Yosemite Valley
Yosemite Valley, Yosemite National Park: Address, Phone Number, Yosemite Valley Reviews: 4.5/5
Yosemite Valley
Yosemite Valley
4.5
About
Many climbers consider Yosemite Valley among the world's very best climbing sites.
Suggested duration
More than 3 hours
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Top ways to experience Yosemite Valley
The area
Address
Best nearby
Restaurants
13 within 3 miles

Degnan's Kitchen
536
493 ft$ • Quick Bites • American • Fast Food

Degnan's Kitchen
196
523 ft$ • Quick Bites • American

Degnan's Loft
221
0.1 mi$$ - $$$ • Pizza

Village Grill
116
0.2 mi$ • Quick Bites • American • Fast Food

Base Camp Eatery
224
0.1 mi$$ - $$$ • Quick Bites • American • Fast Food

The Ahwahnee Dining Room
2,648
0.7 mi$$$$ • American • Vegetarian Friendly • Vegan Options

Mountain Room Restaurant
1,189
0.7 mi$$ - $$$ • American • Vegetarian Friendly • Gluten Free Options

Ahwahnee Hotel Bar
535
0.8 mi$$ - $$$ • American • Bar • Vegetarian Friendly

Starbucks
58
0.7 mi$$ - $$$ • Quick Bites • American • Cafe

The Mountain Room Lounge
48
0.7 mi$$ - $$$ • American • Bar • Pub
Attractions
63 within 6 miles

