Yosemite Valley

Yosemite Valley

Lauren Magdefrau
Yosemite National Park offers a plethora of adventures for outdoor enthusiasts, from awe-inspiring granite cliffs and waterfalls to challenging hikes and world-class rock climbing. Whether you seek a leisurely exploration of nature or an adrenaline-fueled escapade, Yosemite provides an unforgettable experience.
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Yosemite National Park
@laurenmagdefrau
We went for six days. Including 2 days of travel to and from San Jose.
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Airport options: 

When planning a trip to Yosemite National Park, there are several airports you can consider, depending on your preferences and travel plans. Here are some airport options:

1. Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT) - 1.5 hours from national park entrance

Fresno Yosemite International Airport
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2. Merced Regional Airport (MCE) - closest airport, but limited airlines fly in. 

Merced Regional Airport
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3. Oakland International Airport (OAK) and San Francisco International Airport (SFO): both about 2.5 hours from national park 

San Francisco International Airport
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Oakland International Airport
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4. San Jose International Airport (SJC): about 3.5 hours from national park - this is where we flew into 

San Jose Mineta International Airport
@laurenmagdefrau
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After arriving at one of these airports, you will need rent a car and drive to Yosemite National Park. Our first stop was in Groveland, CA. A cute little town outside of the park.

Places to stay in Groveland: 

Groveland Hotel
@laurenmagdefrau
We stayed here, lovely rooms. Excellent location to walk to everything Groveland has to offer.
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Hotel Charlotte
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Place to Eat in Groveland: 

Iron Door Saloon
@laurenmagdefrau
Fun bar, cheap beer, casual laid-back atmosphere. Go on a night that they are having karaoke night!
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Pizza Factory
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Go to pizza spot in town.
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Around The Horn Brewing Company
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Local Brewery in town
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Mountain Sage
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Delicious coffee and homemade pastries
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Cocina Michoacana
@laurenmagdefrau
Yummy Mexican food in town, normally a wait here so plan accordingly.
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Places to Stay for Yosemite: 

When planning your visit, be sure to check the availability of accommodations, make reservations well in advance. Next we drove to the park, we split our time between Curry Village and Rush Creek Lodge. 

Yosemite Valley Lodge
@laurenmagdefrau
The lodge offers comfortable rooms and easy access to the park's shuttle system.
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Rush Creek Lodge and Spa at Yosemite
@laurenmagdefrau
Best location, just outside the park. Has many amenities. Best hotel accommodation if you can't get a room booked inside the park. Restaurant is a bit expensive.
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Curry Village
@laurenmagdefrau
This is a more budget-friendly option offering a variety of accommodations, including canvas tent cabins and wooden cabins with shared facilities.
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The Ahwahnee
@laurenmagdefrau
It offers upscale rooms, fine dining, and a grand atmosphere.
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Things to do in the Park: 

 Itinerary Options for Day One: 

Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias
@laurenmagdefrau
Go and see the massive out of this world sequoia trees!
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Cook's Meadow Loop Trailhead
@laurenmagdefrau
1.5 Miles - Cooks Meadow Loop is a scenic and relatively easy trail in Yosemite National Park, offering stunning views of Yosemite Valley, the surrounding mountains, and the iconic landmarks of the park.
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Tunnel view
@laurenmagdefrau
Tunnel View is often considered a "must-see" location for anyone visiting Yosemite National Park. It provides a spectacular introduction to the park's natural wonders and serves as a perfect spot to capture the essence of Yosemite's beauty in a single, breathtaking panorama.
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El Capitan Viewpoint
@laurenmagdefrau
A great area to watch the rock climbers and hikes on this granite cliff.
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Itinerary Options for Day Two: 

Half Dome Trailhead
@laurenmagdefrau
16.7 Miles - Half Dome Trail is one of the most challenging and iconic hikes in Yosemite National Park, leading to the summit of Half Dome, a granite peak that rises nearly 5,000 feet above the Yosemite Valley.
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Half Dome Cables
@laurenmagdefrau
Permit Needed to complete this section of the hike.
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Itinerary Options for Day Three: 

Curry Village Bike Rental
@laurenmagdefrau
Rent bikes from Yosemite village or Curry Village. Biking in Yosemite Valley allows you to enjoy the breathtaking views of towering granite cliffs, meadows, and waterfalls. The Merced River runs through the valley, providing a scenic backdrop for your ride.
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Glacier Point Trailhead
@laurenmagdefrau
4.8 Miles - The Four-Mile Trail leads to Glacier Point, where hikers are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of iconic Yosemite landmarks, including Half Dome, the High Sierra peaks, and the Clark Range.
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Taft Point Trailhead
@laurenmagdefrau
1.1 Miles - The Fissures Overlook is a specific section of Taft Point where visitors can peer down into deep cracks in the granite, providing an exhilarating view straight down into Yosemite Valley.
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Sentinel Dome Trailhead
@laurenmagdefrau
1.1 Miles - Sentinel Dome is a fantastic destination for those seeking stunning panoramic views without an extremely strenuous hike.
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Itinerary Options for Day Four: 

Yosemite Falls Trailhead
@laurenmagdefrau
7.2 miles - Yosemite Falls Trail is a popular hiking trail that leads to the breathtaking Yosemite Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in North America.
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El Capitan Trail
@laurenmagdefrau
11 Miles - the trail doesn't lead directly to the summit, it offers a different perspective and closer views of El Capitan.
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Cathedral Lakes Trailhead
@laurenmagdefrau
8.5 Miles - known for its stunning alpine scenery and access to two beautiful lakes.
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Places to Eat in the Park: 

Curry Village Pizza Deck
@laurenmagdefrau
Amazing pizza and bar after a long hike.
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Bar 1899
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Only bar inside Curry Village - have dinner options too.
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Base Camp Eatery
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Degnan's Deli
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The Ahwahnee Dining Room
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Fancy - must make reservations
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