Everything You Need to Plan A Trip to Yosemite National Park: A 2 Day Yosemite Itinerary
El Capitan
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Yosemite National Park is easily one of the best National Parks on the West Coast and one of the 16 most beautiful National Parks in the US. Planning a trip to Yosemite National Park? It doesn't have to be difficult. Sure, we’ve all seen the stories of super achievers climbing the face of El Capitan or conquering Half Dome, but you don’t have to be an incredible physical specimen to enjoy Yosemite National Park. In fact, you can be an indoorsy type like me whose climbing is limited to social ladders and never involves the use of a carabiner.
This 2 day itinerary will give you an idea of what to do in Yosemite National Park, show you all the best views, some easy hikes and hiking trails, and accessible things to do on fully paved roads inside Yosemite Park. I’ll also cover some of the best places to stay in Yosemite.
The best part, you don’t even need much time to explore, though you will want to have more than one day. 2 days in Yosemite is the perfect amount of time to see all the major attractions and enjoy your time in one of the most scenic national parks.
Mt girl, Maddie, standing along Swinging Bridge and the Merced River.
Planning a Yosemite Trip if You Have A Disability
The first thing you need to know about visiting Yosemite or any of the other amazing West Coast National Parks if you’re disabled is to apply for your National Parks Access Pass. This will make your Yosemite travel easier and give you free access to all National Parks. It’s good whether you’re visiting just one park or taking a larger national parks road trip.
Most of Yosemite is easily accessed by car and there are ample accessible parking stalls for disabled visitors. There are a number of great scenic drives in Yosemite that allow you to see the park’s highlights. Temporary disabled parking placards are also available for those who may have forgotten theirs at home. These are available at the park entrance and visitor centers.
Yosemite National Park has several manual wheelchairs and mobility scooters available for rent. Reservations are suggested. Call (209) 372-1274 for reservations.
Several miles of paved trails for bicycles and pedestrians cut through the forests and along the Merced River. Curry Village and Yosemite Valley Lodge offer maps of these accessible grade trails. There are also free shuttle buses available within the park. All buses include wheelchair lifts and tie-downs. Bus drivers are available to help passengers on and off buses.
Yosemite’s deaf services program offers trip planning and interpretive services for all programs within the park. For more information visit Yosemite’s Deaf Services Program website.
Now on to the guide!
Mirror Lake Yosemite National Park
Where is Yosemite Valley National Park?
Here’s a quick handy guide for driving distances from major cities surrounding Yosemite.
Fresno – 2 hours and 15 minutes to the Valley
Sacramento – 3.5 hours to the Valley
San Francisco – 4 hours to the Valley
Reno – 4.5 hours to the ValleyVernal Falls
Los Angeles - 4 hours 50 minutes to the Valley
We made our trip to Yosemite from Los Angeles. I will caution that depending on the time of year a Los Angeles to Yosemite Road trip could require chains to be put on your tires through snowy mountain passes. This is not an easy task if you haven’t done it before. You should have someone in the car who is familiar with putting on chains and make sure you have chains already on board in those winter months or police will pull you over and you will not be allowed on the road. It’s also wildly unsafe.
Come prepared. You don’t want to search for chains last minute, as buying them may not be an option depending on where you get stuck when the snow starts to fall. You don’t want your LA to Yosemite road trip spoiled by having to sit parked on the side of Highway 120.
You can check out the Yosemite Park website for more on tire chain requirements.
2 Day Yosemite Itinerary
Day 1
Yosemite Village - Yosemite Falls Valley Visitor Center, and Ansel Adams Gallery
Yosemite Curry Village and Mist Trail to Vernal Falls
El Capitan Meadow
Valley View
Sentinel Bridge and The Merced River
Mirror Lake and Half Dome
Tunnel View/ Inspiration Point/ Bridalveil Fall
Stargazing Tour
Day 2
Mariposa Grove and Giant Sequoia Groves
Washburn Point
Glacier Point
Sentinel Dome/ Taft Point
Lower Yosemite Falls
Dinner at The Ahwahnee Hotel Yosemite
DAY 1
Yosemite Falls, Yosemite, USA
Yosemite Village - Yosemite Falls, Valley Visitor Center, and Ansel Adams Gallery
Start your first day in Yosemite at the Valley Visitor Center to get your bearings. Here you can visit the ranger-staffed information desk, view the Spirit of Yosemite film, stop in the bookstore and take a stroll through the exhibit hall detailing the park’s plant and animal life, geology, and history.
