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Ultimate 15-Day Yosemite National Park Adventure Itinerary

Last updated: 2024 Jun 14

Valley Views and Iconic Falls

Morning

Start your Yosemite adventure with a hearty breakfast at The Ahwahnee Dining Room, known for its elegant ambiance and delicious cuisine. After breakfast, head to the iconic Yosemite Falls, the tallest waterfall in North America. Take the short hike to the base and feel the mist on your face as you admire the powerful cascade.

Afternoon

For lunch, enjoy a relaxed meal at Degnan's Deli in the heart of the valley. Post-lunch, visit the famous Yosemite Valley, surrounded by granite cliffs and a range of famous sights including El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall, and Half Dome. Take in the breathtaking views and snap some memorable photos.

Evening

As the day winds down, savor a drink at The Ahwahnee Bar, where the warm ambiance and selection of beverages provide the perfect setting to reflect on your first day in Yosemite. For dinner, indulge in the fine dining experience at The Mountain Room, offering a menu inspired by the park's natural bounty.

Bedtime

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4.57
Yosemite Falls
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4.55
Yosemite Valley
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Majestic Monoliths and Historic Sites

Morning

Fuel up for the day with breakfast at The Loft at Degnan's, a cozy spot with a variety of morning favorites. After breakfast, make your way to El Capitan, one of the world's favorite challenges for rock climbers. Witness the sheer granite face that has become a symbol of Yosemite's natural wonders.

Afternoon

For lunch, head to Curry Village Dining Pavilion and enjoy a casual meal with a view of the surrounding cliffs. Post-lunch, visit the Ansel Adams Gallery to admire the works of the renowned photographer who captured the park's beauty. Then, take a leisurely stroll through the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias, home to some of the oldest and largest trees on Earth.

Evening

Dine at The River Restaurant & Lounge, where you can enjoy a meal with a view of the Merced River. After dinner, take a peaceful evening walk to Sentinel Dome for a stunning 360-degree view of the valley and surrounding peaks. The dome is a great spot for stargazing if the weather permits.

Bedtime

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4.61
El Capitan
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4.39
Ansel Adams Gallery
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Scenic Drives and Glacier Point Vista

Morning

Start your day with breakfast at Base Camp Eatery, a place that embodies the spirit of adventure. After breakfast, take a drive to Tuolumne Grove and walk among the ancient giant sequoias. The serene setting is a perfect way to begin your morning.

Afternoon

For lunch, enjoy the casual atmosphere and tasty pizzas at Curry Village Pizza Deck. Post-lunch, continue your drive to Glacier Point, one of the most spectacular viewpoints in the park. Take in the panoramic views of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and the high country. If you're up for a short hike, consider the Taft Point trail for more breathtaking vistas.

Evening

As the sun sets, have dinner at Jackalope's Bar and Grill, a place known for its laid-back vibe and delicious comfort food. After dinner, if you still have energy, take a short walk to Mirror Lake and witness the reflections of the surrounding cliffs in the calm waters.

Bedtime

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4.60
Tuolumne Grove
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4.68
Glacier Point
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High Country Adventure and Historical Insights

Morning

Enjoy breakfast at The Restaurant at Rush Creek Lodge, a place that emphasizes fresh, local ingredients. After breakfast, head towards the high country and spend your morning at Tuolumne Meadows. Take a leisurely walk, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and admire the wildflower-strewn meadows.

Afternoon

For lunch, stop by June Bug Café in the town of Groveland, just outside the park's Big Oak Flat entrance. After lunch, visit the Pioneer Yosemite History Center to gain insights into the early days of Yosemite's human history. Explore the historic buildings and imagine life in the valley centuries ago.

Evening

Dine at Wawona Hotel Dining Room, where you can enjoy a meal in a historic setting. After dinner, take a stroll around the Wawona area and if you're lucky, you might spot some of the park's nocturnal wildlife.

Bedtime

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4.96
Tuolumne Meadows
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4.67
Pioneer Yosemite History Center
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Waterfalls and Wonders

Morning

Begin your day with breakfast at Cedar House Restaurant in nearby El Portal. After breakfast, head to Bridalveil Fall to witness the graceful cascade. Take a moment to feel the spray on your face and appreciate the beauty of this iconic waterfall.

Afternoon

For lunch, enjoy the offerings at 1850 Restaurant and Brewery in Mariposa. Post-lunch, take a hike to Vernal Fall via the Mist Trail. The trail offers a refreshing experience as you hike alongside the misty spray of the waterfall. If you're feeling adventurous, continue on to Nevada Fall for an extended hike.

Evening

As the day winds down, have a relaxing dinner at Hitchin Post in Mariposa. Reflect on the day's adventures and enjoy the warm hospitality of the local establishment.

