Camp at North Pines Campground

Mirror Lake is a very popular spot in the Yosemite Valley and definitely a must see to check off your explore list. Crowds are much smaller if you go during the winter, but some parts of the water might be iced over. The trailhead you take to get there is well marked and can be found at the far east end of Yosemite Valley. You have the option to take a shuttle to the trailhead or hike the extr...

This is truly a beautiful hike. Although it’s not the easiest, you are rewarded by the views. From the Mirror Lake trailhead (shuttle stop #17), it is 0.9 miles to the Snow Creek trailhead and 1.7 miles to the Snow Creek overlook where you can camp in close proximity. Once you reach the top, you can take a dip in the water which is about 200 yards from the campgrounds. Beware though, it isn't ...

Getting There Starting in Yosemite Valley, head to the Snow Creek trailhead just past Muir Meadows. Start the hike early in the morning, since it gets pretty hot in the summer and the last part of the hike is in the sun. The Trail You'll hike more than 140 switchbacks to reach the top of Basket Dome and get epic views of Half Dome. There are plenty of spots to camp, but if you're with mor...

Also known as Tenaya Creek Falls or Three Chutes Falls, this spot is loved by locals and is definitely worth the hidden trail and scramble over rocks. The hike takes you along Tenaya Creek, Mirror Lake, and a boulder-filled canyon. Great for photos or for relaxing by some secluded falls. To get there, start at the Mirror Lake trailhead (shuttle stop #17, or park at Curry Village and walk up the...

Take the Valley shuttle to Mirror Lake Trailhead where you will begin your hike. After a flat 2 miles, you will begin the steep three miles up to snow creek as you take one switch back after the next.  This steep climb will reward you with beautiful views of Tenaya Canyon and give you a different perspective on the classic Half Dome view. Once you reach the top of the switchbacks, snow will w...

This location turned out to be one of our favorite unplanned stops in the Yosemite Valley to photograph and explore.Stoneman Bridge was constructed in 1933 and spans 72 feet long. The Merced River flows under this classic stone bridge providing very photogenic reflections, with Half Dome in the background. We explored the bridge in the fall season and the leaves on the trees surrounding this ar...