Next, head to Yosemite Museum to learn about the history of Yosemite’s native Miwok and Paiute Indian tribes from 1850 to the present.
If you’re visiting with kids, head to the Happy Isles Art and Nature Center, where you can explore history exhibits, art workshops, and interactive displays.
I also recommend checking out the Ansel Adams Gallery where you can view gorgeous artwork by famed artist Ansel Adams and other contemporary photographers. Exhibitions are rotated approximately every 6 weeks.
View from Curry Village
2. Yosemite Curry Village and Mist Trail to Vernal Falls
Curry Village is a great place to park if you want to make use of Yosemite’s free shuttle buses. It’s also near the starting point of Mist Trail, Yosemite’s most popular hiking trail.
Mist Trail is a 3-mile round trip to Vernal Falls. Warning, this is a medium-level hike and may not be suitable for everyone. I’m including it in my itinerary because it’s Yosemite’s signature hike with spectacular views for the entirety of the trail. The elevation at the trailhead is 4,000 feet with an elevation gain of 1,000 feet to the top of Vernal Falls. I do not recommend hiking all the way to Nevada Falls unless you are an experienced hiker who can handle a steep incline. I am most assuredly not. After Vernal Falls the trail rises another 1,900 feet and is a steep climb upward, so I did not attempt this part of the trail.
Vernal Fall
The best time to visit is from May to June during peak runoff. This is when you’ll get the best views of the falls. It’s best to hike Mist Trail in the morning before the crowds descend. The hike time is about 2 hours to Vernal Falls.
Views of El Capitan on a cloudy winter day.
3. El Capitan Meadow
Rising over 3,000 feet above the floor of Yosemite Valley, El Capitan is a stunning site to behold. If you’re visiting from spring to fall you can view rock climbers attempting to scale its giant walls. And who doesn’t like to look at athletic types performing feats of strength and agility?
El Capitan Meadow will also give you a great view of Lower and Middle Cathedral Rock, and the Cathedral Spires. To get here, head to Northside Drive, near the west end of Yosemite Valley. There are several parking pull-outs along this dirt road if you choose to drive your car to the meadow. You can get great views from your vehicle or choose to take in the views from the trails through the meadow. But please stay on the designated paths to protect the meadow.
Walking Valley Loop Road
4. Valley View
Located on Northside Drive, close to the west end of Yosemite Valley, Valley View offers a year-round view of El Capitan, Sentinal Rock, Cathedral Rocks, and Bridalveil Fall. It’s one of the best and easiest spots to take in the incredible views of past glaciers’ handiwork in carving out Yosemite Valley.
There are designated accessible parking spaces, so it’s easy to explore the area from your car.
Valley along the Merced River, Yosemite
5. Sentinel Bridge and the Merced River
If you’re looking for great views of Half Dome and the Merced River, look no further. Sentinal Bridge is open year-round and located on the eastern side of Yosemite Valley on Sentinel Drive, close to Cook’s Meadow. If you’re taking the shuttle, it’s stop #11. If you’re driving yourself, there are accessible parking spaces in the area. A pedestrian path traverses the area from the bus stop, across the street, and onto a paved sidewalk that leads to the bridge.
Standing at Mirror Lake in winter
6. Mirror Lake and Half Dome
I love Mirror Lake. But depending on the time of year you visit and the amount of rainfall the valley has received, it may not be a lake at all, it may just be a non-mirroring meadow. If you visit in the late summer time, the water levels will be low or nonexistent, turning the lake into Mirror Meadow.
