8 Great Hikes in Yosemite: Your Ultimate Hiking Guide

If you’re planning a trip to Yosemite and wondering which trails are truly worth your time, you’re in the right place! From misty waterfall climbs to high-elevation dome trails, this guide covers some of the best hikes in Yosemite National Park—especially for day hikers exploring Yosemite Valley.

Inside, you’ll find detailed overviews of classic trails like Vernal and Nevada Falls, the Panorama Trail, and Sentinel Dome, plus a few easy add-ons, like Lower Yosemite Fall and Bridalveil Fall, that are perfect for slower-paced mornings or relaxed afternoons.

The hikes are listed in order of difficulty, and for each, I’ve included trail stats (distance, time, elevation gain, and difficulty), key highlights, and practical tips drawn from my own experience hiking in Yosemite in June.

Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, scrambling up granite domes, or catching a sunrise at a quiet overlook, Yosemite delivers some of the most unforgettable hikes in the world.

Ready to lace up your boots and find your favorite trail? Let’s get started!

Bridalveil Fall Trail

Bridalveil Fall Trail Info

• Distance: 0.5 mile round-trip
• Time: 20–30 minutes
• Elevation gain: ~80 feet
• Difficulty: Easy

The first hike on our list is the Bridalveil Fall Trail, a short but unforgettable waterfall experience that should definitely be on your Yosemite itinerary.

The trail begins at the Bridalveil Fall Parking Area and follows a recently restored, paved path to the base of the 620-foot waterfall, where rushing water crashes into a misty basin.

Relatively flat and partially wheelchair-friendly, this quick 0.5-mile, round-trip walk is both scenic and more accessible than ever, making it a great stop for most visitors.

Tim and I took this short stroll on our second day in Yosemite, when I was dealing with a rough case of hiker’s rash, and it was the perfect way to slow things down and still enjoy the park.

In June, the falls are at their fullest, so expect swirling spray, gusty winds, and maybe even a rainbow or two dancing in the sunlight.

This is often the first waterfall visitors see when entering Yosemite Valley, and it’s also one of the most photographed. The light mist and glowing rainbows make for stunning shots, especially early in the morning or near sunset when the light is soft and golden.

A Broad Recommendation: We arrived around 11:00 am, and while the falls were putting on a show, the sun was already high, casting harsh shadows and making it tough to capture good photos. The trail was also beginning to fill up. If you’re hoping for the best light—and a bit more breathing room—I highly recommend arriving earlier.

Bridalveil Fall Trail Tips

• No shuttle service runs to Bridalveil Fall, so you’ll need to drive yourself or build it into a longer walk along the Valley Loop Trail.
• Parking fills up quickly, but there’s usually steady turnover. We only waited a few minutes, though traffic can back up during peak hours.
• If the main lot is full, drive a bit farther east along Southside Drive to find roadside parking. This alternate route adds about 0.25 miles and crosses Bridalveil Creek, offering a different and quieter approach.
• Restrooms are available in the parking lot, but there’s no drinking water, so come prepared.
• Leashed pets are allowed on this trail. Be sure to pack out all trash (including food waste), keep your snacks close, and never feed the wildlife!

Lower Yosemite Falls Trail

Lower Yosemite Falls Trail Info

• Distance: 1 mile loop
• Time: 30–45 minutes
• Elevation Gain: ~50 feet
• Difficulty: Easy

Looking for a quick and easy way to experience one of Yosemite’s most iconic landmarks? The Lower Yosemite Fall Trail is the perfect low-effort, high-reward option and one of the best short hikes in Yosemite.

Starting at shuttle stop #6, this mostly flat, paved loop winds through the forest to the base of Lower Yosemite Fall, part of the tallest waterfall in North America.

The trail is wheelchair-accessible, family-friendly, and ideal for an early-morning stroll or a refreshing afternoon break.

In the spring and early summer, the waterfall is at full force, sending out a powerful spray that sometimes sparkles with rainbows in the afternoon light—especially in June.

But, this means that the main viewing area can get very crowded. We only stayed a few minutes before moving on, but thanks to a kind stranger, we still got an awesome photo with no one in the background!

