Yosemite is a total dream in the summer. Picture towering cliffs, crystal-clear waterfalls, and endless outdoor fun. We end up going at least two or three times a summer! This 3-day summer Yosemite itinerary(which includes hiking, biking, watching sunsets) is your ultimate guide to making the most of your time in this epic national park.
Some Tips for Navigating through Yosemite National Park
- Get there early… plan to be in the Valley by 8:00 am at the latest. (Earlier is better!) Then, PARK ONCE and use the shuttle to get around the Valley. You will deal with congestion but with some patience you can find a spot.
- You may expect to spend at least 30 minutes finding a parking spot during peak season. I usually park in the back by Curry Village and then just take a shuttle around. Shuttles are free, and during peak hours, run every 15 minutes.
- There are also bike rentals available at the park that are usually first some first serve and are processed through the app
- Parking won’t be a significant issue if you are traveling off season. The horror stories you read are from summer weekends, and in particular the 3 summer holiday weekends
- Get an America The Beautiful Pass to be able to access all National Parks for just $80!
- To avoid all the stress , join a tour and Let someone else do the planning 🙂
- You can check the live current condition of the park at the webcams on their site. It is super useful.
Day 1 in Yosemite
Beat the crowds by arriving early. Yosemite’s popularity means early entry is key to avoiding long lines. Once inside, check into your accommodation – Yosemite Valley offers a range of options from campgrounds to hotels.
We stayed in Mariposa Grove, we were commuting to and from the park one hour each way. If you are going last minute then it will be really hard to find any accommodation inside the park.
Related Reads: Best Efficient Yosemite Day Trip from San Francisco
- Embark on the iconic Mist Trail hike for breathtaking views of Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall. To avoid crowds and the hottest part of the day, start early. You will get wet. Bring a light raincoat, poncho and waterproof shoes ( or a change of shoes). And some light towels.
- Rent a bike if you haven’t brought your own and embark on the leisurely Mirror Lake bike path. This 5-mile round trip offers stunning views of Half Dome and is perfect for all fitness levels. Rent bikes here.
- Find a secluded spot along the Merced River for a picnic lunch. Pack your favorite sandwiches, snacks, and drinks to enjoy the idyllic surroundings.
- Capture the sunset from the iconic Tunnel View. Arrive at least 30 minutes before sunset to secure a prime viewing spot.
- Enjoy a delicious meal at one of Yosemite Valley’s restaurants or pack a picnic dinner for a cozy evening under the starry sky.
Day 2 in Yosemite
I think if you have 3 days in Yosemite then the scenic Tioga Pass Road is worth a day. As you ascend higher into the Sierra Nevada, the scenery transforms from lush forests to alpine meadows.
- Drive the scenic Tioga Pass Road to Tuolumne Meadows.
- Stop at Olmsted Point for a short, paved trail that leads you to a viewpoint offering stunning vistas of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and the surrounding granite giants.
- Stop at Tenaya Lake and enjoy some donuts and the shimmering lake
- Immerse yourself in the high Sierra with the Cooks Meadow hike. This moderate 4-mile round trip trail offers stunning alpine scenery.
- Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the beauty of Tuolumne Meadows. Relax by the crystal-clear waters or rent a kayak or paddle board for a leisurely adventure.
- On your return to Yosemite Valley, make a stop at Glacier Point for breathtaking views of the valley, Half Dome, and Vernal Fall.
- In the evening, cool off with a refreshing swim at Sentinel Beach.
- Enjoy a picnic dinner under the open sky
Day 3 in Yosemite
Day 3 in Yosemite calls for a bit of adventure and relaxation.
- Go river rafting on the Merced River! Several companies offer tours for various skill levels.
- See more waterfalls like Lower Yosemite Falls (1.2 mile hike) for stunning views of this majestic cascade. The trail is a short, approximately 1-mile round trip. Alternatively, the Bridalveil Fall (0.8 mile) hike offers a quick and easy experience with beautiful waterfall views.
- Spend the rest of the afternoon exploring Yosemite Valley by bike. Numerous bike paths offer opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy the scenery.
- Find a picturesque spot for a final sunset picnic
Best Places for Picnic and to Just relax in Yosemite
Honestly this section deserves to be at the top of the page, because there is nothing I miss more than just sitting in the park and eating.
Here are my favorite spots to just sit and picnic and have the best time:
- I really love a picnic anywhere in Yosemite Valley
- Any place along the Merced River. My favorite is The Cascades Picnic Area.
- El Capitan meadow, bring binoculars to watch climbers on El Cap. It is fun and even funner with kids!
- We also love the Swinging Bridge Picnic Area with views of the Merced River and surrounding granite cliffs
Related Reads: Extraordinary Road Trip from SF to Mammoth Lakes
I hope you benefited from this 3 day summer Yosemite itinerary that offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, allowing you to experience the best of Yosemite National Park. Please share and comment, it really helps my page!
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