Half Dome over Mirror Lake
Mirror Lake is a seasonal Lake on Tenaya Creek, which lies in the shadow of Half Dome. The lake is named for the reflections it provides of Half Dome and Mount Watkins. The lake is open year-round and located along the Happy Isles Loop. If you’re taking the shuttle, it will be stop #17.
Cars are not permitted on the Happy Isles Loop unless you have a disability placard. There are two accessible parking spaces available at the lake.
Tunnel View on a cloudy day
7. Tunnel View/ Inspiration Point/ Bridalveil Falls
Tunnel View is one of the most accessible and gorgeous views in Yosemite National Park. It’s a definite must-see on your trip. Yosemite Valley views from this point are truly awe-inspiring. From the Wawona Tunnel area, you can easily view El Capitan, Half Dome, Sentinel Rock, Horsetail Falls, Cathedral Rocks, and Bridalveil Fall.
The Wawona Tunnel and Tunnel View were constructed by the National Park Service in the early 1930s. Requiring 230 tons of dynamite to bore through the solid granite, the tunnel stretches nearly a mile long.
One of the more unique things to do in Yosemite if you happen to be visiting in February is watching Horsetail Falls light up as if it’s on fire in what’s called “Firefall.” For a short time each February, when conditions are just right, the sunlight hits the water making the falls appear as though they are made of molten lava flowing down the side of El Capitan. I was lucky enough to witness the event in person three years ago. It really is mesmerizing.
“Firefall” event at Tunnel View
If you’re driving to Tunnel View, accessible parking spaces are available at the east end of the Wawona Tunnel along Wawona Road (Highway 41).
Night time Stargazing Tour
8. Stargazing Night Tour Yosemite
A must-do on your trip to Yosemite, the stargazing tour offers a new perspective on the park and beautiful night sky views. Being many miles from the nearest city Yosemite gets exceptionally dark skies perfect for stargazing.
From June through August many amateur astronomers set up their telescopes at Glacier Point. But you don‘t have to bring a telescope to join in the fun. Astronomy walks are offered throughout the park in Yosemite Valley, Wawona, and Tuolumne Meadows. For a full list of offerings, check out the Yosemite Trip Planner Website.
Please note, these tours may not be offered year-round and accessibility will vary depending on the location of the tour being offered.
DAY 2
Mariposa Grove and Giant Sequoia Trees
9. Mariposa Grove and Giant Sequoia Trees
We’re starting day 2 with a trip to the famous giant sequoia trees. Mariposa Grove is Yosemite’s largest stand of sequoias and a definite must-see. It includes the famous Grizzly Giant, which stands at an impressive 209 feet and is roughly 2 million pounds in weight. Researchers estimate this tree to be 2000-3000 years old.
If you’re looking for a moderate-level hike, Grizzly Giant Loop is the most popular trail in the Grove. The hike is 2 miles round-trip. The trail loop takes about 1 1/2 to 2 hours to complete. The trail is relatively flat and wheelchair accessible.
The Mariposa Grove Shuttle provides free shuttle service from the Mariposa Grove Welcome Plaza (located near Yosemite’s South Entrance) to Mariposa Grove. To get here take the shuttle to Stop #1.
Vehicles with a disability placard are able to drive up the Mariposa Grove Road and park at the Mariposa Grove Arrival Area or the Grizzly Giant accessible parking spaces.
Be aware, Mariposa Grove is closed to vehicles and shuttle buses from late November to March.
10. Washburn Point
Washburn Point is a beautiful scenic overlook that showcases views of Half Dome and the eastern crest of the Sierra Nevada. Visitors can also view Nevada Falls, Illilouette Falls, and Vernal Falls from the overlook. It’s open to vehicles from late May through October or early November depending on weather conditions.
Washburn Point is located along Glacier Point Road near Glacier Point. From Wawona of the Yosemite Valley, take Wawona Road (Highway 41), and turn east onto Glacier Point Road. There is one accessible parking spot at the north end of the lot.
