3-Day Yosemite National Park Adventure: Waterfalls, Valleys, and Scenic Trails

Day 1: Yosemite Valley Exploration

Yosemite National Park, USA on April 24, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Degnan's Kitchen

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Degnan's Kitchen in Yosemite Village, known for their fresh pastries, coffee, and healthy breakfast bowls. It's a convenient spot to fuel up before exploring the valley.
USD15, 1h

9:15am

Yosemite Valley Visitor Center

Visit the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center to get maps, current trail conditions, and learn about the park's geology and history through informative exhibits.
Free, 45m

10:15am

Lower Yosemite Falls Trail

Take an easy, 1-mile loop trail to see Lower Yosemite Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in North America. The trail is family-friendly and offers spectacular views.
Free, 1h

11:30am

Lunch at Base Camp Eatery

Enjoy a casual lunch at Base Camp Eatery, offering diverse options including sandwiches, salads, and wood-fired pizzas, perfect for a midday meal.
USD20, 1h

12:45pm

Mirror Lake Trail

Walk the scenic 2-mile roundtrip Mirror Lake Trail for peaceful reflections of surrounding granite cliffs. The trail is accessible and offers photo-worthy views.
Free, 2h

3:00pm

Yosemite Village and Ansel Adams Gallery

Explore Yosemite Village shops and visit the Ansel Adams Gallery to see iconic photography of the park and even pick up prints.
Free to browse, 1h

5:00pm

Dinner at The Mountain Room Restaurant

Dine at The Mountain Room Restaurant near Yosemite Lodge, famous for its stunning views of Yosemite Falls and excellent American cuisine.
USD40, 1.5h
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Day 2: Glacier Point & Mariposa Grove

Yosemite National Park, USA on April 25, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at your accommodation or Grab & Go

Start early with a quick breakfast from your lodge or grab a breakfast sandwich at a nearby café to maximize your day.
USD12, 30m

8:15am

Drive to Glacier Point

Head to Glacier Point (opens early in spring) and enjoy panoramic views of Half Dome, Yosemite Valley, and the High Sierra. Perfect for sunrise photos and scenic walks.
USD0 (park entrance fee applies), 1.5h

10:00am

Glacier Point Hiking Trails

Explore short hikes such as the Sentinel Dome or Taft Point trails (3-5 miles) for breathtaking vistas and cliffside views with fewer crowds.
Free, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Glacier Point Snack Stand

Grab a quick lunch or snacks at the Glacier Point Snack Stand to refuel without leaving the area.
USD15, 45m

1:30pm

Drive to Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias

Visit Mariposa Grove, home to over 500 mature giant sequoias including the Grizzly Giant and California Tunnel Tree. The grove trail is open from 8am to sunset.
Free with park entrance, 3h

5:00pm

Return to Yosemite Valley

Head back to Yosemite Valley, rest and prepare for dinner.
Free, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at The Ahwahnee Dining Room

Enjoy an elegant dinner at The Ahwahnee Dining Room, featuring gourmet cuisine in a historic and beautiful setting. Reservations recommended.
USD60, 2h
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Day 3: Tuolumne Meadows & Departure

Yosemite National Park, USA on April 26, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at the Yosemite Valley Lodge or Packed Breakfast

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at your lodge or pack some food to eat on the way to Tuolumne Meadows.
USD15, 30m

8:00am

Drive to Tuolumne Meadows

Travel eastward on Tioga Road (check seasonal opening as it opens around late May-October, if closed, substitute with Hetch Hetchy area). The meadows offer stunning alpine landscapes, wildflowers, and moderate hikes.
USD0 (park entrance fee applies), 2h

10:30am

Hike to Soda Springs and Parson's Lodge

Take a gentle 1.5-mile roundtrip hike to Soda Springs, a natural mineral spring, and visit the historic Parson’s Lodge cabin nearby.
Free, 1.5h

12:00pm

Lunch at Tuolumne Meadows Grill

Stop at Tuolumne Meadows Grill for burgers, sandwiches, and refreshing drinks amid mountain views.
USD18, 1h

1:30pm

Return to Yosemite Valley or Exit Park

Drive back to Yosemite Valley for any last stops or begin your journey out of the park depending on your travel plans.
Free, 2h

4:00pm

Optional Final Walk along the Merced River

If time allows, enjoy a peaceful stroll along the Merced River in Yosemite Valley to soak in the scenery before departure.
Free, 45m
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