We ended up hiking this short trail twice (in the late afternoon both times)—and we’re so glad we did! On our second visit, we were treated to an unforgettable wildlife sighting: a black bear, just feet away, casually ambling toward us on the trail.

Luckily, we were on a bridge above, and the bear wasn’t aggressive and wandered off quickly, but it definitely got our adrenaline pumping!

A Broad Recommendation: Always keep your distance from wildlife, no matter how calm or curious they seem. We were stunned (and a bit horrified) to see tourists following the bear into the woods—please don’t do that. Always remember to respect the animals and to keep yourself (and them) safe.

Lower Yosemite Falls Trail Tips

• Go early or late for better photos and fewer crowds.
• Mist from the waterfall can be intense in spring and early summer, and the viewing platform can get slick, so tread carefully.
• The western side of the loop is wheelchair-accessible, paved, and easiest for strollers.
• Black bears, deer, and other wildlife have been spotted on or near the trail. Always keep a safe distance, never follow or feed the animals, and keep any food secured.

This trail might be short, but it deserves a spot on every Yosemite itinerary—and maybe even a second visit if you’re lucky enough to be nearby!

A Broad Recommendation: Though we didn’t have time to do this during our 3 days in Yosemite, the Lower Yosemite Falls Trail can be paired with the nearby Cook’s Meadow Loop for a gentle walk past river bends and wildflower-filled fields with even more scenic backdrops of Yosemite Falls and Half Dome.

Taft Point Trail

Taft Point Trail Info

• Distance: 2.2 miles out-and-back
• Time: 1-2 hours
• Elevation gain: 200 feet (on the return)
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

If you’re looking for one of the best short hikes in Yosemite with a big reward, the Taft Point Trail delivers. Starting from the Sentinel Dome/Taft Point Trailhead, this 2.2-mile round-trip trek winds gently through shaded, pine forest and sun-drenched meadows before opening up to one of the most iconic overlooks in the park.

We kicked off our final day in Yosemite with this hike—and it was the perfect finale. After an easy stroll through the forest, the trail leads you right to the edge of Yosemite Valley, where you’ll be met with sweeping, unobstructed views of El Capitan, Yosemite Falls, and the canyon floor far below.

Another cool feature here? The fissures. These deep, narrow cracks in the granite stretch down hundreds of feet and offer a dramatic preview of the sheer cliff drop at Taft Point.

It’s an experience that’s both thrilling and humbling—especially with no guardrails at the overlook. Stay alert, keep your distance from the edge, and hold on to your hat (it gets windy!).

Unlike some of Yosemite’s more crowded vistas, Taft Point offers a peaceful and less-touristy alternative to Glacier Point or Tunnel View. It’s a great place to sit, breathe, and soak in the scale of the valley, without having to hike all day to get there.

Taft Point Trail Tips

• Aim to begin before 8:00 am for the best lighting for photos and easier parking at the Sentinel Dome/Taft Point lot, which fills up fast.
• There are no guardrails at the cliff’s edge. Stay well back, especially near the fissures, and keep a close eye on kids (yes, we saw plenty of kids on this hike!) or anyone uneasy with heights.
• This area is very exposed—winds can be strong near the edge. Dress in layers and bring a hat that won’t blow away.

This short but spectacular hike is an absolute must for any Yosemite itinerary. And if you have a little extra time and energy, you can also combine it with Sentinel Dome for a loop trail that offers a double dose of unforgettable views.

Sentinel Dome Trail

Sentinel Dome Trail Info

• Distance: 2.2 miles round-trip
• Time: 1.5–2 hours
• Elevation gain: ~400 feet
• Difficulty: Moderate (short but steep at the end)

Another relatively short hike with big rewards, Sentinel Dome is a standout. This 2.2-mile round-trip trail climbs steadily through high-elevation forest before opening up to a huge, granite dome, where a short scramble leads to one of the highest accessible viewpoints in Yosemite.

Since this trail shares the same parking area as Taft Point, it’s a convenient add-on if you’re already in the area. You can hike both trails separately, or combine them into a loop for the perfect half-day adventure.

