Yosemite National Park is one of the best hiking destinations in the United States, with everything from easy waterfall walks to steep mountain climbs and full-day adventures. In 2026, hikers can explore classic Yosemite trails such as the Mist Trail, Yosemite Falls Trail, Four Mile Trail, and Half Dome, along with quieter routes around Tuolumne Meadows and Wawona.
This guide covers 15 of the best hikes in Yosemite National Park for 2026, including distance, difficulty, highlights, and what to know before you go.
2026 update: Yosemite does not require a vehicle reservation to enter the park in 2026, but some hikes—especially Half Dome and overnight wilderness routes—still have permit requirements.
Quick List: Best Yosemite Hikes for 2026
| Hike | Distance | Difficulty | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mist Trail to Vernal Fall | 2.4 mi RT | Strenuous | Waterfalls |
| Mist Trail to Nevada Fall | 5.4 mi RT | Strenuous | Big adventure |
| Yosemite Falls Trail | 7.4 mi RT | Strenuous | Valley views |
| Four Mile Trail | 9.6 mi RT | Strenuous | Glacier Point views |
| Half Dome | 14–16.4 mi RT | Very strenuous | Experienced hikers |
| Panorama Trail | 8.2 mi one way | Strenuous | Big scenery |
| Mirror Lake Trail | ~2–5 mi | Easy–Moderate | Families & scenery |
| Lower Yosemite Fall | ~1 mi loop | Easy | Quick waterfall hike |
| Valley Loop Trail | 11.5 mi full loop | Moderate | Exploring Yosemite Valley |
| Sentinel Dome | ~2.2 mi RT | Moderate | 360° views |
| Taft Point | ~2.2 mi RT | Moderate | Cliffs & sunsets |
| Mariposa Grove Trail | 7 mi RT | Strenuous | Giant sequoias |
| Chilnualna Falls | 8.2 mi RT | Very strenuous | Waterfalls & solitude |
| Cathedral Lakes | 7 mi RT | Moderate | Alpine scenery |
| Clouds Rest | ~14 mi RT | Strenuous | Mountain panoramas |
1. Mist Trail to Vernal Fall
Distance: 2.4 miles round trip
Elevation gain: 1,000 feet
Difficulty: Strenuous
Starting point: Happy Isles
The Mist Trail to Vernal Fall is one of the most iconic hikes in Yosemite. The trail climbs beside the Merced River before reaching the famous granite staircase leading toward the top of Vernal Fall.
The waterfall is especially impressive in spring and early summer when snowmelt increases the flow. Expect plenty of spray and potentially slippery steps near the waterfall.
The National Park Service lists the hike to the top of Vernal Fall at about 2.4 miles round trip with 1,000 feet of elevation gain.
2026 trail update
During 2026, repair work has affected the Mist Trail. From July 27 through October, the section between the John Muir Trail junction and the top of Vernal Fall is generally open Friday through Sunday and holidays, with weekday access normally outside the 7 a.m.–3:30 p.m. work period, subject to conditions.
Best for: Waterfalls, photography and experienced hikers.
2. Mist Trail to Nevada Fall
Distance: 5.4 miles round trip
Elevation gain: 2,000 feet
Difficulty: Strenuous
Starting point: Happy Isles
If Vernal Fall isn’t enough, continue higher to Nevada Fall.
This demanding hike passes Vernal Fall before climbing through granite terrain toward the 594-foot Nevada Fall. Along the way, you’ll encounter Emerald Pool, Silver Apron and spectacular views of Liberty Cap.
The National Park Service estimates about 5.4 miles round trip and 2,000 feet of elevation gain, with roughly five to six hours needed for the hike.
Tip: Carry plenty of water and start early, especially during warm weather.
Best for: Experienced hikers wanting a challenging Yosemite waterfall hike.
3. Yosemite Falls Trail
Distance: 7.4 miles round trip
Elevation gain: 2,700 feet
Difficulty: Strenuous
Starting point: Camp 4 area
The Yosemite Falls Trail is one of the park’s classic climbs. The trail takes you from Yosemite Valley toward the top of Upper Yosemite Fall, with increasingly impressive views of the Valley below.
The full hike is about 7.4 miles round trip with 2,700 feet of elevation gain.
One of the best stopping points is Columbia Rock, which provides an excellent view into Yosemite Valley without requiring the full climb.
Best for: Waterfall views, panoramic scenery and strong hikers.
4. Four Mile Trail to Glacier Point
Distance: 9.6 miles round trip
Elevation gain: 3,200 feet
Difficulty: Strenuous
Destination: Glacier Point
Despite its historic name, the Four Mile Trail is now closer to five miles one way.
The trail climbs continuously from Yosemite Valley to Glacier Point and provides outstanding views of Yosemite Falls, El Capitan, Half Dome and the surrounding granite peaks.