Views of Glacier Point
11. Glacier Point
Another incredible overlook that’s easily accessed by car along Glacier Point Road, Glacier Point shows visitors a great view of Yosemite Valley and a vista of the park’s southeastern high peaks. Like Washburn Point, the road stays open as weather permits and closes in winter for unplowed roads covered in snow.
A short, paved wheelchair-accessible trail leads you to a point 3,214 feet above Curry Village showcasing views of Yosemite’s high country. There’s also a snack bar, restrooms, and gift shop, which are all wheelchair accessible. Wheelchair-accessible parking is also available.
Sentinel Dome
12. Sentinel Dome / Taft Point
This second to the last hike on my list is not wheelchair accessible and is not for those with limited mobility. But it is a moderate-level hike that may be appropriate for some. One of the best hikes in the United States, the Sentinel Dome/Taft Point hike gives you the option of hiking 1.8 miles to Sentinel Dome where you will be greeted with a 360-degree view of the park, or continuing on to Taft Point another .4 miles away where you can get an up-close view of El Capitan and Yosemite Valley.
The trail is wide and crosses mostly open granite with little shade, so make sure to wear sunscreen and/or a hat. There is a 400 ft elevation gain to Sentinel Dome and another 200 ft gain to Taft Point.
Lower Yosemite falls
13. Lower Yosemite Falls
The final hike on my list is an easy, 1-mile paved loop with an elevation gain of 50 feet. The Lower Yosemite Fall hike takes about 30 minutes and is wheelchair-accessible. Here you will see part of North America’s tallest waterfall, Lower Yosemite Fall. Water drops an astonishing 320 feet at a sometimes deafening volume. The waterfall peaks in spring and early summer. There are also many exhibits along the trail where visitors can learn about the history of Yosemite. For the best views of the falls make sure you walk the loop in a clockwise direction.
Parking is not available at the trailhead. To get here, park at Yosemite Village or Yosemite Falls parking areas.
Restaurant at The Ahwahnee Hotel
14. Dinner at The Ahwahnee Hotel Yosemite
Even if you’re not staying at the Ahwahnee Hotel, it’s well worth popping in for dinner. While most meals at National Parks are notoriously awful, I found the Ahwahnee rather delightful, especially the ambiance. If you can’t make dinner, there’s also a legendary Sunday brunch. Advance reservations are required for all meals. Head to the Ahwahnee website to reserve your time.
Proper attire is required for dinner. Yes, it’s a somewhat fancy affair to eat at the Ahwahnee. Men must wear long pants and a collared shirt. Women are required to wear a dress, skirt, or long pants with a blouse. T-shirts, shorts, tank tops, flip-flops, and baseball caps are not permitted.
Click here to view the dinner menu.
Relaxing at the Ahwahnee Hotel
Where to Stay in Yosemite
Yosemite Lodging Inside the Park
There are a variety of accommodations inside Yosemite, from tent camping to the luxury Ahwahnee Hotel.
If you’re looking for proper tent camping, campsites in Lower, Upper, and North Pines are wheelchair accessible. Some include raised tent pads and all include accessible picnic tables and fire rings.
For luxury accommodations, head to The Ahwahnee Hotel. The Ahwahnee is the crown jewel of National Park lodges. The hotel is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is a National Historic Landmark. It’s even hosted queens and presidents. The hotel features a gift shop, sweet shop, bar, and heated outdoor swimming pool. The Ahwahnee is ADA accessible, offering 10 wheelchair-accessible rooms, 5 with roll-in showers and 5 with bathtubs.
Another option inside the park is Yosemite Valley Lodge. Located across from Lower Yosemite Falls Trail on the Yosemite Valley Floor, Yosemite Valley Lodge is a good mid-range option. It’s definitely not as swanky as the Ahwahnee, but it still offers housekeeping and other amenities. It also offers several wheelchair-accessible rooms with roll-in showers.