After visiting Taft Point, we paused for a peaceful picnic along the trail before setting off for Sentinel Dome. The path is mostly gentle until the final push, where you’ll climb up the side of the dome using natural stone steps and smooth rock surfaces.

Once you reach the top, be prepared to be blown away—literally (it’s pretty windy up there!). At 8,122 feet, the summit delivers stunning, 360-degree views of Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, El Capitan, and even the distant peaks of the High Sierra.

It’s especially magical in June, when wildflowers are in bloom and the air is crisp, and it’s far less crowded than neighboring Glacier Point. Just don’t forget a jacket—mornings especially can be chilly up here.

The Sentinel Dome Trail is easily one of my favorite hikes in Yosemite—it’s short, scenic, and packed with views. Naturally, I had to do my signature handstand at the top (don’t worry—I kept a safe distance from the edge!).

Sentinel Dome Trail Tips

• The final dome ascent is short but steep and fully exposed. Scramble with care, especially if the rock is wet or icy.
• At more than 8,000 feet elevation, temperatures are noticeably cooler—bring a fleece or windbreaker, even in summer.
• The granite reflects sunlight—sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are essential.
• Go early or late in the day for the best photos with minimal shadows.
• Taft Point and Sentinel Dome can be hiked together in a single loop (~5.1 miles total). It’s a great half-day adventure with big payoffs in both directions.

A Broad Recommendation: If you’re looking to extend your time in this quieter area of the park, consider exploring the McGurk Meadow or Mono Meadow trails. Both offer peaceful escapes into blooming meadows and are especially lovely in early summer—but be warned: the mosquitoes are relentless. Bug spray is a must!

Vernal & Nevada Falls (Mist Trail)

Mist Trail Info

• Distance: 5.4 miles out-and-back (to the top of Nevada Fall)
• Time: 4–6 hours
• Elevation gain: ~2,000 feet
• Difficulty: Strenuous

Next up is the popular Mist Trail, which offers incredible, close-up views of two of Yosemite’s most iconic waterfalls, Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall. This was the first hike of our 3 days in Yosemite in June, and it did not disappoint!

The trail’s distance, elevation gain, and difficulty are typically measured by three key viewpoints: the Vernal Fall Footbridge, the Top of Vernal Fall, and the Top of Nevada Fall. Let’s break it down:

Vernal Fall Footbridge

• Distance: 1.6 miles out-and-back
• Time: 1-1.5 hours
• Elevation gain: 400 feet
• Difficulty: Moderate

The first part of the Mist Trail is paved and relatively easy (and usually pretty crowded).

After about 0.8 miles from the trailhead, you’ll reach the Vernal Fall Footbridge, where you’ll get your first glimpse of the roaring waterfall in the distance.

Top of Vernal Fall

• Distance: 2.4 miles out-and-back
• Time: ~3 hours
• Elevation gain: 1,000 feet
• Difficulty: Strenuous

Just 0.2 miles past the footbridge, the Mist Trail splits from the John Muir Trail. Stick to the Mist Trail for another 0.3 miles, as you climb up a steep, mist-soaked, granite staircase (more than 600 steps!) with Vernal Fall roaring beside you. 

You might even catch a rainbow dancing in the spray!

A Broad Recommendation: If you’re hiking in June like we did, bring a rain jacket—you’ll need it! I wore my insulated North Face jacket for our chilly, early morning start, and it kept me warm and dry through the mist.

At the top of this 317-foot waterfall, take a moment to soak it all in and admire the views. Just remember to stay behind the railings—this is a wild, wet drop.

Top of Nevada Fall

• Distance: 5.4 miles out-and-back
• Time: 5-6 hours
• Elevation gain: 2,000 feet
• Difficulty: Strenuous

The final stretch to Nevada Fall is the most challenging—about 1.5 miles of rocky switchbacks and some serious elevation gain. But the reward is worth every step!

Crashing down 594 feet, this thunderous waterfall is at its fullest in the spring and early summer, and you can cross the footbridge over the Merced River for expansive views of Yosemite Valley and even a glimpse of Half Dome.

