5-Day Nature & Dog Friendly Itinerary in Yosemite National Park

Day 1: San Francisco to Yosemite

Yosemite National Park, CA

8:00AM

Drive to Yosemite

Embark on a scenic drive from San Francisco to Yosemite National Park, enjoying the beautiful landscapes along the way.
Take I-580 E and CA-120 E for the most direct route.
Gas & Rental Car, 4 hours

1:00PM

Explore Valley Floor

Begin by exploring the iconic Valley Floor with your furry friend, taking in the stunning waterfalls and rock formations.
Use the shuttle service or walk to key points like Yosemite Falls and El Capitan.
Park Entrance Fee, 3 hours

6:00PM

Overnight in Yosemite Valley Lodge

Check into the pet-friendly Yosemite Valley Lodge and relax after a day of exploration.
Check-in at the lodge reception.
$$, Overnight
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Day 2: Scenic Views & Hiking

Yosemite National Park, CA

9:00AM

Yosemite Valley to Glacier Point

Drive to Glacier Point for panoramic views of the park, perfect for taking unforgettable photos with your dog.
Take Wawona Road and Glacier Point Road for access.
Gas, 2 hours

12:00PM

Hike to Taft Point & Sentinel Dome

Embark on a dog-friendly hike to Taft Point and Sentinel Dome for breathtaking vistas of Yosemite's high country.
Follow signs from Glacier Point for the trailheads.
Trail snacks, 4 hours

6:00PM

Overnight in Curry Village

Spend the night in the cozy Curry Village tents, surrounded by the beauty of Yosemite.
Check-in at the front desk for your tent assignment.
$$, Overnight
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Day 3: Exploring Meadows & Hetch Hetchy

Yosemite National Park, CA

9:00AM

Visit Tuolumne Meadows

Explore the serene Tuolumne Meadows with your dog, known for its alpine scenery and bubbling streams.
Drive on Tioga Road to reach the meadows.
Gas, 3 hours

1:00PM

Dog-Friendly Hike in Hetch Hetchy

Take your pup on a hike in Hetch Hetchy, enjoying the reservoir and surrounding granite cliffs.
Follow signs to the trailhead for Wapama Falls.
Water & Snacks, 2 hours

6:00PM

Overnight in Wawona

Relax at the dog-friendly Wawona Hotel, a historic gem nestled in the woods near Yosemite Valley.
Check-in at the hotel reception.
$$, Overnight
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Day 4: Sequoia Groves & Dog-Friendly Trails

Yosemite National Park, CA

9:00AM

Explore Mariposa Grove

Discover the giant sequoias in Mariposa Grove, taking a leisurely stroll with your furry companion among these majestic trees.
Board the shuttle to Mariposa Grove Visitor Center.
Shuttle Fee, 3 hours

1:00PM

Hike Cook's Meadow Loop & Visit Mirror Lake

Enjoy a dog-friendly hike on Cook's Meadow Loop, followed by a visit to the picturesque Mirror Lake for serene views.
Access the trailhead near Yosemite Village.
Picnic Supplies, 2.5 hours

6:00PM

Overnight in Tenaya Lodge

Stay at the dog-welcoming Tenaya Lodge, a luxurious retreat near the park offering pet amenities and a peaceful setting.
Check-in at the lodge front desk.
$$$, Overnight
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Day 5: Waterfalls & Scenic Views

Yosemite National Park, CA

9:00AM

Visit Bridalveil Fall

Witness the beauty of Bridalveil Fall with your dog, feeling the mist and marveling at the cascading water in a natural wonder.
Short walk from the parking area to the base of the fall.
Park Entrance Fee, 1 hour

11:00AM

Stop at Tunnel View

Take a final stop at Tunnel View for a panoramic farewell to Yosemite, capturing the sweeping vistas of iconic landmarks.
Accessible from Wawona Road.
Gas, 1 hour

1:00PM

Departure

Bid farewell to Yosemite as you head back towards San Francisco, cherishing the memories of your unforgettable nature-filled trip with your furry friend.
Drive back via CA-140 W and I-580 W.
Gas & Rental Car Return, 4 hours
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