Shaver Lake, California

Dewey Point lies on the western side of the Pohono Trail, across the valley from El Capitan and above Cathedral Rocks. When I was there in September, it was deserted but for a few birds drifting on the thermals above the cliffs. The sunset was stunning. It felt like there was nothing between me a...

Inspiration Point is a granite slab located on the mountainside above Tunnel View. Hiking to this scenic point will provide you with the same views you would get from Tunnel View with less people around. Hiking this trail can also take you to different parts of Yosemite if you're so inclined (Bri...

Tunnel View sets you up for an iconic view of some of the major highlights of the Yosemite valley including Bridal Veil Falls, El Capitan and Half Dome in the distance. To access the viewpoint, from Northside Dr., turn right onto Wawona Rd. You'll continue on Wawona Rd. up until you see you parki...

Step 1: Get Wilderness Permit from the Wilderness Office the day before! Permits are free and required. This trail is a Point-to-Point trail so make sure you have a shuttle situation figured out (or you can always hitch hike).  The best option is to get dropped off at Tunnel View so that you don'...

This short, easy walk provides some of the best views of several iconic Yosemite landmarks from the valley floor.  If you complete the entire loop, expect to see Yosemite Falls from the Swinging Bridge, Half Dome from Sentinel Bridge (a popular spot at sunset), and the historic Yosemite Chapel.  ...

You can find the trailhead to Upper Yosemite Falls near Camp 4. There is plenty of free parking here and you can also take a shuttle to stop #7. Be sure to start this hike early in the day as it is strenuous and can get really hot as the day goes on. Bring plenty of water and snacks and take many...

Camp 4 is located in Yosemite Valley near Yosemite Valley Lodge. It's a popular spot for climbers as there is bouldering within the site. It's also located close to the Upper Yosemite Falls trail. Pets are not allowed. First come, first serve, $6/night. More info at https://www.nps.gov/yose/plany...

The Penthouse Cracks in Yosemite Valley are a great introduction to crack climbing, in a safe environment. With fixed protection above the routes, you are able to safely top rope these climbs. Featuring a 5.8, two 5.10 climbs, and a 5.11, everyone can find something fun to try.Park at Yosemite Lo...

The North Dome Loop is one of the most challenging and rewarding hikes on the northern rim of Yosemite Valley. This is an alternative to the often crowded Mist, Panorama, or 4-Mile Trails. Or if you are not able to grab a permit to hike Half Dome, this is a great choice. Some of the highlights in...

Get a permit.  Any overnight backpacking in Yosemite requires a permit from the Wilderness Center.  Before you leave make sure to get one! Get a bear canister!  Bears are active in Yosemite and all backpackers must take the required measures to keep food away from them! Start at Camp 4.  Eagle ...

Start on the Yosemite Falls trailhead and work your way up. Yosemite Falls can be anywhere from a huge flow to a slow trickle depending on the time of year. Hiking boots are absolutely necessary and hiking poles are a huge benefit. Say hello to rock climbers at the top as they finish their El Cap...

Hot Creek Geological Site is a must see when you are in the Mammoth Lakes area. It is just West of Highway 395 and only minutes form the town of Mammoth Lakes, which has great food, a ski resort, world class mountain biking, and a brewery. Bishop is about 40 minutes South which is well known for ...

At 2,425 feet, Yosemite Falls is the highest waterfall in North America. The falls consists of three sections: Upper Falls, Middle Cascades, and Lower Falls. At 320 feet, Lower Yosemite Falls is one of the most popular attractions at Yosemite National Park. This 1-mile loop is a leisurely walk wi...

In spring at Yosemite National Park, a unique phenomenon occurs, called “moonbows.” Seen during the full moon, moonbows are rainbows produced by light reflected off the surface of the moon, and are relatively faint and difficult to detect with the naked eye, but they do appear in long exposure ph...

Turtleback Dome will provide you with views of southern Yosemite and the Valley in a less crowded area. This hike on a service road is relatively easy with a slight elevation gain over the entire 0.7 miles. To get to the Trailhead, take Wawona Road north towards the valley. Use the referenced poi...

There is available parking at the campgrounds at the Lodgepole Visitor Center. Lodgepole's elevation starts at 6720 ft. Twin Lakes Trailhead starts right at the base, which you will be following to get to Mount Silliman. Along Twin Lakes Trail are several campgrounds for your journey, you can go...