Again, be careful here, as it’s powerful, misty, and slippery—and a bit windy. Keep a firm grip on your phone and other belongings!

A Broad Recommendation: A waterproof cell phone case with a neck lanyard is a game-changer here—between the mist and wind, you’ll want to keep a tight grip on your gear.

To return, either retrace your steps along the Mist Trail or cross the bridge to descend via the John Muir Trail for a less slippery (and likely less crowded), scenic loop. We chose to connect with the Panorama Trail from here—more on that next!

Mist Trail Tips

• Aim to hit the trail by 7:00-8:00 am to beat the heat and crowds. We arrived around 7:00 and grabbed one of the last spots at the Yosemite Valley Trailhead Lot. By then, Curry Village was already full—crazy, right?!
• If the main lot is full, try the Swinging Bridge Picnic Area or Yosemite Village Day-Use Lot, and catch the free shuttle to Happy Isles (stop #16).
• Though open year-round, the Mist Trail can close in winter due to ice and rockfall. Even when open, it’s often slick—check current trail conditions before heading out.
• June is a fantastic month for this hike—waterfalls are roaring, meadows are blooming, and the weather is ideal for a long trek. Later in the season, the flow slows, and the wow factor fades.
• Drinking water is available at Happy Isles and the Vernal Fall Footbridge (May–October). After that, you’re on your own, so bring plenty of water and snacks.
• Bonus: There are several restrooms along the Mist Trail, including at the shuttle stop, near the Vernal Fall footbridge, and at the tops of both falls.

A Broad Recommendation: Even during a “lull” in Yosemite’s summer season (we visited between Juneteenth and July 4th), this trail filled up fast. An early start is a must for both comfort and safety.

Panorama Trail to Glacier Point

Panorama Trail Info

• Distance: ~8.5 miles one-way (to Glacier Point)
• Time: 4-5 hours
• Elevation gain: ~2,200 feet
• Difficulty: Strenuous

True to its name, the Panorama Trail offers nonstop, panoramic views—and easily ranks among the best hikes in Yosemite.

Stretching about 8.5 miles with an elevation gain of around 2,200 feet, this trail winds through tranquil, pine forests, along breezy ridgelines, and past dramatic overlooks that showcase some of Yosemite’s most iconic sights. It’s scenic, peaceful, and packed with visual rewards from start to finish.

Along the way, you’ll pass one unforgettable view after another: Half Dome towering to the north, the rugged peak of Liberty Cap, the wispy cascade of Illilouette Fall, and endless serrated ridges dotting the horizon.

And yes, there are switchbacks and steep climbs throughout. But what makes this one of the more enjoyable Yosemite hikes is the sense of solitude—fewer crowds mean you can truly savor the stillness and let nature take center stage.

Plus, there are plenty of photo-worthy spots to pause and catch your breath. Early in our hike, we stopped for a small group of horseback riders passing along the trail—just one of those special, unexpected Yosemite moments!

We broke for lunch about halfway through, settling into a shady grove that made for the perfect picnic spot. This was a much-needed recharge—not only for our legs, but also our phones and my Apple Watch (which were draining from trail apps and photo ops).

A Broad Recommendation: Don’t forget your power bank and charging cords—if you’re snapping photos and tracking your route on AllTrails, your battery won’t make it to Glacier Point without a little help.

Glacier Point

Eventually, the trail leads to Glacier Point, and trust me—you’re not going to want to miss this spot!

Sitting at 7,214 feet above sea level, this world-famous overlook offers one of the most breathtaking views in Yosemite National Park.

From here, you can take in the full sweep of Yosemite Valley, the towering face of Half Dome, the elegant arc of Clouds Rest, and even a bird’s-eye view of Nevada Fall below. On a clear day, visibility stretches more than 80 miles into the Sierra Nevada.

Best of all, Glacier Point offers rare trail-side amenities: shaded picnic tables, seasonal restrooms, and even a small concession stand with cold drinks and ice cream—the perfect treat after an 8.5-mile trek!