Valley Visitor Center
364
154 ftVisitor Centers

Ansel Adams Gallery
202
201 ftArt Galleries • Points of Interest & Landmarks

Indian Village of the Ahwahnee
2
328 ftHistoric Sites

Wawona Covered Bridge
6
0.1 miBridges

Sierra Point Bridge
1
0.1 miPoints of Interest & Landmarks • Bridges

Yosemite Cemetery
22
0.1 miCemeteries

Liberty Cap
3
0.2 miMountains • Hiking Trails

Lower Yosemite Fall Trail
179
0.5 miHiking Trails

Stephen Tyng Mather Plaque
2
0.2 miMonuments & Statues

Yosemite Falls
2,309
0.5 miWaterfalls
Contribute
Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
6,684 reviews
Excellent
5,352
Very good
910
Average
272
Poor
95
Terrible
55
WanderingWithUsTwo
Phoenix, AZ737 contributions
Aug 2019
Yosemite is definitely somewhere that doesn't get old after visiting multiple times. You can easily spend several days there and feel like there isn't enough time to see everything. During the summer it obviously is much more busy and crowded but because the park is so large it can be easy to find pockets where you feel like you have it to yourself. We suggest trying to stay at Camp 4 if possible because of the location that it has to several popular trails and low cost per day. Because a lot of people come in during the day just to visit parking can be a pain so if you can stay somewhere central it can be easier to walk, bike, or take the bus to many places and avoid the hassle of parking and driving. If you do choose to drive in we suggest getting in as the sun rises especially if you want to park near a major trail such as the mist trail. There are a variety of things to do for all types of activity levels so this park is often times visited by large families in the summer as kids are off for summer vacations. We hope to be back here during fall and winter to be able to see how much different the park looks with the change of seasons! For more information on our visits in the park check out our other reviews and follow us on instagram!
- @wanderingwithustwo
- @wanderingwithustwo
Written June 16, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Chris F
San Francisco, CA1,916 contributions
Aug 2020
Yosemite National Park is open but only allow those with reservations made on-line entrance to the park. On July 1, we were able to make reservations for entry on August 1. The reservation is good for 7 days but you have to arrive on the day of your reservation or you won’t be able to gain access on any of the remaining days.
We drove in through the HW 120 entrance and had to wait an hour in a massive line of cars before making it to the park gate. The line was backed up over a mile and past the Hetch Hetchy road intersection. We slowly made our way to the gate and saw they had all 3 gates operational. It took each vehicle a few minutes to check in and be given a sticker for the front windshield. It looked like a ton of people accessing he park but when we made it into the valley, there were not too many people considering the time of year.
We made it to all the major highlights in the park, however the 94 degree heat kept us not too far from the AC in our car. There was only a small amount of water coming over Bridalveil Falls and the parking lot was closed and under renovation. There was very little water coming over Yosemite Falls. Hotel reservations were made a few days after we made our park entry reservation. Most all of the lodging was booked up due to the park limiting the amount of rooms available. The restaurant at the Ahwahnee Hotel was open for pick up / take out only.
We drove in through the HW 120 entrance and had to wait an hour in a massive line of cars before making it to the park gate. The line was backed up over a mile and past the Hetch Hetchy road intersection. We slowly made our way to the gate and saw they had all 3 gates operational. It took each vehicle a few minutes to check in and be given a sticker for the front windshield. It looked like a ton of people accessing he park but when we made it into the valley, there were not too many people considering the time of year.
We made it to all the major highlights in the park, however the 94 degree heat kept us not too far from the AC in our car. There was only a small amount of water coming over Bridalveil Falls and the parking lot was closed and under renovation. There was very little water coming over Yosemite Falls. Hotel reservations were made a few days after we made our park entry reservation. Most all of the lodging was booked up due to the park limiting the amount of rooms available. The restaurant at the Ahwahnee Hotel was open for pick up / take out only.
Written August 4, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
alwi0825
Cape May Court House, NJ56 contributions
The park is absolutely amazing and the sites unsurpassed!!! We stayed in the little camp, Curry Village (last minute cancellation), which worked for us. It is extremely crowded and impossible to park many times. If there is something you wish to see without crowds, be there when the gates open and plot your sites logistically, otherwise can be a two mile back up to get in at the gate, and so crowded to park and walk around. We ate dinner two nights at the Ahwahnee which was good. Highly recommend their cottages to stay instead of hotel, but need to make reservations well in advance of a year out. I found the park accommodations to be a bit run down and in need of TLC. Definitely do a dusk loop car ride, see amazing wildlife, bears, deer, elk, etc. Was also 115 degrees when we went, so hiking was too hard and the waterfalls dried up. I'm sure Spring would be optimal.
Written September 26, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Sam J
New York City, NY14 contributions
Aug 2020
We went in August 2020. You need a reservation to be able to enter the park as they are trying to reduce the number of people due to COVID.
