible and stroller friendly.

Everyone deserves the chance to experience the beauty of Yosemite, so accessibility is important! 🙌

Furthermore, if easy trails are what feel best for you, that’s great!

These shorter hikes still pack in so much beauty and adventure.

And if you’re looking to eventually tackle tougher hikes, starting with easy to moderate trails is a great way to build confidence, endurance, and experience. 💪

In summary, I love these easy hikes, and I know you will too!

If this guide inspires you to complete any of these easy hikes in Yosemite (or the short, moderate ones), I’d love to hear about your adventure.

Leave a comment and share your experience!

🏞️ MORE YOSEMITE RESOURCES:

• 1-Day Yosemite Itinerary for First-Time Visitors
• Best Yosemite Waterfall Hikes: Complete Guide
• Ultimate Guide to Visiting Yosemite in May
• Hetch Hetchy Hikes: Explore This Hidden Gem