With the dramatic vistas and a serene atmosphere, the Panorama Trail is one of the most fulfilling and underrated trails in Yosemite. Oh, and if you’re visiting in June? Bonus: expect blooming wildflowers lining the trail.

A Broad Recommendation: If you can time your visit for sunset, the golden light across the granite is pure magic (though we’re saving that moment for next time, since we continued on with the Four Mile Trail from here).

Panorama Trail Tips

• There’s no water access along this stretch of the trail, so come prepared with at least 3 liters per person and some electrolytes (we’re fans of LMNT).
• The exposed ridgelines offer minimal shade, especially by mid-morning in June, so pack a sun hat, polarized sunglasses, and plenty of sunscreen.
• Be sure to bring lunch and snacks, as there’s no food service mid-hike.
• Decide in advance if you’ll shuttle back from Glacier Point or continue down via Four Mile Trail. There’s no free shuttle between Glacier Point and Yosemite Valley, so you’ll need to book a one-way ticket on the Glacier Point Tour in advance if you don’t plan to hike back.

A Broad Recommendation: If you’re looking for an all day hiking adventure, the Mist Trail can be paired with the Panorama Trail, ending at Glacier Point and continuing along the Four Mile Trail (more on that next!) for one of the most epic hikes in Yosemite.

Four Mile Trail

Four Mile Trail Info

• Distance: 9.6 miles round-trip
• Time: 6-8 hours
• Elevation gain: ~3,200 feet
• Difficulty: Strenuous

The next hike on our 3-day Yosemite itinerary was the Four Mile Trail. But don’t let the name fool you—the Four Mile Trail is closer to five miles (each way) and packs a serious punch with more than 3,200 feet of elevation gain.

This historic route climbs from the valley floor to Glacier Point, offering some of the most dramatic cliffside views of El Capitan, Yosemite Falls, and, eventually, Half Dome.

It’s steep, sun-exposed, and strenuous—but, if you’re up for the challenge, it’s one of the most rewarding hikes in Yosemite.

The trail begins near the base of Sentinel Rock, just off Southside Drive in Yosemite Valley. You can park along Southside Drive or access the trailhead via the Yosemite Valley Shuttle (stop #11).

Originally built as a toll trail in the 1870s, Four Mile Trail has been re-routed and modernized over the years, but it still follows a consistently steep grade, zigzagging up exposed switchbacks. The trail is a mix of packed dirt and partially paved sections, with loose sand that can be slippery—especially on the descent.

Along the way, you’ll be treated to stunning views that get better with every step. About two-thirds of the way up, take a break at Union Point for one of the best panoramic overlooks in the park—it’s a short side trip and well worth it.

Once you reach Glacier Point, reward yourself with sweeping views over Yosemite Valley, a close-up of Half Dome, and a snack or cold drink from the seasonal concession stand. Again, restrooms, shaded picnic tables, and drinking water are available here from late May through early October.

Four Mile Trail Tips

• Start early to beat the heat and make the most of the limited shade—especially in June, when sun exposure is intense even in the morning.
• Bring at least 2 liters of water if you’re hiking one-way and 4 liters for a round-trip adventure. There’s no water available on the trail itself.
• Four Mile Trail typically opens in May and closes after significant snowfalls, often by late November or December. When partially closed, only the lower 3 miles are accessible, ending below Union Point.
• There are no restrooms at the trailhead. Use the vault toilets at the Swinging Bridge Picnic Area or wait until Glacier Point. Flush toilets are usually open at Glacier Point in the summer season.

A Broad Recommendation: Watch your step, stay on the trail, and avoid cutting switchbacks—this trail is notorious for rolled ankles due to its uneven footing and hidden ledges. Wear sturdy hiking boots or trail shoes and consider packing trekking poles (I really wished we’d had these while descending nearly 5 miles!).

We hiked Four Mile Trail one-way, descending from Glacier Point back to the valley on the final leg of the most epic hike in Yosemite, which connects the Mist Trail, Panorama Trail, and Four Mile. If you’d rather avoid the climb, consider taking the Glacier Point Tour bus up (reservations required), then hike back down to Yosemite Valley.