Yosemite National Park is amazing. The views are amazing and the park is so big.
We spend the whole day in the park, unfortunately we didn't do many hikes or camped the night, but it was still worth the trip.
We drive a lot inside the park as the park is huge and there are many roads taking you to the many view points.
There are a few restaurants inside the park (burgers, sandwiches, etc.) that are very affordable surprisingly.
One day is enough to see the main landmarks and viewpoints but two days would be ideal if you like to camp and do some hikes.
Yosemite National Park is amazing. The views are amazing and the park is so big.
We spend the whole day in the park, unfortunately we didn't do many hikes or camped the night, but it was still worth the trip.
We drive a lot inside the park as the park is huge and there are many roads taking you to the many view points.
There are a few restaurants inside the park (burgers, sandwiches, etc.) that are very affordable surprisingly.
One day is enough to see the main landmarks and viewpoints but two days would be ideal if you like to camp and do some hikes.
Written September 9, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Lisa G
Aurora, IN531 contributions
Jun 2021 • Couples
Yosemite doesn't have a bad view. Everywhere we went was incredible. We especially loved the various views of El Capitán from the valley floor. You do need reservations to enter the park and although we didn't have a delay entering through the west gate we saw a long line to get in as we were exiting through the south gate. Some parts of the park were kind of crowded but the farther you get from the popular spots, the fewer people there were. And no spot in Yosemite is bad!
Written July 4, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
aaron
Northampton, UK28 contributions
Oct 2019
When you arrive make sure you analyse the map you are given and plan your drive well so. you know where to get the best location stops and pictures. It is very easy to drive past a section and miss it. Take your time.
There are some amazing sights to see here with some impressive waterfalls.
It can get cold in the shade areas so factor that in if walking about with kids.
The gift shop wasn't that big but had some interesting items for sale include a discount section.
The restaurant area was very nice and modern with a good selection of food albeit a bit pricey. A side section had a comfy area with large chairs and a gorgeous fire. As we went during late October the Christmas tree was up and it was all very cosy.
The drive there and back takes you on some very steep roads with some amazing views but some scary drops off the edge of the road so take your time and concentrate. It won't help you if the family are being loud and disruptive in the back when driving so close tO the edge!
There are some amazing sights to see here with some impressive waterfalls.
It can get cold in the shade areas so factor that in if walking about with kids.
The gift shop wasn't that big but had some interesting items for sale include a discount section.
The restaurant area was very nice and modern with a good selection of food albeit a bit pricey. A side section had a comfy area with large chairs and a gorgeous fire. As we went during late October the Christmas tree was up and it was all very cosy.
The drive there and back takes you on some very steep roads with some amazing views but some scary drops off the edge of the road so take your time and concentrate. It won't help you if the family are being loud and disruptive in the back when driving so close tO the edge!
Written May 31, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Beckee b
Eau Claire, WI29 contributions
Mar 2021 • Family
Visiting Yosemite was beautiful. The park staff were very knowledgeable and kind. The Mist Trail opened up while we were there. The hike to Vernal Fall was amazing.
Road construction adds time coming in to park. I read a lot of reviews on here in the advice column of how you need to have a structured itinerary : that proved difficult because we visited as trails and parts of the park were actively opening. I’m glad we went with open ended plans, we had a great time and saw more sights than we would have planned to see. We hiked a total of 18 miles in the 2.5 days we were there. I wish we could have been able to get campground reservations in the park, but I obviously understand it’s popularity. We chose not to gamble on a first come, first serve spot (and I’m glad about this because the open campgrounds were full for RV spots).
Road construction adds time coming in to park. I read a lot of reviews on here in the advice column of how you need to have a structured itinerary : that proved difficult because we visited as trails and parts of the park were actively opening. I’m glad we went with open ended plans, we had a great time and saw more sights than we would have planned to see. We hiked a total of 18 miles in the 2.5 days we were there. I wish we could have been able to get campground reservations in the park, but I obviously understand it’s popularity. We chose not to gamble on a first come, first serve spot (and I’m glad about this because the open campgrounds were full for RV spots).
Written March 30, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
UHcougarBdaygirl
Houston, TX239 contributions
Nov 2020
Travel during the pandemic was nice. I wish he had more time to hike, but the sites along the drive were good enough for us for the first trip out here.
