One of the most famous national parks in the world. Yosemite is located in Northern California, is 1,169 square miles and receives millions of visitor per year. As if those stats alone aren’t impressive enough, there’s the photos of valleys, rocks, waterfalls, streams, animals and sweeping landscapes that paint the picture and entice many to venture into this world of nature.
I’ve had the pleasure of visiting twice during the summer and fall seasons, receiving completely different experiences from both. While there’s endless things to do, I wanted to provide my personal perspective and a Yosemite travel guide to refer to.
Yosemite Travel Guide
Quick History Plug
Yosemite National Park was officially declared a home of natural wonders where hikers and nature lovers could gather year-round, on October 1, 1890. Up until then, mostly Native Americans occupied Yosemite Valley right before the California Gold Rush. Once damage to Yosemite was noticed by the frequent tourism, President Abraham Lincoln decided to make Yosemite a protected land of the government in order for it to be conserved for pubic enjoyment. This paved the way for many park establishments in the country, including Yellowstone.
My Experience
I’ll be honest, I’m not the MOST outdoorsy person. I love hiking, being outdoors in general and seeing good views, but in moderation. You definitely won’t find me spending hours and hours in nature. And you won’t catch me dead in a tent. But, my experience at Yosemite has always been what you expect it to be – enlightening and magnificent.
You really are “one with nature.” That’s the best way to describe it. The drive is long, the roads are windy and the views are amazing, the entire way. As soon as you reach the Yosemite area and step out of your car, you can hear…absolutely nothing. It is hands down the quietest place I’ve been. You can hear nothing but the wind, the birds chirping and the leaves rustling from animals on the ground.
One of my favorite things about Yosemite is how it gives you that cozy mountain-life feel. Being way up in the mountains leaves you feeling so calm, peaceful and content even within a few minutes of being there. I simply love the way I feel when I’m there. You will too.
Where to stay
It’s funny – I loved both the lodges we stayed at but if I could, I would have swapped the season I stayed at each. I’ll explain why. And since I put out a disclaimer that I’m not the most outdoorsy person, it should be clear that the lodges are my favorite part.
The Pines Resort
We stayed here for our first visit to Yosemite in late Fall and it was P E R F E C T. The Pines Resort is located right on Bass Lake and offers a stunning lakefront resort view.
We stayed in a mini home called a chalet and it was so unbelievably charming, I wanted to stay for a week! (we didn’t, but I can dream). It was extremely rustic, cozy and spacious. We loved hanging out on the deck during the day and using the fireplace inside at night for movies and popcorn.
Since we stayed during Thanksgiving, we were able to experience their buffet. And let me tell you..it was just like Thanksgiving at home! They had EVERYTHING and we were left feeling overly stuffed both in our tummy’s and our hearts.
They also have a cool bar attached to the restaurant for a little nightlife which we appreciated, especially when the WVU game was on. A few shots and appetizers and we are ready for bed.
Overall, it was the loveliest and coziest place to be during late Fall. I do suggest going to this resort during the summer as they have pools and water activities available on the lake, which is something we couldn’t do.
Rush Creek Lodge
The perfect place to really experience lodge life. Conveniently located just 2 minutes outside of Yosemite, Rush Creek Lodge sits high on the mountain and overlooks the breathtaking scenery of local nature.
Our villa, with it’s beautiful balcony, was one of the key highlights of our trip. Since we love to be cozy and comfortable in the mountains, this lodge truly allowed for that. They have everything you need inside including a luxury king bed, coffee tables and couches to work remotely, a beautiful bathroom and spacious shower, plus plenty of storage space for families. The villas are also extremely remote and allow for social distancing since everyone has their own private entrance.
Even visiting during a pandemic, the atmosphere and sense of community was wonderful. The rooms were immaculate, hand sanitizer stations were everywhere and everyone wore masks on property. We felt very comfortable and safe staying here, since the staff and guests were all following guidelines.
Other awesome features of this lodge include their outdoor pools and hot tubs, indoor recreation center filled with lounges, fireplaces, books, board games and a kid’s entertainment section, as well as their lively and fun tavern with amazing food and drink selections.