Whether you take it on as a standalone hike or part of a bigger loop, Four Mile Trail is a must-do for those looking to earn their views the hard way—and experience one of the best hikes in Yosemite from a whole new perspective.

Upper Yosemite Falls Trail

Upper Yosemite Falls Trail Info

• Distance: 7.2 miles round-trip
• Time: 6-8 hours
• Elevation gain: ~2,700 ft
• Difficulty: Very strenuous

One of the most iconic hikes in Yosemite, the Upper Yosemite Falls Trail is a steep and relentless climb that rewards your effort with unmatched summit views from the top of North America’s tallest waterfall.

This 7.2-mile round-trip trek gains nearly 2,700 feet in elevation, ascending through forested switchbacks, sun-exposed cliffs, and ultimately to the edge of a thundering 2,425-foot drop.

We originally planned to hike this trail—after all, it’s a bucket list-worthy route and one of the best day hikes in Yosemite. But, after our first long day of hiking, I was dealing with some killer hiker’s rash (a not-so-glamorous souvenir I’ve picked up on other active trips to places like Arches National Park, Rome, and Greece).

So instead, we swapped in a lower-impact day to give my legs a break. Let’s just say I was seriously bummed to miss it—but hopefully you won’t have to!

The trail starts near Camp 4, just across from shuttle stop #7, and you’ll almost immediately start climbing steeply through oak woodlands via dozens of switchbacks.

After about 1 mile and 1,000 feet of elevation gain, you’ll reach Columbia Rock, an overlook that offers expansive views of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and Sentinel Rock. For many hikers, this is a worthy turnaround point on its own.

Continue another 0.5 miles (some of it downhill!) to reach a breathtaking overlook of Upper Yosemite Fall—you may even feel the mist if you’re hiking in the spring or early summer. From there, the trail becomes steeper and more rugged, traversing exposed ridgelines with constant switchbacks as you work your way toward the top.

Once you reach the summit, the reward is staggering: a close-up view of Yosemite Creek as it plunges off the cliff and sweeping vistas across the valley and beyond. I can only imagine how surreal it is to see how small the creek looks just before it becomes a roaring waterfall!

Upper Yosemite Falls Trail Tips

• Start at first light (5:00–6:00 am) to beat the heat and to give yourself ample time for rest and photo stops.
• Bring 3–4 liters of water, salty snacks, and sun protection. The trail gets hot fast, especially the upper portion, which offers little to no shade.
• Columbia Rock is a great, short hike option if you’re not up for the full climb—just 2 miles round-trip and still packed with epic views.
• Watch your footing. Loose sand and decomposed granite can make this trail slippery, especially on the way down.
• There are no restrooms or water on the trail—restrooms are available near Camp 4, and drinking water can be found at a fountain near the trailhead.
• This probably goes without saying, but pets, bikes, and strollers are not allowed.

Want even more? From the top, you can extend your hike:

• Yosemite Point (+1.6 miles round-trip): Epic Half Dome views and a close-up look at Lost Arrow Spire.
• Eagle Peak (+5.8 miles round-trip): The highest point on Yosemite Valley’s north rim, offering a new angle on El Capitan and the surrounding granite landscape.

Though we didn’t make it this time, the Upper Yosemite Falls Trail is still high on my list for next time. If you’re up for a challenge, it’s hard to beat the sense of accomplishment—and the views—that come with reaching the top of Yosemite’s tallest and most famous waterfall.

Packing List for Hiking in Yosemite in June

June offers some of Yosemite’s best hiking conditions. But, with chilly mornings, warm afternoons, and the occasional waterfall spray (hello, Mist Trail!), being prepared and packing smart is essential.

Here’s what I recommend packing for these awesome hikes in Yosemite:

Clothing & Layers

• Moisture-wicking base layers for layering and managing sweat during long hikes
• Insulated mid-layer like a fleece or light jacket for chilly mornings
• Rain jacket for the waterfall hikes (you will get misted!). I wore my insulated North Face jacket (unfortunately, the exact one is no longer available, since I’ve had it for so long—they last forever!—but this one is similar)
• Quick-dry hiking pants/shorts like these leggings and workout shorts (both of which have pockets for storing my phone!). I also like these water-resistant pants, which I wore on several waterfall hikes in Iceland
• Hat and polarized sunglasses for sunny, exposed trails

Footwear & Trail Gear

• Hiking boots or sturdy trail shoes
• Wool or moisture-wicking socks to keep your feet dry and blister-free
• Trekking poles—though we didn’t bring these, we were definitely jealous of those who had them on some of these hikes!

