Yosemite Valley Tours and Activities

Yosemite Valley featuring mountains and a waterfall
Photo provided by fotojoy
Photo provided by Ben Gepp
Yosemite Valley
Yosemite Valley showing mountains


From Yosemite Falls to Half Dome and El Capitan, you can see some of the most stunning scenery in the world from Yosemite National Park’s central valley.

Yosemite Valley is the emerald green heart of Yosemite National Park. Marvel at the soaring granite walls, including some of the park’s most iconic landmarks, flanking this 8-mile (13-kilometre) canyon. 

Just about everywhere you turn in Yosemite Valley, you’ll see a thundering waterfall cascading from a clifftop above. The most visited is Yosemite Falls, which is the largest waterfall in North America. Other notable ones include Sentinel Fall, Bridalveil Fall and Nevada Fall. In February, don’t miss Horsetail Fall, which famously appears as if it is on fire when it reflects the sunset.

For a close look at one of the world’s most recognizable rock faces, bring your picnic blanket to El Capitan Meadow. El Capitan, a favourite destination for rock climbers and cliff jumpers, towers above you. This is located along the one-way Northside Drive, so you should stop here on your way out of Yosemite Valley.

Half Dome is an iconic symbol of Yosemite, recognizable in Ansel Adams photographs. Although its face is best left to experienced climbers, hardy hikers can reach its summit along a 15-mile (24 kilometre) loop trail that begins in Yosemite Valley. You can do the climb in a day or to make the experience more relaxed, stay overnight in one of the campsites along the trail. If you’d rather settle for a great vantage point of the vertical face, visit Sentinel Bridge, where you can see Half Dome reflected in the Merced River. 

Get your camera out at Tunnel View, which provides one of the best vistas in Yosemite National Park. Stop at the east end of the Wawona Tunnel and enjoy the panoramic view of El Capitan and Bridalveil Fall with Half Dome towering in the background. 

Driving through Yosemite Valley is allowed throughout the year. During busy periods, avoid traffic congestion and take advantage of the valley’s free shuttle service. With year-round service in eastern Yosemite Valley and summer service as far west as El Capitan, this is an effortless way to see the area’s major attractions.

Popular places to visit


Top Yosemite Valley Hotel & Accommodation Deals

Curry Village

Curry Village

2.5 out of 5
9010 Curry Village Dr., Yosemite National Park, CA
Curry Village
Yosemite Valley Lodge

Yosemite Valley Lodge

3 out of 5
9006 Yosemite Lodge Drive, Yosemite National Park, CA
Yosemite Valley Lodge
Yosemite Valley Lodge

Yosemite Valley Lodge

3 out of 5
9006 Yosemite Lodge Drive, Yosemite National Park, CA
Yosemite Valley Lodge
The Ahwahnee

The Ahwahnee

4 out of 5
9005 Ahwahnee Drive, Yosemite National Park, CA
The Ahwahnee
Housekeeping Camp

Housekeeping Camp

1.5 out of 5
9004 Southside Drive, Yosemite National Park, CA
Housekeeping Camp
Curry Village

Curry Village

2 out of 5
9010 Curry Village Dr., 9010, Yosemite National Park, CA
Curry Village
Yosemite View Lodge

Yosemite View Lodge

2.5 out of 5
11136 Highway 140, El Portal, CA
Yosemite View Lodge
Mountain Beauty Summa

Mountain Beauty Summa

Wawona
Mountain Beauty Summa
Sierra Grand Inside Yosemite

Sierra Grand Inside Yosemite

Wawona
Sierra Grand Inside Yosemite
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Yosemite Valley

Yosemite Valley offers an abundance of activities for tourists, including stunning hiking trails and camping opportunities. Visitors can enjoy high Sierra hikes, guided tours featuring expert local knowledge, and various recreational activities that showcase the park's breathtaking scenery. Whether you're keen to explore the trails or relax under the stars, Yosemite Valley is a perfect destination for adventure and natural beauty.

Shopping

For unique gifts and souvenirs, explore the shops in Yosemite Valley. If you're up for a drive, El Portal Market, located 17.7km away, offers a variety of local products and treats to take home.

Recreation

At Ascent, the Spa at Tenaya Lodge, indulge in rejuvenating body treatments surrounded by serene nature, located 30.6km from Yosemite Valley. For a bit of outdoor sport, enjoy a round at Wawona Golf Course, 24.1km away. Closer to the valley, the Swinging Bridge Picnic Area offers a tranquil spot for relaxation, just 1.1km away.

Adventure

Set up camp at Sentinel Beach Picnic Area, located 1.6km from Yosemite Valley, where you can soak in the outdoors with family vibes. Hike the Yosemite Falls Trailhead, only 966m away, for stunning scenery and adventure, or explore Cook's Meadow, a mere 161m distant, for more breathtaking views.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife in Yosemite Valley with a visit to the Yosemite Lodge Amphitheater, just 483m away, offering a mix of entertainment and romance. For a broader cultural experience, the Golden Chain Theater, located 43.5km away, also promises family-friendly performances and enchanting evenings.

Find the best attractions near Yosemite Valley

Yosemite Valley offers a wealth of attractions for every type of traveller, from adventurers to those seeking a romantic escape. Highlights include the stunning Yosemite Falls and the iconic Yosemite Valley Lodge, all set within the breathtaking Yosemite National Park. With picturesque lookouts and picturesque waterfalls, you'll find plenty of opportunities for outdoor exploration and unforgettable experiences in this natural wonderland.

  • Yosemite National Park: Immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of Yosemite National Park, just 966m from Yosemite Valley. With its majestic granite cliffs, diverse wildlife, and endless outdoor adventures, it’s a haven for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.
  • Yosemite Falls: Experience the romance of Yosemite Falls, located 1.3km away. As one of the highest waterfalls in North America, its stunning cascades offer a perfect backdrop for hiking and photography, especially during spring when the water flows at its peak.
  • Yosemite Visitor Center: Located only 644m from Yosemite Valley, the Yosemite Visitor Center is a family-friendly hub. Discover interactive exhibits, ranger-led programs, and vital information to enhance your adventure in this iconic national park.

Best time to go to Yosemite Valley

The best time to visit Yosemite Valley is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain (dry). December and February are its coolest month on average. At the time of February, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January27.7°F (-2.4°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
February26.6°F (-3.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
March28.9°F (-1.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
April35.1°F (1.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
May42.8°F (6.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June54.3°F (12.4°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
July62.8°F (17.1°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August61.0°F (16.1°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly High
September55.6°F (13.1°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
October45.0°F (7.2°C)Light RainSunnySlightly LowAverage
November33.6°F (0.9°C)Light RainSunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
December26.6°F (-3.0°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Yosemite Valley

To save money on your trip to Yosemite Valley, consider visiting in the cheaper months of January, March, or November. Book your accommodation about a month in advance for the best rates, and aim for a Tuesday stay to avoid higher Friday prices. Explore last-minute deals on Expedia, and combine hotel, flight, and activity bookings for added savings. Make use of the price filter on Expedia to find the best deals tailored to your budget. Additionally, enjoy the park's free activities such as hiking and sightseeing to keep costs low while experiencing the natural beauty of Yosemite.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Yosemite Valley are January, March and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel around Yosemite Valley about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Yosemite Valley is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Yosemite Valley is Friday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia's search tool to tailor your options based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To find the best prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: Consider saving some dollars by combining your Yosemite Valley hotel reservations with your flights and activities through an Expedia package. It’s a great way to get more value for your travel plans!

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