There weren't many people entering the park in early November which was nice because the roads weren't congested. The roads are well maintained which is very important on the winding roads. The most inconvenient part of the park was the closure on 41 south entrance which leads to Fresno. It was only open for 1 hour from 12noon-1pm. Because of this closure we spent a lot of time driving around the park to get to our next destination of Sequoia national park. It took us an extra hour because of the road work.
It was a great time to go to see the leaves changing colors. Definitely recommend starting your day early so you can get a lot of hiking done. Weather was cool with a breeze and warm when you are in the sun light. Very comfortable climate.
Invested in an annual park pass for $80 since we were going to sequoia and kings canyon parks. Otherwise to access the park its currently $35.
There weren't many people entering the park in early November which was nice because the roads weren't congested. The roads are well maintained which is very important on the winding roads. The most inconvenient part of the park was the closure on 41 south entrance which leads to Fresno. It was only open for 1 hour from 12noon-1pm. Because of this closure we spent a lot of time driving around the park to get to our next destination of Sequoia national park. It took us an extra hour because of the road work.
It was a great time to go to see the leaves changing colors. Definitely recommend starting your day early so you can get a lot of hiking done. Weather was cool with a breeze and warm when you are in the sun light. Very comfortable climate.
Invested in an annual park pass for $80 since we were going to sequoia and kings canyon parks. Otherwise to access the park its currently $35.
Written November 9, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Kim C
33 contributions
Jun 2022
We just wrapped up a 5 day trip in early June 2022. The waterfalls were flowing. I strongly encourage anyone going to the park in 2022 to take advantage of the bike rentals to get around the Valley. We covered so much ground on the bike paths saving our energy for hiking. All of the trail heads have bike parking. The shuttle buses are running but the wait times are long and the buses are extremely crowded - standing room only.
Written June 11, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Jeana P
Raleigh638 contributions
Sep 2021 • Couples
It was brutally hot the day we were in the valley, therefore we did not do a lot of hiking. The afternoon temp got up to 105 F. Nonetheless, just driving through was a joy. There are plenty of paved walkways that can be used to get out and walk if you have pets with you (they are not allowed on unpaved trails), but again, we didn’t do a whole bunch of out-of-car activities. Lesson learned - go very early in the day for hiking and walking activities! Enjoyed our time in this part of the park.
Written September 9, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Kathryn J
Crewe, UK35 contributions
Hi everyone. A bit of an urgent one. My family have arrived in Los Angeles and are making their way to Yosemite. Unfortunately there have been major problems in UK with luggage and their 3 cases have been lost. This trip has been cancelled 3 times and it was one of those holidays of a lifetime for an 18th, 21st and 50th! Anyhoo, their main reason for visiting Yosemite was for mountain climbing. All of their equipment is in the suitcase. Is there anywhere where climbing equipment can be hired please or any other suggestions please? Thank you.
Michael P
Mason, OH266 contributions
Check out the Mountaineering School located inside the park at Curry Village. They may be able to help. Also check into renting gear at REI. Learn more at their website.
Charlotte A
9 contributions
Hello. Does anyone know if/when the Merced river rafting opens?
PacificNWFamily
Washington State95,301 contributions
The Yosemite forum is the best place to ask.
The water level needs to be low enough (and it's low this year!), the water temperature needs to be high enough (it's been right around 40 degrees lately), and the air temperature needs to be warm enough (it has snowed recently, but hot weather is coming again.)
Huachucakid
5 contributions
Planning a trip to Yosemite in April 2022. Anyone know when they will open the bicycle rentals for the spring season? I wrote the NPS and received a very vague answer.
PacificNWFamily
Washington State95,301 contributions
Hi
Next time use the forum rather than this seldom viewed Q&A feature.
Melody
1 contribution
Hello, we are a family from the UK looking to stay overnight or two Yosemite National park and would like to combine this with a tour if possible on our way from LA to San Francisco- grateful for any advice please? Thank you Melody
passion to travel
Parker, AZ261 contributions
Spend as much Tim in Yosemite Valley, it’s breathtaking. You don’t need a “tour” just make lodging reservations in the valley well in advance and just drive there, rent bikes and take in the amazing beauty if the waterfalls, granite, meadows and wildlife. May & June are the best months. Mid summer can get extremely hot and by end of summer waterfalls can be dry.
AJ J
4 contributions
Getting married in Yosemite in late October and I am having a hard time trying to figure out what kind of cover up or shawl I should buy to wear over my wedding gown. I know the weather can be unpredictable but what advice can anyone give me on if I should buy something sheer, maybe fleece or like faux fur? Should it be thin and lightweight or warmer? Thank you kindly!
PacificNWFamily
Washington State95,301 contributions
Hi
I recommend asking on the Yosemite NP forum page.
Late October could be 70 degrees or could be snowing or anything in between . If you are lucky, it will be 65 degrees, sunny, with a gentle breeze.
I would go for a thin but warm layer.
Best wishes (from a June Yosemite bride!)
Teja G
2 contributions