The final option is Curry Village with a variety of lodging options, from heated canvas tent cabins to proper wooden cabins, and unheated canvas tents. Curry Village is ADA accessible. It also offers an outdoor swimming pool in warmer months, a gift shop, shuttle access, and multiple dining options.
Chilling with my dog, Maddie, at our AirBnB.
Yosemite lodging Outside the park
Staying outside the park is also a great option. On my first stay in Yosemite, I stayed in an incredible Airbnb about 30 minutes from the park’s entrance. It’s a great option if you’re visiting the park with your dog since a lot of lodging inside the park is not dog-friendly and it can be much easier to find an Airbnb with dogs allowed.
If you’d like to stay in a hotel outside the park, try the Victorian-era Wawona Hotel, about an hour from the Yosemite Valley Floor on the way to Mariposa Grove. Wawona is a 2-star hotel offering 50 standard hotel rooms with private bathrooms and 54 standard hotel rooms with shared bathrooms. Wheelchair-accessible rooms and accessible shared bathrooms are available.
Another, slightly more upscale option is Tenaya Lodge, a three-star hotel just a short ten minutes from the south entrance gate of Yosemite off Highway 41. They offer a few ADA-accessible rooms with either bathtubs or roll-in showers.
Visiting Curry Village with my dog, Maddie
Are Dogs Allowed In Yosemite?
Many people want to travel to Yosemite with their furry friend. However, you should know dogs are limited to certain areas within the park. They are allowed only in developed areas, on paved roads, sidewalks, and bicycle paths, (unless otherwise indicated.) Unless you are traveling with a service animal, your options for where to stay inside the park are restricted. But there are some dog-friendly campgrounds as outlined below.
But first, since this is first and foremost a blog focused on accessibility for disabled travelers, let’s address service animals. Service animals are allowed in the park though they must remain on a leash unless their specific task requires them to be unleashed. Service animals must not be excessively noisy and must not disturb wildlife. It is recommended that all service animals wear an identification vest. Keep in mind that even if you are bringing your service animal to Yosemite, there is wildlife in the area including bears and coyotes which can be dangerous to domesticated animals. Be mindful and especially careful when outdoors.
Now on to pets… where are pets allowed in the park?
Yosemite Lodging that allows dogs:
Inside the park, dog owners are limited to campgrounds. All campgrounds allow dogs EXCEPT for walk-in campgrounds like Camp 4 and group campsites.
My frenchie, Maddie, in the snow at Curry Village Yosemite National Park, California USA
Rules for Dogs Inside the Park:
Dogs must be on a leash no more than 6 feet long, or otherwise restrained. They must never be left unattended. Owners must clean up after their pets and deposit feces in trash receptacles. Always store pet food as if it were human food. Dog food will attract bears to the campsite. Dogs are NOT allowed inside public buildings, on shuttle buses, on unplowed roads covered in snow, in undeveloped wilderness areas, or on most trails. No exceptions will be made for pets carried in bags, strollers, arms, backpacks, or other carriers.
Yosemite Hospitality operates a dog kennel from late May thru early September for those who wish to board their pet while exploring the park. Proof of immunizations is required. You can reach the kennel at: (209) 372-8326.
Sorry, no dogs allowed on the Yosemite park shuttle bus. Service Animals welcome.
Yosemite Trails that allow dogs:
Wawona Meadow Loop, Chowchilla Mountain Road, and Four Mile and Eleven Mile fire roads
Hodgdon Meadows Campground: Carlon Road starting at the trailhead to Hodgdon Meadow and Old Big Oak Flat Road from Hodgdon Meadow to the Tuolumne Grove parking lot.
Let’s Visit Yosemite
Hopefully, you have everything you need to plan a trip to Yosemite and travel Yosemite with ease. This 2 day Yosemite Itinerary focuses on the biggest highlights in and around the park. Rest assured there are tons of other things to see. But these are the most iconic and accessible. If you have more time to spend in the Yosemite area, you might also consider visiting Tioga Pass and nearby Sequoia National Park.
For more information check out The Mariposa County Tourism site.
Tioga Pass