Daypack Essentials

• Daypack or hydration pack big enough to carry layers, food, and water (and lots of pockets to keep everything organized!)
• 3+ liters of water per person and electrolytes for those strenuous climbs (we like LMNT)
• Snacks and lunches like energy bars, jerky, fruit, sandwiches, etc.
• Bug spray or mosquito repellent bracelets
• Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF—that mountain sun is strong!
• Reusable water bottle or hydration bladder
• Small first-aid kit with blister bandages, ibuprofen, and any personal meds

Essential Extras

• A portable charger or power bank is essential! Your phone will likely run out of battery when using trail apps or taking lots of photos
• Waterproof cell phone case with a lanyard for all that waterfall spray and to secure your phone on steep sections of these trails
• Selfie stick tripod for those areas that aren’t crowded, especially if you’re traveling alone or want some couple/group shots
• Quick-dry towel for drying off after waterfall spray or to sit on during lunch
• Headlamp or flashlight—just in case you’re out later than planned
• Female urination device for longer routes without restrooms

Check out my full Hiking Packing List for hiking in Yosemite!

Tips for Hiking in Yosemite in June

Here are a few more tips to make your hikes in Yosemite more manageable, memorable, and safe:

Trail Strategy

• Start early: Aim to be on popular trails by 7:00-8:00 am to beat the heat and the crowds
• Take breaks at key viewpoints: Look out for shaded benches or flat rocks to take a break, drink water, eat snacks, and recharge (your legs and your devices!)
• Food & snacks: Eat snacks or small meals throughout the day for sustained stamina

Weather in June

• Flowing falls & wildflowers: June is prime time in Yosemite—waterfalls are roaring, mountain meadows are blooming, and days are longer with cooler morning temps
• Mosquitoes: Meadow areas can get buggy—bring bug spray
• Layer management: Mornings can be brisk (in the 50s°F), and midday warms up to the high 70s–low 80s°F (though it feels warmer while hiking and in direct sunlight)

Safety & Park Tips

• Trail etiquette: Always yield uphill; uphill hikers and horses have the right of way
• Stay on track: Stick to the designated trails, and don’t shortcut switchbacks—off-trail hiking speeds up erosion and can be especially dangerous
• Know wildlife rules: Never feed or approach wildlife, secure food, dispose of trash properly—you’re sharing these trails with bears and deer (yes, we saw a bear on one of our hikes in Yosemite!)
• Trail closures: Check nps.gov before heading out, as conditions are always changing
• Know your limits: Consider stopping and turning back if needed
• Trail Maps: Carry a trail map, take a picture of the trailhead signage, or download AllTrails maps, as cell service is limited throughout the park

Yosemite Valley Shuttle

• Check shuttle times: The Yosemite Valley Shuttle runs from 7:00 am to 10:00 pm, connects the major trailheads, visitor centers, and lodges, and is free and easy to use
• Ride the shuttle: Parking can be challenging in Yosemite, so once you find a spot, consider taking the shuttle between other stops and trailheads

Conclusion

No matter which hikes you choose, Yosemite has a way of making every trail feel like a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Whether you’re standing in the mist of a roaring waterfall, gazing out over Half Dome from a granite summit, or catching your breath at the edge of Taft Point, each moment on these trails is memorable.

If you’re planning a trip to Yosemite, I hope this guide helps you build your own unforgettable hiking adventure. Remember to start early, pack plenty of water and snacks, and always check trail conditions before you go.

And most importantly—take your time. These trails aren’t just about the destination; they’re about the small, quiet moments and adventure along the way.

Happy hiking—and let me know which Yosemite trail ends up being your favorite!

XOXO Sara at Travel A-Broads