Drive the Yosemite Valley Loop

Yosemite Valley Loop
4.3
4 Reviews
Drive the Yosemite Valley Loop
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Added by Moe Lauchert

Pull off at the numerous hikes and trailsShort driving distanceScenic viewsEasy access to the grocery store in the parkWildlife

Upon entering Yosemite Valley National Park I made it a point to see Half Dome, El Capitan, and Washington Column and several other famous Yosemite formations. What I didn't realize was as soon as I entered The Village was that all could be seen within a 15 minute loop around the valley floor. There was plenty of space to park and obviously an abundance of trailheads to hike down.

During the drive, I pulled over and ended up taking 4-Mile Trail which leads to a face view of Half Dome. It was strenuous to say the least, especially with camera gear. The loop does a good job of showing some highlights of Yosemite for someone without a lot of time on hand or with a group of new hikers. There are easy to Moderate trails and great views from any vantage point. There isn't any cell service so plan accordingly.

The stops I made were Half Dome, North Dome, Washington Column, Cathedral Rock, El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall, 4-Mile Trail, and Camp 4 all within 5 hours.

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Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and be sure to follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly.
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Andy
11/23/2020
Great way to see the park
A great way to expereince the park, but would recommend going hiking as well! I know some people who only come here for the drive
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Andreas Brokalakis
10/19/2020
Just a starting point to the Yosemite adventure
Wherever you place yourself in Yosemite, the views and the surrounding scenery are going to be amazing. I find though that driving around is ...
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Elena P
7/14/2020
Surprisingly uncrowded
We did this at the end of February and it was surprisingly uncrowded. There was lots of parking on the sides of the ...
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Natalie F
7/13/2020
Beautiful!
I love all of Moe's suggestons here. This is a beautiful drive! So many pull offs and insane views. A must do in Yosemite.
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