Approximately 7.2 miles | Moderate

Starting in Yosemite Valley, this trail will lead you to the majestic Yosemite Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in North America. This hike offers challenging uphill sections that reward hikers with awe-inspiring views of the valley, Half Dome, and the surrounding peaks.

Approximately 0.5 miles | Easy

Hike to the base of the tallest waterfall in North America and absorb some of the adrenaline-soaked spray that's just survived a 2,400-foot (720-meter) freefall. There will be lots of water roaring over the falls due to our wet winter/spring.

Approximately 5.4 miles round trip | Moderate to Strenuous

If there's one hike I suggest everyone do (unless you have babies/very small children) is the Mist Trail. This very popular hike originates near Happy Isles in eastern Yosemite Valley. The John Muir and Mist Trails offer spectacular, up-close views of two large waterfalls, enjoyable scenery along the Merced River, and unique views across Yosemite Valley. This first paved mile of trail is busiest and accesses the Vernal Fall Footbridge. Almost entirely uphill, you can appreciate views along the way, and during spring, when the water levels are at their peak, you can also glimpse Illillouette Fall from this first section of trail. NOTE: While this is listed as a more moderate to strenuous hike, you move so slowly while climbing up the side of Vernal Fall (hence the name "Mist Trail" because you will get wet) that I consider it more a moderate. People of all fitness levels do this trail and the motto is definitely slow and steady. Also, make sure to wear good hiking shoes or shoes that at least have a good tread and be prepared to get wet. Some people wear ponchos.

Approximately 11.5 miles for the full loop; 7.2 miles for the half loop | Moderate

This trail follows many of the Valley's first east-west trails and wagon roads. It offers a rare opportunity in Yosemite Valley: to hike on a fairly level trail with some solitude. While some of the trail passes near roads, much of it takes you through meadows, talus slopes at the base of the granite cliffs, and near the Merced River. You can access the trail from many places throughout the Valley; however, the mileage and description used here starts at the Lower Yosemite Fall area (follow signs for Valley Loop Trail).

Approximately 2 miles round trip to the lake; 5 miles loop around the lake | Easy to Moderate

Mirror Lake has little water much of the year and, while pleasant at any time of year, it is fullest in spring and early summer, when Tenaya Creek flows freely with fresh snowmelt. When water is calm, the lake offers beautiful reflections of surrounding cliffs. Exhibits along the trail tell the story of Mirror Lake's lake-to-meadow succession, and also highlight some of the cultural history of the area. This is a perfect place for our guests with babies and young children to visit.

Approximately 1.2 miles | Easy

A short walk to the base of this 620-foot (189-meter) waterfall that's one of the most famous in the world. Yosemite Conservancy just finished a multi-year restoration which included new bathrooms (thank god), improved and accessible trails, and better viewing platforms.

Approximately 1 mile | Easy

The views here are almost indescribable. There's a 270-degree panorama including Half Dome, Clouds Rest, the waterfalls of the Mist Trail, dozens of peaks in the eastern Sierra range, and much of Yosemite Valley. It's probably the best place in all of Yosemite for watching the sunset. NOTE: Due to weather conditions, the road to Glacier Point may not be open by our wedding weekend. Please reference THIS PAGE for current road conditions.

Approximately 2.2 miles | Easy

This hike is at the outer bounds of the easy category, since it involves some ascent, but it's well worth it. It includes the Grizzly Giant, which is not only the world's oldest sequoia, at 2,700 years, but also one of the world's largest living things; the California Tunnel Tree, which you can walk through; the Bachelor and Three Graces; and a variety of other behemoths that would merit their own parks anywhere else in the world but don't even rate their own names here. NOTE: Mariposa Grove is located at the southern end of Yosemite and is about a 60-90 minute drive from the Valley. It is well worth the drive if you can fit a visit in.

Yosemite Hospitality (barf, Aramark) offers some guided tram and bus tours around the Valley. Devin and I have never done them but they're a great way to learn about the Park without having to walk everywhere. They've been going on for years so Aramark can't screw them up too badly so I'm sure they're fine. Ticket information can be found HERE.

Yosemite Conservancy offers some really wonderful naturalist and interpretive walks. The cost is reasonable and the naturalists who lead these are some of the best out there so you're really going to get an enjoyable guided tour. Ticket information can be found HERE.