Yosemite National Park covers 747,956 acres, almost the same size as Rhode Island, and 94% of its area is designated wilderness. With incredibly breathtaking natural features, from towering granite peaks to hundreds of waterfalls and over 500 mature giant sequoias, its grandeur is hard to match. It’s no wonder it’s considered the “Crown Jewel of America’s National Parks,” and there is no better time to admire its scenery than springtime. Discover the best things to do in Yosemite National Park in spring.
Enjoy Camping in Yosemite National Park
Camping is a great way to soak in the scenic beauty of Yosemite’s breathtaking landscapes while enjoying other activities, including hiking and stargazing. The park boasts 13 campgrounds, with all options available: RV sites, cabins, tent sites, and wilderness camping. Upper Pine is one of the largest campgrounds you can opt for.
Marvel at the Panoramic View of Yosemite Valley from Glacier Point
Glacier Point is one of the most dramatic overlooks in Yosemite. It’s famous for its striking views of Yosemite Valley and the park’s top attractions, including Yosemite Falls and Half Dome. The rugged geologic feature towers 3,200 feet above the valley floor and can be accessed in many ways, including hiking the Four-Mile Trail in late spring.
Hike to Bridalveil Falls
Bridalveil Falls is one of the most popular waterfalls in Yosemite. It’s loved for its postcard-worthy scenery, serene setting, and ease of accessibility. Spring is the best time to experience its majesty, as the water level is at its highest and the snowmelt roars over the cascades. You can get to it by hiking the 0.8-mile out-and-back Bridalveil Fall Trail.
Explore Lembert Dome
Lembert Dome is among the most beautiful geologic wonders you can explore in Yosemite. It’s nestled on Tuolumne Meadows’ eastern portion and boasts magnificent views of the meadows. The springtime views from the top include the Cathedral Range and wildflower blooms along the Tuolumne River. Hike the Lembert Dome Loop, winding through forests and meadows to the granite’s summit.
Visit the Merced River
Merced River is among the most stunning outdoor spots in Yosemite. Spring is the time to experience it at its most impressive, thanks to the spectacular wildflower displays. With the water flowing at its highest, it’s an excellent time for whitewater rafting. Additionally, you can enjoy a scenic nature walk along the river, fishing, or camping around it.
Admire the View of Yosemite Falls
Yosemite is home to countless waterfalls, but none is as striking as Yosemite Falls, North America’s highest waterfall. Spring offers a chance to marvel at the falls at their most spectacular. The Upper Yosemite Falls Trail is considered challenging, with lots of switchbacks. The Lower Yosemite Falls hike is a much easier 1.2-mile loop, taking only 24 minutes to complete.
Hike Mist Trail to Vernal & Nevada Falls
Mist Trail, known for its gorgeous views of Vernal and Nevada Falls, is one of the most hiked routes in Yosemite National Park. It meanders along the Merced River, with Happy Isles as the starting point. The trail also provides access to Half Dome, one of the park’s most iconic features, and makes a perfect late-spring adventure.
Visit Tenaya Lake
Tenaya Lake offers some of the best late spring activities in Yosemite. Accessible via Tioga Road, which typically closes until May, the lake is among the top sights in Yosemite’s high country. You can enjoy various activities, from boating to swimming and taking in the picturesque views of the surrounding natural wonders, including granite domes and lush forests.
Admire the Scenery of Mirror Lake
Mirror Lake is one of the most unique features of Yosemite National Park. It’s more of a meadow than a lake for much of the year, but once snow-fed, it creates a beautiful outdoor area worth your time in spring. It’s best known for its picturesque reflections of the surrounding granite peaks, like Half Dome. You can take photographs, spot wildlife, or simply absorb the serene nature of the place.
Hike Three Brothers
Three Brothers—the Eagle Peak (the highest), Middle, and Lower Brothers—are stunningly beautiful granite peaks just east of the iconic El Capitan. According to John Muir, the Yosemite Valley view from Eagle Peak was “the most comprehensive of all.” You can hike the Lower Yosemite Fall Trail to the summit, which is best climbed in May, making it a perfect late-spring activity.
Hike to Sentinel Rock
Sentinel Rock is among Yosemite National Park’s most striking granite peaks. It’s nestled directly opposite Yosemite Falls, about 0.7 miles northwest of Sentinel Dome, and offers some of the best climbing experiences in the park. The Four-Mile Trail is the most popular route to get there, but you can also walk the easy Cook’s Meadow Loop.
Hike the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias
One of the things Yosemite National Park is best known for is its giant sequoias. Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias is the park’s largest grove, with about 500 mature sequoias. It’s located near the South Entrance and is the most accessible of Yosemite’s three groves of giant sequoias. It’s also the most stunning grove and can be reached via the 6.7-mile Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias Trail near Fish Camp.
Climb the El Capitan
El Capitan is one of Yosemite’s most notable and photographed landmarks. Towering over 3,000 feet, it’s the largest granite monolith and one of the world’s best big-wall climbing destinations. The granite peak’s climbing experience is both challenging and rewarding, and spring, thanks to the pleasant weather, is the best time for the adventure.
Hike Tuolumne Grove Trail
Located on Tioga Road, Tuolumne Grove is home to about two dozen mature giant sequoia trees. You can reach the grove via Tuolumne Grove Trail, a half-mile trail that takes one hour and 25 minutes to complete. The hike starts at the parking lot and winds along the Old Big Oak Flat Road. You can bring along your furry friend for this fun outdoor experience.
Visit the Swinging Bridge
Swinging Bridge is a magnificent outdoor playground, ideal for a peaceful picnic with your family. Facilities include grills and picnic tables. It’s known for its fascinating views, including Lower Yosemite Falls, which are more breathtaking in spring when the falls are at their most potent. Thanks to the lush surroundings, you’ll also enjoy marveling at the vibrant wildflower blooms.