According to the National Park Service, the trail is 4.8 miles one way, with 3,200 feet of elevation gain.
Best for: Hikers who want spectacular Valley views without doing Half Dome.
5. Half Dome
Distance: About 14–16.4 miles round trip
Elevation gain: About 4,800 feet
Difficulty: Very strenuous
Starting point: Happy Isles
For many hikers, Half Dome is the ultimate Yosemite hike.
The route passes Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall before reaching Little Yosemite Valley and the steep subdome section. The final climb uses the famous cables to reach the summit.
A permit is required when the cables are up. Yosemite currently distributes day-hiker permits through a preseason lottery and daily lotteries during the hiking season.
The park limits the number of hikers beyond the subdome to approximately 300 people per day.
Important: This is not a casual hike. You need good physical fitness, appropriate footwear, sufficient water and experience with steep terrain and exposure.
Best for: Experienced hikers looking for Yosemite’s most famous challenge.
6. Panorama Trail
Distance: 8.2 miles one way
Difficulty: Strenuous
Starting point: Glacier Point
The Panorama Trail is one of the best choices for hikers who want a huge variety of Yosemite scenery in a single day.
Starting near Glacier Point, the trail descends toward Illilouette Fall before continuing toward the Vernal and Nevada Fall area. It can be combined with other trails to create a long Yosemite Valley adventure.
The National Park Service lists the route at about 8.2 miles one way and estimates six to eight hours.
Best for: Big mountain views, waterfalls and long day hikes.
7. Mirror Lake Trail
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Starting point: Yosemite Valley
Mirror Lake is a much easier option than Half Dome or Yosemite Falls.
The trail leads through Yosemite Valley toward a seasonal lake surrounded by towering granite cliffs. When water levels and conditions are favorable, the reflections can make for excellent photographs.
This is a good choice if you’re traveling with children, want a less strenuous walk, or simply want to enjoy Yosemite scenery without spending the entire day hiking.
Best for: Families, photographers and relaxed hiking.
8. Lower Yosemite Fall Trail
Difficulty: Easy
Starting point: Yosemite Valley
If you’re short on time, don’t skip Lower Yosemite Fall.
This short walk brings you close to the base of one of Yosemite’s most famous waterfalls. It’s significantly easier than hiking to the top of Yosemite Falls.
The National Park Service categorizes Lower Yosemite Fall among its easy Yosemite Valley day hikes.
Best for: First-time visitors, families and quick hikes.
9. Yosemite Valley Loop Trail
Distance: Up to about 11.5 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Location: Yosemite Valley
The Yosemite Valley Loop Trail is a great option if you want to experience several major Yosemite landmarks without committing to a steep summit climb.
Depending on the section you choose, you can enjoy views of Half Dome, El Capitan, Yosemite Falls, Bridalveil Fall and the Merced River.
Because the Valley floor is much less steep than trails such as Half Dome or Yosemite Falls, it’s an excellent choice for hikers who want distance rather than extreme elevation gain.
Best for: Exploring Yosemite Valley at a relaxed pace.
10. Sentinel Dome Trail
Difficulty: Moderate
Location: Glacier Point Road
Sentinel Dome provides one of Yosemite’s best 360-degree viewpoints without requiring an all-day hike.
From the top, hikers can see Half Dome, El Capitan, Yosemite Valley and numerous Sierra Nevada peaks.
The trail is also popular during wildflower season. Yosemite National Park specifically lists Sentinel Dome and Taft Point among popular trails for wildflower viewing.
Best for: Panoramic views, photography and sunset.
11. Taft Point Trail
Difficulty: Moderate
Location: Glacier Point Road
Taft Point is famous for dramatic cliffs overlooking Yosemite Valley.
The relatively short hike leads through forest before opening onto exposed granite viewpoints. From Taft Point, you can look across the Valley toward El Capitan and Yosemite Falls.
Stay well away from cliff edges and avoid risky photos. Yosemite’s granite viewpoints can be unforgiving.
Best for: Sunset, photography and dramatic Valley views.
12. Mariposa Grove Trail
Distance: 7 miles round trip to Wawona Point
Elevation gain: 1,200 feet
Difficulty: Strenuous
For something completely different from granite cliffs and waterfalls, head to Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias.
The grove contains more than 500 mature giant sequoias, including the famous Grizzly Giant and California Tunnel Tree.
The full Mariposa Grove Trail to Wawona Point is approximately 7 miles round trip with 1,200 feet of elevation gain.
For a shorter visit, the Grizzly Giant Loop is about two miles and is considerably easier.
2026 access
The Mariposa Grove shuttle operates on a seasonal schedule in 2026. From September 24 through October 31, shuttle service is weather permitting, generally from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Best for: Giant sequoias, families and nature photography.
