People from around the world travel to Yosemite National Park for some of the most spectacular views on the globe. The park is also home to some of the most amazing hikes that you will ever experience. If you are going to take just one hike through the park, there are five standouts to choose from.
- Half Dome Hike
Half Dome is a fixture in one of the most viewed vistas in Yosemite National park. Although this hike is close to 16-miles long and can take a full day to complete, it is easy enough for the average hiker. You don’t need to be in top shape to take this journey, but you should have at least built up your level of endurance. This hike is top rated among visitors to Yosemite if just for the view of Half Dome alone.
- Lower Yosemite Falls
This easy hike can be completed in less than an hour. The trail is less than a mile long and presents no complications along the way. When you choose this trail, you are treated to a view of the spectacular Yosemite Falls. The falls has an elevation of 2,425 feet, and it is the highest in North America.
- May Lake
Although this hike is just over a mile long, many hikers choose to make it an overnighter because of the beautiful views. When you hike to May Lake, you are treated to scenic granite peaks, a subalpine forest, and a gorgeous lake positioned at the base of a mountain. This hike is a popular one and not suited to hikers desiring a bit of solitude.
- Old Big Oak Flat Road
If you are looking for a hike that takes you over rocky terrain that only requires solid footing, this is the one. Once an access road into the valley, Old Big Oak Flat Road was eventually deemed unsafe due to rockslides. You’ll hike over a trail covered partially by pavement and partially by fallen rocks. You will be treated to fantastic views of the valley below for your efforts.
- Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias
If you are like many people, when you think of Yosemite National Park, you think of giant sequoias. No trip to the park is complete without picturesque views of these impressive trees. This half-day hike will take you through a grove of more than 300 giant sequoias. You will learn about the most famous trees in the area and have plenty of opportunity for photographs. Hikers are advised to plan at least half of a day for this trek.
There are literally dozens of hikes that you can take through Yosemite National Park and the surrounding areas. If you only have time for one, choose among these five popular treks. You can spend an hour or several days hiking these amazing trails. Whether you want to see an amazing waterfall or some of the largest trees in the world, you will not be disappointed.