We are planning a visit here in the second week of April. Which site of this park is good to visit & which is nearest airport to fly in. We will be coming from NYC. Thanks.
PacificNWFamily
Washington State95,301 contributions
Hi
Rather than using this seldom seen Q&A feature, I suggest asking your questions on the Yosemite forum. The Top Questions on the right side of that page is loaded with topics that can help you with your planning.
Getting lodging will be the biggest challenge as other April visitors booked months ago. See the first topic in the Top Questions.
Fresno Yosemite Airport / FAT is the closest airport, but it might not be the easiest to use. There is a topic about airports in the Top Questions.
The "site" of the Park that is good to visit is Yosemite Valley. You will probably also want to visit Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias. High country roads will be closed, but you can access these two places.
Amelia
Port Talbot, UK7 contributions
My husband and I will be driving from South Lake to Williams, Arizona in August. We have planned to break the journey up with two night stay. We have already booked our final night near the Hoover Dam but would like to stay somewhere in Yosemite. Ideally we would like to be near some sights but would like some suggestions as to other good locations which will be en route?
We have looked at some options including Mammouth Lakes, Bishop, Big Pine, Lone Pine and Independence but are unsure where would be best for either 1 night or 2 nights if there are lots of things to do. This is part of our honeymoon and we’d like to make the most of our time in the area.
Thank you in advance!
M1809
Porthcawl, UK95 contributions
I did a huge amount of research before our visit to California last June/July and unless you want to pay the huge prices to stay in Yosemite Valley then I can highly recommend staying in Oakhurst. Oakhurst is a small town approximately 15-20 mins drive from the South entrance to Yosemite National Park. At the south entrance you will find Mariposa Grove which is where the giant sequoia trees are located - a beautiful place and a must visit.
Also, another 15-20 mins drive will get you to Glacier Point and at 4,500 feet you will have breathtaking views across Yosemite Park and it’s mountains and waterfalls - I’m not easily impressed but this place blew me away!
Another 20 minutes drive will get you to the main Yosemite Valley where you can park and take some beautiful walks and take the park bus which is free and will drop you off at different points in the park.
We only stayed in Oakhurst for 1 night and managed to squeeze in all the above in a long day but I wish we’d stayed for 2 nights as there was so much more to do and see.
If you like walking, research Glacier Point as there are a lot of talks/various organised walks with guides on certain days which we’d like to have done.
Apologies for bombarding you with this information but I know that staying in the right place can make your stay. I can recommend the Best Western Plus, Yosemite Gateway Inn, Oakhurst if you’re looking for a good base at a reasonable price. If you have more questions just ask!👍
Sharon M
13 contributions
Hi, were first-timers planning on visiting Yosemite in August 2020 . 2 elderlies, 2 adults, 2 kids.
Would it be a reasonable drive at the park during the afternoon? I am asking because there is a
19:00 night program at glacier point that the park guide offer. The bus service they provide with the program is very expensive and if you book just the guide without the bus - it is 10$ per person. The question is, is it a reason to drive at the park at the dark?
Neal S
Medfield, Massachusetts, United States108 contributions
The sun is still up at 7 p.m. in August, so you won't be driving in the dark.
We have only 4 hours at Yosemite. Can we take the Valley shuttle and still make it back in time to board our bus?
Edwelsh
North Canton, OH4,386 contributions
I think the Valley Shuttle would be a very good option. Parking is very limited, so is your time. The shuttle had designated parking spots and you hop out snap a few pics and hop back on. The ranger talks in between
RennieFamilyHolidays
Middlesbrough, UK253 contributions
Looking to go here next September. How long do we need here to enjoy and relax. Also is there any main places that are a must see place ?
Ray P
20 contributions
Do not miss visiting Glacier Point which provides fantastic views down into and across the valley. It was the highlight of my visit.
Frequently Asked Questions about Yosemite Valley
- We recommend booking Yosemite Valley tours ahead of time to secure your spot. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour starts for a full refund. See all 57 Yosemite Valley tours on Tripadvisor
- According to Tripadvisor travelers, these are the best ways to experience Yosemite Valley:
- Full-Day Small Group Yosemite & Glacier Point Tour Including Hotel Pickup (From $169.00)
- Small Group Yosemite and Giant Sequioas Day Trip from San Francisco (From $209.00)
- Yosemite National Park and Giant Sequoias Day Trip from San Francisco (From $199.00)
- 2-Day Yosemite National Park Tour from San Francisco (From $499.00)
- Small-Group Yosemite Day Tour from San Francisco (From $179.00)
- Hotels near Yosemite Valley:
- (0.69 mi) Housekeeping Camp
- (0.73 mi) The Ahwahnee
- (0.71 mi) Yosemite Valley Lodge
- (1.14 mi) Curry Village
- (1.22 mi) North Pines Campground
- Restaurants near Yosemite Valley:
- (0.09 mi) Degnan's Kitchen
- (0.10 mi) Degnan's Kitchen
- (0.10 mi) Degnan's Loft
- (0.14 mi) Base Camp Eatery
- (0.20 mi) Village Grill
- Attractions near Yosemite Valley:
- (0.03 mi) Valley Visitor Center
- (0.04 mi) Ansel Adams Gallery
- (0.06 mi) Yosemite Village Store
- (0.06 mi) Indian Village of the Ahwahnee
- (0.11 mi) Wawona Covered Bridge