4 Day Yosemite Itinerary
A 4-Day Adventure Through Nature's Wonderland
Welcome to Yosemite National Park, where every vista reveals nature's grandeur in its most magnificent form. Here's a precise itinerary for your 4-day adventure at Yosemite National Park, filled with must-see landmarks, fascinating hikes, and scenic drives. Our meticulously crafted itinerary promises an unforgettable journey through Yosemite's breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
Day 1: Welcome to Yosemite
Your journey begins at Yosemite Village, where you can visit the Yosemite Museum, grab a bite at the local restaurants, and familiarize yourself with the park's rich history. Enjoy a tranquil drive through Yosemite Valley in the afternoon, soaking up the breathtaking views of the Merced River, lush meadows, and towering granite monoliths.
Time |
Activity |
---|---|
9:00 AM |
Arrive at Yosemite Village |
9:15 AM |
Visit the Yosemite Museum to learn about the park's history |
10:30 AM |
Explore the local restaurants and grab breakfast |
11:30 AM |
Depart for Yosemite Valley Drive |
12:00 PM |
Begin the drive through Yosemite Valley |
2:00 PM |
Stop for a scenic overlook and enjoy lunch |
3:30 PM |
Continue the drive, taking in views of Merced River and meadows |
5:00 PM |
Return to Yosemite Village |
Day 2: Majestic Landmarks
Today is dedicated to exploring magnificent landmarks. Begin with the iconic Yosemite Falls. As the highest waterfall in the park, the falls are a sight to behold. Following this, head to El Capitan, an imposing rock formation loved by climbers worldwide. Finish the day with a beautiful sunset at Half Dome, the park's most famous rock formation.
Time |
Activity |
---|---|
8:00 AM |
Breakfast at a lodge or campsite |
9:00 AM |
Depart for Yosemite Falls |
10:00 AM |
Explore Yosemite Falls and the surrounding area |
12:00 PM |
Lunch break |
1:30 PM |
Visit El Capitan and take in the views |
3:00 PM |
Head to Half Dome for sunset preparations |
5:30 PM |
Arrive at Half Dome viewpoint for sunset |
7:00 PM |
Return to lodging/campsite for dinner and relaxation |
Day 3: Hiking Adventures
Get ready for adrenaline-filled action as you hike the famous Mist Trail, offering awe-inspiring views of Vernal and Nevada Falls. Enjoy a picnic with panoramic vistas, surrounded by nature. In the afternoon, head out on the Glacier Point hike. It's a longer trail but the spectacular outlooks over Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and the High Sierra are worth it!
Time |
Activity |
---|---|
7:00 AM |
Early breakfast |
8:00 AM |
Depart for the Mist Trail hike |
9:00 AM |
Begin hike to Vernal Falls |
11:00 AM |
Continue hiking to Nevada Falls |
12:30 PM |
Picnic lunch at Nevada Falls |
1:30 PM |
Start descent back down Mist Trail |
3:30 PM |
Return to lodging/campsite for rest and refreshments |
5:00 PM |
Depart for Glacier Point hike |
5:30 PM |
Begin Glacier Point hike |
7:30 PM |
Reach Glacier Point for sunset views |
8:30 PM |
Return to lodging/campsite for dinner and relaxation |
Day 4: Farewell Yosemite
Your final day in Yosemite allows you to visit any locations you've missed or revisit your favorite spots. We recommend a relaxing family picnic at Mirror Lake followed by a stroll at Mariposa Grove, home to 500 mature giant sequoias. What a perfect ending to your incredible Yosemite vacation!
Time |
Activity |
---|---|
8:00 AM |
Breakfast and pack-up |
9:00 AM |
Visit any missed locations or revisit favorites |
11:00 AM |
Depart for Mirror Lake |
12:00 PM |
Family picnic at Mirror Lake |
1:30 PM |
Stroll at Mariposa Grove |
3:30 PM |
Explore the giant sequoias |
5:30 PM |
Return to lodging/campsite for final preparations and departure |