Overall, this lodge exceeded my expectations and made for an incredible trip. Between the friendly staff, the beautifully decorated property with luscious trees and streams, the private villas and the proximity to Yosemite National Park, it was truly an amazing trip. I cant wait to go back.
I personally feel this lodge would be best experienced in late fall and winter. Although I haven’t been there during that time, I can just tell and photos I’ve seen confirm that.
Where to visit
Bridalveil Falls
This waterfall is dainty and light-flowing, which can be found year-round but is most powerful in the spring. The waterfall is said to resemble a bride’s veil, which is clearly where it gets it’s name. The rocks near the end of the waterfall are very slippery but allow you to get a bit closer, while being careful!
El Capitan
Yes, that huge rock that crazy Alex Honnold climbed with his bare hands and no ropes. If you’ve seen free solo, then you know what I’m talking about. This exact rock is located in Yosemite and attracts rock climbers from all over the world.
Because I always want to know these stats and in case you’re interested too, over 30 fatalities have been documented between 1905 and 2018. Once you see the rock, you’ll understand just how dangerous it is to climb it.
If you’re not into rocking climbing, visiting and taking a gander at it is, is just as acceptable as well. The entire rock is composed of course-grained granite, is 3,000 feet from the base. And makes for an amazing piece of history and nature.
Mirror Lake
Mirror Lake Trail is about a 5-mile loop around the lake and offers fun hiking, stunning views and a mesmerizing reflection of the landscape on the lake. The best time to visit the lake is in spring and summer.
Mono Lake
Located about an hour and a half into Yosemite and in one of the smallest towns I’ve been in (with a graduating class of 7 high school students) Mono Lake stretches wide and smells STRONG. Formed at least 760,000 years ago, this saline soda lake is home to an ecosystem of bine shrimp, birds and alkali flies. It’s one of the most interesting and historic lakes you’ll see. Which sets it apart from other landmarks you’ll see in your lifetime.
Once you’re done visiting the lake, head over to The Mobil restaurant for the most delicious local food you can get. Some of the best fish tacos I’ve had!
Yosemite Falls
This waterfall is one of the most abundant and tallest you can find in Yosemite, dropping from 2,425 feet from the top. You can hear it from hundreds of feet away when walking to it, as it slowly starts to reveal itself on the trail. It’s incredible and I highly recommend visiting. The waterfall is most plentiful in late Spring.
When to go
I had the pleasure of visiting Yosemite in Early October and late November/early December. While the park is beautiful year-round, I suggest going during the spring (March-May) or late fall/early winter season (Late October-December) to really get the best park experience. This allows you to see more of the iconic destinations like waterfalls, which are otherwise dried up during the off-season.
Summer
This season allows you to experience Yosemite during it’s warmest climate, where most landscapes and vista points are clear and full of color, where animals are more likely to be spotted and where hikes are likely to be dry and easy to accomplish.
Be aware that this is also fire season. So air quality should definitely be considered when visiting during the summer months.
Fall
This season allows you to experience the darker, eerie fog and rain that sweeps across the park in various parts. While it may not be enticing to some, being here during the cold and rainy weather makes for a truly cozy an interesting experience in the mountains.
Winter
The coldest and whitest season offering a little more magic to the park than usual. There are still several places to hike and stunning pictures to capture with snow settings.
Be aware of road closures and needing tire chains to drive in the park.
Spring
Probably the most ideal time to go as it is temperate, the animals are more abundant and the waterfalls and lakes are the heaviest and fullest.
Quick Tips
- Make a reservation! All park tickets are available 48 hours in advance of your visit date. The best part is that the ticket entry is only $30 and is valid for a full 7 days.
- Grab a park map when you arrive as it is extremely detailed and will be your best friend for the day
- Make stops along the way, even if they aren’t the most popular to see. Because most of the time, you’ll find some hidden treasures
- Pack plenty of snacks and water. There aren’t a ton of places to get food and being in higher elevations, on the trails and in the sun all day, will dehydrate you quickly!
- Make sure to really research the season and what time of year would be best for you to visit. They are all vastly different experiences
I hope you enjoyed my Yosemite travel guide! Overall, Yosemite is amazing and should absolutely be on your bucket list. There’s so much to do year-round and will always leave you wanting more!
Happy Travels xx