Bedtime

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4.45
Bridalveil Fall
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4.92
Vernal Fall
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Tranquil Lakes and Spectacular Sunsets

Morning

Enjoy breakfast at Glacier Point Gift Shop & Snack Stand as you prepare for a day of exploration. After breakfast, drive to Tioga Pass and spend the morning exploring the high country. Stop at various pullouts and take short walks to admire the alpine scenery and pristine lakes.

Afternoon

For lunch, pack a picnic from the snack stand and find a peaceful spot by one of the lakes. After lunch, continue your drive and make your way to Tenaya Lake. Take a refreshing dip if the weather allows, or simply relax by the shore and take in the tranquility of the surroundings.

Evening

Drive back to the valley and have dinner at Ducey's On the Lake & Ducey's Bar & Grill in nearby Bass Lake. Enjoy a meal with a view of the lake as the sun sets behind the distant peaks. If you're up for it, take a post-dinner stroll and enjoy the evening ambiance.

Bedtime

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Tioga Pass
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Tenaya Lake
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Hidden Gems and Evening Entertainment

Morning

Start your day with breakfast at Yosemite Grill, located in the heart of the park. After breakfast, head to Tunnel View for a classic Yosemite photo opportunity. Then, continue to Sentinel Dome for a short hike with a rewarding 360-degree view of the surrounding landscape.

Afternoon

For lunch, enjoy the casual atmosphere and delicious offerings at The River Restaurant & Lounge. Post-lunch, take a drive to the less-visited Wawona area. Explore the historic Wawona Hotel, visit the nearby swinging bridge, and take a moment to appreciate the peaceful atmosphere.

Evening

Dine at The Restaurant at Rush Creek Lodge, where you can enjoy a meal with a focus on sustainability and local flavors. After dinner, if it's a weekend, check out the live music at The Iron Door Saloon, California's oldest continuously operating saloon located in nearby Groveland.

Bedtime

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Tunnel View
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Sentinel Dome
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Rest and Relaxation

Morning

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at The Ahwahnee Dining Room, savoring the elegant ambiance and delicious offerings. After breakfast, take a slow morning stroll around the Ahwahnee Hotel grounds, admiring the architecture and the natural beauty that surrounds this historic hotel.

Afternoon

For lunch, visit The Loft at Degnan's and enjoy a meal in a relaxed setting. Post-lunch, consider taking a guided tour of the park. There are various tour options available, including valley floor tours, photography tours, and more, providing you with insights and perspectives that you might not discover on your own.

Evening

Have a casual dinner at Curry Village Dining Pavilion, where you can enjoy a variety of cuisines in a laid-back atmosphere. After dinner, unwind with a drink at Jackalope's Bar and Grill, reminiscing about the experiences you've had so far and looking forward to the rest of your Yosemite journey.

Bedtime

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4.24
Ahwahnee Hotel
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Nature's Symphony and Starlit Skies

Morning

Begin your day with breakfast at The Mountain Room, where you can enjoy a meal surrounded by the park's natural beauty. After breakfast, take a short walk to Mirror Lake and enjoy the serene reflections of the surrounding cliffs. If you're up for it, continue to Tenaya Canyon for a more rugged morning adventure.

Afternoon

For lunch, head to The Ahwahnee Bar and enjoy a casual meal with a touch of elegance. Post-lunch, relax at your accommodation or find a quiet spot in the valley to simply sit and listen to the sounds of nature. Consider a visit to the Yosemite Conservancy Bookstore to pick up some reading material about the park.

Evening

Dine at The River Restaurant & Lounge, where you can enjoy a meal with a view of the Merced River. After dinner, join a ranger-led evening program if available, or simply take a walk under the starlit skies, appreciating the natural symphony of the night.

Bedtime

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Mirror Lake
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Final Falls and Farewells

Morning

Enjoy breakfast at The Loft at Degnan's, reminiscing about the amazing experiences you've had in the park. After breakfast, take a short hike to Bridalveil Fall for a different perspective in the morning light. Feel the cool mist and take in the last moments with this iconic Yosemite waterfall.

Afternoon

For your final lunch in the park, visit Curry Village Dining Pavilion and enjoy a variety of cuisines. Post-lunch, take a moment to relax by the Merced River, perhaps with a book or simply reflecting on your Yosemite journey. If you have any last-minute souvenir shopping, the various gift shops in the valley offer a range of mementos.

Evening

As the sun sets on your Yosemite adventure, have a farewell dinner at The Mountain Room, where you can enjoy a meal inspired by the park's natural bounty. Raise a glass to the memories made and the beauty of Yosemite. After dinner, take a final evening stroll, soaking in the atmosphere and bidding adieu to the valley.

Bedtime

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