13. Chilnualna Falls Trail
Distance: 8.2 miles round trip
Elevation gain: 2,400 feet
Difficulty: Very strenuous
Location: Wawona
If you want to escape some of Yosemite Valley’s crowds, consider Chilnualna Falls.
The trail follows Chilnualna Creek and climbs through a series of granite landscapes and forest. The waterfall consists of several major cascades rather than one single drop.
The National Park Service lists the hike at 8.2 miles round trip with 2,400 feet of elevation gain. The falls are generally fullest in spring and early summer.
Best for: Waterfalls, solitude and strong hikers.
14. Cathedral Lakes Trail
Distance: 7 miles round trip
Elevation gain: 1,000 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Location: Tuolumne Meadows
Cathedral Lakes is one of the best high-country hikes in Yosemite.
The trail leads through alpine landscapes toward lakes beneath the impressive Cathedral Peak. Compared with many of Yosemite Valley’s steep waterfall hikes, the scenery here feels more open and mountainous.
The National Park Service lists Cathedral Lakes at 7 miles round trip with approximately 1,000 feet of elevation gain.
Best for: Alpine lakes, mountain scenery and summer hiking.
15. Clouds Rest
Distance: About 14 miles round trip from the popular Tenaya Lake approach
Difficulty: Strenuous
Best feature: Huge Sierra Nevada views
Clouds Rest is one of Yosemite’s best alternatives to Half Dome.
The summit sits high above Yosemite Valley and provides extraordinary views across the Sierra Nevada. On a clear day, Half Dome looks particularly impressive from the Clouds Rest ridge.
The hike is long and includes substantial elevation gain, so plan for a full day and start early.
Best for: Experienced hikers who want spectacular views without climbing the Half Dome cables.
Which Yosemite Hike Should You Choose?
Your best hike depends on how much time and energy you have.
Best easy hikes
- Lower Yosemite Fall
- Mirror Lake
- Big Trees Loop at Mariposa Grove
Best moderate hikes
- Sentinel Dome
- Taft Point
- Cathedral Lakes
- Yosemite Valley Loop
Best strenuous hikes
- Mist Trail to Nevada Fall
- Yosemite Falls
- Four Mile Trail
- Panorama Trail
- Clouds Rest
Best challenging hike
Half Dome is the obvious choice—but only for properly prepared hikers who obtain the required permit.
Best Time to Hike in Yosemite in 2026
The ideal hiking season depends heavily on elevation.
Spring: Great waterfall flow, but snow and seasonal trail conditions can affect higher-elevation routes.
Summer: Generally the best period for high-country hikes such as Cathedral Lakes, although popular Valley trails can be hot and crowded.
Early fall: Often excellent for Yosemite Valley and many higher trails, with cooler temperatures and fewer crowds than peak summer.
Late fall and winter: Lower-elevation trails may remain accessible, but snow and ice can make many higher trails unsuitable or require specialized equipment.
Always check current trail, road and weather conditions before starting your hike.
Yosemite Hiking Permits in 2026
One of the most important things to understand before hiking Yosemite is that not every hike requires a permit.
For ordinary day hikes, a wilderness permit generally isn’t required. However, Half Dome requires a permit when the cables are up. Overnight backpacking in Yosemite Wilderness also requires a wilderness permit.
For 2026, Yosemite’s wilderness permit system uses advance reservations and first-come availability. The park says 60% of wilderness permit reservations become available through the lottery 24 weeks in advance, while the remaining 40% become available seven days in advance.
Yosemite Hiking Safety Tips
Yosemite’s scenery can make trails look easier than they really are. Keep these tips in mind:
- Start strenuous hikes early.
- Carry enough water and food for the entire hike.
- Wear shoes with good traction.
- Check weather and trail conditions before leaving.
- Stay on marked trails.
- Never climb over barriers near waterfalls.
- Stay away from fast-moving water and wet granite.
- Don’t shortcut switchbacks.
- Carry a headlamp on long hikes.
- Don’t underestimate elevation gain.
- Keep food and scented items secured from wildlife.
- Download or carry an offline map for longer hikes.
The Mist Trail, for example, contains steep granite steps, loose rock and slippery areas, and the National Park Service specifically warns hikers to stay away from dangerous flowing water.
Final Thoughts
The best hikes in Yosemite National Park for 2026 range from easy walks beside famous waterfalls to demanding full-day mountain adventures. If it’s your first visit, prioritize Mist Trail, Yosemite Falls, Four Mile Trail, Sentinel Dome and Mariposa Grove.
Experienced hikers should consider Half Dome, Clouds Rest, Panorama Trail and Nevada Fall for bigger challenges and unforgettable views.
Before heading out, check the latest official Yosemite conditions because trail closures, construction, snow, water levels and road access can change throughout the season. In particular, check the 2026 Mist Trail work schedule if you plan to hike near Vernal Fall.
Read Also: What to Do in Yosemite National Park: 15 Best Things