Weekend Getaway Itinerary for Yosemite in the Spring – Day 1
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Introduction
Pacific Dogwoods, Steller’s Jays, and waterfalls are three of the most common things you will encounter at Yosemite in the Spring.
Pacific Dogwood Steller’s Jay with an Apple Nevada Falls
We have come to love the Springtime for travel as it’s usually cooler, has less wildfire risk (especially poignant in California lately), there is the opportunity to see many different wildflowers, the birds are in the air, there’s usually less snow so no tire chains are required and more locations are opened up, and of course, most importantly, the waterfalls are the most magnificent with the Spring snow melt.
At the same time, Yosemite or even the Mono Lake area are amazing in the Fall as well. Just be sure to check local fire conditions. If you’re interested in a Fall trip check out our previous post along the 395 highway.
However, we’re here to talk about Springtime. Usually two full days in Yosemite will allow you enough time to visit most of the iconic spots in the valley. If, though, you are a more avid hiker, you may consider adding a day or two in order to take on a few more hikes.
Plan to arrive in the valley early in the morning (before 9am) in order to avoid traffic due to construction or other travelers also attempting to enter the park.
Accommodations
Since most of the hikes and scenic spots are centered around the Valley, the most convenient accommodation would be in Yosemite Valley itself where there are tents, campgrounds, or lodging available for a price. However due to the popularity of these sites it may be difficult to find availability.
Therefore our favorite outside lodging is Yosemite Bug Rustic Mountain Resort which is around 40 minutes outside of the park’s Arch Rock and El Portal Road entrance.
Be sure to check out their June Bug Cafe, as the dinner menu changes daily. The food is pretty good for ‘mountain’ food.
Yosemite Falls
Our first stop is Lower Yosemite Fall trail which is an easy 1 mile loop with little elevation gain on a paved road. This trail is also one of a few that are wheelchair accessible and that you are allowed to take your dog on. (Pets are allowed on most paved trails, however read up on the park information to see which trails animals are allowed on or not)
Trail to Lower Yosemite Fall Rushing Water Beautiful Forests Enjoying the Mist at the Lower Yosemite Fall Enjoying the Mist at the Lower Yosemite Fall
As you approach the fall, prepare for the temperature to drop dramatically as the mist from the falling water creates a natural air conditioning. Many people start putting on jackets as they begin to feel a little chilly.
There are plenty of benches along the loop to stop and rest or take a nice lunch break.
From this trail there are many other trails that intersect and connect to each other. We decided to eat lunch under the shade of some trees and then walk South across the street to Cook’s Meadow loop.
One of the Many Footbridges Trees! Plenty of Dogwood More Footbridges Shade from the trees Trees Providing shade and framing Half Dome View Upper Yosemite Fall view from the meadow Upper Yosemite Fall view from the meadow Upper and Lower Yosemite Fall from the Meadow Where the Green Fern Grows
On this trail you can get a clear view of Half Dome, both Upper and Lower Yosemite Falls, as well as Cook’s Meadow itself. It’s a great trail for photographs with a lot less people than in the Lower Yosemite Fall area.
This creates great opportunities for fun and creative photo moments. If you’re lucky you may also catch some of the local wildlife: from deer and birds to the lonesome coyote.
If you prefer to stay in this area for the rest of the day, Columbia Rock is nearby if you are interested in a more challenging hike. If you don’t mind driving a little bit more (up and above the valley) you can drive to Glacier Point for a scenic view of the entire valley.
Glacier Point
On to Glacier Point! Along the way there are a couple viewpoints that are worth stopping for. The very first stop on the way up Wawona Road is the famous Tunnel View. Made famous by the landscape photographer Ansel Adams, this scenic view is a must see. There is no hiking involved, just a parking lot and a vista of the valley below.
After the tunnel it’s about another 45 minutes of driving to reach Glacier Point. On the way to Glacier Point there are several popular locations to go hiking. One of those popular trails is Sentinel Dome.
Right before Glacier Point you have the option of stopping at Washburn Point which gives a clear view of Half Dome and both the Vernal and Nevada Falls. Once again no hiking is required, just park and walk over to check out the view. There is almost 2000 foot in elevation from the bottom of Vernal fall to the top of Nevada fall, but from this vantage point they look pretty tiny.
It’s definitely worth the drive to Glacier Point as you get an exquisite view of the valley below. As an alternative you can hike from the valley floor up to Glacier Point, but if you go by car there are more opportunities for hikes and views along the way.
Upper and Lower Falls The Valley and Upper Yosemite Falls Half Dome Valley Floor Vernal Fall Half Dome, Vernal Fall, Nevada Fall Half Dome, Vernal Fall, Nevada Fall Pretty Clouds and a view of Half Dome
Conclusion
This concludes our day one journey through Yosemite National Park. Be sure to check out Part Two which has our favorite hike so far!our next post!
Bonus!
Congratulations on reading this far! Here’s a short highlight of the day
